Connecticut is not the first state most people name when barbecue comes up. That is exactly why one spot in Southington keeps catching folks off guard.
It sits on a busy downtown street, it has wood-paneled walls, and it draws a steady crowd for one dish in particular: burnt ends. Locals bring birthday parties, Father’s Day groups, and solo takeout runs through its doors.
The place has built a loyal following over the years, with nearly two thousand people weighing in online. Keep reading to learn where it is, what makes the burnt ends worth the trip, when to go, and what to expect when you get there.
A Smokehouse on West Center Street
Southington has a barbecue address worth memorizing. Smokin’ With Chris sits at 59 W Center St, Southington, CT 06489, in the heart of central Connecticut, United States.
The restaurant is a full-service barbecue spot with a bar, a dining room, and an outdoor seating area. Its own description sums it up neatly as a BBQ joint with a side of live music.
The menu covers ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked meatloaf, and a long list of creative appetizers. Still, one item keeps pulling people back, and that is the burnt ends.
Parking is available in a nearby plaza, plus a limited number of spaces right beside the building. On busy nights, those close spots go fast, so a little patience helps.
The location is handy for building a whole outing around a meal. Nearby you can find an escape room, an arcade, unique shops, a bike path, and even ax throwing.
That makes the restaurant an easy anchor for a day in town. Plan the fun first, then let dinner be the reward.
The Story Behind the Name
Chris is not just a name on the sign. He is a real person who often walks the dining room and checks on tables.
Guests regularly mention that Chris and his wife make the rounds during meals. They ask how the food turned out and whether everything is going well.
One birthday dinner even got a personal happy birthday from Chris himself. That kind of attention is hard to find at larger chain spots.
His wife has a reputation for being kind and helpful too. She has been known to step in and sort out small mix-ups, like sides that landed on the wrong tray.
The family touch extends to the menu in a fun way. There is a sandwich called the Sloppy Chris, and at least one local named Chris orders it every time just for the laugh.
Owners who show up and care tend to build loyal crowds. Here, that personal effort seems to be a big part of why people keep coming back for seconds and thirds.
Wood Walls and a Fresh Look
Wood paneling gives this dining room its signature character. The headline did not lie, and the walls set a casual, unfussy tone from the moment you sit down.
The dining room has also been upgraded in recent years. Regulars note that the refresh looks fantastic while keeping the familiar feel.
There is a bar area for those who like to eat at the counter. It also works well for catching a game on the screen with friends.
The overall mood stays relaxed and unpretentious. Nobody needs to dress up, and families sit comfortably beside couples and groups of friends.
Staff often ask first-time guests if they are new. When the answer is yes, a server walks them through how the restaurant and menu work.
That quick orientation is a small detail, but it helps. Newcomers get their bearings fast and can focus on picking the right plate.
Burnt Ends Worth the Drive
Burnt ends are the reason this article exists. At Smokin’ With Chris, they come in two styles, and both have their fans.
The brisket burnt ends are a regular order for first-timers and locals alike. They pair nicely with ribs and a few sides for a full barbecue spread.
Then there are the pork belly burnt ends. Even guests who had mixed feelings about other dishes have called these great, and one first-timer described them as out of this world.
A takeout order of brisket burnt ends with potato salad, mac and cheese, and a side of cornbread came to almost $24. That is a solid dinner for one, ready in about eight minutes.
One small tip from the takeout crowd: ask for extra barbecue sauce on the side. It does not always come automatically.
The overall barbecue style leans toward Kansas City tradition. Sauce adds a slightly sweet finish, which suits burnt ends perfectly and explains why they earn so much attention.
Sides That Steal the Spotlight
Mac and cheese gets talked about more than almost anything else on the menu. It carries a little heat, and fans call it a pretty big feat to make it this good.
Cornbread is another favorite, especially the cheddar jalapeno version. It plays well with spicy sides and smoky meats.
Collard greens spark the liveliest debate. Some guests find them too spicy, while others call them the best they have ever had, so spice lovers should go for it.
The potato salad has a vinegar kick. The cucumber salad has a loyal following, and baked beans round out the classic lineup.
Most entrees come with two sides, which makes picking a real challenge. Beef ribs are the exception, coming with a salad and one side instead.
Smart diners order a few sides to share across the table. That way everyone gets a taste, and nobody has to settle the collard greens argument alone.
Beyond the Brisket Board
Smoked meatloaf is the surprise hit for many tables. A group of four once all loved their meals, with the meatloaf leading the praise.
Ribs are another strong pick. Baby back ribs often arrive tender enough to slide off the bone with little effort.
Pulled pork shows up in sandwiches, wraps, and platters. The meat lovers trio lets indecisive diners try several smoked meats at once.
The appetizer list gets creative. A deep fried mashed potato ball, topped with blue cheese sauce and tender steak, has earned a cult following.
Brisket queso dip is a popular starter too. Wings can be ordered crispy, and the kitchen has handled special requests like all flats.
Country fried chicken and a big Yabba steak also appear on the menu. Leftovers are common, so bring an appetite or plan for a to-go box.
Live Music and Patio Afternoons
Dinner comes with a soundtrack several nights a week. Live music is part of the restaurant’s identity, not just an occasional bonus.
The outdoor seating area gets plenty of love in warmer months. Couples describe it as a relaxing place to settle in with a barbecue plate.
Inside, the bar makes a good perch for watching a game. Groups of friends find it an easy place to hang out without feeling rushed.
The crowd is wide-ranging. Families come for birthdays, adults gather for Father’s Day, and solo diners grab takeout after a long day.
Catering is another option for big gatherings. A large event catered by the restaurant had guests asking where the food came from.
For celebrations, the kitchen also offers desserts like carrot cake. Add a candle, and the party is set.
Hours, Costs, and Timing Tips
Mondays are off the table, literally. The restaurant is closed that day.
Tuesday through Thursday, doors open at 11:30 AM and close at 8 PM. Friday and Saturday run from 11:30 AM to 9 PM, and Sunday wraps up earlier at 6 PM.
Prices are considered reasonable for the portions. Some families say they get more sides and more food for less than at a well-known barbecue chain.
Late lunches and early dinners tend to be calmer. A party of three walked in at 6 PM on a Wednesday and was seated right away.
Busy times can bring slower service and a longer wait for food. Most guests say the meal makes up for it, but patience is part of the plan.
Food allergies should be mentioned to the staff. They will check with the cooks before you order.
The Verdict on Southington Smoke
With a 4.5 star average from nearly 1,800 people, the restaurant has clearly earned its local following. Not every plate wins every guest, and that honesty is part of the picture.
Some dishes, like certain ribs or wings, get mixed opinions. The burnt ends, mac and cheese, and meatloaf, however, come up again and again for the right reasons.
The personal touch from Chris and his family adds real value. So does a menu big enough to satisfy picky eaters and adventurous ones at the same table.
For barbecue in a state not famous for it, Smokin’ With Chris makes a strong case. It is casual, friendly, and built for return trips.
Start with the burnt ends and share a few sides. Then decide for yourself which side of the collard greens debate you land on.
Chances are, you will be planning the next visit before the check arrives.
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