Sophisticated Barbecue and Bargains in Parsippany

When the subject of barbecue arises, many people immediately think of ribs, chicken or pulled pork slathered in thick and spicy or tomatoey sauce. Tino's BBQ & Grill, on Parsippany's Littleton Road, does not provide that kind of barbecue (though the chef will prepare something like that if you ask nicely). 

And when one considers Portuguese barbecue, the thought generally leans toward an exotic taste found in a sophisticated setting. One really could not call Tino's setting sophisticated either. It's located in a tiny, narrow storefront that looks like a neighborhood pizzeria or sub shop.

Tino's is really a hybrid establishment that offers highbrow food in a lowbrow setting. The combination intrigues, the food enthralls and the lunch and dinner deals offered are the kicker. 

Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. This seemingly contradictory eatery is this week's choice:

Tino's BBQ & Grill has an extensive menu that covers lunch and dinner. It includes a wide variety of dishes ranging from Italian pastas and Italian, French and Spanish entrees to salads, sandwiches, appetizers and more. But the real draw for these tastebuds is the barbecue.

The restaurant specializes in authentic, meticulously spiced and slow-cooked Portuguese barbecue. 

"It takes 45 minutes to do the barbecue, so we always have it ready to go," said the server when he appeared with our barbecued half-chicken mere minutes after we ordered during a recent visit.

Speedy service makes this a great place to grab a bite for lunch. We were in and out in about 40 minutes, and had full, happy bellies to show for it. 

And if you're feeding children, Tino's kid's menu has you covered. It offers three rugrat-friendly entree choices—chicken fingers, pasta with butter sauce and mozzarella sticks—for the bargain price of $5. For those with larger appetites and thinner wallets, there are also daily specials and two-for-one entree deals. But the regular entree prices likely won't break the bank: appetizers, salads and salads go for $7 or $8, lunch platters run between $8 to $10 and dinners range from $12 to $16. 

You can supplement your meal with sides such as Spanish potatoes, vegetables or black beans for $2 each or settle for the curious carb-heavy default of fries and rice. Beverages—soft drinks, teas and juices—come in a refrigerated cold case.

Tino's may look like a humble place, but when you taste the food, you'll realize that its subtle, sophisticated flavors make it anything but.

Tino's BBQ & Grill is located at 229 Littleton Rd. It's open Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. For more information, call 973-588-7979.