The Best Spot For BBQ In Every US State

Barbecue, which has long been a culinary cornerstone of the United States, has taken on many distinct regional forms over time. From Texas-style slow-smoked meats to vinegar-forward, Carolina-style delicacies cooked directly over coals, there are plenty of versions of it out there. And while there is no shortage of joints offering mouthwatering barbecue across the country, some are truly a cut above the rest. 

The following guide details the best places to order barbecue in each of the 50 states, compiled with the help of a network of local diners, national food critics, and experts on this iconic cuisine. It features Michelin award-winning brisket, unassuming local gems, and everything in between. Keep reading to learn more about these superlative spots and to see which one took home the gold in your state.

For a taste of true Alabama-style barbecue, look no further than Miss Myra's, which is popular among diners for its smoked chicken drenched in the white barbecue sauce that's iconic in the state.

Chicken and white sauce are as quintessentially Alabama as you can get, but don't be afraid to expand your horizons here. Also on the menu is pulled pork, Brunswick stew (a sweet-and-savory concoction of meat, beans, and vegetables), and seven different pies.

missmyras.com

(205) 967-6004

3278 Cahaba Heights Rd, Birmingham, AL 35243

Juicy, smoked brisket is the star of the show at Bless Your Heart, according to Alaskan diners. Expect tender cuts of smoked meat, as well as a lineup of comforting sides.

Although customers swear that this meat is scrumptious on its own, the spot also carries a host of inventive barbecue sauces. Blueberries, Dr. Pepper, and sweet-and spicy Carolina-style yellow mustard are featured ingredients.

(907) 694-6675

12130 Regency Dr, Eagle River, AK 99577

This Phoenix restaurant with two locations made waves across the South after Yelp named it #1 on its list of the top barbecue restaurants in the country. Locals say that this ranking is deserved, and Texan transplants and tourists concur.

"Savor tender, smoky barbecue at Little Miss BBQ, where prime meats are slow-cooked over Arizona firewood for unforgettable flavor," reads the Yelp review. "A must-visit for anyone craving authentic Central Texas–style barbecue."

littlemissbbq.com

Multiple locations

Excellent service is one of the most frequent reviews heard from diners regarding this Arkansas barbecue chain. It also does not hurt that Wright's serves what local diners say is some of the juiciest brisket you can get your hands on in the state.

For those looking to try a bit of everything, Wright's has you covered. Bowls and nachos, which feature barbecued meats over starchy sides such as mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and Fritos, are popular.

wrightsbbq.com

Multiple locations

If you are patient enough to brave a line, fans and critics say Heritage Barbecue is worth it. The eatery's Texas-style offerings have even earned it a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand. 

"Find yourself transported on a riotous journey, starting with slices of glistening brisket — correctly charred and deliciously rich," reads the Michelin Guide's latest write-up. "Add on a side of chili with more brisket ... and never look back again."

new.heritagecraftbbq.com

31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

In Denver, Riot BBQ is offering something unique with its marriage of Texas-style barbecue with Northern Mexican flavors. The results — including Pork Ribs Al Pastor and Macha Coleslaw — are the best in the state, according to Colorado diners. 

"The new brisket torta won't let you down," reads a review in 5820. "A quarter pound of chopped brisket on a fresh, locally baked bolillo is the way to go."

riotbbqcompany.com

(303) 872-6862

2180 S Delaware St, Denver, CO 80223

Connecticut's star is Hoodoo Brown BBQ, which uses Texas-style smoking methods. While brisket is the top seller, local fans and food critics alike are also transfixed by the Cracklin' Pork Belly with a layer of crispy skin.

Bringing a crowd? The Table Breaker — featuring 2 pounds of meat, one beef rib, a whole chicken, a full rack of pork ribs, and cornbread — is sure to satisfy.

hoodoobrownbbq.com

(203) 438-6033

967 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield, CT 06877

On social media, diners who have a favorite barbecue spot other than Bethany Blues BBQ are frequently criticized by the local chain's base of loyal fans. One of the restaurants' strengths is the diversity of its menu — you'll be hard-pressed to find another spot with Carolina-style chopped pork, Cajun smoked turkey breast, and Delmarva (Delaware-Maryland-Virginia) chicken.

For those looking for ambiance, the Lewes location delivers. Fans love its live music stage and bourbon lounge.

bethanyblues.com

Multiple locations

Those who raise their eyebrows at the phrase "Miami-style barbecue" will regret their skepticism after visiting Smoke & Dough, best known for infusing Latin American flavors into classic meats and sides. Good luck deciding between bites like smoked Croqueta Preparada sandwiches and Cafecito Brisket.

"Miami-style BBQ is a thing," reads one review from food blogger Burger Beast. "Smoke & Dough proves it."

smokeanddough.com

(786) 362-5698

4013 SW 152nd Ave, Miami, FL 33185

While fans of Community Q certainly sing the praises of the restaurant's brisket, its side dishes are some of the most talked about on the list. Mac N Cheese, Collards, Brunswick stew, and baked beans are considered some of the best Georgia has to offer.

Hungry for dessert? The short (but sweet) list has traditional and fresh flavors, including a classic banana pudding and blueberry bread pudding with ginger and pecans.

communityqbbq.com

(404) 633-2080

1361 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033

Barbecue with Hawaiian flair is the star of the show at The Fish and the Hog. With high-quality and often locally sourced meat and fish, plus creative barbecue sauces spiked with ingredients like passionfruit and curry, there is no wrong order.

"Scratch-made quality shines in every dish at this smokehouse," reads a write-up on Yelp. "Brisket, pork, ribs, and chicken are slow-smoked to perfection."

fishandthehog.com

(808) 885-6268

64-957 Hawai'i Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743

In Idaho Falls, Pitmaster is slinging what many believe is the most legitimate Texas-style barbecue that you will find in the state. Service at this casual spot, customers say, is also exceptionally friendly.

Pitmaster's menu features many of the usual suspects, including brisket, pulled pork, and pulled chicken, but there are also a few wildcards. Keep your eye out for Pig Candy (spiced, candied bacon) and the Idaho Nacho (barbecued meat and melted cheese over eight ounces of fries).

pitmaster-bbq.com

(208) 542-2727

1305 Fremont Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83402

With a menu of entirely scratch-made barbecued meats and comforting sides, Big Ed's BBQ stands out in Illinois. One item in particular, however, gets the most love from fans: the burnt ends, which are dry-rubbed and smoked for 21 total hours.

"Big Ed's burnt ends, when at their peak, are the single best BBQ product in Illinois," one Reddit user says. "I will guarantee this to you."

bigedsllc.com

(847) 473-5333

651 Lakehurst Rd, Waukegan, IL 60085

Head to Floyds Knobs in Indiana for some of the best barbecue in the state, according to locals. Unlike many of the other spots on this list, Carr's offers smoked salmon, which is a massive hit among diners.

Carr's also stands out because of its sourcing. The business prides itself on using ingredients that are exclusively produced in Indiana and Kentucky, which undoubtedly makes all the difference when it comes to flavor and freshness.

carrsbbqandmarket.com

(812) 728-8106

7010 US-150, Floyds Knobs, IN 47119

When it comes to the best barbecue in Iowa, diners agree that Whatcha Smokin? is the clear answer. The quality of the meat, customers and critics say, is what differentiates it from its competitors.

"Whatcha Smokin? ... serves some of the best barbecue you've ever eaten," reads a review in USA Today. "People come from all over Iowa to wait in line for Central Texas-style fatty brisket so tender it melts in your mouth."

whatchasmokinbbq.com

(515) 257-7490

403 Iowa Ave, Luther, IA 50152

This local Kansas chain turned 30 years old at the beginning of 2026, and it's still going strong. Although you will likely find a long line coming out of its flagship location, local diners state that it is worth the wait.

Joe's is famous for one particular sandwich: the Z-Man, which features your choice of meat, smoked provolone, and onion rings on a Kaiser roll. For traditionalists, the eatery also offers many classic barbecue sandwiches and dinners.

joeskc.com

Multiple locations

For a taste of another, more niche regional barbecue style, head to Moonlite, where Kentucky-style smoked mutton is the restaurant's claim to fame. If you can't choose between this underrated, old-school meat and other offerings, you can opt for the well-loved buffet and try a bit of everything.

Buffets are not typically known for their service — however, Moonlite appears to be the exception to this rule. Friendly staff members are a tenet of the experience, reviewers say.

moonlite.com

(270) 684-8143

2840 W Parrish Ave, Owensboro, KY 42301

Texas-style barbecue in Louisiana might be difficult to come by, but customers agree that this Baton Rouge smokehouse delivers. Expect juicy and tender brisket here, but, perhaps even more impressively, the smoked turkey is also moist and unctuous.

"Been here for almost 40 years (after 10 years in Central Texas) and Offset is the real deal," one Reddit user writes. "The best in town, by far."

offsetsmokerbbqbr.com

(225) 256-2272

5335 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

In Maine, finding exceptional Southern-style cuisine is a tall order, but even some Texans have conceded that Terlingua clears the bar. In addition to small-batch smoked meats, expect side dishes with Southwestern flair — including Poblano-Sweet Pea Mac & Cheese, Street Corn Succotash, and Papas Bravas.

Want to get a taste of both the excellent barbecue and inventive ingredients at Terlingua? Go for tacos filled with smoked brisket or smoked carnitas.

terlingua.me

(207) 230-6327 

40 Washington Ave, Portland, ME 04101

2Fifty is widely considered the best barbecue spot in Maryland by locals (and, impressively, by Texan transplants), and for good reason. Highlights include two different types of brisket — both prime-grade and American wagyu — as well as poblano sausages, pork ribs rubbed with more than 12 spices, and smoked chicken.

Sides and sweets are just as big of a hit here. Don't miss sweet cornbread, savory baked Central American kidney beans with brisket, and, in a nod to the owners' Salvadoran heritage, budin for dessert.

2fiftybbq.com

(240) 764-8763

4700 Riverdale Rd, Riverdale, MD 20737

B.T.'s fried chicken, which is slightly spicy and full of flavor, is a popular pick at this Sturbridge eatery. That said, its brisket is what keeps people coming back.

"[B.T.'s] cooks brisket low and slow at 225 degrees for nearly 24 hours, allowing fat and connective tissue to break down while creating a crisp bark," reads an article about barbecue in the state by WCVB5 ABC. "His vinegar-forward sauces are served on the side to complement the rich flavors."

btsmokehouse.com

(508) 347-3188 

392 Main St, Sturbridge, MA 01566

With outposts in Clawson and Madison Heights, Woodpile is known across the state for its consistent, fresh, and great-value barbecue. Diners also can't get enough of the laid-back, heated patio seating, which makes enjoying tender brisket and superlative macaroni and cheese a year-round affair.

Can't decide what to order? Try out some of the greatest hits in The Woodpile sandwich, piled high with pulled pork, brisket, cheddar-jalapeño sausage, and candied bacon.

woodpilebbqshack.com

Multiple locations

It is especially notable that a trailer open one day a week is consistently considered the finest spot to get barbecue in Minnesota. Black Market StP might be a smaller operation, but it's not holding any punches with its meats smoked with locally grown black cherry wood. 

Brisket is the star of the show, according to critics over the past decade. This year, a review in Mpls St Paul Magazine said it boasts "charred and spiced exterior bark ... and meltingly tender meat."

blackmarketstp.com

(651) 560-0227 

120 Plato Blvd W, St. Paul, MN 55107

Everything about The Shed, from its ambiance and programming to its mouthwatering barbecue, is a home run, according to food critics and local fans. When it comes to what to order, the only answer seems to be "yes."

"Loyal 'ShedHeds' return for the pecan-smoked baby back ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken wings," reads a write-up in Southern Living. "There's always plenty of cold beer as well as live blues on the weekends too."

theshedbbq.com

(228) 875-9590

7501 MS-57, Ocean Springs, MS 39565

Missouri has no shortage of barbecue spots that are bound to deliver. That said, diners keep coming back to Chef J for unique takes on barbecue staples, including popular bacon burnt ends.

"There's a fine line between the beef-loving barbecue styles of KC and Texas," reads a review of the restaurant in Midwest Living. "Chef J's is intentionally blurring it."

chefjbbq.com

(816) 805-8283 

1401 W 13th St Ste G, Kansas City, MO 64102

In Emigrant, Follow Yer' Nose BBQ is razor-focused on wood-smoking. In fact, there's a sign at the self-described barbecue "Shack" declaring which type of wood is being used on any given day.

You will find plenty of classic barbecue offerings on this restaurant's rotating menu, but notably, the smoked turkey gets rave reviews from customers. Given how easy it is to wind up with an over-cooked, dry turkey, this should get your attention.

followyernosebbq.com

(406) 224-2847

4 Overlook Rd, Emigrant, MT 59027

Unsurprisingly, pork products are the big hit at Omaha's Porky Butts BBQ. The slow-smoked pulled pork, which guests can order on a massive tray or on a towering sandwich with apple coleslaw, receives especially high marks.

The less traditional barbecue lover will also be impressed by some of the shareable offerings, including Texas Poutine with kettle chips and smoked meat or fried pickles made with both bread-and-butters and dills. Don't skip the moist and fluffy cornbread.

porkybuttsbbq.com

(531) 466-7343

15475 Ruggles St, Omaha, NE 68116 

The best barbecue spot in Nevada is highly debated among locals, but many agree that Wild Fig is worthy of the title. House-smoked pastrami, made from brisket and cured for a week, is a specialty that keeps diners returning.

That's not to say pastrami is the only thing to get at Wild Fig. Smoked turkey breast, brisket, and sides such as barbecued Chinese eggplant and flash-fried Brussels sprouts get high marks.

wildfigcatering.com

(702) 575-9515

9555 Del Webb Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89134

This Concord BBQ joint is offering some of the closest-to-Texas-style barbecue that you can find in the state of New Hampshire. The spot even offers some regional gems, such as beef cheek barbacoa and the consistently popular Texas Twinkies (cream-cheese-and-brisket-filled smoked jalapenos wrapped in candied bacon).

A trip to 603 would be incomplete without trying famous house-made sausage from the rotating menu. Rotating flavors have included maple-blueberry-gouda, cheese pizza, and jalapeño-cheddar. 

bbqnh.com

(603) 333-5387

388 Loudon Rd, Concord, NH 03301

There is no shortage of high-quality barbecued meat available at Red White & Que. Its laid-back atmosphere and abundance of outdoor seating are also big selling points.

"Dine inside or out on their picnic tables, where you can make a proper mess," reads a review from NJ.com. Don't miss the pork spare ribs, Carolina-style pulled pork, and creamy cheddar macaroni and cheese.

redwhiteandquesmokehouse.com

(732) 200-5998 

150 US-22, Green Brook Township, NJ 08812

You won't find meats that skimp on seasoning at Mad Jack's, according to New Mexico diners. You might encounter long lines, but a flavor-packed tray from this restaurant is well worth it.

Mouth-melting brisket, both sliced and chopped, is a popular order, but Mad Jack's has far more to offer. Look for dino ribs, pulled pork, and cornbread — if you can get there in time for them.

madjacksbbq.com

(575) 682-7577

105 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

For another spot with long lines and an even longer list of accolades, head to Hometown, which has two locations in New York and one outpost in Miami. Menu items lean Southern with global flair, including Vietnamese Hot Wings and Oaxacan Chicken.

"The brisket, giant beef rib, and smoked turkey will make you forget you stood around," reads a write-up from The Infatuation. "Hometown makes the best barbecue in the city, hands down."

hometownbbq.com

Multiple locations

It is impossible not to feel overwhelmed by your options for North Carolina-style barbecue, and plenty of diners are willing to fiercely defend their top picks. For many locals, Skylight Inn comes out on top.

This spot, which opened in 1947, is still loyal to the whole-hog barbecue style it was founded on. As such, pork is the focal point of the menu and an enduring fan favorite.

skylightinnbbq.com

(252) 746-4113

4618 S Lee St, Ayden, NC 28513

NoBull gets rave reviews for its barbecued meats smoked with a blend of locally sourced red and white oak. While guests are surely fans of the eatery's brisket and meaty Best Beans, they also speak just as highly of the attentive staff and lively, well-decorated dining room.

"Best food, service and atmosphere in Fargo," one Google user writes. "Will be back many more times."

nobullfargo.com

(701) 478-2000

609 Northern Pacific Ave, Fargo, ND 58102

There is something for everyone at Fatback's, especially when it comes to the spot's popular selection of signature barbecue sauces. Get your meat dressed in whichever one speaks to you — whether Sweet, Hot, or Carolina-style with vinegar.

Smaller bites are also a highlight of this Dayton eatery. Local diners especially love the potato salad and cornbread, as well as Fatback's signature Pig Pops — pork on a stick.

(937) 254-7427

1334 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45410

There are few better combinations in the world than good food at a good price. According to Oklahoma diners, King's delivers on both. The eatery is well-known for its sides — especially fried okra, a rare gem at a barbecue joint.

You'll find plenty of traditional smoked meats on the extensive King's menu, but you'll also find some unexpected highlights. Fried catfish, for example, gets fervent praise.

kingsbbqokc.com

(405) 294-2160

2410 N Portland Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73107

Matt's BBQ in Portland is home to the juiciest Texas-style brisket in Oregon. Although it operates out of a fixed-location food truck, ample covered seating makes the spot feel like a full-on brick-and-mortar.

"Matt's remains Portland's best place to get supremely tender brisket, juicy jalapeño-cheddar sausages and weekend-only beef ribs," reads a review in Texas Monthly. Matt's also operates "BBQ Taco" spots around the city.

mattsbbqpdx.com

(503) 504-0870

4233 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217

For 15 years, Rocky's has been wowing Pennsylvania diners with its classic and unpretentious barbecue offerings. Its menu might be small, but locals say it is mighty in its quality. 

Rocky's "doesn't hide the meat in sauce like the other guys," one Facebook user writes. "I grew up eating 'Q' all over the Midwest and South. Rocky's does it right."

rockysbbq.net

(717) 420-7405 

28 N 3rd St, Columbia, PA 17512

In Providence, Great Northern boasts both barbecue meat platters and inventive shareable plates and entrées. Brisket nachos with "Beerchamel" sauce, pulled-pork minestrone, and smoked kielbasa "Dogs" topped with brisket are on the menu.

Fans also love the restaurant's rustic ambiance and abundance of programming. After all, there's nothing like listening to live music while going to town on smoked delicacies.

gnbbqco.com

(401) 421-1513

9 Parade St, Providence, RI 02909

It's impossible not to leave stuffed after a visit to City Limits, which features a kaleidoscope of both Texas- and Carolina-style barbecue flavors. Expect long lines during weekend hours, but the line moves fast, and the staff is always warm and welcoming, even when they are slammed.

As far as I am concerned, there are two must-orders at City Limits. The Carolina chopped pork is zingy from vinegar and complete with hunks of crispy skin, and massive beef ribs are intensely savory (and quick-selling). 

citylimitsq.com

(803) 260-7469

1119 Methodist Park Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170

For a small-scale food trailer, Southern Perfection generates quite the buzz in Sioux Falls and beyond. Highlights include Georgia-style pulled pork, slow-smoked pork ribs, and brisket that even Texans defend. 

For first-timers overwhelmed by your options, fret not. The 4-Wheeler platter, which comes with the above meats as well as chicken, allows you to sample it all.

southern-perfectionbbq.com

(605) 376-3966

Food truck stops at multiple locations

It should come as no surprise that dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork are staples of Peg Leg Porker in Nashville. If you're looking for high-quality Tennessee-style barbecue, you've found it.

"I'm not usually a big pork rind fan, but these were delicious," reads a review from food blog Appetites Abroad. "Exactly what you would expect with 'porker' in the restaurant name."

peglegporker.com

(615) 829-6023

 903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203

Given the rich history of Texas-style barbecue, and that barbecue is a keystone of the state's (and the country's) identity, any pick for this list will ruffle some feathers. Burnt Bean stands out for both succulent smoked meats (especially brisket) and nods to Tex-Mex foodways with items such as brisket huevos rancheros and queso macaroni and cheese.

"You wouldn't think that Seguin is supposed to dominate conversations about elite barbecue," reads one review in Texas Barbecue. "However, Burnt Bean Co. changed that narrative completely."

burntbeanco.com

(830) 609-7189

108 S Austin St, Seguin, TX 78155

For a vestige of real-deal Texas-style barbecue in Utah, look no further than Kenny J's. The restaurant slings quintessential barbecue specialties made with locally sourced meat alongside Utah favorites such as funeral potatoes.

If you're having trouble picking a protein, we don't blame you. Guests seem to have an affinity for everything — including ribs, brisket, and turkey. 

kennyjsbbq.com

(385) 563-3404

11610 District Dr, South Jordan, UT 84095

This charming Vermont trailer is quietly putting out some of the state's best barbecue dishes. It also happens to be a popular stop for travelers with its convenient Route 100 location.

During weekends-only service, fans love brisket, which is served sliced on platters, mixed into chili, and spooned atop baked potatoes. Also don't miss cakey, moist, honey-infused cornbread made from a house recipe.

rvqsmokehouse.com

661 Vermont Rte 100, Wilmington, VT 05363

When it comes to pulled barbecue pork and chicken, Gordonsville's Barbecue Exchange receives no shortage of praise. The fact that portions are hefty and prices are reasonable further sweetens the deal.

Barbecue Exchange also offers pork belly, which is a tad harder to find at a classic barbecue joint. Its thick-cut, crispy-edged glory has made it one of the most recommended menu items among online reviews.

bbqex.com

(540) 832-0227

102 Martinsburg Ave, Gordonsville, VA 22942

Large portions of fall-off-the-bone ribs and brined, smoked chicken are not to be missed at Wood Shop. Washingtonians also buzz about its impressive selection of macaroni and cheese bowls. 

All bowls start with a base of flavorful smoked-jalapeño macaroni and cheese and are then loaded with barbecue goodness. The brisket variety is a classic, but other topping options include smoked chicken, Portobello Machaca, and pulled pork.

thewoodshopbbq.com

(206) 485-7381

2513 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98144

Although South Texas Barbecue Company's brick-and-mortar restaurant is temporarily closed as the business relocates, its food truck is still going strong. Fragrant, smoky, and succulent meats keep guests coming, even during this time of flux.

"You'll smell it before you see it: the unmistakable aroma of slow-smoked perfection," reads a review of the restaurant in WV Living. "This is barbecue done right."

sotexbbqco.square.site

Food truck stops at multiple locations

LD's BBQ in East Troy proudly uses seasoned oak wood for smoking, and, in turn, guests praise its flavor-packed meats. Rib tips can be harder to find at a barbecue joint, but you'll find them here. 

Ribs are a focal point of the LD's menu. Find them coated in the restaurant's well-loved sauce in full- and half-rack form, as well as in side orders of baked beans.

 ldsbbq.com

(414) 610-7675

2511 Main St, East Troy, WI 53120

There are few places in the U.S. where you can get great barbecue alongside breakfast. Thankfully, Bubba's is there to fill that niche with a scratch menu of smoked meats and high-quality sides.

With both Texas-style and Carolina-style offerings, there is something for everyone at this 15-year-old spot. Mouth-melting brisket and pulled pork hit the spot for new customers and regulars alike.

bubbasjh.com

(307) 733-2288

100 Flat Creek Dr, Jackson, WY 83001

This list of the best barbecue spots in every U.S. state draws from my own experience as a local and national food reporter (including my tenure as a food reporter for South Carolina's most widely circulated newspaper), input from my colleagues in food, and input from locals on social media and digital review platforms. 

With the goal of avoiding overhyped or lackluster barbecue spots, all eateries featured have an overwhelming consensus of positive reviews from diners. Barbecue spots were considered one of the best if they offered an exceptional quality of food, service, and overall customer experience.