OUR STORY

Mary Lou’s Story
The Heart Behind the Smoke

The Legend of Mary Lou (and Woody Too)

Smokehouse queen. Country spirit. Ripley’s rowdiest hostess — with a cheeky little sidekick who’s always up to something.


Welcome to Mary Lou’s Smokehouse & Craft Bar, where bold BBQ meets big personality — and where no night ever ends quietly.

THE STORY

Who’s Mary Lou?

I rolled into Ripley with a love for proper slow-smoked BBQ, neon-lit nights, and a knack for turning good evenings into great ones. Around here, we don’t do things halfway.


BIG PORTIONS.

BIG FLAVOUR.

BIG ENERGY.


This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a place where friends gather, music plays loud, and every table feels like the best seat in the house.

Woman in a straw hat smiles while holding a bear in a golden field, with a book beside her.
Brown beaver standing upright, smiling with paws raised, against a white background

Meet Woody the Beaver

Now I don’t run this place alone. Say hello to Woody — my trusty little beaver.


BY DAY, he’s as sweet as they come. Kids love him, always sneaking bites off trays and causing just enough trouble to keep things interesting.


BY NIGHT… well, let’s just say Woody’s got a bit of a reputation.


If you see him on the menu or around the bar, don’t be shy — he’s always up for making new friends.

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By Day

A Proper Smokehouse in Ripley

When the sun’s high, it’s all about slow-smoked BBQ done properly..


Expect:

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Slow-smoked meats cooked low and slow

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Ribs dripping in sauce

Black icon of a fork, plate with percent symbol, and spoon, suggesting a dining or discount menu symbol

Loaded trays that don’t leave you hungry

We’re proud to be one of the go-to spots for BBQ in Ripley, serving up proper smokehouse flavour with a warm, welcoming feel.


Families, friends, first-timers — everyone’s welcome at Mary Lou’s table.

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By Night

Ripley’s Rowdiest Country Bar

When the lights go down…That’s when things get interesting.


Mary Lou’s transforms into one of Derbyshire’s boldest country bars, with:

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Live music

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Karaoke nights

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Cocktails that pack a punch

This is where the boots hit the floor, the drinks keep flowing, and the stories get better as the night goes on.



And Woody?

You’ll probably find him in the middle of it all.

Why Ripley?

More than a restaurant
this is where Ripley comes together.

Ripley deserves a place with real character — and that’s exactly what we’ve built.


Somewhere you can:

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Feast with family

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Let loose with friends

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Make memories that stick

Ripley’s got heart — and we’re proud to be part of it.

Friends eating pizza and laughing at a cozy restaurant table

COME SEE WHAT EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT

That’s our story.


Now let’s make yours.


Whether it’s:
•  A laid-back family meal
•  A night you won’t forget (even if it gets a little blurry)
•  Or a celebration worth shouting about


You’ll find it right here at Mary Lou’s Smokehouse & Craft Bar.