40 Of The Tastiest BBQ Spots By State
Prepare your taste buds for a sizzling journey across the United States as we explore the smoky realms of the best barbecue joints. From succulent ribs dripping with flavorful sauces to perfectly grilled turkey, beef, and chicken, this article is your passport to a carnivorous adventure.
We have scoured the nation to uncover hidden gems and renowned establishments that turn the art of flame-broiling into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you are a barbecue foodie or a novice seeking bold flavors, this guide promises to ignite your appetite and leave you craving the best barbecue in the country.
Toshi's Teriyaki Grill: Mill Creek, Washington
Toshi Kasahara pioneered Washington's inaugural teriyaki establishment in 1976 with Toshi's Teriyaki Grill. Renowned for its perfected art of grilling the most delectable teriyaki chicken and beef in the state, the proteins undergo a soy-ginger marinade before sizzling on the chargrill.
Served alongside rice and the establishment's signature sauce, a blend of tangy cabbage slaw, it swiftly garnered community acclaim. The standalone availability of Toshi’s Teriyaki Sauce attests to its widespread popularity, emphasizing the restaurant's enduring appeal as a cherished culinary hub since its inception.
J.R.'s Rhodehouse BBQ Pit: Summerset, South Dakota
Nestled in South Dakota, J.R.'s Rhodehouse BBQ Pit has become one of the region's premier barbecue destinations, extending warm hospitality to all. Chef Justin Rhodes, the namesake of the establishment, crafts a culinary haven focused on the essentials like delectable food, attentive service, and refreshing beer.
Signature offerings, such as the Fat Stack and the one-pound Josey Wales, showcase the mouthwatering fusion of hot link sausage, brisket, turkey, and pulled pork. Beyond the meats, tantalizing sides like the Green Chili Jack Mac contribute to the flavorful symphony that defines this beloved BBQ haven.
Louie Mueller Barbecue: Taylor, Texas
Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor, Texas, boasts a legacy spanning three generations, solidifying its status as one of America's finest BBQ establishments. Presently helmed by Wayne Mueller, the dedicated steward of tradition, he upholds the restaurant's stellar reputation.
Wayne remains unwavering in preserving the authentic flavors and high standards that define the eatery. Amidst a bustling atmosphere, the space offers a retreat, inviting patrons to unwind. As the current custodian, Wayne ensures that the time-honored excellence, especially in signature dishes like smoked steak, persists, inviting guests to relax and relish.
The Shaved Duck: St. Louis, Missouri
At The Shaved Duck in St. Louis, Missouri, barbecue enthusiasts are treated to a culinary journey beyond the ordinary. Before diving into mouthwatering main courses like the Cast Iron Brisket Point Burger or the Smoky Bourbon Meatloaf, patrons can tantalize their taste buds with pre-entrée delights such as duck confit with a juniper berry sauce or the irresistibly pulled pork nachos.
Pitmaster Ally Nisbet's commitment to the craft extends beyond the plate, as The Shaved Duck offers barbecue classes for those eager to refine their pit skills. It's a gastronomic haven where passion for barbecue takes center stage.
Johnny's Victory Diner: Burrillville, Rhode Island
Johnny's Victory Diner earned the reputation of a quintessential destination for BBQ enthusiasts in the United States. Open daily at 5 a.m., this culinary gem crafts delectable, made-from-scratch meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, the real treat unfolds on Friday nights from Memorial Day to Labor Day when Johnny's serves up their renowned BBQ.
With a reputation for mouthwatering flavors and a welcoming ambiance, Johnny's Victory Diner embodies the essence of American barbecue, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and satisfying dining experience.
Fat Rack's BBQ: Cody, Wyoming
Mike Mitchell's BBQ has solidified its status as a Wyoming institution since opening in 2015. Operating from the revered Fat Rack's BBQ food truck, Mitchell, a true Texan, brings the authentic taste of Texas-style BBQ to the state. The allure lies in the succulent pulled pork and the irresistibly dry baby back ribs, drawing foodies like magnets.
Most notably, the smoked turkey sandwiches contribute significantly to the establishment's stellar reputation, making Mike Mitchell's BBQ a must-visit for those craving the genuine flavors of Texan barbecue in the heart of Wyoming.
Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que: Forth Worth, Texas
Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que reigns supreme as one of the Lone Star State's barbecue gems. Located in Austin, this beloved establishment boasts a diverse and straightforward menu. It features classics like pork loin and beef ribeye alongside unique offerings such as jerky and goat.
The main attraction of Cooper's is the "World Famous Big Chop," a mouthwatering two-inch thick delight. Beyond the exceptional cuisine, Cooper's enhances the dining experience with a stunning rooftop garden, a spacious oak-shaded patio, and live music, ensuring a memorable feast for both the palate and the senses.
Dem 2 Brothers And A Grill: Charleston, West Virginia
Dem 2 Brothers And A Grill, owned by former football player Adrian Wright, delivers a taste of Southern flavor to West Virginia. After retiring from the gridiron, Wright, an ex-football player from Tampa Bay, chose to relocate to his hometown in West Virginia and establish this thriving business.
Known for its delectable barbecue offerings and warm hospitality, the grill has become a local favorite, embodying Wright's passion for great food and community connection. Customers are loyal based on online reviews like "baked beans (oh my, were they good!), coleslaw, sweet potato casserole."
Black's BBQ: Lockhart, Texas
Established in 1932, Black's BBQ is a quintessential Texas destination with two iconic locations, one in Austin and another in Lockhart. This barbecue haven, founded by third-generation Pitmaster Kent Black, preserves tradition by employing the slow-smoking techniques inherited from his grandfather in the 1930s.
Indulge in their delectable offerings, such as beef brisket, pork spare ribs, pork shoulder, and homemade cheddar jalapeño sausages. Post-feast, explore their array of sauces, rubs, and branded merchandise, ensuring you can take a piece of this classic Texas spot home to savor the memories.
Torey Grill & BBQ: Torrey, Utah
Torey's Grill & BBQ, founded by the seasoned executive chef Peter Cole, is a barbecue haven that beautifully fuses his two decades of culinary expertise with a passion for smoky flavors. This popular establishment has carved its niche among food enthusiasts because of its delectable offerings.
Everything from the succulent pulled chicken and mouthwatering spare ribs to the perfectly cooked tri-tip, every dish is a testament to Cole's culinary mastery. The extensive menu extends beyond meats, with beloved side dishes and desserts that complete the BBQ experience.
City Butcher And Barbecue: Springfield, Missouri
City Butcher And Barbecue in Springfield, Missouri, stands out as one of the top barbecue destinations in the U.S. Their "On Point Gobbler," a specialty on the menu, perfectly blends burnt ends with smoked turkey, offering a delightful twist for barbecue enthusiasts.
Among their regular menu items is the Pig on Pig on Pig, a hearty pork sandwich featuring pork belly, pulled pork, and smoked ham. For those gearing up for a large gathering, the menu also has ample portions of brisket, ribs, and sausage, providing the ideal spread for your next big party at home.
Cozy Corner Restaurant: Memphis, Tennessee
Nestled in Memphis, Tennessee, the Cozy Corner Restaurant, under the skilled hands of proprietor Desiree Robinson since 1977, stands as a beacon of exceptional barbecue. Revered as one of the best in the U.S., this culinary haven captures the essence of Memphis culture in every bite.
Customers savor the soulful flavors with specialties like the mouth-watering smoked Cornish fowl and the tantalizingly spicy ribs. Cozy Corner is more than a restaurant because it is a journey through time, immersing patrons in the rich tradition of Memphis barbecue and leaving an unforgettable mark on taste buds nationwide.
Federal Hill Smokehouse: Erie, Pennsylvania
Ryan and Autumn Atzeret embarked on a culinary adventure by opening a barbecue haven in Erie, Pennsylvania. Their eatery quickly gained fame for mouthwatering specialties such as deep-fried pulled pork, succulent briskets, savory turkey, flavorful beef ribs, and delectable sausage.
The Atzeret's passion for barbecue shines through in every dish, attracting locals and visitors alike to savor the smoky goodness. Their restaurant in Erie has become a go-to destination for barbecue enthusiasts seeking a blend of innovation and tradition in each delightful bite.
Smoque BBQ: Chicago, Illinois
Texan barbecue enthusiasts, known for their unwavering pride in local fare, nobody can deny the allure of Smoque BBQ in Chicago. Despite their allegiance to homegrown flavors, the towering pit, standing over 20 stories high, is a beacon of carnivorous delight.
Smoque's menu, boasting sandwiches, hearty platters, rib dinners, and innovative specials like BBQ gumbo or brisket taco kits, has earned nationwide acclaim. Barbecue aficionados worldwide have nothing but kind words about this Chicago gem, breaking down borders and establishing Smoque as a must-visit haven for smoked meat enthusiasts.
Ray Ray's Hog Pit: Columbus, Ohio
Ray Ray's Hog Pit in Columbus, Ohio, stands with the premier barbecue destinations in the U.S. What sets it apart is the meticulous slow-cooking process, where meats are tenderly crafted over low heat inside a hardwood smoker for up to sixteen hours.
This method imparts a rich, aromatic flavor to their offerings. Elevating the experience further, Ray Ray's boasts a proprietary sauce that skillfully balances savory and sweet notes, enhancing the overall palate of their delectable barbecue dishes. It is an unparalleled destination for barbecue enthusiasts seeking a true culinary delight.
Heirloom Market BBQ: Atlanta, Georgia
Heirloom Market BBQ in Atlanta stands as a testament to culinary passion, blending classic BBQ traditions with a personal touch. Founded by chefs Cody and Jiyeon, this intimate locale prioritizes simplicity, freshness, and time-honored flavors.
Jiyeon's South Korean roots infuse the menu with a unique flair, while Cody's extensive experience in Southern cuisine elevates the art of barbecue. With a commitment to timeless techniques and heartfelt cooking, Heirloom Market BBQ has carved its place among the nation's best, proving that greatness can thrive even in the smallest of spaces.
Speed Queen Bar-B-Q: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Speed Queen Bar-B-Q in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, founded by Betty Jean Gillespie, is renowned for its delectable barbecued offerings. Locals and tourists each savor the mouthwatering BBQ, rib tips, pig ribs, and pulled pork.
Gillespie's culinary prowess ensures a perfect balance of savory and sweet in every bite, creating a distinctive flavor profile. The meat, expertly seasoned with ground black pepper, elevates the dining experience, making Speed Queen Bar-B-Q a place you cannot resist for barbecue enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable taste of Milwaukee's culinary scene.
Gates Bar-B-Q: Kansas City, Missouri
Gates Bar-B-Q, a Kansas City institution rooted in the legacy of pitmaster Henry Perry, epitomizes the city's unparalleled barbecue tradition. With half a dozen locations exuding the sweet and savory aroma of slow-cooked perfection, Gates Bar-B-Q is a temple of culinary delight.
Do not hesitate to order a mixed plate featuring ribs, beef, and ham, a testament to Kansas City's daring barbecue spirit. Drizzled with the city's signature orange-brown sauce, sweet yet spicy, and crowned with a generous serving of fries, Gates Bar-B-Q stands as a beacon of barbecue excellence.
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q: Atlanta, Georgia
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, nestled in Atlanta, stands out as a premier destination for barbecue enthusiasts. The culinary prowess of owners Jonathan and Justin Fox, hailing from Texas, shines through in their menu, anchored by exceptional brisket and ribs. Beyond traditional offerings, the hickory-smoked chicken wings are a must-try, showcasing the establishment's commitment to creativity.
The menu delves into diverse regional barbecue styles, featuring innovative delights like Texas fries with chopped brisket and chicken-fried ribs with Alabama white sauce. Daily specials, such as house-made bologna and Montreal smoked meat on rye, further elevate the dining experience.
Miss Myra's Pit Bar-B-Q: Vestavia Hills, Alabama
Miss Myra's Pit Bar-B-Q stands out as a premier barbecue destination nationwide. The sprawling brick pit, stretching along the left wall, saturates the dining room with the enticing fragrance of hickory smoke. Mirroring Alabama itself, the menu proudly displays a diverse selection of meats like pork, beef, ribs, and sausage.
However, the true standout is the pit-cooked chicken, enveloped in a smoky mahogany skin that gives way to tender, succulent dark meat. Enhanced by a generous drizzle of tangy white sauce, it takes center stage. Also, the ribs and the renowned, sweet banana pudding come highly recommended.
4 Rivers Smokehouse: Orlando, Florida
4 Rivers Smokehouse ranks among the nation's top barbecue destinations known for its extensive menu showcasing culinary excellence. Their offerings include barbacoa bowls featuring succulent cuts of Angus brisket and an array of sandwiches such as the tantalizing Burnt Ends Melt, adorned with provolone, cheddar cheese, and caramelized onions.
The restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor has solidified its reputation as a must-see spot for barbecue fans, where each dish is a testament to the artistry of smoked meats. After a day of Disney World roller coasters and lineups, refueling at 4 Rivers is the next logical step.
ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque: Richmond, Virginia
ZZQ Texas Craft BBQ has quickly earned a well-deserved reputation as a premier destination for exceptional barbecued fare. Renowned for its outstanding beef ribs, smoked prime ribs, and brisket, ZZQ has become a beacon for barbecue enthusiasts.
The secret behind their distinctive flavor is their use of local oaks during the smoking process. This meticulous approach to crafting flavorful meats has elevated ZZQ to the pinnacle of barbecue excellence, making the restaurant the hot spot worth checking out for foodies looking for an authentic and unparalleled culinary experience.
Mighty Quinn's Barbecue: New York City, New York
Mighty Quinn's Barbecue is considered a pinnacle in the nation's BBQ scene, earning a spot among the best. Diners delight in crafting personalized platters like succulent brisket, flavorful burnt ends, and tender pulled pork menu options. For the daring, the Brontosaurus Rib beckons a daring feast featuring three colossal 18-hour smoked short ribs.
This BBQ haven expertly balances customization and bold offerings, making it a necessary visit for enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable meaty experience. Mighty Quinn's proudly secures its reputation as a top destination in the American barbecue industry.
Two Bros. BBQ Market: San Antonio, Texas
Nestled among the best barbecue havens, Two Bros. BBQ Market distinguishes itself in a homey yellow building with a spacious side yard featuring picnic tables and a kid-friendly playground. The tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked perfection emanates from two traditional brick pits in the screened-in smokehouse and four offset smokers under a nearby shed.
Laura Loomis, a rare female pitmaster in Texas, orchestrates this culinary symphony, delivering standout dishes like yummy brisket with a generous fat cap and juicy sausage with a delightfully smoky bite. Two Bros. BBQ Market truly masters the art of barbecue bliss.
Franklin Barbecue: Austin, Texas
Franklin Barbecue, established by Aaron and Stacy Franklin, has become one of the premier barbecue spots. Renowned for its exceptional menu featuring pulled pork, pork ribs, sausages, turkey, and the signature Texas-style brisket, Franklin sources Meyer Angus beef and utilizes post oak wood for a distinct flavor.
The brisket, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, epitomizes the establishment's dedication to quality. Notably, esteemed guests such as Barack Obama and Jimmy Kimmel have graced Franklin Barbecue, attesting to its status as a culinary gem in the barbecuing world.
Swig & Swine: Charleston, South Carolina
Swig & Swine, a standout BBQ destination, emerged in 2014 and swiftly grew to four locations across greater Charleston within five years, contributing to the city's ascent as a Southern barbecue hub. Owner and pitmaster Anthony DiBernardo, a former Navy submarine cook, is devoted to the art of all-wood barbecue.
The extensive menu spans pulled pork, ribs, turkey, and chicken wings, with the thick-sliced brisket considered a reliable favorite. Yet, the hidden gems lie in the luscious, smoke-infused pork belly and DiBernardo's flavorful twist on South Carolina's traditional hash and rice side dish.
Beast Craft BBQ Co.: Belleville, Illinois
Beast Craft BBQ Co in Belleville, Illinois, reigns supreme as a premier destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Renowned for its smoked meats, such as kielbasa, jerk sausage, and the unique snoot (pig nose minus the nostrils), the menu showcases an array of heavy-hitting sandwiches that tantalizes everyone reading it.
The "Pig Mac," featuring double-stacked pulled pork and slaw, and the sweet and spicy Turkey Melt, adorned with candied bacon jam, smoked tomato mayo, gruyere cheese, and house-pickled jalapeños, secures Beast Craft BBQ Co's status as a top-notch barbecue haven.
Monty's BBQ: Minot, North Dakota
Monty's BBQ has rapidly become a hidden gem among the barbecue elite, founded by Texas native Daniel Montgomery. This culinary haven takes pride in delivering an exceptional experience, featuring mouthwatering sausages, succulent briskets, and delectable burnt ends.
The dedication to quality and flavor has garnered Monty's BBQ a loyal following of patrons who appreciate the authenticity and excellence that this establishment brings to the barbecue world. Daniel Montgomery's expertise and commitment shine through every savory bite, making Monty's BBQ a destination that should be next on the list for barbecue fanatics.
The Ridgewood Barbecue: Bluff City, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of Bluff City, Tennessee, The Ridgewood Barbecue, founded by the Profitt family, holds the key to barbecue bliss. A well-guarded secret, their tangy blue cheese dip, a symphony of flavors in a small white bowl surrounded by saltine crackers, sets the stage.
The main event, a platter of thinly sliced ham pork bathed in a delectable sweet brown sauce, is a masterpiece cooked over hickory wood in smoke-blackened sheds. Let us not forget the delicious hand-cut fries and Mrs. Profitt's sweet, smoky barbecue beans in charming brown ceramic pots.
Bludso's Bar & Que: Los Angeles, California
Bludso's Bar & Que in Los Angeles, given life by barbecue genius Kevin Bludso, stands out as a top-notch destination. Kevin's expertise extends beyond the restaurant. He is a notable judge on a Netflix barbecue competition show. At lunch, patrons delight in choosing from five meat-stacked sandwiches.
For lunch and dinner, the family-style options shine, offering a feast with pork and beef ribs, chicken links, and buffalo-style rib tips. To elevate celebrations, the establishment makes available impressive barbecue party trays. Bludso's Bar & Que promises an irresistible experience for barbecue connoisseurs in the heart of Los Angeles.
Cattleack Barbecue: Dallas, Texas
Cattleack Barbecue, crafted by founder Todd David, ranks among barbecue's elite locales. Guests revel in a carnivorous feast, choosing from various types of meat by the pound, sampler platters, and three sausage varieties like mild, hatch chili, cheese, or the Spicy Texan.
The famed "Toddfather" sandwich, pictured above, is a hearty amalgamation of brisket, pulled pork, sausage, homemade slaw, and barbecue sauce that tantalizes taste buds. Yet, barbecue admirers must plan accordingly, as Cattleack operates exclusively on Thursdays and Fridays, making the culinary pilgrimage a cherished weekly tradition.
Fette Sau: Brooklyn, New York
Joe Carroll, the visionary behind Fette Sau in Brooklyn, has crafted an unassuming barbecue haven since its 2007 inception. The German-inspired name, which translates to "fat pig," sets the tone for the indulgent menu.
Fette Sau proudly features Black Angus Beef Brisket, flavorsome Berkshire hog pork belly, flavorful Duroc pork ribs, and locally sourced Cascun Farm chicken wings. Carroll's commitment to quality and authenticity makes Fette Sau a low-key jewel, offering an unparalleled barbecue event that has quietly earned its reputation as one of the best in Brooklyn.
Mad Jack's Mountaintop Barbecue: Cloudcroft, New Mexico
Nestled atop a scenic mountain, Mad Jack's Mountaintop Barbecue has become a pronounced standout in the American barbecue landscape. On weekends, the menu has traditional delights featuring succulent chicken, zesty hot links, flavorful pig ribs, and exceptional beef briskets.
An absolute delectable to try is the house specialty, a substantial DINO beef rib. Mad Jack's signature touch extends to their smoked turkey legs, a beloved favorite among patrons. Join the ranks of barbecue connoisseurs across the country, savoring the unparalleled delights offered by Mad Jack's, where each bite is an adventure in smoky perfection.
Jones Bar-B-Q: Kansas City, Kansas
Jones Bar-B-Q in Kansas City truly lives up to its reputation as a barbecue haven. The platters are generously laden with succulent sausage, rib tips, beef, ham, and turkey rolls straight from the Jones pit, which is a meat lover's dream.
The irresistible sausage links and perfectly smoked slabs of ribs are recommended as one of the first things to try. Past patrons rave about the homemade Sweet & Tangy BBQ Sauce, urging visitors to snag a bottle before departing. Jones Bar-B-Q is undeniably a top-tier barbecue spot, leaving taste buds delighted and cravings satisfied.
Truth BBQ: Houston, Texas
Truth BBQ, led by Pitmaster Leonard Botello IV, has emerged as a pinnacle in barbecue excellence, redefining tradition with innovative dishes like Carolina Style Whole Hog, Boudin Smoked Sausage, and Pastrami Brisket.
What distinguishes Truth BBQ is their unwavering commitment to crafting everything from scratch daily, including the sausage, often made right before your eyes as you wait in line to order. This dedication to in-house, handcrafted perfection has cemented Truth BBQ's status as a leader in the exclusive and exceptional barbecue world.
Corkscrew BBQ: Spring, Texas
Corkscrew BBQ cast its ballot as a premier barbecue joint, celebrated for its exceptional offerings in a unique setting. Nestled in a spacious grassy yard, patrons relish in the experience of savoring prime-grade brisket and ribs at picnic tables, accompanied by the rhythmic presence of passing freight trains.
The slow-smoked delights, including pork, turkey, sausage, and ribs, highlight the craftsmanship of red oak preparation. The barbecue's perfection requires only the provided tray of sliced onions, pickles, and jalapenos while indulging in optional sides such as creamy mac-and-cheese and smoky BBQ beans.
La Barbecue: Austin, Texas
La Barbecue in Austin, Texas, offers a variety of meats by the pound and displays an exceptional sandwich selection. Indulge in the flavorful La Frito Loco, featuring pulled pork, chopped beef, chipotle slaw, beans, Fritos, cheese, and jalapeño on a soft potato bun.
Alternatively, savor the Bobby Dawg, crafted from house-made jalapeño sausage topped with brisket or pulled pork, beans, cheese, onions, and yellow mustard. These mouthwatering sandwiches showcase La Barbecue's commitment to deliciously unique combinations, making it a mandatory destination for barbecue foodies in the heart of Texas.
B's Cracklin' Barbeque: Savannah, Georgia
B's Cracklin Barbecue, a culinary gem in Savannah, Georgia, is the brainchild of pitmaster Bryan Furman, a maestro in the world of barbecue cooked over a wooden fire. Hailing from South Carolina, Bryan pays homage to his roots with a heritage-breed whole hog, expertly complemented by a zesty mustard-based sauce infused with peaches.
The brisket, dressed with a remarkable bark and a perfect balance of firmness and juiciness, is a standout. However, the ribs steal the show, boasting a decadent, lingering smokiness that elevates each delectable bite at this top-rated barbecue sanctuary.
Lexington Barbecue: Lexington, Kentucky
Established in 1962 by Wayne Monk and located along the highway in Lexington, North Carolina, Lexington Barbecue has become a culinary icon. Monk, the visionary founder, crafted a barbecue haven that has stood the test of time. Amidst towering plates of savory chopped meat and crisp pork skin sides, the restaurant showcases its mastery.
Specializing exclusively in smoking pork shoulder over hickory or oak coals, Lexington Barbecue boasts a menu that extends beyond barbecue classics, featuring Southern favorites such as hamburger steak, fried shrimp, and fish sandwiches.
Pappy's Smokehouse: St. Louis, Missouri
Nestled in Missouri, Pappy's Smokehouse epitomizes Memphis-style barbecue with its slow-cooked delights and delectable sauces. Their menu proudly shows an array of freshly prepared sandwiches, combination meat platters, and drool-worthy slabs of ribs.
Pappy's most infamous barbecued sandwich is a tribute to Adam Richman, the former host of Man Vs. Food featuring a Hot Link Frito Pie and the extensive Big Ben combo platter comprising a full slab of ribs, brisket, pork, chicken sandwich, and four sides. Pappy's meticulous low and slow cooking method infuses each dish with irresistible flavors, making it a haven for barbecue enthusiasts.