If you’ve ever stood in line outside one of Ray Ray’s Hog Pit locations in Columbus, whether it was a food truck at Ace of Cups or the walk-up window at Land-Grant, you know that the smoky, juicy, slow-cooked barbecue is well worth the wait.
And now, after 15 years of operating without a full dine-in experience, Ray Ray’s is finally pulling up a chair and going full-service.
Ray Ray’s Hog Pit is opening its very first sit-down restaurant, and while it’s not in Columbus, it’s still big news for Central Ohio barbecue lovers.
The new spot is headed to downtown Marion and is expected to open its doors on May 13, pending inspections.
Founded in 2009 by chef James Ray Anderson, Ray Ray’s started as a humble food truck in Columbus and grew into a local legend thanks to its smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and that signature jerk chicken.
But this new Marion location is a whole new vibe. It’ll be the first Ray Ray’s to offer full table service and a bar—with craft cocktails, beers, and even THC-infused drinks on the menu.
Oh, and the food? It’s not just the classics.
The Marion menu will feature some wild new creations, including BBQ spaghetti balls (yes, brisket and spaghetti rolled into a ball and deep-fried) and three new burgers like the Ray Ray’s Burger with bacon, onion jam, and BBQ sauce. Plus, there’ll be more appetizers, desserts, salads, and even vegetarian options.
Ray Ray’s Ohio Style, as this new concept is called, is moving into a historic building at 138 S. Main St., right in the heart of Marion. Anderson told The Marion Star that the local bar scene, including spots like Shovel City and Kin & Kilt, was a big part of the draw.
“We just really liked the people and the energy,” he told The Marion Star. “It just felt like a good fit.”
It’s a major move for a brand that’s been featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and built a devoted following without ever offering indoor seating. And while Marion might be a bit of a drive for Columbus fans, let’s be honest, you’ve driven farther for barbecue before.
READ MORE: The Columbus Restaurants That Guy Fieri Has Visited On Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
