Savor the Best BBQ: 8 North American Stops NOT in Kansas City

Barbecue enthusiasts know that the best BBQ isn’t confined to one region. Our Kansas City BBQ roots have allowed us to hone our skills at uncovering great BBQs. Each spot brings its unique flavors to the table. From smoky ribs to tender brisket, North America’s barbecue scene is packed with memorable bites. Throughout our travels, we’ve uncovered some local favorites that left us licking our fingers and planning a return trip. Join us as we highlight eight of the best BBQ stops that deliver smoky goodness and regional charm. Whether you’re a die-hard BBQ lover or a casual sampler, these destinations deserve a spot on your culinary bucket list.

Salt & Smoke, in St. Louis, offers unique dishes to match their city's flavors.

Salt & Smoke: St. Louis

Traveling across the state of Missouri led us to Salt & Smoke, in St. Louis. Here we discovered a must-visit for barbecue lovers seeking a twist on tradition. Their burnt-end stuffed ravioli is a true game-changer, combining the smoky richness of barbecue with the comforting taste of pasta. Each bite bursts with flavor, showcasing their mastery of balancing innovative dishes with classic BBQ roots. Don’t stop there as this place has plenty of choices for a meal you won’t forget. Salt & Smoke delivers a barbecue experience that’s as unique as the city itself.

The heartland has some of the best BBQ like that we found at Sweet Smoke in Jefferson City.

Sweet Smoke BBQ: Jefferson City

Sweet Smoke BBQ, in Jefferson City, Missouri, offers a feast for the senses with their Boss Hog platter. This hearty dish features a mouthwatering assortment of smoked meats, including tender pulled pork, juicy brisket, and perfectly seasoned ribs. The platter includes generous portions of classic sides to round out the meal. Sweet Smoke BBQ prides itself on delivering big flavors with a touch of local flair, making it a standout spot in Missouri’s barbecue scene. If you’re craving a true barbecue feast, the Boss Hog platter is the way to go.

Visitors to Okalhoma City can get their barbecue fill at Bedlam Bar-B-Q.

Bedlam Bar-B-Q: Oklahoma City

Heading south, you’ll discover Bedlam Bar-B-Q in Oklahoma City. This hidden gem lets visitors dive into Southern barbecue traditions. Known for its rustic charm and bold flavors, this spot offered us a memorable dining experience. We started with the juicy Smoked Turkey, which was perfectly tender and full of smoky flavor. The brisket and dry-rubbed ribs were equally impressive, showcasing their commitment to expertly smoked meats. The unique house-made sides, like Tabouli Salad and tasty Green Rice, completed the meal and left us beyond satisfied. Bedlam Bar-B-Q proves that great barbecue is as much about the experience as the food.

Pecan Lodge serves up classic Texas barbecue in a relaxed atmosphere.

Pecan Lodge: Dallas

Texans proudly claim to have the best BBQ, and it’s hard to argue. Pecan Lodge, in Dallas, stands out as a shining star in the Lone Star State’s barbecue scene. Their beef brisket is the centerpiece, slow-smoked to perfection and packed with bold, smoky flavors. Our Three Meat Plate also included pulled pork and their smoky ribs. Their popularity was obvious from the steady flow of customers. The lively atmosphere and commitment to quality made our visit feel special. Pecan Lodge combines traditional Texas barbecue with a creative twist, ensuring every bite is as memorable as the last.

While savoring a foodie tour of the Lousiana River Parishes, we made time to enjoy a visit to Wayne Jacob's Smokehouse.

Wayne Jacob's Smokehouse: Louisiana River Parish

It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Louisiana cooking. During our visit to the River Parishes, we added a stop at Wayne Jacob’s Smokehouse. Here we took a deep dive into one of the hidden gems of this region. Known for its authentic Cajun cuisine and mouthwatering smoked meats, this family-owned establishment offers a true taste of the region’s culinary traditions. We savored their famous gumbo, tender ribs, and unforgettable smoked sausage. Nestled along the Mississippi River, Wayne Jacob’s Smokehouse gave us a warm, welcoming glimpse into local culture. It’s the perfect spot to experience Louisiana hospitality at its finest.

You can sample colonial barbecue with a visit to Kings Arms Tavern in Williamsburg.

Kings Arm: Williamsburg

It would be fair to say that good barbecue has been around almost as long as North America. During our visit to Colonial Williamsburg, we had the chance to sample the Colonial-style barbecue at King’s Arms Tavern. The tavern, steeped in history, serves up barbecue dishes inspired by 18th-century recipes, and we couldn’t wait to dive in. The slow-cooked pork with its perfect balance of smoky flavor and tenderness, was a taste of Colonial America. Dining at King’s Arms Tavern was more than just a meal; it was a delicious glimpse into the past, with every bite reflecting the history of Williamsburg.

Our visit to Quebec City left us impressed with the smoky goodness we found at a local smokehouse.

Faite A L'os: Quebec City

Our North American adventures have taken us across the Canadian border searching for the best BBQ. In Quebec City, we uncovered Faite À L’os, a Canadian smokehouse. Here we sampled expertly prepared, locally sourced meats showcased in their Bad To The Bone platter. The flavors were bold and savory, with each bite better than the last. The restaurant’s laid-back yet refined vibe made it the perfect spot for food enthusiasts and casual diners. It was an unforgettable experience that combined the old and new aspects of Quebec’s food culture.

Meats Southern BBQ was a pleasant surprise during a visit to Lansing, Michigan.

Meats Southern BBQ: Lansing

We’ve often heard that the northern states are devoid of good barbecue. Our visit to Meats Southern BBQ, in Lansing, Michigan, proved that idea unfounded. This family-owned gem is known for its authentic, slow-smoked meats, from tender pulled pork to perfectly charred brisket. The flavors were rich and smoky, with just the right amount of spice. Paired with classic sides like mac ‘n’ cheese, tangy slaw, and decadent cornbread, each bite was a true Southern delight. The casual, no-frills atmosphere made it the perfect spot to enjoy great food and good company. Meats Southern BBQ is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Southern barbecue in the heart of Michigan.

The authors get messy with their tour of the best BBQ in North America.

Uncovering the Best BBQ in North America

Exploring the best BBQ spots across North America is a task we take seriously. From the smoky, tangy ribs in Texas to the vinegary pulled pork in Virginia, we savored the rich, diverse flavors that each region brings to the table. We also discovered local joints that have perfected the art of slow-smoking meat, serving up tender brisket, tender ribs, and delicious sides. Whether you’re a BBQ purist or someone looking to try something new, this journey showcased just how wide-ranging and incredible North American barbecue can be. Now it’s time to hear from you. Comment below with the best BBQ joints you’ve discovered in your travels.

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