King Ribs BBQ | Our Story

Slow-smoked BBQ, drive-thru fast since 1990

Founded in 1990 by Theopolis Clardy Sr., the premise was built on fast service. King Ribs established one of the first drive thru barbecue restaurants in Indiana, proving barbecue can be served in a fast manner, and still provide amazing food!

The beginning

In 1990, Theopolis Clardy Sr. opened one of the first drive-thru BBQ restaurants in Indiana — a concept that ran against everything conventional wisdom said about slow-smoked food. The idea was simple: quality and speed aren't opposites.

The craft

Every piece of meat — ribs, tips, pork chops, chicken, smoked links — is cooked fresh on live charcoal every day. No shortcuts in the pit; the only thing that moves fast is the line at the window. We strive to put out a quality product everyday, provide fast friendly courteous service, and be a positive force in the community.

The food that keeps them coming back

The rib tips are legendary, the ribs come off the grill with a bark and tenderness regulars swear by, and the sides — mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans — make every plate feel like a full meal.

A community restaurant

King Ribs feeds church gatherings, family reunions, and race weekend visitors who discover what locals already know. The Clardy family earned the Champions of Diversity Exemplary Service Award — recognition for what they've built as a neighbor, not just a business.

Over 30 years and still going

On holiday weekends, the line stretches down the block. Customers buy the award-winning sauce by the gallon to bring the flavor home. After 34 years, King Ribs is an Indianapolis institution.