Wills

At the corner of Bellefontaine and Parker, Wills is out to duke it out with Smokeez North for the extreme North County BBQ patron.

This is a big place, extremely clean, and helpful, if taciturn, staff. There was no line, but one other customer came in while I waited on my rib tips. I hope they do a good catering business because, frankly, I don't see how both these strip mall-based eateries get enough custom to stay afloat.

OK. To the food: The saucy was tangy - not too hot, not too sweet - and very tasty but I didn't feel like I had to sop up every drop like some places. The meat could have smoked a bit longer - not stringy, but I'm getting spoiled by some fall-of-the-bone joints we've visited.

The price was moderate, $7 something, reflective of the rent no doubt, and portions were generous, but no sides for that price. Try both, but if you had to pick one of these North County spots, I'd go with Smokeez.

Wills address and phone are:

12117 Bellefontaine -
741.5227