Rico's Smoke House Inc
200 E Main St, Pullman
(509) 332-6566
Recent Reviews
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Dietary restrictions: Gluten free buns. Beyond burger patty.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto Sandwich, French Dip with Crisps, Thai Peanut Chicken Salad, The Cowboy Burger, Rueben Sandwich, Fish N Chips, French Dip, Garden Salad, Philly Cheesesteak with Fries, Bangers and Mash with Sauerkraut and Brown Gravy
I was really looking forward to visiting this place, as the atmosphere initially made a great impression. Unfortunately, that excitement was short-lived due to an unpleasant experience with one of the waitstaff. We had come for trivia, as advertised, and arrived 15 minutes early. Right away, we were met by a waitress who seemed irritated and greeted us with, “If you’re here for food, we have a two-hour wait.” While a long wait is understandable—especially if a business is short-staffed—the tone was unnecessarily curt.
We explained that we were there just for trivia and didn’t plan on ordering food, to which she replied that trivia was full, only three of us could stay, and she needed to see our IDs. Our group of three joined four friends who had arrived earlier to save spots, making our total group seven. After showing our IDs and explaining that we were all underage and not planning to drink, she called out my upcoming birthday (just a few hours away) with, “Well, you’re still not 21, and you need to be out by [time].” I reiterated that none of us were drinking and that we were only there to play trivia, but her demeanor didn’t improve.
She insisted only two of us could come in, but a kind stranger moved so we could all sit together. Instead of letting it go, this seemed to irritate her even more. Later, during trivia, she grabbed the mic and announced that parties larger than six needed to notify staff in advance. As this was my first visit, I wasn’t aware of that rule, and the way she called it out felt pointed and embarrassing.
Despite the poor service, we were friendly, compliant, and didn’t order food or drinks. I believe this staff member would greatly benefit from customer service training. A little kindness and professionalism can go a long way, even during stressful times. Here are some examples of how this situation could have been handled:
• “Hi, welcome! Just a heads-up, we’re currently short-staffed, so there’s a two-hour wait for food. Let me know if I can help with anything else!”
• “Hey there, I wanted to remind you that minors need to be out by 8:30. Can I get you any non-alcoholic drinks in the meantime?”
• “Unfortunately, we have a seating limit right now, but I’d be happy to call you if something opens up!”
It’s not hard to be kind and professional, and those small efforts can make or break someone’s experience—and reflect on the business as a whole. I understand stress can take its toll, but choosing a customer-facing role means staying composed and treating guests with respect.
I plan to return now that I’m 21 and will update my review based on that experience. I genuinely hope the next visit aligns with the welcoming atmosphere the establishment initially promised.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 1
pesto turkey was amazing
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Just fantastic place. Great live music
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A great place for a meal.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fish N Chips, French Dip, Philly Cheesesteak with Fries
Parking: There's street parking in front of the bar, and around the corner there's more. There are a number of free parking lots only a block or so away
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto Sandwich, French Dip with Crisps, Burger with Fries and Honey Mustard
This is my favorite bar in Pullman. It’s a must see for both travelers and locals alike. The cocktails are innovative yet classic and always taste incredible. The staff is kind and accommodating; they work hard to ensure that every guest feels welcome and appreciated. The food is some of the best in Pullman. My personal favorites are the brisket sandwich and the fish and chips; the only time I’ve had any comparable fried fish was in Scotland. Truly an unmatched ambiance with such a classic, yet refined and rustic atmosphere all at the same time. It’s no surprise that this place has stood the test of time.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto Sandwich, Fish N Chips
Very busy Halloween night. Took awhile but we all liked our salads. Would recommend for burgers, etc.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 3
One of the best pubs in the state!
Go COUGS!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Definitely come here for food and drinks if in town! They also have three pool tables upstairs!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fish N Chips
Restaurantji Recommends
Best place in town - go there. It is great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is a super casual place that suits all cool people and especially of you like all kinds of music. Thanks for not changing much and encouraging local music.
Parking: Parking is easy--never a problem--in front and in the back--there is a back entrance.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Salad, Rueben Sandwich
Best place in town - go there. It is great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I originally wrote this review while extremely frustrated about not receiving the au jus with my French dip multiple times, specifically when I ordered it on doordash. While that does still frustrate me I want to say going in person is AMAZING!!!! I love the atmosphere, the food is great, and the service is top tier. I completely forgot I wrote this review until the owner responded to it and I want to say this place is amazing. Love love love ricos. My boyfriend and I go basically once every week.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Mozzarella Sticks, French Dip, French Dip Sandwich
Really like this place. Also thank you for support!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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