New Bandit in Town

Driving along Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks you may have noticed that there’s a new bandit in town.

The old Pizza Hut/Bandits’ BBQ building has been replaced with a modern new building that includes a full bar and Western ambiance. Owner Ron Parker and his staff have done a tremendous job creating an exciting new look while serving the same great food that they have for the past 15 years.

The restaurant’s home-style, friendly attitude hasn’t changed, even though the building has.

When the new Bandits’ opened last December, it was impossible to get a seat without waiting at least an hour and the service was slow. As with any new restaurant opening, it takes a while until the dust settles.

Judging by my recent visits, however, the old Bandits’ is back.

Start off with the spicy chicken wings or the onion loaf, a little on the oily side, but it tastes great. You can’t go wrong ordering a slab of pork ribs, a great value at $14.99, or the roasted half-chicken at $10.99.

My rib-eye steak was very tasty and the fresh yams and green beans were a perfect complement.

All entrees are served with your choice of salad or cole slaw. New additions to the menu include the BBQ chicken chopped salad with jicama, corn and black beans and the "Six Gun" salmon with Jamaican jerk seasonings and a sweet mango sauce. The taste was delicious.

Portions are very generous and you’re sure to leave satisfied.

Monday nights bring all-you-can-eat ribs, which is still the best deal in town. The "Endless Slab" of pork ribs costs $19.99 and beef ribs are $14.99. Tuesday is Kids’ Night, with all kids’ meals at $2.59.

Also offered is a happy hour Monday thru Friday from 3 to 7 p.m., with $1 off all appetizers in the bar.

There’s a limited wine list, but if you need to have a great wine with your meal, just bring your own. The corkage charge is $6.

The new Bandits’ now has a separate and convenient takeout entrance so you no longer have to wait in line to pick up your order.

Bandits’ excellent food and friendly service will keep the regulars coming back for more.

Bandits’ is open for lunch and dinner every day and is located at 589 N. Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks. Call (805) 497-7427.

Marty Bee is a pseudonym for The Acorn’s restaurant reviewer. To preserve the objectivity of Mr. Bee’s work, his appearance at each restaurant is kept a secret. He could be at a table next to yours.