Pit Stop Barbeque & Restaurant

"Forget everything you thought you knew about comfort food. From the second you step into Pit Stop Barbecue and Restaurant on Central Ave., you're not just in a restaurant--you're transported. The first thing that hits you is the smell, and it is absolutely sensational. It's an intoxicating, soul-stirring aroma of smoke and spice that pours from the heart of the kitchen: massive, glorious brick ovens that burst with more personality and character than most entire city blocks. You aren't even at the counter yet, and your stomach is already shouting with joy. This is the immediate, irresistible promise of authentic, slow-cooked perfection. And the warmth doesn't just come from the ovens. The entire place radiates a comforting, familial energy. The chefs greet you with a warmth that makes you feel less like a customer and more like a cousin who just stopped by for Sunday dinner. This is the very essence of what makes a true Jamaican spot so special--it's all heart. I ordered the jerk chicken, and let me be perfectly clear: it was a masterpiece. This wasn't just chicken; it was a flawless symphony of spices and blends that tasted exactly, precisely, as it's supposed to. It was smoky, fiery, and deeply savory, with that perfect, addictive kick that makes you want more before you've even finished your bite. But the main course is only part of the story. The mac and cheese was a golden, creamy dream that tasted exactly like my own family made it--if my family were award-winning chefs. It was the definition of "food for the soul." To top it all off, the chicken patty was a flaky, savory crown on an already perfect meal, and the entire feast was washed down with the best, most vibrant mango beverage I've ever had. Pit Stop isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience. It's a 10/10 knockout of character, comfort, and explosive flavor. Do not walk. Run."

"Food was hot and fresh. Overall delicious. I would definitely go back. Mac & cheese was mushy ."

"The other day I got, Pit Stop Barbeque & Restaurant, for lunch. I ordered their small Jerk Pork w/ Rice & Beans, and Cabbage, with a side of Mac n Cheese. Their Jerk Pork was terrific! Nice portion sizes, great flavor, the sauce used to top the Jerk Pork, and the pork had an excellent meat to fat ratio. The rice was very fresh and had great flavor as well too. The cabbage was very home-y and was an excellent compliment to the meal. The Mac n Cheese was not so tantalizing though. The cheese used was very good, but the noodles, and overall flavor was not good at all. It tastes like plain baked noodles with a layer of cheese added on top. The staff was very kind and patient. The lady who took my order was extremely nice. All in all, I'd absolutely be trying, Pit Stop Barbecue & Restaurant, again. And I would also highly recommend this place if you're in the Orange/East Orange area. Just stay away from the Mac n Cheese if you're a Mac lover."

"Everything says this place is worth making a detour meaning anytime you are near or in around Essex County, NJ stop by the Pit Stop for their Jerk Chicken. Don't be intimidated by the outside, this place has some delicious food inside. You won't be disappointed. $$$"

"Food was good, portion for the price was reasonable. I had the jerk chicken dinner. I recommend sauce on the side idk the taste was funny. Overall 9/10"

"Good traditional Jamaican food. Its a pit stop so no frills, but clean and great taste. I had a chicken roti. It was good, but interested in other menu items."