Top 10 BBQ Spots in the U.S.
- Franklin Barbecue – Austin, TX
Founded by Aaron Franklin, this iconic spot is renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth brisket and has garnered national acclaim, including a James Beard Award.
- Snow’s BBQ – Lexington, TX
Open only on Saturdays, Snow’s is helmed by the legendary 80+ year-old pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz and has been named the best BBQ joint in Texas by Texas Monthly.
- Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Kansas City, KS
Operating out of a gas station, Joe’s is famed for its Z-Man sandwich and burnt ends, epitomizing Kansas City-style barbecue.
- Pappy’s Smokehouse – St. Louis, MO
Specializing in Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs cooked over apple and cherry wood, Pappy’s has been featured on numerous food shows and is a local favorite.
- CorkScrew BBQ – Spring, TX
A Michelin-starred establishment, CorkScrew is celebrated for its Texas-style brisket and scratch-made sides, drawing BBQ enthusiasts from all over.
- Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor, TX
A Texas institution since 1949, Louie Mueller is known for its massive beef ribs and has been honored with a James Beard Foundation Award.
- Haywood Smokehouse – Waynesville, NC
Offering a variety of regional styles, Haywood Smokehouse is praised for its brisket and burnt-end baked beans, providing a diverse BBQ experience.
- Eric’s Family Barbecue – Avondale, AZ
Known for its mesquite-smoked meats, Eric’s offers generous portions of brisket, ribs, and jalapeño cheddar sausage, all served with a side of hospitality.
- Firehole Bar-B-Que – West Yellowstone, MT
Located near Yellowstone National Park, Firehole has gained fame for its brisket and pulled pork, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
- The Salt Lick – Driftwood, TX
A family-run establishment since 1967, The Salt Lick is renowned for its open-pit barbecue and sweet, Hawaiian-inspired sauce, offering a unique Texas BBQ experience.
These establishments represent the pinnacle of American barbecue, each offering a unique taste of regional flavors and traditions. If you're interested in exploring BBQ joints closer to your area or seeking recommendations for BBQ sauces, rubs, or equipment, feel free to ask!
