I had seen ads for Sgt. Rick's on Facebook, and being a Marine family, my mom and I definitely wanted to support a veteran-owned business. The food was phenomenal! I had the Pulled Pork Deluxe Nachos and Loaded Tater Tots, my mom had a BLT with fries, and fried mushrooms on the side. The pulled pork on my nachos was the bomb, some of the best I've have in awhile. The portions were huge and we left stuffed. We enjoyed the military decor. We didn't feel particularly welcome when we first walked in (its VERY small town and we aren't "from around here"), but Rick was very nice as we were chatting with him towards the end of our visit. We will definitely be back to try out some of the other menu options.
Overview
Nestled along North Union Street in Freetown, Indiana, Sgt Rick's American Grill & Bbq is the kind of spot where smoky aromas greet you before you even step inside. Locals often talk about the laid-back atmosphere, where wood-paneled walls and the warm scent of hickory set the tone for a true American dining experience. Sitting down here feels like being invited to a family cookout, except the menu is more extensive and the flavors a little more refined.
What stands out right away is the dedication to slow-smoked meats. Brisket arrives with that perfect pink smoke ring, tender enough to cut with a fork, while the pulled pork melts into its tangy house-made sauce. Barbecue enthusiasts will appreciate the balance—smoke, seasoning, and sauce working together rather than overpowering each other. The ribs are a favorite among regulars, with a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully, and if you ask around, people will recommend pairing them with the classic mac and cheese or a side of seasoned fries.
Beyond the barbecue staples, the menu offers a bit of everything for diners looking for variety. Burgers come stacked high with toppings, grilled chicken sandwiches carry a light char that’s both juicy and flavorful, and hearty salads round out the options for those wanting something lighter. Families often highlight how kid-friendly the location feels, with plenty of choices for younger appetites. Reviews from visitors passing through Indiana often mention the generous portions, fair prices, and the feeling that the kitchen is run by people who genuinely love what they do.
Food critics and barbecue guides frequently note that small-town restaurants like this carry forward a tradition of American grilling that big-city spots sometimes lose. According to the National Barbecue Association, more than 65% of diners say they value authenticity over novelty when choosing where to eat barbecue, and that authenticity is what defines this place. You taste it in the slow process, the seasoned cast-iron griddles, and the recipes refined over years of practice.
For anyone planning a road trip through southern Indiana, adding this address—6661 N Union St—to the itinerary means a guaranteed meal that’s both filling and memorable. It’s not just about the food but the sense of community; the staff remembers faces, chats with guests, and makes newcomers feel like regulars. That combination of flavor, comfort, and hospitality is what keeps people coming back and what makes this diner more than just another stop for barbecue.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as veteran-owned ✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Kerbside pickup ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet ✓ Assistive hearing loopOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Counter service ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 377 reviews
THIS IS A MUST TRY: HIDDEN GEM ALERT!!! SGT Rick's American GRILL & B B Q Hands down the absolute best breakfast I have had in years! Looking over the menu this morning, and there are sooo many great items to choose from ALL day long. Please give this place a try, I promise you won't be disappointed and you will be planning a second trip back before you pay for your meal!! It was so nice to eat at a place with such great customer service and in an atmosphere that, without a doubt honors those that have fought for our freedoms!
My husband and I enjoy eating at Sgt Rick's for the great food. Sgt Rick and his staff are always friendly and makes a point of speaking like we are family. The long drive from home is always worth it. There is something on the menu for everyone. Sgt Rick's is our go to place when we have out of town/out of State friends visit because we know they will enjoy their meal as well as a friendly atmosphere. It is unlike going to a busy commercialized restaurant. Excellent food, very clean, personal friendly service, we can carry on a conversation because it quiet with no music.
Great service and atmosphere. Food was delicious. The decor is military themed and very patriotic which is a huge plus for this family. Burgers are phenomenal. Only bummer was, we would have liked double the fries. Will definitely go back for more.
Very cool restaurant with alot of Veteran memorabilia! Food is amazing! Especially the baked beans!
Our first time here, and let me tell ya, it was one of the best little darn restaurants we've been to in a very long time!! I got the Pulled Pork Nacho, and he got the Triple Trump Burger... Yum!!!!!
Food was great. Did not leave hungry and probably won't eat for a day just because I am so full. Will definitely go back and try breakfast. Loved the atmosphere and American Military, USA decor.
My husband said Rick serves the best food that he has had in this country. And he has eaten in many restaurants from coast to coast. We truly enjoyed our restaurant experience.