Ready to chase smoke and sauce from coast to coast? This list takes you through 50 states, spotlighting the pitmasters and plates worth planning a detour for. You will find legendary traditions, clever twists, and no shortage of ribs, brisket, and pulled pork to savor. Grab some napkins and a hungry friend, because your next bite might be your new favorite.
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q – Decatur, Alabama
Start your Southern barbecue tour with tangy Alabama white sauce and hickory smoke. At Big Bob Gibson, the pitmasters dunk juicy chicken in a peppery, creamy bath that clings to the char. You taste gentle heat, vinegar snap, and a kiss of oak in every bite.
Split a platter so you can add pulled pork and ribs without regret. The sides are familiar yet memorable, from creamy slaw to classic baked beans. Sit back, wipe your fingers, and let the sauce convince you that simple traditions kept faithful still shine.
Smokehouse BBQ – Anchorage, Alaska
Barbecue thrives in Alaska with hearty portions and pure smoke. Here, brisket slices reveal a rosy ring and buttery fat that melts as you chew. The ribs bend clean, lacquered with a balanced glaze that favors spice without drowning the meat.
You will appreciate generous sides like cornbread and tangy slaw after a day in the cold. Order burnt ends if they are running, then linger over house sauces that lean sweet and bold. Anchorage proves you can find slow cooked comfort even near glaciers.
Little Miss BBQ-University – Phoenix, Arizona
Expect a line and embrace it because the brisket is worth every minute. Fat renders into silky richness, bark crunches lightly, and pepper sings. Sausage snaps with spicy confidence, and turkey surprises with tender juiciness.
You should arrive early since sellouts are normal under the desert sun. Pick jalapeno cheese grits, beans, and pickled onions to sharpen the plate. The motion is simple: slice, stack, savor, repeat. Phoenix heat meets Central Texas technique, and somehow the smoke tastes cooler than the weather.
McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant – Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
History hangs in the air alongside the smell of hickory. McClard’s plates ribs with a confident char and sauce that balances vinegar and molasses. That signature tamale spread offers a quirky, satisfying detour that regulars swear by.
You will want extra napkins because the glaze begs for fingers. Pair with slaw and beans, then finish with a sip of sweet tea. The place rewards loyalty, nostalgia, and an empty stomach. Classic Southern barbecue meets Hot Springs tradition, and every bite tells a story.
Phil’s BBQ – San Diego, California
Sunshine and sauce collide at Phil’s where ribs steal the show with sticky sheen and gentle pull. The glaze leans sweet but finishes clean, letting smoke peek through. Brisket sandwiches stack high for easy beach-adjacent eating.
You can chase bites with fresh slaw and onion rings that crunch right. The line moves fast, and the portions feel vacation sized. Grab extra napkins, find a patio seat, and let that coastal breeze mellow the heat. San Diego knows how to keep barbecue fun.
Smokin Yard’s BBQ – Denver, Colorado
Mile High appetites meet deep smoke at Smokin Yard’s. Brisket slices show sturdy bark, and pork comes tender with a touch of pepper. A spoon of green chili on the side nudges everything into Colorado comfort territory.
You will want to mop with sauce, but taste the meat first to catch that oak character. Sides feel hearty, from cheesy potatoes to tangy slaw. Grab a picnic table, breathe that mountain air, and let the smoke work its calm magic.
Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue – Hartford, Connecticut
Bear’s piles trays high with variety and swagger. Pork belly burnt ends bring sticky, caramelized edges that make you pause between bites. Brisket lands tender, with bark that whispers pepper and smoke.
You can build combos, chase with creamy mac and cheese, then dab through craft sauces. The vibe is friendly and fast, perfect for big appetites. Hartford gets a bold, modern barbecue stop that still respects the pit. Bring friends so you can taste more without regrets.
Bethany Blues – Lewes, Delaware
Beach towns love good food, and Bethany Blues delivers with smoke that lingers softly. Pulled pork comes juicy and lightly sauced so the meat stays center stage. Brisket is reliable, with a comfy bark and mellow pepper.
You should explore their sauce lineup, especially anything with bourbon warmth. Pair with cornbread and collards for a complete plate that feels coastal yet Southern. Grab a booth, trade bites, and let the relaxed vibe slow your day. Barbecue and beach breezes make easy company.
4 Rivers Smokehouse – Orlando, Florida
Lines move with purpose because everyone wants the brisket and burnt ends. The slices show rosy smoke and pepper bark, while ends caramelize into candy like bites. Turkey and pulled pork offer lighter routes without skipping flavor.
You will find desserts worth saving room for, but sides like BBQ beans do not make it easy. Grab pickles and jalapenos to sharpen each bite. Orlando’s most famous smokehouse keeps the focus on the meat, and you taste that dedication.
Fox Bros Bar-B-Q – Atlanta, Georgia
Fox Bros brings Texas roots to Atlanta with big bark and bigger portions. Ribs tug clean, coated in a sauce that nods sweet but carries smoke. Brisket holds its slice, then melts into peppery richness.
You might add a Frito pie or wings to roam beyond the classics. Sauces range from tang to heat, but the meat hardly needs help. Grab a patio table, settle in, and let the city music carry your meal. This is comfort with swagger.
Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken – Haleiwa, Hawaii
Kiawe wood smoke drifts across the North Shore, perfuming golden chicken. The skin crisps while the meat stays juicy, kissed by salty, savory marinade. Simplicity wins here, and you taste the island in every bite.
You will want to eat outside where the breeze amplifies the aroma. Add rice, mac salad, and a cold drink for balance. No frills, just perfect chicken cooked over honest fire. Haleiwa proves barbecue can be beachy and beautifully restrained.
BBQ4LIFE – Boise, Idaho
BBQ4LIFE respects tradition while welcoming everyone to the table. Brisket rides a peppery edge, ribs lean tender, and pulled pork shreds juicy. Vegetarian options like smoked jackfruit make it easy to bring the whole crew.
You can mix sauces to find your sweet spot, from tangy to smoky bold. Sides feel thoughtful, with fresh slaw and hearty beans. Boise’s scene keeps climbing, and this spot helps lead the way. Bring appetite, curiosity, and maybe a friend who usually skips barbecue.
Smoque BBQ – Chicago, Illinois
Smoque delivers steady excellence that locals trust. Brisket slices balance supple fat with pepper bark you can tap. Ribs carry a gentle tug and a glaze that never overwhelms.
You will want the sausage, too, with a satisfying snap and juicy center. Pick slaw, mac, and a few pickles, then pace yourself. The room stays lively, the trays stay busy, and the smoke does the talking. Chicago loves big flavors, and this place answers.
Bombers BBQ – Munster, Indiana
Rib tips headline with charred edges and pockets of juicy fat. Brisket sandwiches stack high, dripping peppered drippings onto soft bread. Sauces let you dial the sweetness or invite some heat.
You should add cornbread and creamy mac to round out the feast. The vibe is unfussy, the portions generous, and the smoke steady. Munster’s answer to big city barbecue arrives on metal trays and disappears quickly. Come hungry and leave plotting your next visit.
Smokey D’s BBQ – Des Moines, Iowa
Competition pedigree shows up on every plate at Smokey D’s. Ribs bite clean with a shiny glaze that balances sweet and spice. Burnt ends bring sticky edges and buttery centers that nudge you toward another bite.
You will appreciate the consistency, from chicken to beans full of meat trimmings. Sauces hit multiple notes, but the rub does real work. Des Moines rallies around this smokehouse for good reason. Bring appetite and maybe a friend to split desserts.
Joe’s KC BBQ – Kansas City, Kansas
Lines wrap the gas station because legends taste like this. The Z-Man stacks brisket, provolone, and onion rings into a perfect mess. Burnt ends glow with caramelized bark and deep beefiness.
You can chase with ribs and fries, but do not skip pickles. Sauce leans balanced, never hiding the wood smoke. Kansas City tradition thrives in a humble room, and every bite backs the reputation. Arrive early, order confident, and prepare to smile.
Moonlite Bar-b-q Inn – Owensboro, Kentucky
Owensboro means mutton, and Moonlite serves it proudly. The slices come tender with a mineral richness that pairs with tangy dip. Burgoo, hearty and comforting, fills bowls with smoky stew satisfaction.
You will wander the buffet and build a plate that celebrates Kentucky tradition. Grab slaw, rolls, and a second helping of mutton if curiosity wins. The room buzzes with families and memories, and the smoke tells local stories. This is regional barbecue at its most genuine.
The Joint – New Orleans, Louisiana
Bywater charm meets serious smoke at The Joint. Ribs wear a lacquered sheen and offer a clean bite, while brisket holds juicy slices. Housemade sausage brings spice and snap that wakes the plate.
You should snag mac, slaw, and maybe a local beer to lean into the neighborhood vibe. Sauces brighten rather than bury, letting pecan smoke sing. New Orleans knows flavor, and this barbecue keeps pace with ease. Settle in and enjoy the groove.
Burnt Ends Barbecue – Auburn, Maine
Maine’s cool air pairs well with hot, caramelized burnt ends. Each cube crackles slightly outside and melts within, tasting of beef and smoke. Brisket and pulled pork fill out the tray for balance.
You can add cornbread and tangy slaw for texture and contrast. The sauces stay friendly, letting the meat lead. Auburn’s smokehouse proves great barbecue plays anywhere dedication lives. Set your fork down between bites, then go back for more.
MISSION BBQ – Baltimore, Maryland
MISSION BBQ serves dependable smoke with a side of community spirit. Ribs are meaty with a shiny glaze and a satisfying tug. Pulled pork tastes clean and pork forward, eager for a splash of sauce.
You will find multiple regional sauces to explore, from Carolina tang to Texas heat. Brisket, sliced to order, shows a gentle ring and pepper bark. Lunchtime lines move with purpose, so decide early and enjoy the fare. Baltimore appreciates the heart behind the smoke.
Sweet Cheeks Q – Boston, Massachusetts
Sweet Cheeks Q wins fans with enormous biscuits and careful smoke. Brisket arrives tender, flashing a peppery bark that anchors the tray. Pork belly bites feel indulgent, crisping at the edges for contrast.
You should balance richness with bright pickles and vinegary slaw. Sides feel crafted, and desserts tempt even after a heavy plate. The room buzzes with Fenway energy and friendly service. Settle in, stack a biscuit, and build your favorite bites.
Slows Bar BQ – Detroit, Michigan
Slows marries Motor City grit with polished barbecue craft. Ribs carry a deep mahogany glaze and bite just right. Brisket slices show sturdy bark, rich fat, and lingering smoke.
You will love the mac and cheese, thick and comforting beside the meat. A thoughtful sauce roster lets you customize without losing the pit’s voice. Detroit’s appetite meets its match here, one tray at a time. Bring friends and share across the menu.
Black Market StP – St Paul, Minnesota
Black Market StP feels like a secret you want to keep but cannot. Brisket lands with black pepper bark and soft, buttery slices. Ribs swing savory, letting the rub show confidence without shouting.
You can pile house pickles and onions to snap through the richness. Sides change, keeping visits interesting while the smoke stays consistent. St Paul surprises with barbecue that rivals bigger markets. Show up early and let the tray guide your decisions.
The Pig & Pint – Jackson, Mississippi
The Pig & Pint plays with tradition without losing respect for the pit. Ribs arrive lacquered and meaty, while pork belly tacos crunch and melt at once. Brisket offers a steady anchor for the adventurous sides.
You will want to pair bites with a local beer flight for fun. Sauces tilt bright and peppery, keeping the pace lively. Jackson’s barbecue creativity shines here, and the patio feels right at sunset. Bring curiosity and a generous appetite.
Q39 – Midtown – Kansas City, Missouri
Q39 brings competition precision to a comfortable dining room. Burnt ends glisten with caramelized bark and deep beef flavor. Ribs show a perfect bite, holding shape before yielding cleanly.
You can try the smoked chicken to taste how balance and restraint pay off. Sauces complement instead of cover, highlighting oak and spice. Sides feel chef driven while staying familiar and craveable. Kansas City takes barbecue seriously, and Q39 responds with clarity.
The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ – Missoula, Montana
Montana appetites meet generous cuts at The Notorious P.I.G. St. Louis ribs arrive big and balanced, with a rub that favors savory over sweet. Brisket slices show a nice ring and steady tenderness.
You will like the sausage options when you want something snappy and bold. Sides lean hearty, perfect after time on the trail or river. The space is unfussy, the smoke honest, and the portions friendly. Missoula knows how to feed you right.
Smokin Barrel BBQ – Lincoln, Nebraska
Smokin Barrel keeps the focus on clean, steady smoke. Brisket rides a pepper crust that cracks slightly before the soft center gives. Pulled pork pulls in juicy strands that welcome a splash of sauce.
You can add ribs for a full sweep and still have room for slaw. The setting feels relaxed, sometimes outdoors, always friendly. Nebraska’s plains carry the scent of oak, and your plate captures it nicely. Bring cash, patience, and hunger.
Rollin Smoke Barbeque – Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas portions meet serious smoke at Rollin Smoke. Brisket slices drape over the tray with pepper bark and juicy centers. Burnt ends bring that candy crust you chase until the tray is empty.
You will want ribs and maybe a loaded potato to push the comfort level. Sauces lean bold but let the meat shine. Between neon and smokers, this stop expresses the city perfectly. Big, flavorful, and a little indulgent feels exactly right.
Goody Coles Smokehouse & Catering Co. – Brentwood, New Hampshire
Goody Coles keeps things straightforward and satisfying. Pulled pork tastes of oak and patience, needing only a touch of sauce. Brisket slices hold together, then relax into tender bites as you chew.
You can add cornbread, slaw, and beans for a classic plate that comforts. The room feels uncomplicated, the service warm, and the smoke steady. New Hampshire may be small, but the flavors run big here. Order heavy and enjoy the calm craftsmanship.
Red White & Que Smokehouse – Green Brook Township, New Jersey
Red White & Que serves patriotic vibes with confident smoke. Ribs show a balanced bite, and brisket presents that pepper bark you look for. Pulled pork stays juicy, ready for slaw and sauce.
You should sample regional sauces, especially anything with vinegar sparkle. Sides are dependable, making it easy to build a satisfying combo. The setting is family friendly, the portions generous, and the smoke consistent. Green Brook finds its barbecue groove here.
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Rudy’s keeps it casual with red trays, butcher paper, and brisket by the slice. Pepper forward bark meets soft, juicy centers that hold together well. Turkey surprises with smoky tenderness if you want a lighter option.
You will want the creamed corn, sweet and comforting beside the meat. Sauces add heat and tang, but restraint pays off. The line moves quickly, the staff calls orders with cheer, and you eat happy. Albuquerque’s stop delivers reliable value and flavor.
Hometown Bar-B-Que – Brooklyn, New York
Hometown swings big with a dinosaur sized beef rib that steals attention. The bark crunches, the interior trembles, and pepper lingers. Brisket slices feel plush, and creative specials showcase global flavors through smoke.
You can navigate a lively line, then settle into a warehouse vibe that suits the food. Sauces stay supportive while the meat leads. Brooklyn loves ambition, and this pit delivers with confidence. Bring friends so you can share the big cuts.
Skylight Inn BBQ – Ayden, North Carolina
Whole hog tradition lives strong at Skylight Inn. Chopped pork arrives juicy with flecks of crispy skin for texture and flavor. A vinegar pepper sauce lifts everything without masking the meat.
You will want the slab of cornbread that eats like savory cake. The room is simple because the pit does the talking here. Eastern North Carolina history lands on your tray with quiet confidence. Take a bite, nod, and keep going.
Spitfire Bar & Grill – West Fargo, North Dakota
Spitfire blends barbecue and grill comfort for cold weather cravings. Ribs carry a polished glaze and a clean bone release. Smoked wings fly off plates, crisp outside and juicy inside.
You can add a steak or sandwich if you want to roam beyond the pit. Sauces are approachable, sides familiar, and the vibe friendly. West Fargo gets the kind of place that warms you fast. Settle in and let the smoke thaw your day.
Eli’s BBQ – Riverside – Cincinnati, Ohio
Eli’s feels like a backyard party that refuses to end. Pulled pork sandwiches overflow with juicy strands and tangy sauce. Ribs bend gently and wear a glaze that invites one more bite.
You should grab mac, baked beans, and a cold drink to linger on the patio. Music drifts, conversation rises, and the smoke ties everything together. Cincinnati’s riverside gem proves barbecue can be laid back and excellent. Bring friends and share bites across the table.
Leo’s BBQ – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Leo’s serves old school barbecue with heart. Brisket slices show a gentle smoke ring and comfortable tenderness. Ribs lean savory, letting the rub speak first before sauce adds shine.
You will want to save room for the famous strawberry banana cake. Sides bring steady comfort, and the service feels like family. Oklahoma City’s barbecue heritage lives here with a friendly smile. Order big and enjoy the tradition on every plate.
Reverend’s BBQ – Portland, Oregon
Reverend’s balances Pacific Northwest sensibilities with Southern smoke. Ribs are reliable and meaty, finished with a light glaze. Brisket slices carry pepper bark and soft, juicy interiors.
You can start with pimento cheese and pickles, then move into a hearty tray. Sauces lean tangy and bright, perfect for Portland palates. The vibe is neighborhood casual, the portions friendly, and the smoke satisfying. Grab a beer and settle in.
Deke’s Bar-B-Que – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Deke’s brings backyard spirit to the city with visible smokers and picnic tables. Ribs wear a smoky glaze and pull clean without falling apart. Pulled pork tastes honest and oak kissed.
You will enjoy the casual scene that invites lingering. Add mac, cornbread, and a dab of sauce, then settle into conversation. Philadelphia’s tough exterior softens around good barbecue, and this spot delivers. Come casual, leave happy, and smell like smoke.
Becky’s BBQ – Middletown, Rhode Island
Becky’s packs seaside charm into a compact, smoke filled room. Pulled pork stays juicy with subtle smoke that pairs well with vinegar sauce. Ribs lean classic, with a glaze that nods sweet but keeps balance.
You can grab cornbread and slaw, then find a sunny seat. The vibe is friendly, the service quick, and the flavors steady. Rhode Island proves small places can deliver big comfort. Take a breath of ocean air and dig in.
Lewis Barbecue Charleston – Charleston, South Carolina
Lewis brings Central Texas confidence to the Lowcountry. The beef rib borders on ridiculous in size and satisfaction, with crackly bark and buttery interior. Brisket slices drape like velvet, carrying pepper and smoke.
You should add green chile corn and pickles for contrast. Sauces stay light because the meat already sings. The line moves quickly, and the space invites lingering. Charleston eats well, and this pit leads the chorus.
J.R.’s Rhodehouse BBQ Pit – Summerset, South Dakota
Rhodehouse feels like a road discovery that becomes a habit. Ribs carry a rugged bark and an honest smoke profile. Brisket slices hold shape, then yield into tender bites that satisfy completely.
You can add sausage and beans for a fuller picture of the pit. The prairie breeze mixes with oak, making every bite smell better. Summerset’s stop proves great barbecue rewards the traveler. Park, relax, and tuck in.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint – Nashville, Tennessee
Martin’s celebrates whole hog while serving a full lineup of favorites. Chopped pork lands juicy with vinegary punch, while ribs and brisket pull their weight. The atmosphere hums across multiple levels and an easy going beer garden.
You will want to try the Redneck Taco and maybe a slice of pie. Sauces roam regional styles, inviting playful tasting. Nashville’s energy suits this barbecue perfectly, loud, friendly, and delicious. Line up early and enjoy the ride.
Terry Black’s Barbecue – Austin, Texas
Brisket rules here with pepper bark, trembling slices, and silky fat. Beef ribs arrive as meaty monuments that demand slow appreciation. Turkey and sausage round out the tray when you want variation.
You can stack white bread, pickles, and onions for classic Texas bites. Sauces sit nearby but stay optional with meat like this. Austin lines move fast, and the payoff tastes timeless. Bring patience, water, and an appetite for smoke.
R&R BBQ – Salt Lake City, Utah
R&R channels competition polish into everyday plates. Ribs wear a sheen that bites clean, not mushy. Jalapeno sausage pops with heat and juicy richness, perfect alongside pulled pork.
You will want to grab fried pickles or fries for crunchy contrast. Sauces slide from sweet to heat, but the rub is the star. Salt Lake City gets consistent, approachable barbecue that rewards repeat visits. Order a sampler and find your favorite lane.
Bluebird Barbecue – Burlington, Vermont
Bluebird wraps smoke in New England comfort. Brisket and pork arrive tender, with gentle smoke that suits the cozy room. Maple touches show up in sides, giving sweetness without crowding the plate.
You can warm up with mac and collards while the snow drifts outside. Sauces include a vinegar option that keeps richness in check. Burlington loves a welcoming table, and this barbecue fits perfectly. Share plates and settle in for a slow meal.
The BBQ Exchange – Gordonsville, Virginia
The BBQ Exchange treats pork with special care. Pork belly cubes crisp outside and turn silky inside, stealing attention from ribs and pulled pork. The seasoning runs savory with a peppery nudge.
You should stack bites with house pickles and slaw for brightness. Sauces cover regional bases, but restraint wins. The historic setting adds charm without fuss, and the smoke finishes the scene. Gordonsville offers a delicious pause on any road trip.
Hillbilly Heaven Bar-B-Q – Charleston, West Virginia
Hillbilly Heaven feels like a neighbor’s cookout turned professional. Ribs carry sturdy bark and a sauce that leans tangy. Pulled pork stays moist, happy with a little extra zip from vinegar.
You can add beans, slaw, and cornbread to complete the plate. The hills frame the setting, and the smoke drifts peacefully. Charleston’s comfort food instincts meet patient fire here. Sit down, relax, and let the barbecue soothe your day.
Jack’s BBQ & Steakhouse – Seattle – Seattle, Washington
Jack’s bridges steakhouse richness with barbecue soul. Brisket slices share space with sizzling steaks and sticky ribs. The wood fired perfume fills a room that feels like shelter from the drizzle.
You will want to balance bites with crisp slaw and tangy sauce. The menu invites both slow smoked and seared indulgences, letting you mix textures. Seattle’s chill disappears with every warm, smoky plate. Settle in and savor the glow.
Speed Queen Bar-B-Q – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Speed Queen defines Milwaukee barbecue with rib tips and hot links. The tips come charry and meaty, perfect for nibbling between sauce dips. Links snap and release spicy juices that demand soft bread.
You can build a tray that feels old school and satisfying. The line moves quickly and the aroma hangs thick with nostalgia. Sauces lean bold, matching the city’s appetite for flavor. This is straightforward, finger licking pleasure done right.
Bubba’s Bar-B-Que – Cody, Wyoming
Barbecue and big sky living meet at Bubba’s. Brisket slices show honest smoke and tender bite, while ribs tug clean with a shiny glaze. Portions run generous because Cody likes to feed you well.
You will want beans, slaw, and a biscuit to fill the corners. The cowboy vibe feels playful, and the service stays friendly. After a day outdoors, this plate tastes especially rewarding. Sit back, swap stories, and enjoy the smoke.