TenderBones Rib Shack

2504 Red Lion Rd, Bear, DE 19701, United States
+1 302-832-7427
$$$ Barbecue restaurant
(1,019 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to TenderBones Rib Shack, a gem nestled on Red Lion Road in Bear, Delaware, where the rich and smoky aromas of authentic barbecue fill the air and invite you to indulge in hearty, flavorful dishes that embody the essence of southern cooking. This charming barbecue restaurant is perfect for casual diners and meat lovers alike, offering a take-out-friendly experience while providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those who wish to enjoy their meals on-site with a few stools available.

At TenderBones Rib Shack, you’ll find an impressive menu that speaks to the soul of barbecue cuisine. Famous for their succulent beef brisket, each slice is bursting with flavor, although our guests have shared varying opinions on its tenderness—some rave about its mouth-watering taste, while one noted it was a bit tough. Still, the consensus is that it’s well worth a try. The spare ribs, praised for their tenderness and delightful texture, are another must-have—barbecue perfection that is well worth the drive.

If you're in the mood for something beyond ribs, don't miss their Chef Philly Cheese Steak. This hearty sandwich, loaded with ribeye steak, fried onions, peppers, and melted cheese, is an explosion of flavor in every bite. Multiple customers have declared it among the best they’ve had, with one recommending it without a single condiment—just let the flavors shine through! And for those craving something flavorful but with a twist, consider the Tender Tenders, served with their special sauce and crispy fries, which can surely satisfy your cravings.

Complement your meal with hearty side dishes like creamy macaroni & cheese or zesty collard greens, providing that classic comfort food experience. Wash it all down with a refreshing sweet tea or freshly made lemonade for the ultimate Southern dining experience.

The friendly and informative staff at TenderBones only adds to the relaxed environment of this barbecue haven, ensuring that your visit is as pleasant as the food is delicious. With ample parking conveniently located at the front, getting your barbecue fix is simple and hassle-free.

Overall, TenderBones Rib Shack stands as a testament to the rich tradition of barbecue cuisine. With large servings and a menu bursting with flavor, it undoubtedly earns its place as a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Bear, DE. Whether you're a local or a traveler seeking authentic barbecue, you can look forward to a satisfying meal that speaks to the heart of good cooking. So grab your friends, pick up a cheesesteak, and prepare for a taste sensation that leaves you wanting more!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Amenities
No toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Usually has a wait
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

1019 Reviews
Eugena Thomas

06 Nov 2025

The staff was very friendly and informative. The food was great. A little pricey though. I would have given it a 5 but, the brisket was very tough. I couldn't really chew it.

Steve Goodwin

02 Oct 2025

Delicious food, large servings. It’s a take out only place but there are a few stools to sit on.

Jane Jing

25 Sep 2025

The beef brisket was very flavorful and delicious. The spare ribs were flavorful. They were tender but not too off bone. I like the texture. Hubby loves the phily cheese steak. I am not the fan so I didn’t eat it. The employee was very friendly and patient. Plenty parking at the front door. Recommend!

A. J.

18 Sep 2025

My sister put me on! Get the Cheesesteak and don't argue....No condiments needed! Rib-eye steak, fried onions, peppers, cheese...piled high! Your mouth ain't big enough to take a single bite. My sister and a guy from NJ say the fish is something serious. Think $20 per person

Keshia Garnett

13 Aug 2025

All I can say, lots of tasty meat ! I was eating cheese steak for days Friendly atmosphere and worth the visit.

Cliff H.

08 Aug 2025

Cheesesteak was awesome! You better be hungry because it’s huge. The fries were equally as good and they were hot! Will definitely be back!

Mateo Butcher

05 Aug 2025

I pulled up, met the owner and we shook hands. He was very pleasant by the way. I ordered 2 orders of ribs, 2 orders of wings, a cheese steak, dirty rice, mac and cheese, collard greens, 1/2 of brisket, a lemonade, iced tea and sweet potato pie. I wanted to try everything on the menu. The food was delicious.

Eazy Fiftysix

05 Aug 2025

Cheese steak was good, enough for 3-4 ppl to eat. Mac n cheese was good. Ribs were very good and flavorful. Brisket sandwich had too much sauce, so next time I would get sauce on the side and do it myself.

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