Welcome to Fat Ivor's Rib Rack
Welcome to Fat Ivor's Rib Rack, located in Valley Center, CA. This rustic eatery offers an inviting, western saloon atmosphere, where locals gather to indulge in mouthwatering ribs, steaks, and cocktails. Renowned for its exceptional barbecue, the restaurant’s baby back and beef ribs have garnered rave reviews for their tenderness and rich flavors. Guests enjoy attentive service and a casual vibe that enhances the dining experience. Whether you’re here for a hearty meal or a fun night out, Fat Ivor's Rib Rack promises an unforgettable culinary journey that keeps you coming back for more.
- A place for Ribs, Steaks, Cocktails & more, 27961 Valley Center Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082, United States Hotline: +1 760-749-0600
Welcome to the savory world of Fat Ivor's Rib Rack, located in the charming town of Valley Center, California. This beloved eatery is not just a haven for rib enthusiasts; it's a cultural landmark that has thrived through thick and thin, even surviving the hardships of recent years. Nestled at 27961 Valley Center Rd, this restaurant is a thrilling destination for those ready to indulge in an array of mouthwatering dishes, from perfectly cooked ribs and steaks to delightful cocktails.
The atmosphere at Fat Ivor's Rib Rack evokes the spirit of a classic western saloon, creating an inviting space that attracts locals and visitors alike. Diners rave about the friendly and attentive staff, who seem to embody the warm hospitality that this establishment is known for. As Richard L aptly put it, the atmosphere is “very casual,” making it the perfect spot to unwind with good food and great company.
As for the menu, it’s hard to overstate the appeal of their BBQ ribs. Customers consistently place them among the best in the region, with many declaring Fat Ivor's to be the number one BBQ destination in San Diego County. The meltingly tender baby back ribs and the all-you-can-eat beef ribs are both fan favorites, each delivering an explosion of flavor that pair beautifully with sides like coleslaw and seasoned rice. S V noted, “The sides are delicious too! I love to pair my ribs with the rice and cole slaw.” These thoughtful combinations make each visit an exciting culinary journey.
For those seeking variety, there’s more to explore. The ribeye steak is a standout, often cooked to perfection with a delightful char that’s certain to please meat lovers. Pair it with the equally praised fried zucchini or pot of mushrooms, and you have a meal that caters to everyone—vegetarians included.
But it’s not just the food that astonishes; Fred Long depicts a dining experience filled with warm hospitality and exceptional service. He states, “The hospitality was off the measuring chart.” This sentiment echoes throughout various reviews, revealing a team committed to making each patron’s visit memorable.
So, if you find yourself near Valley Center, make sure to carve out some time for an authentic BBQ experience at Fat Ivor’s Rib Rack. With delicious offerings, a hoot-and-holler atmosphere, and service that feels like family, your taste buds—and your heart—won't be disappointed. Don’t forget to come hungry; as Matt Monaghan warns, “Come Hungry!” You’re in for a fulfilling feast!
For reservations or inquiries, feel free to reach them at +1 760-749-0600. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Fat Ivor's Rib Rack is a delicious detour worth taking.

Used to come here about 20 years ago. Was shocked to see they survived the scamdemic. Ribs are great. Food is great. And service is great. Definitely did not disappoint.

My sister and brother-in-law took us to this place a week ago. Really fun atmosphere. It's like a western saloon that a lot of locals hang out at. Great food, friendly staff! I'd definitely return!

Friendly service, cheap food, and 12 minutes from Harrah's Socal. Atmosphere is very casual. Ribeye was cooked perfectly medium, seasoned well, and had a heavy char (subjective on whether you like that). Rice is seasoned (maybe chicken bouillon?) and goes well with the steak. The pot of mushrooms and fried zucchini are both solid options for vegetarians

Awesome dining experience. The hospitality was off the measuring chart. I don't think I've ever seen such friendly people. And the food was awesome. I ordered the all-you-can-eat beef ribs and they were fantastic. I can't wait for my next visit to try out the prime rib. Prices, atmosphere, service, everything was A I wish I had more pictures to post but I ate the food so fast I didn't get a chance to take any.

The best BBQ ribs! I have tried popular BBQ restaurants in San Diego County, and this one takes the #1 place. The sides are delicious too! I love to pair my ribs with the rice and cole slaw. They're always on point.

My husband and I came for Lunch. We ordered the 1/2 rack of baby back pork ribs combination plate, and a side of two bbq beef ribs. The beef ribs were our favorite! Both were very tender and delicious, but the beef ribs had a better smoked bbq flavor. We chose the beans and coleslaw for our sides, and they were just okay. It was fairly busy for a Friday at lunchtime, but our wait time wasn't bad. Our waitress was friendly and attentive.

Ribbs were perfectly BBQ, have a big appetite. They have some great choices but fair warning on the all you can eat specials, "Come Hungry." I can tell you if it wasn't for a local of Valley Center referring me, I would never of driven out there. Try this place with your Favorite BBQ Foody and enjoy.

I was disappointed upon learning that I couldn't order the beef ribs without sauce (as a ketovore I don't eat sugar/carbs, lost 100 pounds and maintained for 3 years thriving) but was grateful to learn that the poem ribs can and were ordered without sauce, they were delicious with salt pepper and Tapatio (my go to sauce ) with my ribs I had a nice little side salad and coleslaw. We shared the mushroom appetizer and those were simply delicious. Our server was great, she was charming and knowledgeable about the Establishment, the menu and the local area. There is a full bar. We look forward to returning and exploring the menu further. Hope they offer the beef ribs without sauce!