Welcome to Shemwell's Barbecue
At Shemwell's Barbecue, the essence of barbecue culture comes alive. Located in Cairo, IL, this beloved eatery has captured the hearts—and appetites—of many. Their unique take on barbecue, served on grilled white bread, delights diners with its authentic flavors. Patrons rave about the perfectly seasoned meats, vibrant slaw, and exceptional fried okra, truly showcasing a commitment to quality. The warm, friendly atmosphere, coupled with clean surroundings, makes every visit memorable. Whether you’re arriving for takeout or enjoying outdoor seating, Shemwell's is a community gem where heart and soul meet deliciousness, drawing loyal customers from miles away.
Shemwell's Barbecue: Reviews & Ratings
We were very impressed. BBQ presentation is a little different, meats are served on grilled white bread. Sounds a little off but it really works. Really didn't even need the sauce as meat (we did pork) was so flavorful. Meat wasn't chopped but rather larger pieces. Really good beans and some of the best slaw we've ever had. Slaw more vinegar than creamy and had small pieces of pepper that really made it extra tasty. Fried okra was also great. Prices incredibly cheap. Only "complaint" was wished they served Coke instead of Pepsi LOL
The beef was flavorful enough, it didn't need sauce. That's a great sign that the process was done with heart and soul. The service was great as well. She was friendly and helpful. Everything in the restaurant was clean and uncluttered. Overall a great experience!
So I travel the country consistently and I will actually drive 100 or 200 miles out of my way just to come by and get a shimwell's. Growing up in the 60s and seventies we spent our summers here in Cairo and my grandfather always brought me to shimwell's, there's just something about a barbecued sandwich on two pieces of white bread that bring back an incredible amount of memories. And when I get barbecue sandwiches other places and they come on rolls that look like loads of bread and I wondered did I buy a loaf of bread or did I buy a barbecue sandwich it always reminds me of just how pure and true shimwell's is to the barbecue culture!! So although they've closed off almost all the roads into town I still find a way to get here!!
The restaurant was very clean and hospitable. The service was great. The food was tasty and we had very tasty pork with some of the best Okra we have ever had. The prices were fair and reasonable. I would recommend this restaurant as a very comfortable place to eat.
Excellent food for good prices! Catfish nuggets were outstanding and sliced pork bbq was amazing!
Asked for the barbecue plate to go as I was working in the area and had more than an hour drive back. Place looks run-down but the service and the food and the cleanliness was great. I didn't really like the barbecue sauce as it was more of a hot sauce so I had them put some of their vinegar coleslaw on the BBQ which was freshly cut off the brisket and served has a sandwich that was toasted on both sides. I got sweet corn nuggets and the crispiest perfect fries I've ever got. Under 9 bucks steal
Location
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1102 Washington Ave Cairo, IL 62914 United States Hotline: (618) 734-0165
Welcome to the heart of Cairo, Illinois, where Shemwell's Barbecue serves up a delightful culinary experience that will make barbecue enthusiasts swoon. Nestled at 1102 Washington Ave, this charming eatery is not just a restaurant; it is a community destination that offers a taste of tradition and heart in every bite.
Shemwell's Barbecue embraces the spirit of classic barbecue with a unique twist: meats served on grilled white bread. This presentation might surprise some, but patrons swear it enhances the flavor, making the experience all the more enjoyable. Diners have raved about the pork—so flavorful that many have found it unnecessary to drown it in sauce. Instead, the highlight here is the sheer quality of the meat itself, with generous cuts that proudly showcase Shemwell’s dedication to barbecue craftsmanship.
- Customer Favorites:
- Pork BBQ: Juicy, tender, and seasoned to perfection.
- Fried Okra: A crunchy side that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
- Coleslaw: A vinegar-based dish that tantalizes the taste buds, filled with small pieces of pepper that elevate its distinct flavor.
- Catfish Nuggets: An unexpected delight that patrons have acclaimed as truly outstanding and flavorful.
But it’s not just the food that merits attention; the atmosphere at Shemwell’s is just as inviting. Reviewers have praised the restaurant for its cleanliness and hospitable service. The staff here seem to genuinely care about your experience, ensuring that your visit is as pleasant as possible. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch or bringing the whole family for a satisfying dinner, Shemwell's provides a quiet, welcoming ambiance suitable for groups and families alike.
Why We Love It: Travelling to Shemwell's is more than just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane. For some, it evokes nostalgia and cherished times spent with loved ones. Regular patrons, like Michael, travel hundreds of miles just to relive those memories—proving that Shemwell's Barbecue holds a special place in the hearts of many.
With affordable prices, a menu that champions flavor without pretension, and a commitment to quality that shines through every dish, Shemwell's Barbecue stands out not only in Cairo but across the barbecue community. Whether you are a local or just passing through, a visit to Shemwell's is sure to leave you satisfied and craving more.
Ready for a taste of genuine BBQ? Give them a call at (618) 734-0165 and discover why Shemwell’s Barbecue is a must-visit destination. Your taste buds will thank you!
