Skip to main content
HomeBest BBQ in BBQ Atlas

Best BBQ in
BBQ Atlas

BBQ Atlas is one of America's great BBQ capitals - and its most diverse. This guide covers the best restaurants in the metro, from century-old institutions to the new generation of craft pitmasters.

254 restaurants featured·0 metro areas

BBQ Atlas's BBQ tradition stretches back over a century. What began as a working-class meal has evolved into one of America's most celebrated culinary traditions. Today, the metro is home to dozens of BBQ restaurants, from historic institutions to a new wave of craft pitmasters pushing the tradition forward.

This guide focuses on the restaurants that represent BBQ Atlas BBQ at its best — places where the smoke is real, the technique is sound, and the result is worth the drive.

The Best BBQ Restaurants
in BBQ Atlas

Franklin Barbecue
1
LEGENDARYBRISKET KING

Franklin Barbecue

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2009
Tags:LEGENDARY, BRISKET KING, LINE REQUIRED
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
2
KC ClassicBest Burnt Ends

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Westwood, Kansas City, KS·$$·Est. 1996
Tags:KC Classic, Best Burnt Ends, Local Favorite
Snow's BBQ
3
LEGENDARYSATURDAY ONLY

Snow's BBQ

Lexington, Lexington·$·Est. 2003
Tags:LEGENDARY, SATURDAY ONLY, TOOTSIE
Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous
4
dry-rubcharcoal

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Downtown, Downtown / Beale Street·$$·Est. 1948
Tags:dry-rub, charcoal, institution
5
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Lexington Barbecue

Lexington, Lexington·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Iconic
6
MuttonBurgoo

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn

Owensboro, Owensboro·$$
Tags:Mutton, Burgoo, Buffet
7
Dry Rub RibsIconic

Pappy's Smokehouse

Midtown, Midtown·$$
Tags:Dry Rub Ribs, Iconic, Burnt Ends
8
White SauceSmoked Chicken

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

Decatur, AL, Decatur·$$
Tags:White Sauce, Smoked Chicken, Iconic
La Barbecue
9
EAST AUSTIN ICONBEEF RIBS

La Barbecue

East Cesar Chavez, East Austin·$$·Est. 2012
Tags:EAST AUSTIN ICON, BEEF RIBS, TRAILER ROOTS
Rodney Scott's BBQ
10
whole-hogjames-beard

Rodney Scott's BBQ

NoMo / North Morrison, Downtown Charleston·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:whole-hog, james-beard, gullah-geechee
Scott's Bar-B-Que
11
whole-hogvinegar-pepper

Scott's Bar-B-Que

Hemingway, Hemingway / Pee Dee·$·Est. 1972
Tags:whole-hog, vinegar-pepper, historic
Arthur Bryant's Barbeque
12
KC ClassicHistoric

Arthur Bryant's Barbeque

Brooklyn Heights, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 1908
Tags:KC Classic, Historic, Best Ribs
13
RibsBrisket

Bogart's Smokehouse

Soulard, Soulard·$$
Tags:Ribs, Brisket, Pastrami
Cozy Corner
14
soul-bbqcornish-hen

Cozy Corner

North Memphis, Midtown·$·Est. 1977
Tags:soul-bbq, cornish-hen, bologna
Lewis Barbecue
15
whole-hogbrisket

Lewis Barbecue

NoMo / North Morrison, Downtown Charleston·$$·Est. 2016
Tags:whole-hog, brisket, texas-style
16
MuttonHistoric

Old Hickory Bar-B-Q

Owensboro, Owensboro·$$
Tags:Mutton, Historic, Family-Owned
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
17
TEX-MEX FUSIONBREAKFAST TACOS

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ

South Austin, South Congress & South Austin·$·Est. 2013
Tags:TEX-MEX FUSION, BREAKFAST TACOS, SOUTH AUSTIN
18
SnootsRib Tips

C&K Barbecue

North County, North County·$
Tags:Snoots, Rib Tips, Historic
Louie Mueller Barbecue
19
LEGENDARYJAMES BEARD

Louie Mueller Barbecue

Taylor, Taylor·$$·Est. 1949
Tags:LEGENDARY, JAMES BEARD, TAYLOR
20
White SaucePulled Pork

Saw's BBQ

Homewood, AL, Homewood·$$
Tags:White Sauce, Pulled Pork, Ribs
Terry Black's Barbecue
21
OPEN DAILYFAMILY LEGACY

Terry Black's Barbecue

Barton Springs, South Congress & South Austin·$$·Est. 2014
Tags:OPEN DAILY, FAMILY LEGACY, FULL BAR
22
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

The Barbecue Center

Lexington (North Main), Lexington·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Historic
Central BBQ
23
slow-smokedhickory

Central BBQ

Midtown, Midtown·$$·Est. 2002
Tags:slow-smoked, hickory, dry-rub
Corky's Memphis
24

Corky's Memphis

Cordova, ·$$
Kreuz Market
25
LEGENDARYLOCKHART

Kreuz Market

Lockhart, Lockhart·$$·Est. 1900
Tags:LEGENDARY, LOCKHART, NO SAUCE
Micklethwait Craft Meats
26
TRAILERCRAFT SAUSAGE

Micklethwait Craft Meats

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2012
Tags:TRAILER, CRAFT SAUSAGE, EAST AUSTIN
27
BrisketSt. Louis Ribs

Salt + Smoke

Delmar Loop, Delmar Loop·$$
Tags:Brisket, St. Louis Ribs, Craft BBQ
Sweatman's Bar-B-Que
28
whole-hogmustard-sauce

Sweatman's Bar-B-Que

Holly Hill, Hemingway / Pee Dee·$·Est. 1959
Tags:whole-hog, mustard-sauce, historic
Chef J BBQ
29
chef-drivenWest Bottoms

Chef J BBQ

West Bottoms, West Bottoms·$$·Est. 2020
Tags:chef-driven, West Bottoms, sells out
Distant Relatives
30
INNOVATIVEAFRICAN DIASPORA

Distant Relatives

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2021
Tags:INNOVATIVE, AFRICAN DIASPORA, EAST AUSTIN
31
Spare RibsHickory

Dreamland Bar-B-Que

Southside / Glen Iris, Birmingham, Southside·$$
Tags:Spare Ribs, Hickory, Iconic
Home Team BBQ
32
pulled-porkribs

Home Team BBQ

Upper King, Downtown Charleston·$$·Est. 2006
Tags:pulled-pork, ribs, craft-beer
Leonard's BBQ
33

Leonard's BBQ

Hickory Hill, ·$$
LeRoy and Lewis
34
NEW SCHOOLINNOVATIVE

LeRoy and Lewis

South Austin, South Congress & South Austin·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:NEW SCHOOL, INNOVATIVE, TRAILER
35
MuttonBurgoo

Ole South Barbeque

Owensboro, Owensboro·$$
Tags:Mutton, Burgoo, Buffet
Payne's Bar-B-Q
36
chopped-porkold-school

Payne's Bar-B-Q

Lamar Avenue, East Memphis·$·Est. 1972
Tags:chopped-pork, old-school, cash-only
Q39
37
Best BrisketChef-Driven

Q39

Midtown, Kansas City, MO·$$·Est. 2014
Tags:Best Brisket, Chef-Driven, Modern KC
Southside Market and BBQ
38

Southside Market and BBQ

North Austin, ·$$
39
Pork ShoulderBarbecue Slaw

Stamey's Barbecue

Greensboro (Piedmont Triad), Greensboro·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Barbecue Slaw, Historic
40
BrisketBurnt Ends

Sugarfire Smoke House

Olivette, Olivette·$$
Tags:Brisket, Burnt Ends, Chef-Driven
41
BrisketSmoked Salami

Adam's Smokehouse

Clifton Heights, Clifton Heights·$$
Tags:Brisket, Smoked Salami, Ribs
42
HickoryRibs

Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q

Bessemer, AL, Bessemer·$$
Tags:Hickory, Ribs, Historic
Buck Tui BBQ
43
Thai fusionchef-driven

Buck Tui BBQ

Overland Park, Overland Park·$$·Est. 2022
Tags:Thai fusion, chef-driven, modern
Central BBQ
44

Central BBQ

Downtown, ·$$
Central BBQ
45

Central BBQ

East Memphis, ·$$
Central BBQ
46

Central BBQ

Berclair, ·$$
Interstellar BBQ
47
NORTH AUSTINNO WAIT

Interstellar BBQ

Round Rock, Round Rock & Suburbs·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:NORTH AUSTIN, NO WAIT, BRISKET
LC's Bar-B-Q
48
Cult FavoriteCash Only

LC's Bar-B-Q

East Side, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 1986
Tags:Cult Favorite, Cash Only, Best Burnt Ends
Smitty's Market
49
LEGENDARYLOCKHART

Smitty's Market

Lockhart, Lockhart·$·Est. 1999
Tags:LEGENDARY, LOCKHART, HISTORIC
Stubb's Bar-B-Q
50

Stubb's Bar-B-Q

Red River District, ·$$
The Bar-B-Q Shop
51
bbq-spaghettidancing-pigs

The Bar-B-Q Shop

Midtown, Midtown·$$·Est. 1987
Tags:bbq-spaghetti, dancing-pigs, dry-rub
52
BrisketPork Steaks

BEAST Craft BBQ Co.

Belleville, IL (Metro East), Belleville·$$
Tags:Brisket, Pork Steaks, Craft BBQ
Germantown Commissary
53
historic-buildingdry-rub

Germantown Commissary

Germantown, Germantown·$$·Est. 1981
Tags:historic-building, dry-rub, wet-ribs
Loro
54
ASIAN FUSIONOPEN DAILY

Loro

South Lamar, South Congress & South Austin·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:ASIAN FUSION, OPEN DAILY, FULL BAR
Palmira Barbecue
55
Texas-stylePuerto Rican

Palmira Barbecue

West Ashley, West Ashley·$$
Tags:Texas-style, Puerto Rican, West Ashley
56
MuttonHam

Peak Bros. Bar-B-Que

Waverly (Union County), Waverly·$$
Tags:Mutton, Ham, Historic
57
White SauceSoul Food

Saw's Soul Kitchen

Avondale, Birmingham, Avondale·$$
Tags:White Sauce, Soul Food, Pulled Pork
Slap's BBQ
58
Best Burnt EndsLocal Favorite

Slap's BBQ

Kansas City, KS, Kansas City, KS·$·Est. 2016
Tags:Best Burnt Ends, Local Favorite, No Frills
59
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Speedy's Barbecue

Lexington, Lexington·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Curb Service
Swig & Swine
60
pulled-porkbrisket

Swig & Swine

West Ashley, West Ashley·$$·Est. 2013
Tags:pulled-pork, brisket, craft-cocktails
Black's Barbecue (Lockhart Original)
61
LOCKHARTSINCE 1932

Black's Barbecue (Lockhart Original)

Lockhart, Lockhart·$$·Est. 1932
Tags:LOCKHART, SINCE 1932, FAMILY OWNED
Danny Edwards' Boulevard BBQ
62
HistoricLunch Only

Danny Edwards' Boulevard BBQ

Crossroads, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 1980
Tags:Historic, Lunch Only, BBQ Royalty
Fiery Ron's Home Team BBQ
63
pulled-porkribs

Fiery Ron's Home Team BBQ

West Ashley, West Ashley·$$·Est. 2006
Tags:pulled-pork, ribs, west-ashley
64
Pork SteaksDuroc Ribs

Grace Meat + Three

The Grove, The Grove·$$$
Tags:Pork Steaks, Duroc Ribs, Chef-Driven
House Park Bar-B-Que
65

House Park Bar-B-Que

Downtown, ·$$
Interstate Bar-B-Q
66
wet-ribsslow-smoked

Interstate Bar-B-Q

South Memphis, South Memphis / Whitehaven·$$·Est. 1978
Tags:wet-ribs, slow-smoked, south-memphis
Kerlin BBQ
67
EAST AUSTINTRAILER

Kerlin BBQ

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2013
Tags:EAST AUSTIN, TRAILER, BRISKET
KG BBQ
68
fusionEgyptian

KG BBQ

East Austin, East Austin·$$
Tags:fusion, Egyptian, Bib Gourmand
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
69
whole-hogWest Tennessee

Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

James Island, James Island·$$·Est. 2019
Tags:whole-hog, West Tennessee, full-bar
Meat Mitch Barbecue
70
competition pedigreeaward-winning

Meat Mitch Barbecue

Leawood, Leawood·$$·Est. 2021
Tags:competition pedigree, award-winning, Leawood
Memphis BBQ Co.
71
competition-bbqchampionship

Memphis BBQ Co.

Horn Lake, South Memphis / Whitehaven·$$·Est. 2011
Tags:competition-bbq, championship, dry-rub
72
White SauceSmoked Chicken

Miss Myra's Pit Bar-B-Q

Cahaba Heights (Vestavia Hills), AL, Cahaba Heights·$$
Tags:White Sauce, Smoked Chicken, Homemade Desserts
73
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Smokey Joe's Barbecue

Lexington (South Main), Lexington·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Baby Back Ribs
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew
74
OPEN DAILYCRAFT BEER

Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew

North Loop, North Austin·$$·Est. 2011
Tags:OPEN DAILY, CRAFT BEER, NORTH LOOP
The Smoking Lamb
75
craft-bbqmount-pleasant

The Smoking Lamb

Mount Pleasant, Mount Pleasant·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:craft-bbq, mount-pleasant, new-school
Woodyard Bar-B-Que
76
WoodyardUnique Atmosphere

Woodyard Bar-B-Que

Argentine, Kansas City, KS·$$·Est. 2009
Tags:Woodyard, Unique Atmosphere, Best Burnt Ends
A&R Bar-B-Que
77
rib-tipsold-school

A&R Bar-B-Que

South Memphis, South Memphis / Whitehaven·$·Est. 1983
Tags:rib-tips, old-school, south-memphis
Bain Barbecue & Bakery
78
briskettexas-style

Bain Barbecue & Bakery

Cooper-Young, Cooper-Young·$$·Est. 2022
Tags:brisket, texas-style, bakery
Brown's Bar-B-Que
79
TRAILERSOUTH LAMAR

Brown's Bar-B-Que

South Lamar, South Congress & South Austin·$·Est. 2012
Tags:TRAILER, SOUTH LAMAR, VALUE
80
HistoricOldest

Golden Rule Bar-B-Q

Irondale, AL, Irondale·$$
Tags:Historic, Oldest, Brunswick Stew
Jack Stack Barbecue
81
Best RibsFull Experience

Jack Stack Barbecue

Freight House, Kansas City, MO·$$$·Est. 1957
Tags:Best Ribs, Full Experience, Date Night
Jones Bar-B-Q
82
James BeardKCK

Jones Bar-B-Q

Kansas City, KS, Kansas City, KS·$·Est. 1986
Tags:James Beard, KCK, Historic
King BBQ
83
fusionChinese BBQ

King BBQ

Park Circle, North Charleston·$$·Est. 2023
Tags:fusion, Chinese BBQ, Park Circle
Melvin's Legendary Bar-B-Q
84
mustard-saucewhole-hog

Melvin's Legendary Bar-B-Q

James Island, James Island·$·Est. 1939
Tags:mustard-sauce, whole-hog, old-school
Mum Foods Smokehouse & Delicatessen
85
pastramideli

Mum Foods Smokehouse & Delicatessen

East Austin, East Austin·$$
Tags:pastrami, deli, Top 50
One & Only BBQ
86
competition-bbqdry-rub

One & Only BBQ

East Memphis, East Memphis·$$·Est. 2014
Tags:competition-bbq, dry-rub, pulled-pork
Parish Barbecue
87
CajunBib Gourmand

Parish Barbecue

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2024
Tags:Cajun, Bib Gourmand, trailer
88
SnootsRib Tips

Roper's Ribs

Walnut Park, Walnut Park·$
Tags:Snoots, Rib Tips, Soul BBQ
89
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Tarheel Q

Lexington (Reeds / US-64 West), Lexington·$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Brick Pit
90
MuttonBeans

Thomason's Barbecue

Henderson (Henderson County), Henderson·$$
Tags:Mutton, Beans, Dip
Black's Barbecue
91
LOCKHART LEGACYOPEN DAILY

Black's Barbecue

Guadalupe, North Austin·$$·Est. 1932
Tags:LOCKHART LEGACY, OPEN DAILY, FAMILY OWNED
92
RibsBurnt Ends

Dalie's Smokehouse

Valley Park, Valley Park·$$
Tags:Ribs, Burnt Ends, Brisket
Dukes BBQ
93
whole-hogbuffet

Dukes BBQ

North Charleston, North Charleston·$·Est. 1975
Tags:whole-hog, buffet, old-school
Easton Barbecue Co.
94
offset-smokerhash-and-rice

Easton Barbecue Co.

Hollywood, Hollywood·$$·Est. 2024
Tags:offset-smoker, hash-and-rice, new-school
Elwood's Shack
95
cajun-bbqsmoked-chicken

Elwood's Shack

Binghampton, Midtown·$·Est. 2011
Tags:cajun-bbq, smoked-chicken, cooper-young
Hawg Jaw Que & Brew
96
Competition BBQCraft Beer

Hawg Jaw Que & Brew

North Kansas City, North Kansas City·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:Competition BBQ, Craft Beer, NKC
Holy City Hogs
97
whole-hogpop-up

Holy City Hogs

West Ashley, West Ashley·$$·Est. 2019
Tags:whole-hog, pop-up, west-ashley
Jack Stack Barbecue
98

Jack Stack Barbecue

Country Club Plaza, ·$$
Jack Stack Barbecue
99

Jack Stack Barbecue

Martin City, ·$$
100
Cheese BiscuitsBrisket

Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q

Five Points South, Birmingham, Five Points South·$$
Tags:Cheese Biscuits, Brisket, Pulled Pork
Marlowe's Ribs & Restaurant
101
wet-ribselvis-country

Marlowe's Ribs & Restaurant

Whitehaven, South Memphis / Whitehaven·$$·Est. 1976
Tags:wet-ribs, elvis-country, full-menu
102
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Speedy Lohr's BBQ

Lexington (NC-8 South), Lexington·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Family-Owned
The Salt Lick BBQ
103
open-pitHill Country

The Salt Lick BBQ

Driftwood, Driftwood & the Hill Country·$$·Est. 1967
Tags:open-pit, Hill Country, family-style
Bessinger's Barbecue
104
mustard-saucehistoric

Bessinger's Barbecue

West Ashley, West Ashley·$·Est. 1945
Tags:mustard-sauce, historic, west-ashley
Brobeck's BBQ
105
Competition StyleOverland Park

Brobeck's BBQ

Overland Park, Overland Park·$$·Est. 2016
Tags:Competition Style, Overland Park, Brisket
Brotherton's Black Iron Barbecue
106
Central Texasboudin

Brotherton's Black Iron Barbecue

Pflugerville, ·$$·Est. 2016
Tags:Central Texas, boudin, sandwiches
107
Chow-ChowHalf Moon Cookie

Full Moon Bar-B-Que

Southside, Birmingham, Southside·$$
Tags:Chow-Chow, Half Moon Cookie, Lunch Only
Gates Bar-B-Q
108
KC ClassicHistoric

Gates Bar-B-Q

Multiple Locations, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 1946
Tags:KC Classic, Historic, Best Ribs
Gates Bar-B-Q
109

Gates Bar-B-Q

Midtown, ·$$
Gates Bar-B-Q
110

Gates Bar-B-Q

Rockhill, ·$$
Harp Barbecue
111
Weekend OnlyCult Following

Harp Barbecue

Raytown, Kansas City, MO·$$·Est. 2019
Tags:Weekend Only, Cult Following, Best Brisket
J's BBQ Olathe
112
newJohnny's legacy

J's BBQ Olathe

Olathe, Olathe·$$·Est. 2025
Tags:new, Johnny's legacy, burnt ends
Pork Barrel BBQ
113
competition-bbqsummerville

Pork Barrel BBQ

Summerville, Summerville·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:competition-bbq, summerville, ribs
114
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Stamey's Barbecue of Tyro

Tyro (near Lexington), Tyro·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Wood Cooked
115
CompetitionRibs

Super Smokers BBQ

Eureka, Eureka·$$
Tags:Competition, Ribs, Pulled Pork
116
MuttonBurgoo

The Wood Shed Bar-B-Q

Hopkinsville (Christian County), Hopkinsville·$$
Tags:Mutton, Burgoo, Home Cooking
Tom's BBQ
117
chopped-porkneighborhood-joint

Tom's BBQ

Multiple Locations, South Memphis / Whitehaven·$·Est. 1990
Tags:chopped-pork, neighborhood-joint, affordable
Whole Hog Cafe
118
whole-hogmultiple-sauces

Whole Hog Cafe

East Memphis, East Memphis·$$·Est. 2000
Tags:whole-hog, multiple-sauces, east-memphis
Wyandot Barbeque
119
historiccrinkle fries

Wyandot Barbeque

Kansas City, Kansas, Kansas City, KS·$$·Est. 1977
Tags:historic, crinkle fries, KCK
120
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Backcountry Barbecue

Linwood (near Lexington), Linwood·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Skin Sandwich
BBQ Fiends
121
trailerTop 50

BBQ Fiends

Hutto, ·$$
Tags:trailer, Top 50, Hutto
Briscuits
122
biscuitsbreakfast

Briscuits

South Austin, ·$
Tags:biscuits, breakfast, trailer
Charleston Smoke
123
craft-bbqfarm-to-table

Charleston Smoke

Park Circle, North Charleston·$$·Est. 2020
Tags:craft-bbq, farm-to-table, north-charleston
City Market
124
market-stylesausage

City Market

Luling, Luling·$
Tags:market-style, sausage, Luling
125
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Little Richard's Barbecue

Winston-Salem (Piedmont Triad), Winston-Salem·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Hickory
126
Pork SteaksBrisket

Mann Meats

Old Town Florissant, Old Town Florissant·$
Tags:Pork Steaks, Brisket, Rib Tips
Middleton's Village BBQ
127
vinegar-pepperheritage

Middleton's Village BBQ

Awendaw, Awendaw·$$·Est. 2020
Tags:vinegar-pepper, heritage, outdoor-seating
Neely's Interstate BBQ
128

Neely's Interstate BBQ

Hickory Hill, ·$$
Plowboys BBQ
129
Competition ChampionRubs & Sauces

Plowboys BBQ

Blue Springs, Lee's Summit·$$·Est. 2013
Tags:Competition Champion, Rubs & Sauces, East Side
Poogan's Smokehouse
130
pulled-porkbrisket

Poogan's Smokehouse

French Quarter, Downtown Charleston·$$·Est. 2014
Tags:pulled-pork, brisket, french-quarter
131
HickoryMom-and-Pop

Rusty's Bar-B-Q

Leeds, AL, Leeds·$$
Tags:Hickory, Mom-and-Pop, Open Pit
Snead's Bar-B-Q
132
old-schoolbrick pit

Snead's Bar-B-Q

Belton, Belton·$$·Est. 1956
Tags:old-school, brick pit, historic
Tops Bar-B-Q
133
neighborhood-chainaffordable

Tops Bar-B-Q

Multiple Locations, Midtown·$·Est. 1952
Tags:neighborhood-chain, affordable, chopped-pork
134
HistoricPulled Pork

Carlile's Barbecue

East End / Southside, Birmingham, East End·$
Tags:Historic, Pulled Pork, Lunch Only
Arnolds Bar-B-Que
135

Arnolds Bar-B-Que

Hickory Hill, ·$$
Blind Box BBQ
136
Competition BBQLee's Summit

Blind Box BBQ

Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:Competition BBQ, Lee's Summit, Brisket
Burnt End BBQ
137
burnt endsrelocated

Burnt End BBQ

De Soto, De Soto·$$·Est. 2024
Tags:burnt ends, relocated, De Soto
Corky's Ribs & BBQ
138
wet-ribsdry-rub

Corky's Ribs & BBQ

East Memphis, East Memphis·$$·Est. 1984
Tags:wet-ribs, dry-rub, mail-order
139
White SauceBreakfast

Demetri's BBQ

Homewood, AL, Homewood·$$
Tags:White Sauce, Breakfast, Smoked Wings
Dukes Barbecue
140

Dukes Barbecue

James Island, ·$
Fat Larry's
141
cordovachopped-pork

Fat Larry's

Cordova, Cordova·$·Est. 1998
Tags:cordova, chopped-pork, rib-tips
142
Smoked MeatsCraft Sides

Homer's Barbecue

Henderson (Henderson County), Henderson·$$
Tags:Smoked Meats, Craft Sides, Downtown
143
Pork ShoulderRed Slaw

Jimmy's Smoke House

Welcome (near Lexington), Welcome·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Red Slaw, Women-Owned
Jousting Pigs BBQ
144
NKCCompetition BBQ

Jousting Pigs BBQ

North Kansas City, North Kansas City·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:NKC, Competition BBQ, Creative Sides
Kemuri Tatsu-ya
145
izakayafusion

Kemuri Tatsu-ya

East Austin, East Austin·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:izakaya, fusion, East Austin
North Charleston BBQ Co.
146
whole-hognorth-charleston

North Charleston BBQ Co.

North Charleston, North Charleston·$·Est. 2008
Tags:whole-hog, north-charleston, local-favorite
Sam's BBQ
147

Sam's BBQ

East Austin, ·$·Est. 1957
Smoke Brewing Company
148
brewpubcraft beer

Smoke Brewing Company

Downtown Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:brewpub, craft beer, downtown
Smokestack BBQ
149
KC ClassicMartin City

Smokestack BBQ

Martin City, Martin City·$$·Est. 1957
Tags:KC Classic, Martin City, Family Friendly
The Tattooed Moose
150
smoked-duckdive-bar

The Tattooed Moose

Upper King / Avondale, Downtown Charleston·$$·Est. 2010
Tags:smoked-duck, dive-bar, craft-beer
Tops Bar-B-Q
151

Tops Bar-B-Q

North Memphis, ·$
Tops BBQ
152

Tops BBQ

Orange Mound, ·$
Tops BBQ
153

Tops BBQ

Cordova, ·$
BallHoggerz BBQ
154
ribswings

BallHoggerz BBQ

Orange Mound, Orange Mound·$$
Tags:ribs, wings, orange-mound
Big Bill BBQ
155

Big Bill BBQ

Whitehaven, ·$
Char Bar
156
Beer GardenWestport

Char Bar

Westport, Westport·$$·Est. 2015
Tags:Beer Garden, Westport, Creative Menu
Hugh-Baby's BBQ & Burger Shop
157

Hugh-Baby's BBQ & Burger Shop

West Ashley, ·$
J. Leonardi's Barbeque
158

J. Leonardi's Barbeque

East Austin, ·$
Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
159
upscaledowntown

Lamberts Downtown Barbecue

Downtown, Downtown Austin·$$$·Est. 2006
Tags:upscale, downtown, live music
Leonard's Pit Barbecue
160
historicpulled-pork

Leonard's Pit Barbecue

Fox Meadows, East Memphis·$·Est. 1922
Tags:historic, pulled-pork, oldest-bbq
Moe's Crosstown Tavern
161
smoked-wingsdive-bar

Moe's Crosstown Tavern

West Side / Crosstown, Downtown Charleston·$·Est. 1989
Tags:smoked-wings, dive-bar, late-night
Music Man's Bar-B-Que
162
whole-hogbuffet

Music Man's Bar-B-Que

Moncks Corner, Moncks Corner·$$·Est. 2006
Tags:whole-hog, buffet, hash-and-rice
Pigwich
163
butchersandwiches

Pigwich

River Market, River Market·$$·Est. 2012
Tags:butcher, sandwiches, River Market
164
Pork ShoulderLexington Sauce

Prissy Polly's BBQ

Kernersville (Piedmont Triad), Kernersville·$$
Tags:Pork Shoulder, Lexington Sauce, Ribs
Winslow's BBQ
165
BrooksideNeighborhood Joint

Winslow's BBQ

Brookside, Brookside·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:Brookside, Neighborhood Joint, Pulled Pork
Baker's BBQ of Summerville
166
small-batchSummerville

Baker's BBQ of Summerville

Central Avenue, Summerville·$$
Tags:small-batch, Summerville, weekends
Bee Caves B-B-Q
167

Bee Caves B-B-Q

West Austin, ·$$
Bulldog BBQ
168
pulled-porkribs

Bulldog BBQ

Summerville, Summerville·$·Est. 2015
Tags:pulled-pork, ribs, summerville
Grinders
169
Crossroadseclectic menu

Grinders

Crossroads Arts District, Crossroads Arts District·$$·Est. 2004
Tags:Crossroads, eclectic menu, music venue
Ray's World Famous BBQ
170
ribsbig-portions

Ray's World Famous BBQ

West Memphis, West Memphis & Arkansas·$$
Tags:ribs, big-portions, west-memphis
Smoky Buns
171
trailerweekend-only

Smoky Buns

Round Rock, ·$$·Est. 2024
Tags:trailer, weekend-only, Round Rock
Smoky City BBQ
172

Smoky City BBQ

North Memphis, ·$$
Arnold's BBQ & Grill-Memphis TN
173

Arnold's BBQ & Grill-Memphis TN

Downtown, ·$$
BB's Lawnside BBQ
174
Live BluesCajun-BBQ

BB's Lawnside BBQ

Waldo, Waldo·$$·Est. 1990
Tags:Live Blues, Cajun-BBQ, Waldo
Blues City Cafe
175
beale-streetlive-music

Blues City Cafe

Downtown, Downtown / Beale Street·$$·Est. 1991
Tags:beale-street, live-music, wet-ribs
Bryant's Bar-B-Q & Breakfast
176
breakfastbiscuits

Bryant's Bar-B-Q & Breakfast

Summer Avenue, Summer Avenue·$·Est. 1968
Tags:breakfast, biscuits, summer-ave
CM Smokehouse
177
trailercreative

CM Smokehouse

South Lamar, ·$$
Tags:trailer, creative, South Lamar
Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
178
mesquitedirect-heat

Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Downtown, Downtown Austin·$$·Est. 2016
Tags:mesquite, direct-heat, downtown
Featherstone BBQ
179
WEEKEND ONLYLAKEWAY

Featherstone BBQ

Lakeway, Round Rock & Suburbs·$$·Est. 2019
Tags:WEEKEND ONLY, LAKEWAY, UNDERRATED
Hog Wild-Real Memphis Barbeque
180

Hog Wild-Real Memphis Barbeque

North Memphis, ·$$
Moreno Barbecue
181

Moreno Barbecue

South Austin, ·$
One & Only BBQ
182

One & Only BBQ

East Memphis, ·$$
One & Only BBQ
183

One & Only BBQ

Cordova, ·$$
Pappy's BBQ
184
colliervillefamily-run

Pappy's BBQ

Collierville, Collierville·$·Est. 1995
Tags:collierville, family-run, dry-rub
Reese's Bar-B-Q
185

Reese's Bar-B-Q

Parkway Village, ·$$
Scott's Kitchen & Catering
186
Soul FoodProspect

Scott's Kitchen & Catering

Prospect, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 2005
Tags:Soul Food, Prospect, Hidden Gem
Scotty's BBQ
187

Scotty's BBQ

Rainey Street, ·$$
Smokehouse Barbecue
188

Smokehouse Barbecue

Northland, ·$$
Smokehouse BBQ
189
pulled-porkribs

Smokehouse BBQ

Johns Island, James Island·$·Est. 2005
Tags:pulled-pork, ribs, johns-island
The Rub Bar-B-Que
190
family-ownedJohnson County

The Rub Bar-B-Que

Olathe, Olathe·$$
Tags:family-owned, Johnson County, classic
Three Little Pigs Bar-B-Q
191
chopped-porkold-school

Three Little Pigs Bar-B-Q

East Memphis, East Memphis·$·Est. 1968
Tags:chopped-pork, old-school, east-memphis
Wabash BBQ
192
live musichistoric depot

Wabash BBQ

Excelsior Springs, Excelsior Springs·$$
Tags:live music, historic depot, patio
William's Bar-B-Q
193
ribsdelta

William's Bar-B-Q

West Memphis, West Memphis & Arkansas·$
Tags:ribs, delta, west-memphis
Wolfepack Bbq
194

Wolfepack Bbq

Columbus Park, ·$$
B Cooper Barbecue
195

B Cooper Barbecue

Manor Road, ·$$
Collierville Commissary
196
ribsdrive-thru

Collierville Commissary

Collierville, Collierville·$$
Tags:ribs, drive-thru, collierville
Crimson Creek Smokehouse
197

Crimson Creek Smokehouse

Southwest Austin, ·$$
Off The Hook BBQ
198
newBlack-owned

Off The Hook BBQ

Gladstone, Gladstone·$$·Est. 2025
Tags:new, Black-owned, Gladstone
Pok-e-Jo's-Hancock
199

Pok-e-Jo's-Hancock

Hancock, ·$
Pollard's Bar-B-Que
200
pulled-porkwhitehaven

Pollard's Bar-B-Que

Whitehaven, ·$$·Est. 1995
Tags:pulled-pork, whitehaven, family-owned
RJ's Bob-Be-Que
201
MissionNeighborhood Joint

RJ's Bob-Be-Que

Mission, Overland Park·$·Est. 1998
Tags:Mission, Neighborhood Joint, Pulled Pork
Robert's Bar-B-Que
202
old-schoolfamily-owned

Robert's Bar-B-Que

Ashley Phosphate, North Charleston·$
Tags:old-school, family-owned, hash and rice
Rogers Boyz Family Bbq Company Llc
203

Rogers Boyz Family Bbq Company Llc

Downtown, ·$
Rosedale BBQ
204
HistoricFamily-Owned

Rosedale BBQ

Rosedale, Kansas City, KS·$·Est. 1934
Tags:Historic, Family-Owned, Old School
Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q
205

Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q

Northwest Austin, ·$
Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q
206

Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q

Westlake, ·$
Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q
207

Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q

North Lamar, ·$
Smokey Mo's BBQ
208

Smokey Mo's BBQ

North Austin, ·$$
Taste of Kansas City BBQ and Grill
209

Taste of Kansas City BBQ and Grill

South Kansas City, ·$$
Vic's Bar-B-Que
210

Vic's Bar-B-Que

Southeast Austin, ·$
American Way Smokehouse
211
newIndependence

American Way Smokehouse

Independence, Independence·$$·Est. 2025
Tags:new, Independence, east metro
Archie's BBQ
212

Archie's BBQ

East Austin, ·$
Big T's BBQ
213
Neighborhood JointValue

Big T's BBQ

East Side, Kansas City, MO·$·Est. 1990
Tags:Neighborhood Joint, Value, Pulled Pork
Captain John's Bar-B-Que
214
old-schoolcollierville

Captain John's Bar-B-Que

Collierville, Collierville·$·Est. 1981
Tags:old-school, collierville, hot-pit
County Road Ice House
215
IcehouseOverland Park

County Road Ice House

Overland Park, Overland Park·$$·Est. 2018
Tags:Icehouse, Overland Park, Full Bar
East Side Soul Food
216

East Side Soul Food

East Side, ·$
Iron Works BBQ
217
HISTORICDOWNTOWN

Iron Works BBQ

Downtown, East Austin·$·Est. 1978
Tags:HISTORIC, DOWNTOWN, OLD SCHOOL
Jimbo's Brickhouse Bar-Be-Que
218
ribslive-music

Jimbo's Brickhouse Bar-Be-Que

Byhalia, DeSoto County & North Mississippi·$$
Tags:ribs, live-music, byhalia
Old Style Bar-B-Q
219
old-schoololive-branch

Old Style Bar-B-Q

Olive Branch, DeSoto County & North Mississippi·$·Est. 1976
Tags:old-school, olive-branch, since-1976
Saltwater Cowboys
220
waterfrontseafood + BBQ

Saltwater Cowboys

Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant·$$·Est. 2017
Tags:waterfront, seafood + BBQ, Shem Creek
Sierra BBQ
221
newLenexa

Sierra BBQ

Lenexa, Lenexa·$$·Est. 2024
Tags:new, Lenexa, dine-in
Smokebox BBQ Cafe
222

Smokebox BBQ Cafe

Northland, ·$$
Smokehouse Barbecue
223
multiple locationsfamily

Smokehouse Barbecue

Gladstone, Gladstone·$$
Tags:multiple locations, family, full-service
Smokin' Gringo's BBQ
224
Tex-MexSummerville

Smokin' Gringo's BBQ

Jedburg, Summerville·$$·Est. 2022
Tags:Tex-Mex, Summerville, food-truck roots
Smokin' Hot BBQ
225
brisketdrive-thru

Smokin' Hot BBQ

Bartlett, Bartlett·$$
Tags:brisket, drive-thru, bartlett
The Wilson's Way BBQ & More
226

The Wilson's Way BBQ & More

South Memphis, ·$
Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad & BBQ
227
brisketchicken-salad

Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad & BBQ

Olive Branch, DeSoto County & North Mississippi·$$
Tags:brisket, chicken-salad, olive-branch
Aunt Mildred's #10 Bbq Food Truck
228

Aunt Mildred's #10 Bbq Food Truck

East Side, ·$
Barbacoa
229

Barbacoa

Troost / UMKC, ·$$
Bates City BBQ
230
roadsidefamily-owned

Bates City BBQ

Bates City, Bates City·$$
Tags:roadside, family-owned, I-70
Big Bill's Bar-Be-Que
231
pulled-porkwings

Big Bill's Bar-Be-Que

East Memphis, East Memphis·$$
Tags:pulled-pork, wings, east-memphis
Hayward's Pit BBQ
232
Overland ParkOld School

Hayward's Pit BBQ

Overland Park, Overland Park·$·Est. 1972
Tags:Overland Park, Old School, Value
Hwy 27 BBQ Smokehouse
233
countryRidgeville

Hwy 27 BBQ Smokehouse

Ridgeville, Ridgeville·$
Tags:country, Ridgeville, daily hours
Joe Bessinger's BBQ
234
mustard sauceSummerville

Joe Bessinger's BBQ

College Park, Summerville·$
Tags:mustard sauce, Summerville, buffet
Rollin Smoke BBQ
235

Rollin Smoke BBQ

East Austin, ·$$
Southern Roots Smokehouse
236
late-nightfull bar

Southern Roots Smokehouse

West Ashley, West Ashley·$$
Tags:late-night, full bar, West Ashley
Stumpy's Backyard BBQ
237
ribssmall-batch

Stumpy's Backyard BBQ

Marion, West Memphis & Arkansas·$$
Tags:ribs, small-batch, marion
Sundance BBQ
238

Sundance BBQ

Oak Hill, ·$
The Flaming Pit
239

The Flaming Pit

East Austin, ·$
True Texas BBQ
240

True Texas BBQ

Hancock, ·$$
True Texas BBQ
241

True Texas BBQ

South Congress, ·$$
True Texas BBQ
242

True Texas BBQ

South Austin, ·$$
Bert's Bar-B-Q
243
historicNorthwest Hills

Bert's Bar-B-Q

Northwest Hills, North Austin·$$·Est. 1970
Tags:historic, Northwest Hills, Central Texas
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
244

Bill Miller Bar-B-Q

South Austin, ·$
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
245

Bill Miller Bar-B-Q

Northeast Austin, ·$
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
246

Bill Miller Bar-B-Q

South Austin, ·$
Down South Texas BBQ
247

Down South Texas BBQ

North Austin, ·$$
The Green Mesquite BBQ & More
248
mesquiteSouthern

The Green Mesquite BBQ & More

Zilker / Barton Springs, ·$$·Est. 1988
Tags:mesquite, Southern, Barton Springs
True Texas BBQ
249

True Texas BBQ

Tarrytown, ·$$
True Texas BBQ
250

True Texas BBQ

North Austin, ·$$
Willie Jewell's Old School Bar-B-Q
251
Southernfamily-friendly

Willie Jewell's Old School Bar-B-Q

University Blvd, North Charleston·$$
Tags:Southern, family-friendly, North Charleston
Zarda Bar-B-Q
252
East SideFamily Friendly

Zarda Bar-B-Q

Blue Springs, Lee's Summit·$·Est. 1977
Tags:East Side, Family Friendly, Catering
Rudy's Country Store & Bar-B-Q
253
CHAINGAS STATION

Rudy's Country Store & Bar-B-Q

Multiple Locations, Round Rock & Suburbs·$·Est. 1989
Tags:CHAIN, GAS STATION, OPEN DAILY
Smokey Mo's BBQ
254
family chaincounter-service

Smokey Mo's BBQ

Round Rock, ·$·Est. 2000
Tags:family chain, counter-service, Round Rock

Best by Category

BBQ Spaghetti

BBQ spaghetti is Memphis's most uniquely local dish — slow-smoked pulled pork folded into a smoky, tangy tomato sauce and served over spaghetti. Invented at Brady & Lil's and perfected at Interstate Bar-B-Q, this is the dish that visitors either love or struggle to understand.

See the Guide

Burnt Ends

Kansas City's most iconic BBQ creation — the caramelized, smoke-kissed cubes cut from the point of a smoked brisket. Here's where to find the best in the metro.

See the Guide

Wet Ribs

The other side of the great Memphis rib debate. Wet ribs are basted with a tomato-based BBQ sauce during and after cooking. The sauce caramelizes on the meat, creating a sticky, sweet-tangy glaze. Interstate Bar-B-Q and Marlowe's are the wet rib temples.

See the Guide

BBQ Nachos

A Memphis original — tortilla chips loaded with slow-smoked pulled pork, BBQ sauce, jalapeños, and cheese. Central BBQ's loaded nachos have become one of the most iconic dishes in the city, inspiring a generation of imitators.

See the Guide

Z-Man

The Z-Man sandwich — brisket, smoked provolone, and onion rings — was invented at Joe's KC and has been adopted across the metro. Here's where the best versions live.

See the Guide

Smoked Chicken

Smoked chicken is an often-overlooked pillar of South Carolina BBQ — whole birds or quarters smoked low and slow until the skin crisps and the meat stays juicy. The best versions showcase the pitmaster's fire management and sauce craft. These are Charleston's finest smoked chicken destinations.

See the Guide

Brisket

The king of Texas BBQ. Central Texas brisket is defined by its mahogany bark, deep smoke ring, and fat that renders to a silky, almost buttery consistency. A proper brisket takes 12–18 hours at 250–275°F over post oak. The result is meat that needs no sauce, no apology — just a slice of white bread and a moment of silence.

See the Guide

Sides

Great BBQ needs great sides. From hickory pit beans to cheesy corn, these restaurants elevate the supporting cast to starring roles.

See the Guide

Dry Rub Ribs

The soul of Memphis BBQ. Dry rub ribs are seasoned with a blend of spices — paprika, garlic, black pepper, cayenne — and slow-smoked or charcoal-grilled without sauce. The bark is everything. These are the ribs that put Memphis on the BBQ map.

See the Guide

Pulled Pork

Pulled pork — shoulder or whole hog, pulled by hand — is the everyday expression of South Carolina BBQ. The best versions have a balance of bark (the dark, smoky exterior crust), tender interior meat, and a sauce that complements rather than overwhelms. Here are Charleston's finest.

See the Guide

Beef Ribs

Massive plate ribs — the "brontosaurus bones" of Texas BBQ. A single beef plate rib can weigh over a pound. When done right, the meat pulls clean from the bone with a bark that's nearly black and a smoke ring that goes deep. These are not the thin, sauced baby back ribs of a chain restaurant. These are prehistoric, primal, and magnificent.

See the Guide

Pulled Pork

Memphis pulled pork — slow-smoked pork shoulder pulled by hand — is the foundation of the city's BBQ sandwich tradition. From Payne's chopped pork to Central BBQ's pulled pork plate, this is the everyday currency of Memphis BBQ.

See the Guide

Pulled Pork

While KC BBQ is famous for burnt ends and brisket, the pulled pork sandwich remains a staple at every joint. These restaurants do it best — juicy, smoky, and perfectly sauced.

See the Guide

Sides

Great BBQ sides elevate the entire meal. From creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw, from jalapeño cheese grits to scratch-made pies, Austin's best BBQ joints treat their sides with the same care they give their meat.

See the Guide

Sausage

Texas BBQ sausage — from the classic jalapeño cheddar link to creative house-made varieties — is a category unto itself. The tradition traces back to German and Czech immigrant butchers who ground and smoked their unsold meat. Today's Austin pitmasters honor that tradition while pushing it forward with creative combinations and house-ground blends.

See the Guide

Ribs

While whole hog is South Carolina's signature, the Lowcountry has no shortage of excellent ribs — from St. Louis-style spare ribs to competition-grade baby backs. The best versions balance smoke, tenderness, and sauce in equal measure. These are Charleston's top rib destinations.

See the Guide

Ribs

From spare ribs to baby backs to the legendary Crown Prime beef ribs — Kansas City does ribs better than anywhere. Here's the definitive list.

See the Guide

Rib Tips

Rib tips — the cartilaginous ends trimmed from spare ribs — are a Memphis delicacy that the rest of the country overlooks. Slow-smoked until the cartilage is tender and the fat has rendered, rib tips are fatty, smoky, and deeply flavorful. A true pitmaster's cut.

See the Guide

Hash & Rice

Hash and rice is the Lowcountry's most distinctive BBQ side — a thick stew of whole-hog offcuts, organ meats, and onions served over white rice. It is a Gullah-Geechee tradition that connects South Carolina BBQ to its African roots. These restaurants make hash the old way.

See the Guide

Brisket

The king of the smoker. Kansas City brisket is defined by its mahogany bark, deep smoke ring, and the balance between fat and lean. These are the pits that do it best.

See the Guide

Turkey

Smoked turkey is the underappreciated hero of Central Texas BBQ. When done right, the breast meat stays moist and takes on a deep smoke flavor, while the skin crisps to a golden mahogany. It's the leanest of the traditional Texas meats but rewards careful smoking with remarkable flavor.

See the Guide

Whole Hog

Whole-hog BBQ is the soul of South Carolina's BBQ tradition — a practice rooted in the Gullah-Geechee foodways of the Lowcountry and the Pee Dee region. A whole hog, cooked low and slow over live hardwood coals for 12–24 hours, is the ultimate test of a pitmaster's patience, skill, and fire management. These are Charleston's finest whole-hog destinations.

See the Guide

Mustard Sauce

South Carolina's most distinctive regional contribution to American BBQ is the mustard-based sauce — a tangy, golden elixir that traces its roots to German immigrant settlers in the Midlands. In Charleston, the mustard tradition is carried forward by the Bessinger family and others who understand that the sauce is as important as the smoke.

See the Guide

Sausage

From jalapeño cheddar links to classic smoked sausage, KC pitmasters are putting serious craft into their sausage programs. Here are the standouts.

See the Guide