This Is the Top-Rated BBQ Restaurant in Your State
In honor of National Barbecue Day (May 16), we wanted to track down the best barbecue restaurant in each state. To gather our data, we turned to customer reviews on Yelp. Whether you’re looking for your state’s tastiest brisket, sausage, pulled pork, or side, you can find it all on this list.
You don’t even need to take our word for it. We’ve included a customer review for every restaurant on the list so you can hear directly from satisfied patrons.
Did your favorite smokehouse or rib joint make the cut? Keep reading to find out.
Methodology
To find the top-rated barbecue restaurant in each state, we looked up which restaurants had the highest reviews on Yelp. We limited our search to restaurants in the three most populous metro areas in every state.
The customer reviews we’ve included also came from Yelp.
The ultimate BBQ road trip
Barbecue is all about going big or going home, and we know that any true barbecue connoisseur wants to try the best barbecue the country has to offer. That’s why we planned the ultimate barbecue road trip.
The route we’ve planned crosses through five states—each with famously good barbecue—and takes you directly to the best joint in each one. All told, the road trip is roughly 1,090 miles long and takes a little over 16 hours of driving time.
If you power through and drive the maximum recommended 500 miles every day, you can knock it out in about two days. However, you’ll be driving through the historic South, so you should take your time and do a little sight-seeing while you’re passing through.
Besides, you’ll probably need some extra time to digest between each helping of brisket.
Stop 1: Fox Bros Bar-B-Q, Atlanta, GA
Stop 2: Saw’s Soul Kitchen, Birmingham, AL
- Distance from stop 1: 147.4 miles
- Estimated driving time from stop 1: 2 hours 16 minutes
Stop 3: The Pig & Pint, Jackson, Mississippi
- Distance from stop 2: 242.3 miles
- Estimated drive time from stop 2: 3 hours 34 minutes
Stop 4: The Joint, New Orleans, LA
- Distance from stop 3: 192.9 miles
- Estimated drive time from stop 3: 2 hours 58 minutes
Stop 5: Pecan Lodge, Dallas, TX
- Distance from stop 4: 507.5 miles
- Estimated driving time from stop 4: 7 hours 29 minutes
Want to plan your own BBQ road trip?
If you don’t have time to travel to these southern states, keep reading our list to see what first-rate barbecue restaurants are closer to you so you can plan your own barbecue road trip.
The top-rated BBQ restaurant in each state
Alabama
Winner: Saw’s Soul Kitchen, Birmingham
Rating: 4.5 stars, 782 reviews
What the people say: “I could eat here everyday. Whole fried okra, bbq chicken sandwich, sweet tea fried chicken, pork and greens….. I could go on and on about this menu. Eat here and eat here often!!!” –Caroline R., Birmingham , AL
The runners-up:
- Joe’s Again Buffalo Wings & Rib City, Montgomery
- New Orleans Lunchbox Restaurant, Huntsville
Alaska
Winner: Zerelda’s Bistro, Juneau
Rating: 4.5 stars, 48 reviews
What the people say: “Zerelda’s Bistro is the best. Every meal has been incredible. Never disappoints.” –Laurel S., Juneau, AK
The runners-up:
- Oak Smoke BBQ, Palmer
- Bear’s Belly BBQ, Palmer
Arizona
Winner: Little Miss BBQ, Phoenix
Rating: 5 stars, 2,398 reviews
What the people say: “A+++ Best bbq and sides ever. I love the fatty brisket and grits. Also the pie was amazing.” –Ben M., Grand Blanc, MI
The runners-up:
- Smokey Mo, Tucson
- Jalapeño Bucks, Mesa
Arkansas
Winner: Wright’s Barbecue, Johnson
Rating: 4.5 stars, 290 reviews
What the people say: “the brisket. the ribs. the beer. the little tiny cookie. that potato salad. i love it. i love it all, so very much. i want to eat it every day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” –Kylee H., Springdale, AR
The runners-up:
- Cathead’s Diner, Little Rock
- KJ Sushi & Korean BBQ, Fayetteville
California
Winner: Phil’s BBQ, San Diego
Rating: 4.5 stars, 13,999 reviews
What the people say: “Yeeee haw, Phil’s is the staple of how I judge BBQ places. I’m on a quest to find the best BBQ, so far nobody beats Phil’s.” –Peter S., San Diego, CA
The runners-up:
- Gen Korean BBQ House, San Jose
- Kang Ho-dong Baekjeong, Los Angeles
Colorado
Winner: Kitchen Table: BBQ & Comfort Food, Denver
Rating: 4.5 stars, 536 reviews
What the people say: “Absolutely fantastic food with smiling, happy servers who are lightning fast. Great atmosphere in a really cool and interesting neighborhood!” –Pat W., Perry, MI
The runners-up:
- Roaming Buffalo BBQ, Denver
- Boney’s BBQ, Denver
Connecticut
Winner: Walrus Alley, Westport
Rating: 3.5 stars, 365 reviews
What the people say: “Culinary inspiration through their full menu and nightly specials paired with the highest caliber of live music and staff sets a high bench mark in modern gastro. Do yourself a favor and try it out.” –Alana S., Pound Ridge, NY
The runners-up:
- Drumstik Bar-B-Q, Bridgeport
- Brother Jimmy’s BBQ, Stamford
Delaware
Winner: Mission BBQ, Dover
Rating: 4.5 stars, 121 reviews
What the people say: “Super friendly staff, clean bbq restaurant. Brisket has great flavor and lots of fun sauces to try.” –Kami B., Millville, DE
The runners-up:
- Russell’s Quality Food, Wilmington
- Limestone BBQ and Bourbon, Wilmington
District of Columbia
Winner: Federalist Pig
Rating: 4.5 stars, 560 reviews
What the people say: “BEST BBQ EVER! Good prices for great food. The only issue is that it’s a very tiny place so sitting down to eat is difficult, still worth going too.” –Heather H., Brooklyn, NY
The runners-up:
- Succotash – Penn Quarter
- The Alibi
Florida
Winner: Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, Miami
Rating: 4 stars, 1,324 reviews
What the people say: “This is my favorite Korean BBQ spot to go to. The prices are reasonable they have an amazing happy hour, the drinks are delicious, and the Matcha Crepe Cake dessert is a must at the end. I always leave this place stuffed. I go there 2-3 times a month. Super good!!!” –Ivana J., Miami Beach, FL
The runners-up:
- The Bearded Pig, Jacksonville
- Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que, Tampa
Georgia
Winner: Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Atlanta
Rating: 4.5 stars, 3,691 reviews
What the people say: “Best mainstream BBQ in Atlanta hands down. Great service, extremely quick order to food at table.” –Eric B., Union City, GA
The runners-up:
- Heirloom Market BBQ, Atlanta
- Wiley’s Championship BBQ, Savannah
Hawaii
Winner: Gen Korean BBQ House, Honolulu
Rating: 4 stars, 2,774 reviews
What the people say: “Best all you can meat Korean bbq I’ve ever been to. Get there before 5 if you don’t want to wait. The lines get long. Delish.” –David W., Omaha, NE
Idaho
Winner: BBQ4LIFE, Boise
Rating: 4.5 stars, 483 reviews
What the people say: “This is BBQ at it’s best. Great vegan options. Terrific service, fast delivery. Fun servers. Amazing experience.” –Otto C., Webster, NY
The runners-up:
- Goodwood Barbecue Restaurant, Meridian
- Texas Roadhouse, Meridian
Illinois
Winner: Smoque BBQ, Chicago
Rating: 4.5 stars, 4,106 reviews
What the people say: “Smoque BBQ is one of those classic bbq joints where they offer beef brisket, bbq chicken, and all those amazing sides.” –Ranillo R., Chicago, IL
The runners-up:
- Steamboat BBQ, Wheaton
- Green Street Smoked Meats, Chicago
Indiana
Winner: His Place Eatery, Indianapolis
Rating: 4.5 stars, 293 reviews
What the people say: “Amazing soul food! Restaurant is very clean and the service was excellent. Cobbler and pudding were top notch.” –Jenn C., Dundee Township, IL
The runners-up:
- Madera Tex-Mex BBQ & Tap, Indianapolis
- Hank’s Smoked Briskets, Indianapolis
Iowa
Winner: Flying Mango, Des Moines
Rating: 4.5 stars, 343 reviews
What the people say: “Outstanding! That’s really all I need to say. The food is all great. Ownership is hilarious. Service is great. You must try the red beans and rice. Best in town. Melt in your mouth brisket. Killer deserts. Slap your face off cornbread. Just come here and eat.” –Kyle T., Waukee, IA
The runners-up:
- Jethro’s BBQ, Des Moines
- Smokey D’s BBQ, Des Moines
Kentucky
Winner: Eli’s BBQ, Newport
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,187 reviews
What the people say: “Huge sandwich, overflowing with meat. It’s got that Smokey flavor, doesn’t even need sauce but I add sauce, because I love the sauce!!! The Mac and cheese is the bomb, made from scratch and I highly suggest adding some elis sauce in that too!” –Melissa S., Marion, OH
The runners-up:
- Mck’s Chicks, Covington
- Montana Grille, Bowling Green
Louisiana
Winner: The Joint, New Orleans
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,249 reviews
What the people say: “Best bbq in the city. Ribs are absolutely delicious and leave you wanting more. Brisket is also very good. Can’t wait to come back and try something else” –Yee Y., Pembroke Pines, FL
The runners-up:
- Blue Oak BBQ, New Orleans
- Boucherie, New Orleans
Maine
Winner: Salvage BBQ, Portland
Rating: 4 stars, 323 reviews
What the people say: “Best barbecue joint in Portland! Great food options, huge local and craft beer selection, plenty of seating for parties of all sizes. If you like BBQ you will love this place.” –Scott D., Dover, NH
The runners-up:
- Moe’s Original BBQ, Bangor
- Noble Barbecue, Portland
Maryland
Winner: Chaps Pit Beef, Baltimore
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,187 reviews
What the people say: “This place is the best, the food is so good, you can’t go wrong, it’s all really, really good. I have dropped in 3 times and it has always been great. These guys got it down” –John A., San Francisco, CA
The runners-up:
- Blue Pit BBQ and Whiskey Bar, Baltimore
- Black Hog BBQ, Frederick
Massachusetts
Winner: Theodore’s Booze Blues & BBQ, Springfield
Rating: 4.5 stars, 525 reviews
What the people say: “Best BBQ in western mass by far. Awesome bartenders and great selection.” –Trevor D., Springfield, MA
The runners-up:
- Cana Korean Restaurant, Chicopee
- Smokestack Urban Barbecue, Worcester
Michigan
Winner: Slows Bar-B-Q, Detroit
Rating: 4 stars, 2,043 reviews
What the people say: “Great BBQ! The American Dream brisket sandwich is the bomb diggity!!! The sides are amazing. Fast friendly service. ” –Rick N M., Huntington Beach, CA
The runners-up:
- Two Scotts Barbecue, Grand Rapids
- Daddy Pete’s BBQ, Grand Rapids
Minnesota
Winner: Colita, Minneapolis
Rating: 4.5 stars, 252 reviews
What the people say: “My absolute favorite restaurant in the city hands down. Amazing food, great drink program.” –Blake W., Minneapolis, MN
The runners-up:
- FireBox Deli, Minneapolis
- Smoke In The Pit, Minneapolis
Mississippi
Winner: The Pig & Pint, Jackson
Rating: 4.5 stars, 724 reviews
What the people say: “Among the best BBQ in Jackson. The brisket nachos and half rack are incredible. Show up especially hungry, as the servings are massive.” –Harrison Hayden P., Arlington, VA
The runners-up:
- One and Only BBQ, Southaven
- Murky Waters Blues & BBQ, Gulfport
Missouri
Winner: Q39, Kansas City
Rating: 4.5 stars, 4,036 reviews
What the people say: “The burnt ends are fantastic, the onion straws are also fantastic. Have yet to have bad service here, and it is very easy to get in assuming that you make a reservation the day before.” –Brandon H., Oklahoma City, OK
The runners-up:
- Salt + Smoke, St. Louis
- Sugarfire Smokehouse, St. Louis
Montana
Winner: The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ, Missoula
Rating: 4.5 stars, 437 reviews
What the people say: “I’ve made BBQ. I eaten BBQ all around the states and hands down this is the best BBQ I’ve ever had! The sauces are amazing and the quality of meat is top notch.” –Kim B., Ben Lomond, CA
The runners-up:
- Smoked, Great Falls
- Blue’s BBQ, Billings
Nebraska
Winner: Smokin Barrel BBQ, Omaha
Rating: 5 stars, 74 reviews
What the people say: “The brisket is hands down the best brisket around. I haven’t had the pulled pork yet, but the ribs and sausage are very good too. Get there early. They run out of the good meats early.” –Wesley H., Millard, Omaha, NE
The runners-up:
- Phat Jacks, Lincoln
- Swine Dining BBQ, Bellevue
Nevada
Winner: Gangnam Asian BBQ Dining, Las Vegas
Rating: 4.5 stars, 3,758 reviews
What the people say: “I love this place! They have amazing food and amazing workers! Every time I come here I leave full and satisfied with the service!” –Kat D., North Las Vegas, NV
The runners-up:
- Rollin Smoke Barbeque, Las Vegas
- Hobak Korean BBQ, Las Vegas
New Hampshire
Winner: Beefside, Concord
Rating: 4.5 stars, 225 reviews
What the people say: “A cozy down-home place that’s got a well deserved-reputation for great barbecue and seafood.” –Jerry C., West Medford, MA
The runners-up:
- Smokeshow Barbeque, Concord
- Ranger’s BBQ, Nashua
New Jersey
Winner: Hamilton Pork, Jersey City
Rating: 4 stars, 443 reviews
What the people say: “Now I see what all the hype was about: good and prompt service, bomb food, rustic vibe & casual atmosphere – can’t think of a single thing I’d change about the experience.” –Kristina B., Jersey City, NJ
The runners-up:
- Buffalo’s Chicken Shack, Wood-Ridge
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Newark
New Mexico
Winner: Asian Pear, Albuquerque
Rating: 4.5 stars, 274 reviews
What the people say: “The food is a five. The service is a definite six. It is truly unparalleled. The place is pretty small but cheery and friendly. I enjoy the spicy beef special and recommend it if you like a bit of spice.” –Timothy S., Renton, WA
The runners-up:
- Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q, Albuquerque
- Vick’s Vittles Country Kitchen, Albuquerque
New York
Winner: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Rochester
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,340 reviews
What the people say: “Great food and great music. This place is great. The food comes out very quick and is delicious, and they get some of the greatest bands.” –Dave P., Newark, NY
The runners-up:
- East End Tavern, Rochester
- Pies-n-Thighs, Brooklyn
North Carolina
Winner: Midwood Smokehouse, Charlotte
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,811 reviews
What the people say: “Fabulous barbecue and brisket! I loved the salad with barbecue on top, sweet potato fries and fried okra. There were many other sides from which to choose.” –Cheri F., Raleigh, NC
The runners-up:
- The Pit, Raleigh
- Seoul Food Meat Company, Charlotte
North Dakota
Winner: Laughing Sun Brewing, Bismarck
Rating: 4.5 stars, 84 reviews
What the people say: “Their location and atmosphere are fantastic. Great beer selection – try them all! And the food was really good too. Super quick in and out if you’re looking for a quick bite and a beer. Their brisket is super tasty!” –Celebrity E., Bismarck, ND
The runners-up:
- NoBull Smokehouse, Fargo
- Texas Roadhouse, Fargo
Ohio
Winner: Eli’s BBQ, Cincinnati
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,187 reviews
What the people say: “Probably the best BBQ I’ve ever eaten ANYWHERE! I’ve had St Louis, Georgia, North Carolina, Texas. Nothing compares. The pulled pork is done so well.” –Jeff A., Cincinnati, OH
The runners-up:
- Ray Ray’s Hog Pit, Columbus
- Smoked on High BBQ, Columbus
Oklahoma
Winner: Burn Co Barbeque, Tulsa
Rating: 4.5 stars, 329 reviews
What the people say: “The bbq is unmatched and the price is even better considering the quality and amount of food you get. The staff is very friendly and helpful atmosphere is wonderful.” –Rashad H., Augusta, GA
The runners-up:
- Knotty Pig BBQ, Burger & Chili House, Tulsa
- Leon’s Smoke Shack BBQ, Tulsa
Oregon
Winner: Podnah’s Pit Barbecue, Portland
Rating: 4 stars, 1,438 reviews
What the people say: “Perfection. The beef ribs (when available) are the most tender, flavorful I’ve ever had. Anywhere. The pork ribs are just dandy as well.” –Troy L., Portland, OR
The runners-up:
- Fire On the Mountain, Portland
- Matt’s BBQ, Portland
Pennsylvania
Winner: Sang Kee Peking Duck House, Philadelphia
Rating: 4 stars, 858 reviews
What the people say: “Delicious duck! Three of use enjoyed the whole Peking duck along with Peking ribs which were really pork chops in a sauce. We added gluten-free beef and cellophane noodles. Spectacular Saturday lunch!” –Jeanne E., Fort Washington, PA
The runners-up:
- Mike’s BBQ, Philadelphia
- Fette Sau, Philadelphia
Rhode Island
Winner: Wow Barbecue, Providence
Rating: 4 stars, 127 reviews
What the people say: “Excellent barbecue with a variety of skewers. The meat is tender and the veggies are boiled prior to grilling, making them very flavorful. The prices are fair and it’s an excellent treat for folks who are fans of northeastern cuisine.” –Cecilia C., Walnut Creek, CA
The runners-up:
- Lekker BBQ, Providence
- Bonetown Burgers & BBQ, Cranston
South Carolina
Winner: Swig & Swine, Charleston
Rating: 4.5 stars, 1,247 reviews
What the people say: “Excellent BBQ and great sauces! Nice selection of beer as well. All the meats are delicious. Sides are unique and very flavorful. Corn pudding is amazing.” –Kristine S., Tampa, FL
The runners-up:
- Lewis Barbecue, Charleston
- Southern Belly BBQ, Columbia
South Dakota
Winner: ROAM Kitchen Bar, Sioux Falls
Rating: 4.5 stars, 52 reviews
What the people say: “Great food and service! The building is beautiful. We appreciated the roaring fire in the stone fireplace on a snowy, windy night!” –Deborah M., Bedford, MA
The runners-up:
- Texas Roadhouse, Sioux Falls
- Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que, Sioux Falls
Tennessee
Winner: Central BBQ, Memphis
Rating: 4 stars, 1,693 reviews
What the people say: “The #1 bbq spot in Memphis! Easily the best wings and bbq nachos in Memphis!!! I always bring friends and family to this BBQ spot first, and recommend it to clients. Reasonable prices, awesome staff, and amazing bbq!” –Lindsay S., Memphis, TN
The runners-up:
- Sweet P’s BBQ Downtown Dive, Knoxville
- Blues City Cafe, Memphis
Texas
Winner: Pecan Lodge, Dallas
Rating: 4.5 stars, 4,860 reviews
What the people say: “Worth the wait in line. Delicious BBQ. The sides are great. Service is quick and efficient. They are always packed but I am always able to find a seat. Live music on the weekends.” –Katie W., Dallas, TX
The runners-up:
- The Pit Room, Houston
- Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, Houston
Utah
Winner: R&R BBQ, Salt Lake City
Rating: 4 stars, 1,273 reviews
What the people say: “I mean if you want some mean bbq this is the place. Their brisket is so bomb. I am in love with their brisket tacos which require at least 3 napkins so you know they’re good. Peach cobbler is to die for.” –Megan S., Salt Lake City, UT
The runners-up:
- Pat’s BBQ, Salt Lake City
- Yeah Hot Pot & Grill, West Jordan
Vermont
Winner: Bluebird Barbecue, Burlington
Rating: 4 stars, 389 reviews
What the people say: “Best bbq in Burlington. They have an outstanding smoked Old Fashioned I can’t resist.” –Patrick C., San Diego, CA
The runners-up:
- Tom’s Loft Tavern, Ludlow
- Smokey’s Low And Slow, South Burlington
Virginia
Winner: Cutlass Grille, Chesapeake
Rating: 4.5 stars, 465 reviews
What the people say: “Amazing authentic Jamaican food. The jerk chicken was so juicy and falling off the bone. Flavor all the way to the bone the greens where amazing and delicious. The owner and head Chef come out and was greeting everyone amazing customer service will come back often.” –Nova L., Menifee, CA
The runners-up:
- Mission BBQ, Virginia Beach
- My Mama’s Kitchen, Norfolk
Washington
Winner: Harbor City Restaurant, Seattle
Rating: 4 stars, 1,604 reviews
What the people say: “Simply one of the best restaurants in the international district.” –Gretchen B., Seattle, WA
The runners-up:
- Cham Garden Korean BBQ Buffet, Lakewood
- Kau Kau Barbeque, Seattle
West Virginia
Winner: Dem 2 Brothers and A Grill, Charleston
Rating: 4.5 stars, 277 reviews
What the people say: “If you’re looking for great barbecue, look no further. Awesome food and service. Haven’t gotten a disappointing meal yet. A great hidden gem.” –Hillary H., Charleston, WV
The runners-up:
- Woodburn Shanks Pit BBQ, Morgantown
- Smoke ‘Em If You Got ‘Em BBQ, Huntington
Wisconsin
Winner: Ono Kine Grindz, Wauwatosa
Rating: 4.5 stars, 449 reviews
What the people say: “Ono Kine Grindz is the best restaurant in Wauwatosa. I’ve been going there since 2009 and almost every experience I’ve had was memorable and beautiful.” –JaffaKan .., Milwaukee, WI
The runners-up:
- Beef Butter BBQ, Madison
- Smoke Shack, Milwaukee
Wyoming
Winner: HQ BBQ, Evansville
Rating: 4.5 stars, 196 reviews
What the people say: “I am beyond excited we have this place in our new town! BBQ is so good. Big portions, good staff, great beer. You rock HQ!” –Megan S., Laramie, WY
The runners-up:
- AB BBQ, Cheyenne
- Texas Roadhouse, Laramie
Conclusion
We may not be able to dine in right now, but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate National Barbecue day correctly. Order delivery or takeout from your state’s best barbecue joint (or one of the runners-up) and treat your whole family to some first-rate meat, sauce, and sides.
Want to see what else we’ve said about your city or state?
We don’t just write about barbecue restaurants and moving companies. If you want to read other things we’ve written about your state or hometown, check out these articles:
About Joe Roberts
