Top 10 BBQ Restaurants in the US
As a self-proclaimed BBQ aficionado, I have had the pleasure of trying some of the best BBQ joints in the country. From tangy pulled pork to smoky brisket, the US has no shortage of delicious BBQ options. After much deliberation and taste-testing, here are my top 10 BBQ restaurants in the US.
1. Franklin Barbecue, Austin, TX
Franklin Barbecue is known for their melt-in-your-mouth brisket and perfectly seasoned ribs. The line can be long, but it’s worth the wait. Pro tip: get there early to avoid the lines.
2. Pappy’s Smokehouse, St. Louis, MO
Pappy’s Smokehouse serves up some of the best ribs in the country. Their signature dry rub is a must-try, and their sides are just as delicious as their meats.
3. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Kansas City, KS
Formerly known as Oklahoma Joe’s, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que has been serving up award-winning BBQ for over 20 years. Their burnt ends are a fan favorite and their Z-Man sandwich is a must-try.
4. 2M Smokehouse, San Antonio, TX
2M Smokehouse is a relative newcomer, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves in the BBQ world. Their brisket and sausage are top-notch, and their sides are just as delicious.
5. Snow’s BBQ, Lexington, TX
Snow’s BBQ is only open on Saturdays, but it’s worth planning your weekend around. Their brisket is some of the best you’ll ever have, and their sides are homemade and delicious.
6. Hometown Bar-B-Que, Brooklyn, NY
Hometown Bar-B-Que may not be in the heart of BBQ country, but that doesn’t stop them from serving up some seriously delicious meats. Their pastrami bacon is a must-try, and their brisket is some of the best in the city.
7. Killen’s Barbecue, Pearland, TX
Killen’s Barbecue is known for their perfectly smoked brisket and delicious pork ribs. Their sides are just as noteworthy, and their bread pudding is a must-try.
8. Central BBQ, Memphis, TN
Central BBQ has been serving up delicious BBQ in Memphis for over 15 years. Their pulled pork sandwich is a fan favorite, and their smoked wings are a must-try.
9. Skylight Inn BBQ, Ayden, NC
Skylight Inn BBQ has been serving up whole hog BBQ since 1947. Their pork is cooked over wood and served with a vinegar-based sauce. Pro tip: try their hushpuppies.
10. The Salt Lick BBQ, Driftwood, TX
The Salt Lick BBQ is a Texas staple. Their brisket and sausage are top-notch, and their BBQ sauce is some of the best in the state.
Interesting Facts About BBQ in the US
- BBQ has been around in the US since the 16th century, when Spanish settlers introduced the concept of slow-cooking meat over an open flame.
- Texas is known for their beef BBQ, while the Carolinas are known for their pork BBQ.
- BBQ competitions are held all over the country, with the biggest one being the American Royal World Series of Barbecue in Kansas City.
- The most popular BBQ sides in the US are mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans.
- The US is home to over 19,000 BBQ restaurants.
FAQs
What is the best BBQ in the US?
While this is subjective, many BBQ enthusiasts would agree that Franklin Barbecue in Austin, TX is the best in the US.
What is the difference between Texas-style and Carolina-style BBQ?
Texas-style BBQ is known for their beef brisket, while Carolina-style BBQ is known for their pork. Texas-style BBQ also tends to have a dry rub, while Carolina-style BBQ is served with a vinegar-based sauce.
What are some popular BBQ sides?
Mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans are some of the most popular BBQ sides.
What is the biggest BBQ competition in the US?
The American Royal World Series of Barbecue in Kansas City is the biggest BBQ competition in the US.