You can dance the boogaloo, but in St. Joseph, you’ll want to eat there.

Boogaloo’s Bar-B-Que is the real deal when it comes to tender slabs of babyback ribs, barbecued brisket and piled-high shredded pork sandwiches. Owner Wilbur May makes everything fresh at the restaurant, including a slightly spicy barbecue sauce. He also serves Kansas City Masterpiece on the side for those who like it sweet. But you really don’t need any sauce on the baby back ribs, thanks to Wibur’s special (and top secret) rub.

Where is this boogaloo of barbecue? You won’t see a big sign to let you know from the road, but It’s easy to find once you know where to look. Boogaloo’s is located in the middle of a small strip mall next to Webster’s Speech Clinic, across the street from the South Belt Wal-Mart. You’ll know you’ve found it when you see the pink Boogaloo pig wearing sunglasses on the door.

This is not a place to come with a big group for a sit-down meal. There are only four tables. Carry-out and catering make up the largest portion of the business. But if it’s no more than just you and a friend, it’s a fun place to sit. The table tops for two are painted with the pink pig, and one of the walls is like a rhythm and blues hall of fame with paintings, posters and photos of some of the greats like Jimi Hendrix and local favorites such as the Frank Ace Blues Band.

If you study the band photos, you’ll see Wilbur is posed in a few. That’s because he switches to his musician hat on weekends. And that’s when you might see him at the First Ward House with the Page 2 band or jamming with the Jerry Forney Band at the Ground Round on Sunday night. So on Friday and Saturday nights, if you’re thinking about boogying over to Boogaloo’s (sorry, I couldn’t resist) call first to make sure he’s there. The hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. They are closed Sundays and Mondays.

Boogaloo’s does not accept credit cards, so bring cash or a check. A barbecued pork sandwich with a drink and a side is $5.99. A half slab of ribs is $8.99, and it’s $14.99 for a full order.