The Hands Down Best BBQ Restaurant In Every State
Nobody does barbecue like Americans. It's not even a controversial statement: It's a fact. Sure, Australians chill out by chucking a shrimp on the barbie, while the pall of burned sausage hangs over many a summer in Britain, but no one can touch the United States when it comes to the serious business of turning meat into foodie heaven.
You can roughly divide up the U.S. into the four main barbecue regions: Texas (which has its own sub-quartet of flavors), Memphis-style, with its wet and dry ribs, the pulled pork specialty of Carolina barbecue, and Kansas City, famous for its sauces. People who barbecue know it's more than just a pastime, it's a passion often backed by years of learning. Plenty of them have gone into business too, and have kept their customers happy for years. Many are tourist traps, while others are hidden gems, but let's see if your local BBQ joint features in our run down of the best BBQ restaurants in every state.
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Alabama (Multiple locations)
Whether it's the signature white and red sauces, mouthwatering pies, or competition-winning barbecue, everything is good at Big Bob Gibson's. What started out as a one-man operation in the 1920s has become a much-loved Alabama spot across two locations.
Diners appreciate being able to taste smoke in the meat, as well as the generous and warm hospitality. Make sure you order a pie to go, as you probably won't have room after the ribs and pulled pork.
Multiple locations
Big Daddy's BBQ & Banquet Hall in Fairbanks, Alaska
Who said fire and ice doesn't mix? Alaska is the perfect home for the Southern-style barbecue on offer at this iconic restaurant, founded by Harold Groetsema.
The place isn't just a hit with hungry tourists, it was also featured in a 2009 Christmas special of "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives." Visitors and locals aplenty can't get enough of the pork, sausage, and brisket served up along with a lively, welcoming vibe.
(907) 452-2501
107 Wickersham St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Bobby-Q BBQ Restaurant and Steakhouse in Arizona (Multiple locations)
Some restaurants are temples to one particular kind of barbecue, but Bobby-Q is a broad church that welcomes all comers and leaves them all more than satisfied. If the prospect of a hand-cut, 60-day, wet-aged steak doesn't tug at your tastebuds, then the jalapeño cheese sausage or the beef rib definitely will.
Bobby-Q's doesn't ignore those with a sweet tooth, either. Those delicious mini donuts? They are completely free, if you can manage them, of course.
Multiple locations
Wright's Barbecue in Arkansas (Multiple locations)
There's a lot to love about this awesome eatery, whose founder Jordan Wright was among the semifinalists for a James Beard Foundation award in 2025. It's not the only honor this restaurant has accumulated, and it's easy to see why.
Visitors — even those from Texas — often say Wright's Barbecue is better than their home state, while words like "excellent" and "awesome" crop up regularly in online reviews. Friday nights especially get busy, so expect a wait, but you won't be disappointed.
Multiple locations
Phil's BBQ in California (Multiple locations)
Can more than 30,000 people be wrong about a restaurant? When it comes to this multi-award winning Californian chain, the answer is absolutely not.
The overwhelming consensus from anyone who has eaten there is Phil's BBQ is the place to go for amazing food and a great dining experience to boot. You can go for the baby back ribs if you want, and goodness knows thousands have, but don't miss out on the quarter chicken. It's delicious!
Multiple locations
Post Oak Barbecue in Denver, Colorado
Denver folks voted for this restaurant in a 2024 Readers' Choice poll, and they're not the only ones who flock to the self-described "barbecue fanatics" at Post Oak. People will happily wait in lines out of the door for amazing Texan and Carolina-style BBQ.
If you're in the neighborhood at the right time of year, Post Oak will make Thanksgiving dinner a snip. Imagine never having to think about brining a turkey ever again.
(303) 458-1555
4000 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212
Bear's Smokehouse BBQ in Connecticut (Multiple locations)
Owner Jamie McDonald was honored with a national Leadership Award in 2025, but that's not why people go to Bear's Smokehouse. It's the food.
Customers raved about the meatballs wrapped in bacon (if that's not protein heaven, we don't know what is) and the brisket sandwich, but there's also a lot of praise for the great service. Despite having five outlets across Connecticut and two in North Carolina, Bear's sells out frequently, so go early to avoid disappointment.
Multiple locations
Limestone BBQ and Bourbon in Wilmington, Delaware
The soul of Texas BBQ can be felt in every delicious bite from this popular restaurant, which is consistently voted the best in Upstate Delaware. Anyone who has been away from the South for any length of time will get a taste of home in the brisket "sammich", and you, too, can try what some diners did: Shake your ribs to see if the meat falls off. Trust us, it will.
(302) 274-2085
2062 Limestone Rd, Wilmington, DE 19808
Pig Floyd's Urban BBQ in Florida (Multiple locations)
Social media is great for recommendations about places to eat, and users are loudly banging the drum for Pig Floyd's in Florida. Described as everything from "top notch" to "good stuff," it offers a bit of a twist on traditional BBQ fare.
Plenty of people go for the melt-in-the-mouth brisket and pork belly. But then they go back to try interesting extras, like the delicious yuca frita or even the kick of ginger in the house salad.
Multiple locations
Fox Bros Bar-B-Q in Georgia (Multiple locations)
Popular opinion isn't always the best way to judge a restaurant but if you haven't previously visited Fox Bros Bar-B-Q, it's the only way. Thousands of people have taken to the internet to sing this place's praises, from the classic combo to the chicken fried ribs, to the must-have brisket.
Don't sleep on the Brussels sprouts, and set aside all your everything you think you know about proper fat-to-meat ratios and smoke levels for brisket. This is BBQ done right.
Multiple locations
Guava Smoked in Hawaii (Multiple locations)
Considered somehow both a hidden gem and a national treasure, Guava Smoked proves a restaurant really can be more than one thing. Authentic Hawaiian flavors abound at this family friendly, spacious restaurant, named after the type of wood burned to smoke meats, including tender and flavorful pork, chicken, and duck.
There are two locations to try but whichever you visit, expect phenomenal food. We recommend the kalbi and you'd be hard-pressed to find a better loco moco.
Multiple locations
Barbacoa in Boise, Idaho
There aren't many BBQ restaurants describing themselves as a "multi-dimensional concepts" that also serve 100% kick-ass food, but award-winning Barbacoa pulls off both with style. The food tips its cowboy hat to the Pacific Northwest, and delivers on every possible level.
Diners love the dramatic, theatrical experience and, while the prices are higher than your average smoke house, the amazing food is more than worth it. Book a table and relish every second.
(208) 338-5000
276 Bobwhite Crt, Boise, Idaho 83706
Green Street Smoked Meats in Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City is home to some amazing restaurants, but carnivores descend on Chicago's West Loop to pray at the altar of Green Street Meats. Everything about this rough-and-ready place — quite rightly — plays second fiddle to the food, which is top tier and thoroughly delicious, according to diners. Texan, North Carolina, and New York tastes are catered for, and although the folks there take their barbecue very seriously, the vibe is totally chill.
(312) 754-0431
112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Smokin' Fattys in Elkhart, Indiana
If the name doesn't put a smile on your face, then the food served here definitely will. People who have dropped in on the off-chance and locals who go on a regular basis have nothing but good things to say.
Everyone raves about the ribs and the brisket, but the mac 'n' cheese and jalapeño hush puppies go hard, too. Throw in friendly service and plenty of parking, and no wonder it's a hit.
(574) 333-3600
3241 Interchange Dr, Elkhart, IN 46514
Smokey D's BBQ in Iowa (Multiple locations)
Championship-winning food awaits anyone who steps over the threshold of this phenomenally popular BBQ eatery. It's so busy that customers are given a pager to let them know when their order's up, and while people appreciate the efficient service, they really love the food.
The "immaculate" burnt ends and pulled pork nachos come in for plenty of praise, and don't forget to add a cornbread side. Make sure to go hungry because the portions are down home generous.
Multiple locations
Slap's BBQ in Kansas City, Kansas
When barbecue is so soft and flavorful it's described as "meat candy," you know you're in for a foodie treat. The award-winning, authentic Kansas City taste on offer at Slap's hits the spot for thousands of diners, both locals and out-of-towners.
Expect lean meat in the combos enhanced, not overwhelmed, by flavorful rubs, and fall-off-the-bone ribs. Lines can get long fast but the speedy service won't keep you hanging around.
(913) 213-3736
553 Central Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101
Blue Door Smokehouse in Lexington, Kentucky
Locals named this restaurant the city's best in 2025, and quite rightly. For everyone stepping through that iconic blue door, a feast for the senses lies in store.
From the top-notch pulled pork and must-have beef brisket, to magic-sprinkled chicken, the menu is packed with bullseyes. Of course it's popular, but all that great food is bolstered by friendly, efficient service that keeps everyone coming back for more.
(859) 252-4227
819 National Ave Suite 140, Lexington, KY 40502
The Joint in New Orleans, Louisiana
It can be hard for restaurants in New Orleans to stand out from the crowd, but The Joint does it with style and substance. The mouthwatering smell of smoke and laid-back vibe lure you in, while each bite of the pork ribs, burnt ends, and beef brisket are nothing short of incredible. Described as "insanely great" online, it's one of those out-of-the-way places you'd be foolish to miss out on.
(504) 949-3232
701 Mazant St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Buck's Naked BBQ & Studio Bar in Maine (Multiple locations)
Some of the best BBQ eateries started life as one-person garage operations and cheekily-named Buck's is cut from that cloth. The years of hard work have paid off for diners today, who love everything about the place, from the atmosphere to the portion sizes.
Described as "delicious" in online reviews more times than anyone can count, even Texas natives recognize BBQ game when they see it. Get a Bucket and find out for yourselves.
Multiple locations
Jake's Grill in Cockeysville, Maryland
If you ever take a Sunday drive around Cockeysville and suddenly smell barbecue, hit the brakes and follow your nose to find hidden gem Jake's Grill. The menu is small, ribs and pit beef, chicken, and turkey sandwiches, served with coleslaw or mac 'n' cheese, but it punches above its weight in the flavor stakes. One visit is never enough, and regulars know Jake's delivers the goods every time.
facebook.com/pages/Jakes-Grill/109394999120061
(410) 308-0022
11950 Falls Rd, Cockeysville, MD 21030
B.T.'s Smokehouse in Sturbridge, Massachusetts
It's always a good time to swing by B.T.'s, voted by locals as among New England's top 10 BBQ joints. Visitors are just as enthusiastic, with praise for the smokey flavor and descriptions like "heavenly" and "divine" come up regularly. While the meats (order the brisket, you won't regret it) are top drawer, bear in mind you'll likely have to wait in a long, long line.
(508) 347-3188
392 Main St, Sturbridge, MA 01566
Slows Bar BQ in Michigan (Multiple locations)
The Corktown OG location of this restaurant chain was named Best of Detroit in 2024 and the high bar hasn't slipped an inch. Get past the running joke of "where the heck's the entrance?" and the foodie rewards awaiting inside are multiple. Fall-apart brisket and mouthwatering pulled pork, particularly the combo, sit alongside sides and sauces that hold their own against the meaty stars of the show.
Multiple locations
Big Bore Barbecue in Minnesota (Multiple locations)
There is nothing boring about this much-loved eatery, despite the name. Diners come from miles around to experience the great vibe and enjoy the authentic Texas barbecue.
Regulars have a soft spot for the brisket sandwich, while online reviews talk about getting the "perfect" bite from their ribs. It's the kind of food that makes people moan with every mouthful rather than speak and, best of all, won't wreck your bank balance.
Multiple locations
The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
You get a side order of blues at The Shed, but no matter your music preferences, the food is always outstanding. The World Championship-winning team is beloved by locals (known affectionately as ShedHeds) and given the goodies on offer, it's easy to see why. Expect the unexpected from this self-proclaimed "joint," where amazing pulled pork, brisket, sausage, and chicken are on the menu.
(228) 875-9590
7501 MS Highway 57, Ocean Springs, MS 39565
Pappy's Smokehouse in Missouri (Multiple locations)
More than 14,000 people have hopped online to sing the praises of this legendary Missouri eatery, named after Jim "Pappy" Emerson. The owners started out on the competition circuit before opening the restaurant, and have spent every day since slapping big smiles on peoples' faces, regularly selling out ahead of closing time. "Incredible," "phenomenal," and "unbelievable" are among the many, many glowing comments, but for many people, Pappy's ribs were the must-try menu option.
Multiple locations
DeSoto Grill in Kalispell, Montana
Many people go to this outstanding restaurant for the good times and vintage cars, but they all stay for the off-the-hook barbecue. The team at DeSoto barely put a foot wrong, according to online reviews, with the huge portions and amazing service both getting the thumbs up.
And the food? The compliments come in an avalanche, from diners fighting for forkfuls of sides to waxing lyrical about the perfectly smoked meat.
(406) 314-6095
227 1st St W, Kalispell, MT 59901
Porky Butts BBQ in Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha residents know where to go for barbecue that delivers every time: Porky Butts. The burnt ends are a definite hit but the family platter is one of the most popular menu items.
It includes a half rack of ribs, smoked sausage, and pulled pork that Katie Lee would rave about, as well as sides that are utterly delicious. Co-founder and competition winner Blane Hunter delivers it all: great food, great service, and great vibes.
(531) 466-7343
15475 Ruggles St, Omaha, NE 68116
Fox Smokehouse BBQ in Boulder City, Nevada
When an eatery regularly features in annual "best of" lists, you know it's worth checking out. Fox Smokehouse is just such a place, adored by regulars and out-of-towners alike.
Everything is good here, from the friendly service, to the incredible menu. One of the standout items is the enormous Sloppy Fox, which is delicious but not for the faint-hearted.
(702) 489-2211
930 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV 89005
KC's Rib Shack in Manchester, New Hampshire
There aren't many restaurants where diners can contact the owner personally but Kevin at KC's Rib Shack has built an award-winning reputation on doing things his way. Whether you stick to the dining room or explore the other levels, a great time lies in store. Customers rave about the food most of all, with one online reviewer describing it as "dangerously delicious."
(603) 627-7427
837 Second St, Manchester, NH 03102
Red White & Que Smokehouse in Green Brook, New Jersey
You could spend time trying to find a duff review for this much-loved, veteran-owned spot, or you could visit and find out precisely why it's a massive hit. Offering Texas and Carolina-style barbecue, your mouth will be watering before you've even taken a bite.
Try the BBQ lovers sampler, or the ribs, or the brisket. It's all delicious. If you're a veteran, you eat for free.
(732) 200-5998
150 US-22, Green Brook, NJ 08812
Mad Jack's Mountaintop Barbecue in Cloudcroft, New Mexico
You know the barbecue is good when people start queuing for it two hours ahead of opening time. Locals love Mad Jack's Texas barbecue (an actual Texas location was revealed on social media in late 2025) but there'll always be a hefty percentage of tourists in the line, who have read the many, near-perfect online reviews. Order the brisket and melt-in-your-mouth dino ribs.
(575) 682-7577
105 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317
Hometown Bar-B-Que in Brooklyn, New York
Sometimes you have to guess if a restaurant is worth a visit. That's not a requirement for this Brooklyn BBQ joint.
Diners shout loudly about everything from the pulled pork, brisket, and the "killer twist" of the jerk baby back ribs, to the sides and corn bread. They sell out fast and the lines can be long, so get there early.
(347) 294-4644
454 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Prime Barbecue in Knightdale, North Carolina
If you're looking for barbecue excellence, you'll find it at Christopher Prieto's restaurant. One fabulous bite and you quickly understand why it's the proud possessor of a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
The house-made sausage has a thrilling jalapeño boost, while the brisket is consistently juicy and flavorful. Yes, there will be a line, but the staff will keep you company and hand out samples too. Don't forget to order the Texas Cobbler.
(919) 373-8067
403 Knightdale Station Run, Knightdale, NC 27545
NoBull Smokehouse in Fargo, North Dakota
As the quirky moniker suggests, there's no foolin' around with the mind-blowing barbecue from this much-loved Fargo restaurant. Diners rave about the brisket, which has the perfect balance of fat and lean meat, and the delicious sides (dollop hot honey on the beans), but they also appreciated the warm, welcoming service.
NoBull lives up to its name in every way. It is wheelchair friendly, but the ample parking can fill up fast.
(701) 478-2000
609 NP Ave, Fargo, ND 58102
Cockeye BBQ in Warren, Ohio
In 2025, Cleveland.com named Cockeye BBQ, run by award-winning pitmaster Erik Hoover, among its list of favorite places to eat and drink, but regulars have loved this eatery for over a decade. Things take time at Cockeye, and the result is amazing, slow-cooked meat (locally sourced, too) covered in the signature spice blend. If you want outstanding barbecue, delivered with genuine warmth, you'll find it in spades here.
(330) 369-4227
1805 Parkman Road NW, Warren, OH 44484
Mac's BBQ in Skiatook, Oklahoma
In the careful hands of Adam Green, son-in-law of founder Mike McMillan, this gem of a barbecue joint gets everything right. The award-winning meat is smoked over hickory and pecan wood, and people fall over themselves to have some of it. The kid-friendly, casual vibe means everyone can come as they are, while the amazing food (shout-out to the cheese grits) is little short of perfection.
(918) 396-4165
1030 W Rogers Blvd, Skiatook, OK 74070
Roger That BBQ in Salem, Oregon
What can you say about a seasoned brisket that's been lovingly smoked, Texas-style, for up to 18 hours, apart from "fill my plate!" Barbecue fans in and around Salem know the food served at Roger That BBQ is the real deal, and aren't afraid to shout about it.
Whatever you order, expect oversize portions, friendly service, and a line of hungry customers. Just make sure they're behind you.
(503) 363-6716
1492 Brush College Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304
Federal Hill Smokehouse in Erie, Pennsylvania
Locals aren't the only diners flocking to this barbecue restaurant. Former residents and visitors are also among those who have dined and been delighted.
The generous portions, speedy service, and laid back vibe all come in for universal praise, but it's the food that — quite rightly — gets the lion's share of the positive reviews. The pulled pork, turkey, and sausage are all equally popular, but don't sleep on the sides.
(814) 920-4695
2609 Peach St, Erie, PA 16508
Great Northern BBQ Co in Providence, Rhode Island
You don't have to be a "Twin Peaks" fan to admire Great Northern BBQ, though you'll appreciate the cocktail menu. Drinks aside, the team aims to prove that the way to everyone's hearts is absolutely through their stomachs.
Hefty portions are just the start: Delicate ribs, perfectly cooked brisket, and the juiciest pulled pork are a none-too subtle demonstration that this team knows their stuff.
(401) 421-1513
9 Parade St, Providence, RI 02909
Lewis Barbecue in South Carolina (Multiple locations)
Almost a decade after opening, the Charleston-based outlet of Lewis Barbecue was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2025. Welcome to the party, people.
Anyone who has tasted the brisket, pulled pork or sausage (to name but three) from this small chain knows it deserves every accolade coming its way. If you love smokey, tender meat with outstanding sides, Lewis Barbecue is the place to be.
Multiple locations
J.R.'s Rhodehouse BBQ Pit in Summerset, South Dakota
There may be nothing fancy about this barbecue restaurant, but what it lacks in decor, it makes up for in authentic Texas flavor. Founder Justin Rhodes has stuck to a winning formula: Good food plus good service equals good times.
Diners don't need anything else. Dubbed "legit" and "correct" in online reviews, and even Texas residents give it two thumbs up.
(605) 787-7070
7201 Infinity Dr, Summerset, SD 57718
Peg Leg Porker in Nashville, Tennessee
Pitmaster Carey Bringle is an icon in the Tennessee barbecue landscape. His fortitude and entrepreneurship are legendary, but even they take second place to Peg Leg Porker's hickory-smoked pork butts.
There's no beef on Bringle's menu — this is West Tennessee BBQ after all. The menu's so good, diners get upset that they don't live closer.
(615) 829-6023
903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203
Burnt Bean Company in Seguin,Texas
Visitors might mistake this place for a coffee shop, but those who know better, know better. Voted best in the state by Texas Monthly in 2025, we're following suit with our accolade.
Phenomenal craft BBQ is served up by pitmasters Ernest Servantes and Dave Kirkland, but you get there early for maximum choice. Diners rave about everything but grab the brisket huevos rancheros and the pork chop. They'll be the best you've ever had.
(830) 609-7189
108 S Austin St, Seguin, TX 78155
5 Star BBQ Company in Orem, Utah
If we could only use one word to sum up this friendly, cozy eatery, it would have to be "yummy." So many diners use it to describe the food, though it's not the only positive note.
The brisket, ribs, (you can ask for fattier cuts!) and chicken are standouts for being tasty as well as perfectly smoked. The sides come in for plenty of praise, too, particularly the creamy corn.
(385) 462-8217
70 Geneva Rd, Orem, UT 84057
Prohibition Pig Restaurant in Waterbury, Vermont
Winner of the 2025 Seven Days' Best Barbecue award, Waterbury's Prohibition Pig is so popular it has a waitlist, rather than reservations, so everyone gets a chance to see what all the fuss is about. The menu is simple but done extraordinarily well (duck fat fries get a big thumbs up) and the Eastern North Carolina BBQ sauce takes the barbecued meat to the next level.
(802) 244-4120
23 S Main St, Waterbury, VT 05676
Sloppy Mama's in Arlington, Virginia
Vegans can take a seat alongside their carnivore compadres at Sloppy Mama's, where jackfruit is on the barbecue menu, alongside the traditional brisket, pulled pork, and chicken. The restaurant has been feted for its burger, but the Texas BBQ, including the generously portioned Trinity, ribs, and turkey (Sloppy Mama's is a one-stop shop for plenty of locals at Thanksgiving), as well as a range of dreamy sides all hit the bullseye, too.
catering@sloppymamas.com
5731 Langston Blvd, Arlington, VA 22207
Moose Creek Barbeque in Arlington, Washington State
Social media often showcases hidden foodie gems, but it's also a mine of important advice, like booking your meat in advance at Arlington's Moose Creek. The loyalty among regulars runs deep and they will travel from miles away to sink their teeth into the range of perfectly smoked, tender, juicy meats.
Consider yourself a BBQ snob? You won't be disappointed.
(360) 651-2523
3617 172nd St NE Ste 5, Arlington, WA 98223
Hangover BBQ in Wheeling, West Virginia
Where do we start with this wildly popular BBQ joint? Everything is cooked low and slow, so the meat is melt-in-the-mouth good.
There's a perfect bark on the ribs, while the chicken is nothing short of divine. Even the simple stuff, like a turkey sandwich, is knocked out of the park, according to happy diners. Do keep an eye on the specials board.
(304) 233-8333
39 Greggsville, Clinton and Potomac Rd, Wheeling, WV 26003
Peters' Boyz Texas BBQ in Kimberly, Wisconsin
When a BBQ place warns you up front that the place sells out fast, it has to be worth a visit. Peters' Boyz has become a local fave for its family-friendly vibe and absolute commitment to serving the best Texas barbecue.
Online reviews insist this place makes a big impression, with a menu that is universally delicious. It leaves everyone eager for another visit.
(920) 423-3030
100 S Birch St Suite C, Kimberly, WI 54136
Bubba's Breakfast & BBQ in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Outstanding food has been served up at Bubba's Breakfast & BBQ for more than 40 years and there's no sign of the high standards slipping. The pulled pork will stay with you long after you've cleaned your plate, and if you prefer meat that's not drenched in sauce, you're in for a treat.
The parking is good. Plus, Bubba's is wheelchair and kid friendly.
(307) 733-2288
100 Flat Creek Dr, Jackson Hole, WY 83001
Methodology
To find the hands-down best BBQ restaurant in every state, we read thousands of online reviews and ratings from customers, the media and influencers. We also factored in any local or national awards.