Some Virginia barbecue spots were already old favorites back when your grandparents were teenagers. The four places on this list have been feeding hungry families for decades, and one of them has been around since 1904.
They are not fancy, and that is a big part of their charm. If you love pulled pork, ribs, and a side of history, these are the stops worth saving for your next road trip.
1. Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue, Norfolk, VA
Ice cream cones and barbecue sharing top billing on one sign is a combination you do not see every day. Doumar’s has been a Norfolk landmark since 1904, which makes it the oldest stop on this list by a wide margin.
The pork barbecue sandwich is the star of the savory side. It comes tender and smoky, with just enough slaw to balance the meat.
Add a hot dog or a Taylor pork roll sandwich if you want to keep things classic.
Save room for dessert, since homemade ice cream is part of the name. A banana split or hot fudge cake rounds out a meal that rarely tops $20 per person.
One of the best parts is the old-fashioned car service. You can eat in your car drive-in style or grab a seat inside.
Doumar’s sits at 1919 Monticello Ave and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 11 PM, closed Sunday. Parking is free and usually easy to find.
2. Shaffer’s BBQ & Market, Middletown, VA
Few barbecue lunches come with a view of the Shenandoah Valley, but this one does. Shaffer’s sits along historic Valley Pike near Cedar Creek, with seating inside and out.
The family-owned business has served barbecue in the valley since 1952. Today it operates out of a restored former gas station, which gives it plenty of roadside character.
Brisket gets a lot of attention here, and the ribs are seasoned with a rub before smoking. Pulled pork and sweet Italian sausage are also on the lineup.
Sides lean Southern, with Brunswick stew, hushpuppies, and ranch potato salad. The Redneck Egg Roll is the item to try if you want something playful.
Shaffer’s is more than a restaurant. It also has a bakery and a market stocked with local products, so plan a few extra minutes to browse.
Hours run Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 7 PM, and Saturday afternoons are busiest.
3. Allman’s Bar-B-Que, Fredericksburg, VA
Plain and simple is the whole idea at Allman’s. Since 1954, this Fredericksburg spot has stuck with traditional pulled pork, ribs, and chicken without trying to reinvent anything.
The ribs show a red smoke ring and a crusty outside while staying tender. The pulled pork comes with cornbread, and the barbecue sandwich combo makes an easy lunch.
Milkshakes are a favorite add-on, and chopped brisket shows up on the menu too. The nostalgic interior and friendly counter keep it feeling like a family tradition for many in town.
Plan around the schedule. Allman’s is closed Monday, open 11 AM to 8 PM Tuesday through Thursday, 11 AM to 9 PM Friday and Saturday, and 11 AM to 4 PM Sunday.
Find it at 1299 Emancipation Hwy, with free parking on site.
4. Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que, Williamsburg, VA
Road trippers heading from Richmond toward Virginia Beach have been pulling off at this Williamsburg stop for more than 50 years. The Pierce family started it in 1971, and it is still family owned.
The menu centers on smoked pork and chicken, plus ribs. Homemade sauces are a big part of the reputation, including Doc Pierce’s Hot Sauce.
Sides include Southern-style collards, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread. A combo dinner covers the basics, and kids get their own pulled barbecue chicken option.
Ordering happens at the counter, and old photos line the walls. Expect a wait on weekend afternoons.
The good news is that Pierce’s is open every day from 11 AM to 8 PM at 447 E Rochambeau Dr. That makes it one of the easier pit stops on this list to work into a weekend drive.
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