About noon on any week day, a line slowly enters Andy’s Barbecue & Ribs for lunch. Don’t let the name mislead you. Yes the menu offers much, one of the main specialties being Carolina/Virginia barbecue with a vinegar based sauce and St. Louis barbecued ribs. You may also choose from fried chicken, fish, clam stripes, soft shell crabs, steamed shrimp, a seafood platter or other specials. Or you may prefer just a good hamburger steak. There are homemade hush puppies, coleslaw, French fries, pork and beans like you have never tasted before--and more. And leave room for homemade dessert such as fresh baked cobblers, bread pudding with rum sauce and hot fudge brownies. On Sundays the seats may fill even faster after churches dismiss. 
In the evening, depending on the day of the week, many crowd in to find their favorite table. What can be better than a hearty meal after a hard days work? Since this is a family restaurant, don’t fail to ask for a children’s menu for the little ones.

     Andy Smith began his barbecue business in Sandston, near Richmond. When he opened the Mathews branch back in February 1991, Irene Knott became the efficient manager and serves in that capacity today. Carol and Wayne Clark purchased the business from Smith in late December 1998, taking possession the first of January 1999. However the quality of the food remained, with Clark adding more seafood to the menu.
If you want to use a part of their restaurant for a party for your business or other group, call or visit them for menus, prices and whatever you’d like to know. Take out orders, large or small, are also available—letting you have your meal or party wherever you like.

     The restaurant sits on the south end of Main Street in Mathews, just past The Irish Cottage and before Stewart’s Tile and Carpet Center. Come and enjoy a good meal the day or evening of your choice.

© 2002 Catherine C.  Brooks All Rights Reserved.
You can reach Catherine Brooks via email at