Kate Krader (@kkrader on Twitter) is Food & Wine's restaurant editor. When she tells us where to find our culinary heart's desire, we listen up.
It’s Week Three of the NFL season and Week Four of the NCAA football season, which means that everyone should be focused like a laser on their tailgate menus. And one thing most tailgaters will have learned somewhere along the road is that barbecuing is generally best not done hodgepodge in a parking lot - it should be left to the experts.
At Food & Wine, we don’t spend enough time on the barbecue trail (we also don’t spend enough time tailgating). We tapped a new BBQ authority, Tiffani Faison, the chef and owner of the terrific Sweet Cheeks in Boston, to give us a list of her go-to spots.
Faison, who’s of course a New England Patriots tailgaiter, gave us this list based on extensive research she did before she opened up Sweet Cheeks. It’s a list that’s handy whether you’re planning your next tailgate - a lot of these places have online stores - or now feeling hungry enough to plan your own barbecue road trip this fall.
Note: This list is in no particular order. Do not assume Faison thinks Lockhart, Texas, is home to the country’s number one barbecue spot.
Black's Barbecue - Lockhart, Texas
For me, Black's sets the standard for Texas barbecue, the best all around in the old-school category, and the best overall 'cue in Lockhart. I give their beef ribs a special hat tip. Smitty's and Kreuz's Market are known for their links in this town (both are nearly identical), but my preference is Black’s. They also happen to be the nicest people on earth and have no problem sharing a walk through their pits with you.
Franklin Barbecue - Austin, Texas
Aaron Franklin's brisket and links are setting the new-school barbecue standard. There's really nothing like his brisket. Period. That's all you need to know. Well, that and to bring sunscreen, because while the brisket smokes, you'll be baking outside on the line, so get there early.
Snows BBQ - Lexington Texas
Tootsie Tomanetz is the pit master here (I named my 4,700 J&R smoker after her at Sweet Cheeks), and she’s been running Snows with her husband for 46 years. You’re best off getting here early on Saturday morning. And by early, I mean late Friday night, because Saturday is the only day they’re open. You'll be thrilled with everything, but I like the two-meat combo with brisket and ribs (beans are always free). Make sure you also get some of Mrs. Patschekke's homemade coleslaw and potato salad. All of their pits are outdoors and tended without thermometers. This is pit mastering at its finest.
Meshack's Bar-B-Que - Garland, Texas
This is literally a white cinder block shack outside of Dallas with the menu painted on the outside walls. Their chicken is exceptional (and served on Wednesdays only), but anything you order here will make you happy. Their sauce was one of the best I tasted in Texas. Be ready to pop your car trunk for a picnic, as there are no seats or tables.
Phillips Barbecue (on Crenshaw) - Inglewood, California
If you can't handle spice, don't put Phillips on your list. The hot barbecue sauce is the only way to go here; even though I’m not crazy about dousing meat in sauce, I go crazy with the sauce when I’m here. I recommend the beef links and the small ends with whatever sides you want to go with. Whatever you do, make sure you get banana pudding and pecan pie before you leave, even if you have to eat them in the morning.
Hill Country Barbecue - New York City and Washington, DC
For a high-volume restaurant in a big city, Hill Country crushes it. The experience is fun, and the food is so consistently good. I love the beer can chicken and their brisket and could probably eat their corn pudding every day until I die. If you're feeling especially indulgent, save a little room and skip across the street to Hill Country Fried Chicken to finish your tour of gluttony with a deep-fried pimento cheese sandwich and mini pie. Lights out.
Did Tiffani hit or miss your favorite barbecue joint? Let us know in the comments below!
More from Food & Wine:
America’s Best Bars
America’s Best Tailgating Cities
Best Burgers in the U.S.
America’s Best BBQ Cities
Ultimate Tailgating Guide
Learn so very much more about barbecue
Note - the pork pictured above is from Carter Bros. BBQ in High Point, North Carolina. It's goooood.
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No lists from RI either. God help me!
collegetailgatingtents.com
No lists from RI either. God help me!
http://collegetailgatingtents.com/
One of the BEST BBQ joints in the country is located in, of all places...Philly!! FAT JACK'S BBQ, in NE Philly puts Texas, NC, KC and most other places that specialize in "Q" to shame...They serve up the best Pulled pork , ribs, and some awesome brisket....BUT they also do the most SPECTACULAR PORK BELLY I have ever tasted....nayway...give them a try when you are in Philly, YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED....btw, these guys have competed around the country and have won a couple hundred awards
Really? I understand Texas, But New York?? California?? But not one KC Que joint? Obviously this author has never really experienced BBQ. Not even a nod to Memphis or North Carlina. Come to my house I'll serve you Q like you wouldn't believe.
Yes, she forgot Home Team BBQ in Charleston, SC
In the midwest most brabcue is made from beef. I was working down south and ordered a barbcue and they brought me pork barbcue. I didn't realize that most barbcue down there is pork. i prefer the beef.
I've been testing BBQ all over the US for about 10 years now, and the best BBQ I've ever had is Brother's Barbecue in Cornwall, NY.
What does some one from Boston know about BBQ. I agree with the others...to not have a single listing from KC, Memphis or NC shows this is a filler piece to promote this Yankees restaurant.
Duke's Bar-B-Que in Orangeburg, SC is and has always been my favorite, although I do also like Eastern NC Bar-B-Que!
I agree with Jud. Duke's is one of the best family owned BBQ restaurants. It's a shame not a single BBQ restaurant was mentioned from TN, NC, GA, SC, or AL.
Not having ANY places from KC, Memphis or Arkansas, Alabama, or Mississippi is a joke. Oklahoma Joe's in Kansas City is strong. Woodyard's is also good. The Whole Hog Cafe in in Bentonville, Arkansas is good too. You have que-cred when I walk in and see 5 foot tall trophies from Memphis in May all over the joint. But nothing, and I mean nothing beats the que at Woody's BBQ in smalltown Waldenburg, Arkansas. Set up his pit in a one stoplight town, open only a few days a week, this place had 12 people in line on a 105 degree day in a town of 36. I had to stop. It was absolutely the best I have ever eaten. Later saw his rubs available in Sam's Club. It's that good.
Every BBQ eater knows that the best BBQ comes from 1 of 3 places: Memphis, Kansas City or North Carolina. No one else comes close. Texas is a distant 4th... But for them to attempt to put Boston in this conversation shows that the writer of this article is a BBQ novice.
For Memphis BBQ: Germantown Commissary. For NC BBQ: Kepley's in High Point, NC. End of discussion.
I dont care what anyone in this world says... North Carolina has the BEST pulled port (boston butt) BBQ in the world... end of.... if ya wanna talk about ribs... I gotta say the best I've ever had were in Memphis, TN. Fantastic cue out there.... overall though, I'd say ribs have to go to KC. Now Texas.... they do alot of good stuff down there. I've lived there, I've had it, its delicious... but Texas has definitely got to be the home of brisket... KC aint too far behind but the brisket belongs to Texas. Now all of this is not to say that you cant get good pork, ribs, brisket, whatever... anywhere else in the country... that just aint true. But let me reiterate... NORTH CAROLINA HAS THE BEST PULLED PORK IN THE WORLD!
North Carolina, especially eastern North Carolina, has the VERY best barbeque in the world. Now, I love barbeque from everywhere. Lots of places have superb barbeque. In Hawaii, one of my favorite things is to hit those Korean BBQ joints for lunch or dinner. You get the BBQ with kim chee and other delicacies and they have that friendly pub atmosphere. Man-o-man, there are so many ways to make good BBQ. They say the sauce is the boss. Kansas City can really do it right!! BUT, HANDS DOWN, NO FRILLS, NO JUNK, NOTHING BUT THE BEST ALL THE TIME IS MADE IN EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA!!! It is pulled pork with vinegar based sauce and chilis. Some of them throw in a little mustard but, really, the best is pretty simple. They serve it with hush puppies, slaw and maybe some collard greens. You can have a bun or some bread but a lot of people leave the bread off and just eat the hush puppies. Among the best is Wilbur's BBQ in Goldsboro, NC. Making my mouth water just thinking about it!
Gotta agree that you can not beat eastern NC BBQ. Allen and Sons in Durham and Pittsboro is hands down the best anywhere.
Salt Lick in Austin, TX is amazing. We buy the sauce and keep some at home for emegencies (as in dinner each night)
There's a definite Central Texas common thread here. Even NY's Hill Country has Austin-Lockhart roots. And many Texas locals will tell you that in Lockhart (pop 13,000), Black's isn't the best, or even 2nd best BBQ, trailing Kreuz and Smitty's, both of which were recently featured on Travel Channel's Food Wars. When brisket is smoked just right, you don't need sauce. Period.
I grew up in KC and spent the last 30 years in Texas. Last weekend I was in KC and went to Arthur Bryants. Texas BBQ is great. So is KC's. I say Viva La Difference! Some prefer sweet, some vinegar, and some dry. For some it is really the sides – coleslaw, potato salad, beans, fries. For some the smoke – hickory, pecan, mesquite. For some the meat – beef, pork, chicken, or the cut – brisket, ribs, sausage.
I don't believe there is a "best". Depends on personal preferences – that day! There is bad BBQ. But good BBQ is good no matter the state, city, or style!
Once again no mention of North Main BBQ in Euless TX
They are so good they only open Friday thru Sunday
Eastern North Carolina you noobs.
Agreed! Wilbers Barbeque – Goldsboro, NC http://www.wilbersbarbecue.com/
I go out of my way for the beef sausage at the City Meat Market in Giddings, Texas. The best of the best! It's a small place at the intersection of 290 and 77 downtown. Yummy!!!
Also, the owner of Snow's, listed in the article, began her BBQ career at City Meat market years ago.
I love sausage, but I didn't know it was considered BBQ now.
HOMEBOY BBQ IN MICHIGAN
I've been a vegetarian for over 20 years (I'm 48) and I live in Austin, TX. Nothing here even tempts me, but I give up being vegetarian whenever I find myself in Memphis. I go to the Rendezvous, home of the best BBQ in America.
Sorry, can't take BBQ recommendations from a vegetarian!
@Kevin
You are a monster!
HOMEBOY BBQ MICHIGAN
Craig's BBQ in DeValsBluff, Arkansas- great pork and of course slaw with just a bit of apple. the BEST!!!
Just so we are all on the same page – there is no such thing as "Texas style", "St.Louis Style", or any other style other than Kansas City And South Carolina. Everyone else is just borrowing one or both styles.
This is not up for debate. Sorry Texas – you're just ripping off Kansas City.
Why is it that everyone assumes that the very best "Que" is from the south? Up here in the northwest we can shovel snow off our "barrel" and smoke meat for a couple days till its done or the snow has all melted from the deck whichever comes first. Stop thinking you have a lock on the best down there, it's a passion not a science and we're passionate up here too.
How do you miss all the spectacular BBQ joints in Kansas City? Oklahoma Joe's may be the best in the world.. Anthony Bourdain lists it as one of the 13 places you must eat before you die. KC deserves an entire article about their BBQ!!!!!!
The meat is good there. The sauce, not so much. Bryant's is my pick in KCMO..
FYI–Hill Country BBQ in NYC is owned by folks from Lockhart, TX. Good stuff!
Three words... Not North Carolina
First of all for all the people complaining that their state was not mentioned, if you check the article, she was asked what her "go-to" places for barbecue were. In other words, her favorites. Subjective, not objective.
That said, I'd like to mention my favorite – Louie Mueller's in Taylor, Texas. Consistently in the top 3 (and sometimes first) in the Texas Monthly barbecue lists. And they won a James Beard award. How many barbecue joints can say that?
Just because it's my favorite, doesn't mean it has to be yours.
This is a great article – if you want to ignore the other 80% of BBQ. What about Memphis ribs? What about Kansas City, what about the several varieties of Carolina BBQ? A Yankee talking about BBQ is bad enough, but when they ignore most of the BBQ universe, well...
Living in San Diego (but being raised in North Carolina), I know plenty of people here who THINK they know BBQ. It's either "Take a piece of meat, burn it, put sauce in it, it's BBQ!", or "The hotter the sauce is, the better the BBQ" – sure sign that they have NO idea what BBQ is – ribs, chicken, brisket or pulled pork.
BackyardBBQ has it right ... great BBQ itself is very easy: a proper BBQ smoker, hickory wood, the correct meat (beef brisket, pork ribs, or just about any whole animal), and lots and lots of slow cooking. No addition is needed before cooking.
The only difference is in the mistakes ... usually too fast cooking. Then you add sauce ... and that's personal taste.
This is fun. Nothing stirs up a lively discussion like "What's the best BBQ?" or "What's the best chili?" With all due respect to the established BBQ joints named above, the best I ever had was at a little roadside tin shack between Kerrville and Ingram, TX. It was owned and operated by an old black couple and I don't think the place even had a name. The only seating was a few picnic tables off to the side. The locals knew about it and they kept the place alive. Brisket and sausage were the order of the day. The only drink they served was iced tea but you could bring your own if you wanted something else. This was roughly 20 years ago so I'd be very surprised if that place was still around. Anyway, the point of all this is that if you have a little time to explore, get off the beaten path and seek out the locals-only eateries. That's where the really good stuff is.
Is this article a joke? Seriously why would someone from NY City write an article about BBQ and expect to have any credibility. BBQ is more than just a line item in an article... in Texas its a verb and in NC it's a noun. Every place has it's own twist but any BBQ from the Northeast or West is simply a watered down attempt to copy a style from the south or mid-west. Give me an F'ing break.
I agree. Both the writer and the "expert" know nothing about BBQ. First, BBQ "should be left to the experts"??? Yes, a better meal might be made by using a professional kitchen, but isn't BBQ about the atmosphere, people, and attitude?
Second, not even one southeastern institution was included?!? The South is where BBQ was born and perfected, and to totally shun the region is inexcusable. I understand that Texas BBQ is a big deal (even though they use the wrong animal), and a couple of examples of it should be included on any list, and I can even go for an odd example from, say NYC, but the shallowness of this list shows that neither person involved in its writing has a clue about BBQ.
Turnabout is fair play: Perhaps someone in Texas should write an article about where to find the best delicatessens. As a Detroit native, with some great delis on the north side, I haven't found anything here in Dallas-Fort Worth that's even close.
I've had the tour at Black's, from Mr. Kent Black himself. It's a great place, but I find that I can't visit Lockhart without a trip there, Kreuz, and Smitty's Market. I have no favourite among these, as sometimes they're not at the top of their game, while one of the other two is. Also worth mentioning is the City Market in Luling, a few miles south of Lockhart. I was introduced to Texas BBQ there - yes, Vogel, there IS such a thing, and it's not ripping off anybody in KC or SC - and love the sausage. Ignore the "Luling City Market" in Houston, though, as they're not the same people (and I'm being polite about that). A pal of mine from Kyle, TX says that Franklin's the best he's ever had, and that and Snow's are both on my short list. Someone mentioned Louie Mueller in Taylor, which is terrific, but might I add Cooper's in Llano? Nothing like a nice lunch in Llano in the summer, followed by a little wade out into the Llano River afterwards to splash around and deal with the heat. They've also got locations in New Braunfels and Fort Worth, and the food is just as good.
Sign me up for another trip to Arthur Bryant's the next time I'm in KC, too. I'm about to get my first introduction to BBQ in North Carolina. I've read about Lexington, but if any of the natives want to push me in the right direction there, I'm taking notes.
Memphis: We're fond of Corky's, but The Rendevous is terrific, and Cozy Corner doesn't get the attention that it should get. Saw it on a TV special some years ago, visited while passing through Memphis, and weren't disappointed.
She probably knows more than you. Just because she's a New Yorker doesn't mean she hasn't done her research. I've had BBQ all over the US and my favorite is a little place in Cornwall, NY called Brother's BBQ. Better than anything I've had down south. Period.
The 3 places in Lockhart, TX, that she mentions get a lot of attention. Many refer to Lockhart as the BBQ Capital of Texas/the USA/the World. Another place that deserves recognition is The Salt Lick, south of Austin in Driftwood.
Where is the love for County line, Stubbs, or Iron Works ?
Wilburs Barbeque in Goldsboro NC, has the best, most consistent bbq for at least the past 25 years.
Yes it is! There are all types of BBQ's that I enjoy, but hands down Wilbers BBQ is a must have everytime I'm near that area.
This article is a joke. Why did they interviewed someone from Boston about BBQ? This would be like taking a trip to Mexico to find out who makes the best General Tso's Chicken. On the list, there are 4 places from Texas...OK fine...Texas does have good BBQ but come one, share the love. NY (DC) and CA? Give me a break. I have had some good BBQ in NYC but it's typically cooked elsewhere and shipped in. That doesn't count. It's not real unless you can smell the wood. The author left out the entire real Midwest, and the south. Show some respect to the southeast. South Carolina is my personal favorite!
The "real" Midwest: I haven't had ribs from the Pointe BBQ in Detroit in over 25 years, but when I was younger, they were the absolute best in the city. I hope they still are.
This may be the worst bbq article ever written
Agreed..I'm shocked they didn't mention the McRib....
I have seldom found true BBQ outside of Texas. A lot of places just grill the meat and call it BBQ. True BBQ is basted with BBQ sauce and then cooked in a smoker for hours.
Actually, you would not put on the sauce before slow cooking and smoking. The sauce goes on late in the process or even after taking the meat of the smoker.
Fat Matt's Rib Shack in Atlanta !
Absolutely correct!! I've had BBQ all over the country and Fat Matt's at the top of the list.
Fresh Air BBQ
Jackson, GA
since 1929 the Mother Church of Georgia BBQ
From looking at the replies about BBQ places,someone likes BBQ. People have different taste and good BBQ restaurants will do well if they have good BBQ. Some food and wine person is not a good BBQ person to ask. Ask us down home people. Any tailgates that have BBQ would have to cook it for several hours before the game and in a good BBQ pit. Wish I had some good BBQ, cold slaw and beans.
WAKE UP AND GO TO SLEEP!!!
You'll Slap Yo' Mama Good!
Al's BBQ
1220 West Avenue M
Temple, TX 76504
(254) 778-4621
KANSAS CITY!!!!
LC'S
OKLAHOMA JOE'S
WOODYARD'S
ARTHUR BRYANT'S
GATE'S
ROSEDALE
JACKSTACK
QUICK'S
SMOKIN'JOE's
BB"s BBQ & Blues
BROBECK's
RJ's
THE AMERICAN ROYAL BBQ CONTEST
THE LENEXA BBQ CHALLENGE
THE GREAT AMERICAN BBQ CONTEST
etc, etc, etc. etc. etc
What a joke a list, texas is known for the BBQ but really for what I have had from there I have found they make BBQ and shoe soles at the same place. KC is the place for BBQ, like someone else listed, lots of great places to go and they are all good. When you put DC on a list of BBQ hot spots its time for you to find another job.
Bein' from Texas, and having smoked a little Q in the last few years, I'll respectfully disagree. My brisket isn't "competetion quality" because it's not firm enough. It doesn't so much cut as fall apart. Of all the things I've been accused of doing while cooking, makin' shoe soles isn't on the list.
It depends on what sort of Q you like, and it depends on who's cooking, and for that matter, if they know what they're doing. I don't turn out tough meats, but I pick 'em carefully, and cook them slowly and for enough time. Too many folks try to rush a low'n'slow brisket because they didn't plan well enough. My brisket is on for 14-18 hours (I've had a couple go for 24 before they were tender enough to serve. Smoking isn't an exact science, and experience counts.
Now you're talking! The only places in the entire South listed are in TX? What a joke. KC is a mecca of great BBQ.
My Dad's 60#er on Mothers Day with my Mom's home made potato salad. Scotts sauce with some special touches, hush puppies, cole slaw, deviled eggs and banana pudding. Eastern NC style at it's best ;) Let's eat
Why does this article sound like a PACE Picante commercial? NYC?!!?!!
Yep!
Here's an idea, why don't you go to KC, STL as well as Memphis before you post PRO-TEXAS crap. Typical of CNN; one sided and far from objective.
The Little Dooey in Starkville, Mississippi or Sonny's (numerous locations to serve you)....
Sonny's is the McDonald's of BBQ joints, it's edible, but not top notch.
I've eaten at Blacks and was less than impressed. The two best I've tried are Main Street BBQ in Euliss TX and Texas PRide in Adkins TX South East of San Antonio. Awesome Brisket and Pork Tenderlion. I'm from Pennsylvania, and the best I've had here Is Curt's Smokin Ribs in Mill Hall, Pa in Central Pennsylvania. The best Brisket I've had outside of Texas.
I went on a BBQ pilgrimage last fall to Austin and Lockhart and in my opinion, for what it is worth, is that Iron Works beat out everyone down there. I worked at the American Royal last year and found much better Q' walking around the grounds then in any restaurant in KC, although Jack Stacks has the beat sides. My favorite, however, has to be from Memphis but not from a restaurant. It is from Willingham's BBQ those guys know their stuff – they have won Memphis in May several times. Try and find them at any cook off worth it's smoke they are the best.
Iron works is really for the beef ribs.
but their sausage was better than anything I had in Lockhart by far
Kansas City has the "World Series of Barbecue", is famous for our BBQ and you don't even give it a mention?! F- on your journalistic homework! BTW Oklahoma Joe's in KC has the best BBQ.
Exactly. If no KC BBQ is mentioned you don't have a valid list. Especially if you don't have Oklahoma Joe's...what a joke.
No KC, no Eastern NC, NO VALIDITY! Why even bother when the so-called expert has no experience besides TX? Slow food week? Manufacturing experts that don't know their BBQ from their back side doesn't win you fans, Eatocracy!
You've got to be KIDDING ME. Someone from BOSTON rating the best BBQ for tailgating? That alone is completely insane. Boston?
Second, nothing from Memphis or Kansas City? Give me a break.
Sounds like Tiffani Thaison took a single trip to Austin and decided to become a BBQ expert. Give me a break.
Let's get someone on from, oh, Hawaii to talk about the best clam chowder. :-)
I've spent 10 years living in central TX, 25 years living in both western and eastern NC, and 2 years living in KC, not to mention a few in CA. Having said that...
I never had any BBQ in CA that was worth eating. Eastern NC is the best for pulled pork but that's all they do, and there are some places in TX that are maybe 80% as good at it. When it comes to brisket and sausage there is no comparison to TX.
The issue with KC is that it's cooked too fast and covered in a thick, KC style sauce. You can't taste the meat. Most places in TX and NC use a thinner, vinegar based sauce that compliment the meat, not overpower it. I've tried Oklahoma Joe's, Jackstack, Arthur Bryants, and Gates and they just don't compare to TX. The Salt Lick in Austin Airport has better BBQ than KC, much less the real Salt Lick or Franklins.
You've only mentioned the larger chain places. I prefer the mom and pop places. And it really depends on what you enjoy: brisket, pulled pork ribs, etc. THE BEST ribs I've ever had in the KC area was Bates City BBQ. The best brisket I've had was Oklahoma Joe's. Burnt ends? Famous Dave's! Atmosphere? Gates? Smoked turkey? Aurthur Bryant's!
The person who replied Aurthur Bryant's uses too much sauce clearly doesn't remember their experience very well. They don't put sauce on it unless you get the ribs. I've been there at least a dozen times in my 4+ years of living here. 2 years is not enough time to try out all of the places anyway. Not a chance! Unless that was your full-time job!
You should have left the big boys in KC. LC's is the best. The last time I was in KC I left with $300 of his BBQ. We have some really good here but --. It was recommended to me by Moe. You may have seen him on some of the BBQ contests on tv. He has won numerous competitions. He didn't let me down. LC's in KC. Also if you want great meat for BBQ go to Sam's Club. See if they can get the special meat we have here in Des Moines and a few other Sam's clubs. It's not their regular meat. A lot of BBQ competitors are using it.
I grew up in Goldsboro and feel we had the best Pork BBQ in the state, mainly because of the competition. Wilber’s is iconic and good, however I feel the best in Goldsboro is McCall’s. A great BBQ sauce from Goldsboro is Guy Parkers
http://www.guyparkersbbq.com/
You can't visit Goldsboro without trying Scotts- and their sauce. They only cook on Thurs and Friday now – My favorite BBQ ever and the vinegar based of Eastern NC is da bomb
Owensboro Ky is touted as having some great BBQ. Two places are really good! Moonlite BBQ (President Clinton ate here in 2000) and Old Hickory BBQ. I prefer Old Hickory! Has any of you eaten mutton (sheep)? It is good bbqued!
People dissing "NY and Cali can't have good BBQ" are clueless. Very narrow minded. I can't speak for Cali but Dinosaur BBQ in Syracuse is one the best. I live in MT and believe Memphis (the dry rub) is the best, but say "It can't be"...is simply wrong.
Nothing from the NC or SC? Are you high????
Wow.
Not even a mention of any KC BBQ. You earn the BBQ idiot of the year award. Congrats to you.
Hahaha! All you whiners crying that Memphis and NC aren't listed are hilarious! The article is clearly limited to the authors experience and hearsay but BBQ is OWNED by Texas, TN, SC or and state. We do damn good Q here in NYC at Dinosaur, Brother Jimmy's and a few others. I'm sure your state has GREAT BBQ but you don't own it! Perhaps it's because y'all have nothing else to boast about.
Isn't owned by any state...
You are deluded. Texas barbecue (along with everything else in Texas) is HIGHLY overrated.
No Memphis on this list = no credibility.
And Corky's is far from the best here. Go to Cozy Corner for the ribs, and Payne's for the sandwich. Central BBQ ain't bad either.
How about Buz and Ned's in Richmond, VA? They beat Bobby Flay... twice!
What is wrong with you? Kansas City – Oklahoma Joe's.
Oklahoma Joe's in Kansas City is the best. Get the Z-man sandwich with pork and a side of fries and call me in the morning.
I'm more of a fan of their burnt ends – hands down the best around. The fact that it's in a gas station makes it more than just great food – it makes it a whole experience that a lot of places lack.
OJs DOES have awesome burnt ends, unfortunately on on certain days of the week. Rosedale BBQ is a good alternative when the mood strikes.
Wait NYC is on the list but nothing from the SE? I call shenanigans on this list!
Uhhhhhh. Isn't Kansas City the epicenter of BBQ? I live in Las Vegas and even I know that. This article can't be real.
Wilbur's is good but I wish the sauce came on the side. I just ate at Hill Country DC, not bad for a huge place but not even close to the best. Best I've had by far Sweatman's in Holly Hill SC just off 95 and 26. Rented a car for $26 for an 8.95 all you can eat and worth every penny. Nuff said.
Boston has great seafood and Italian but knows nothing about BBQ, lived there 5 years.
I forgot to mention the New Zion Baptist Church in Huntsville, Texas, about 120 miles north of Houston. Everything is good, so good, in fact, that this congregation of relatively poor rural blacks has earned enough money to build a new sanctuary. The people start lining up weekdays about 11:00. And the ladies there know how to bake pies. Yes’um.
Eastern NC BBQ without a doubt. Living in NY now but yearn for the good stuff!
I forgot the hush puppies and cole slaw must haves.
You didn't even get the right place in Lockhart! Smittys or Kreuz are much better, as is City Market down the road in Luling.
JMueller in Austin belongs on any national list.
One things for sure: California and New York City have NOTHING to do with the Country's best BBQ!
Mac's Barbeque Skiatook, Oklahoma is extremely good.
NY, CA and DC...? Really..? Yeah, I live in NC, we have BBQ, I've been to most other places that suggest they have Best ____, and typically it's who paid off whom to get some form of ill placed bragging rights. Get back to me when you actually send somebody out to do the job and not just take kickback. Utter Patthetic Joke.............
HERP DERP OPINIONS DERP DERP.
YERZ DUN LIKE MEIN. YOU'SA STUPID OR SOMETHIN'.
'MERICA
Nothing in Kansas City or Memphis, but a joint in NYC? Give me a break. Obviously a bunch of ignorant, and ill-travelled are posting.
I have been in all 50 states. I have judged the World Series of BBQ at the American Royal, three times. I say these: The best brisket – Arthur Bryant's in Kansas City. Calvin Trillin of the New Yorker Magazine called it the best restaurant in America. I won't argue. The best ribs – Dreamland in Tuscaloosa, AL. The best pulled pork – Neeley's Interstate in Memphis. The best chicken – Woodyard in Merriam, KS.
If you haven't eaten at these places, please keep your ill-informed opinions to yourself.
I've eaten at the Dreamland in Huntsville but not Tuscaloosa. The ribs were very good but not the best I've ever had.
Good Lord, Mr Ford!
If Kate wanted to coment on lobstah, hell to the yeah!
But BBQ???
Kansas City didn't invent it, but we sure as heck perfected it.
I was @ the South Beach Wine & Food Fest "Q" in February, 2012 and THE BEST "Q" was from Kansas City!
Not Emeril, not Guy Fieri, but Craig Adcock's( from KC) "Belly Up BBQ" did Tomahawk Chops over Missouri Peachwood
to die for!
Craig Adcock ( who has been invited back to SOBE's QueFest in 2013) main gig is "Jude's Rumcakes", so my vote for best BBQ is LC's in Kansas City, MO; with too numerous to mention other places on Kansas City in a dead heat for "second place".
I came from the East Coast and know how insular it can be.
Kate, c'mon out to Arrowhead Stadium for tailgating that will make you glad you were born!
Craigs BBQ in Devalls Bluff Arkansas – Nothing even close
As a Texan I'm a bit biased toward Texas BBQ, but there are many great BBQ styles which are more prevalent elsewhere - Memphis, KC, Carolina pulled pork... I don't think I'd concentrate only on the Texas joints, though there's no better region for great BBQ beef brisket. City Market in Luling, TX is my absolute favorite anywhere.
I want to give a shout out for KIt Kat Smoked BBQ in Pawcatuck, CT! Their ribs, pulled pork,brisket, chicken,and sides are the best around here.
I have lived all over the country (inc. North Carolina and Texas) and the best barbecue I have ever eaten is at Hammerheads in Louisville, KY.
I'm from Louisville, but I'm partial to Western Kentucky 'que. Moonlight Barbeque in Owensboro is my go-to. Their barbequed mutton is out of this world.
And the person who wrote the article didn't even get the best joint in Texas: Salt Lick in Driftwood, TX
My mom lives 10 miles from there
Time for a visit
They didn't mention KC, unbelievable. There articles are not good or helpful anyway.
Tells me they didnt put ANY research into it. Arthur Bryants, Gates (wear earplugs when you visit), Zarda, Jack Stack's, Backyar BBQ. I know therte is some very tasty Texas BBQ but KC should be int he same rankings. Whats with the Californian weak brownrice crap in the picute above. YOu need beans baby , beans!!!!!!
Stop letting skinny girls vote , get a heiffer like me on this!
Live in jersey, but have been to Jacks Stack, Gates, Arthur B's & BB Lawnsides BBQ in KC. IMHO, as good as it gets. But like most things BBQ is personal taste.
I've eaten barbecue all over and Texas has the best. It must be the wood, because nobody else can match it.
Harpoon Championship of New England Barbecue in Windsor, Vermont – July
I stopped by a place called Creekers bbq last week and it was the best me and my family have ever eaten! They are franchising the place also. Hopefully we will get one in North Carolina! I hate some of our local places. We need Tennessee bbq over here!
Please move away from North Carolina...you obviously know nothing about BBQ. Move to Florida and eat at Sonny's.Only two questions need be asked. Eastern or western, shoulder or whole hog. Carolina BBQ will always be best.
You forgot 2 other questions: "Side of Brunswick Stew?" And "Do you need a refill on Sweet Tea or need a Pitcher for the table..?" ;)
I stand corrected...well said friend.
Best as moving through my bowels maybe.
Barbecue is to European food what "Honey Boo Boo" is to "Masterpiece Theatre. Case Closed.
American tastes are so unsophisticated.
I live here in Texas, but I've traveled around the world. Some of the food is very good, I actually like escargot. But good BBQ is anything but unsophisticated in taste. You've obviously never had a piece of good brisket. Snow's and Franklin's both have amazing brisket, I'll put them against any European dish any day.
Oh blow it out your ass.
Ma'am, considering the number of Wild Game and simplistic base dishes I have sampled from countries ranging from Austria, France with Boar, Stag and bear on to Bull Tail Stew in the Casa Del Sol on to the most base roast served in Fat on a Sunday in Wales and England, you have a nerve on you and a base arrogance that has nothing to do with the cuisine. My forebears are from Wales, Scotland and Normandy and they were amonst those that worked with native materials to come up with some of the dishes we enjoy today, including BBQ. What I find most amusing is the amounts of one time peasant foods that have been elevated in European culture that then are used a basis of derision on what are considered inferior palettes...
Jeann – thank you for your opinion about European food. If you've had good Texas brisket and compare that to Haggis in Scotland or anything served in Britain, you would stop posting up such short sighted opinions on the internet. Have you ever had a hamburger in the UK?
Pretty obvious troll and poseur. Anyone who actually knows anything about "European food" is aware that there is no such thing. Europe is as widely variegated and distinct as kidney pies, borscht and veal parmigiana. There isn't a distinct class of food known as "European food." Trying to be snobbish on the Internet is really quite sad.
I think it is funny that you are using a food blog about BBQ to take cheap shots at Americans. I bet you make your Mama proud.
If you own a BBQ joint you can pay me to be on a list and I'll try to get it published sowewhere.
Thanks for telling us where the good TX BBQ is...quite limited tho! I was just in Kansas City and had thought Arthur Bryant's was awesome...and being from Chicago, Honky Tonk BBQ is amazing!!
There is no such ting as good barbeque in New York City you are nuts. The best barbeque joints are in Kansas City, Memphis and Texas. The Carolinas have some good BBQ too. New York?!?!?! No, sorry big city BBQ sucks.
Actually Hill Country BBQ is excellent. Owned by transplanted Texans that know what they are doing.
Arthur Bryants -Kansas City
Gates and Sons- Kansas City
Corky's- Memphis
Jack Stack – Kansas City
Wake up theres no good BBQ in California or New York, Texas yes but those are not even top 5 in Texas. You need to travel a ton more, Memphis, Kansas City, the Carolinas...
Black's and Franklin's are easily the top two in Texas. Kruez and Louis Mueller should be in the top 5.
+1 for Louis Lueller in Taylor, Tx.
Memphis = Interstate BBQ
KCK – Arthor Bryant's – Jack Stack is commercial but great. Gates is great too
Lochart, TX – Kreutz' Market
Rendevous in memphis as well – but for ribs only (in my opinion).
Love some of that eastern NC bbq too!
Oklahoma Joe's Olathe, KS
Absolutely! I was waiting for someone to mention Okie Joe's. I've lived in KC for 7 years and they have, hands down, the best burnt ends in the city. Other favorites – Jack Stack and Smokehouse in Gladstone (meat is standard of others in the city, but the beans are amazing)
Bryant's is the real thing – great BBQ
I agree with you on Corky's in Memphis. Best I have ever had and I'm from the Chicago area. My girlfriend who usually does not like barbecue fell in love with barbecue from Corky's!
Pull your head out of your ass. Good BBQ can be found anywhere, even in NYC.
There are far better BBQ places in this town than Corky's.
But this article.... Nothing from KC? or Memphis? or North Carolina? All that tells me is that person who wrote it only likes the taste of Texas style.
For starters, there is no such thing as good Carolina BBQ. And in Austin Texas, who left out Countyline? and Rudys, and Stubbs. Who left out Western Kentucky; Moonlight and too Many Mom & Pop's to name. And to be fair, someone from New England would think every BBQ joint they would walk in would be great.
County Line is so-so. Rudy's is good for cheap and fast. Stubbs is ok. None of them come close to Franklin's, though.
I beg your pardone!!! There is nothing better than barbecue from the east coast of North Carolina. The best barbecue is Wilbur's Barbecue in Goldsboro, NC on Hwy 70. We also have McCall's barbecue in Goldsboro.
What about B's in Greenville. Better than Wilbur's......
B's dpes get a high 5 – also Jacksons in Wilmington and Smithfields does a great job as a larger chain. Being from NC I'm partial, too many other places rely on the sauce to cover up the flavor
It's spelled "Wilbers" and I totally agree with you!
Stubb's is overrated and overpriced because they know that hipsters and out-of-towners don't know what they're paying for. Ain't nothing wrong with Rudy's or any of the places around town.
Wait, the so-called expert does BBQ in Boston? Yeah, loads of BBQ street cred there. Bet she grew up in Texas.....
Listing Cali & NY BBQ places?
Revoke her credentials
Hill Country BBQ in New York is owned by transplanted Texans. Austin, I believe.
Allen & Son Bar-B-Que in Chapel Hill and Dinosaur in Syracuse both should be on that list.
No offense intended, but Dinosaur should be at the bottom. NY Barbecue at best and thats not a good thing. Been twice. The ribs are awful and dry. The brisket was dry and chewy. The chicken was only good in sauce. Baked Beans were the only good about this place and they are less than a mile from me.
Oh son! You need to go back. No idea which location you went to but the Syracuse place is the original. I've been to Blacks, Saltlick, Gates in KC, several places in Memphis, etc. Like most things, personal preference does come into play but I have tasted NOTHING that just hands down beats the original Dino.
allen & sons is righteous bbq!
For all the bellyachers: BBQ is subjective. "good barbeque" depends on the individual taste of the person eating it – at least when it comes to the different regions. HOWEVER, I agree that to list only the BBQ in Texas, and not give a nod to those in the carolinas or Tennessee is poor reporting – the tastes are different, but they have good bbqs too.
Also, missing from the list is my favorite bbq joint in Texas: Hinze's in Wharton, TX. It managed to switch me OFF of being vegetarian....
Kate, you have no idea what good BBQ is and calling yourself an expert on the subject is an insult to amateur BBQ cooks everywhere. Go back to Baaston and have a bowl of mediocre chowder.
I'm from KC, so I know New England is good for Chowder and that's it. If you want awesome BBQ and an adventure, Miami County Airport sports a 2,800' runway,that is as wide as a driveway. It will scare the daylights out of you on the final approach if there is wind but if you don't chicken out, it is really worth it.
Seeing some great places to check out in my travels. Always looking for good Q on the road. Been to Sweet Cheeks which is a yuppie joint near Fenway Park in Boston. Great tourist trap, food just o.k.
Chaps Pit Beef in Baltimore, MD
Absolutely amazing – it's been featured on Man vs. Food, Guy Fieri's show, and on the Travel channel
I think the person who wrote the article is cofused,what she calls BAR-B-Q i call grilling ,there is a big difference,here in California any thing cooked on a grill is called bar-b-q.In my non expert opinion it is the sauce that makes the bar-b-q,and the best sauce I have found is at Famous Dave's in Kentucky.
You are kidding, right? Famous Dave's? Why not Smokey Bones or Tony Roma's? Sauce is important, but BBQ is much more than grilling. If your not making smoke, it's not BBQ!
Also real BBQ is like real SEX,it's all good,just that some is better,LOL,every one have a nice life.
You started out on the right track but crashed and burned. BBQ is low and slow and utilizes smoke. Sauce isn't necessary. Famous Dave's is meh.
The fact that Memphis, St. Louis and Kansas City aren't even mentioned in an article about BBQ gives me no faith that the author actually knows much of anything.
No kidding. Worst article ever.
This is actually a middle school homework assignment. She hasn't even learned those are cities yet. That's next year.
92% of the people complaining here are at least 40lbs over weight
And your point is? Where did you get your percentages, from Romney?
No, we like to pull the wool over your eyes like our president does. :)
I don't think either one of them could find a good BBQ joint.
And earned every ounce of it.
slow smoked brisket, sliced beef, sliced pork, pulled pork, ribs, burnt ends, smoked chicken, smoked turkey, beans and slaw made from scratch as well as a wide selection of bbq sauces made in house.
Creekers BBQ stoney creel highway, Elizabethton, Tennessee
I've tried it all over the country and here are some of my fav's for babybacks::
Jacks in Nashville
Blue Ribbon in Sommerville, MA,
TC's in Las Vegas
Pokey-Joe's in Austin, TX (near the end of a 'Dillo route)
Sonny Bryan's in Dallas
Interstate in Memphis
I Love Creekers BBQ, the food is excellent, the sauce is very good , come here and enjoy something different.
Creekers bbq in Elizabethton Tn is hands down the best. Great bbq and such nice people!!!
Creekers BBQ is the best around! Mouth-watering food and friendly service. We eat there weekly, and no other bbq can compete!
Baby Blues BBQ in Venice, CA is incredible.
This article was void as soon as you read a New Englander did the research and then you read that is was a woman and this article lost all hope. Sorry, ladies but BBQ is cooked and devoured by big fat men and should be up to them to decide what is the best. If I want an opinion on a good salad place or soup I'll check back with you ladies.
While the "women can't do cue" sentiment is misplaced, I agree that the best BBQ'ers tend to be fat or elderly (full of experience). Y'all KNOW a cook makes good food if ya can see he enjoys it himself! LOL
Not a single BBQ place from Kansas City, Memphis, or North Carolina?!? I could understand if y'all at least tried to make this an opinion piece arguing that Texas had the best BBQ, but...
I mean, COME ON. California? NYC?!?!
Whoever this lady is, she knows absolutely NOTHING about BBQ. Y'all should be humiliated you posted this list.
Right On! Both Arthur Bryant's and Gates in KC are amazing, and Memphis is home to Vergos' and Interstate...along with many others. And Carolina! BBQ Heaven! California,,,huh?
Does the writer/chef have an aversion to pork? You can't list the best bbq places just focusing on Texas style brisket and sausage. The Austin area places noted are great but they hardly make up the world of great u.s. 'cue. Terrible feature.
The simple fact is that, as all Texans know, only beef is barbecue. Now you can smoke chicken, pork, turkey, venison, whatever – but you can't call it barbecue. So a tip of my ten gallon hat to this lady – she got it right.
I feel bad for those poor closed minded Texans. Is a life without dry-rub, slow cooked KC ribs, or NC pulled pork sandwich really a life worth living? BB's in KC that can do a smoked blackened catfish....oh. man. So much BBQ, so little time.
Now, JMO, we are neither poor nor close minded. You might re-read my comment there, friend, because I didn't pass judgement on KC ribs or pulled pork. Matter of fact I like them a lot, and will argue the best sauce is KC style. But I stick to the bottom line – if it ain't beef, it ain't barbecue. It's just smoked food.
That just ges to show why the flag of Texas is a large-print east-to-read version of the American flag: Texans are slow in the head.
Barbecue ( or barbeque ) was first done, and is best done, with pork. Beef is an adequate substitute, at best.
She probably could not spell BBQ if you spotted her the B and the Q...
Did I see New York City on the list? Sad. Come to SC you can tell which county you're in by the style of bbq on your plate. Probably the most famous – and incredibly tasty – is Maurice's bbq around the Columbia area. However, the owner is famed for his racism.
Same as the rest of the folks of South Carolina...
Are you kidding me? Not a single state is represented from where americanized BBQ was born and raised. This list is an abomination.
This is crazy! BBQ ain't BBQ, if it's from anywhere other than Eastern NC. Bunn's BBQ, Windsor, NC; Skylight Inn, Ayden, NC; Bum's BBQ, Ayden, NC; B's BBQ, Greenville, NC; Parker's BBQ, Greenville and Wilson, NC, Bill's BBQ, Wilson, NC; and maybe I will do a Piedmont and say Bullock's BBQ, Durham, NC. You folks need to come on down!
Tennessee used to be North Carolina long ago, and this side of the mountain gave you the idea for great BBQ.
You are absolutely correct...My favorite is Wilbur's in Goldsboro. But all the places you named are great. And people...her in the Carolinas barbecue is pork chopped up with a great vinegar-based sauce. Some of these postings are talking about plain ole grilling!
Six barbecue joints on the list and none of them in Memphis?
How could anybody in Boston know anything about barbecue????
a wind editor has no clue about real bbq; needs to visit tennessee (rick's in dover, tn; only open on weekends; shoulders smoked 24 hrs., pulled pork) and have the real deal; worthless article!!!!
Im from all over and am a Chef along being a certified judge. The best hands down anywhere is in Memphis, Tn every even big television networks due the same challenge. The four finalist are always Texas, NC,KC and Memphis. Out of this competition each place wins a certain part of the comp but overall score always ends up to Memphis.
Wouldn't be a little home cookin would it?
Yeah, lets send some New Englander to do an article on BBQ, hands in face. Next time you do an article on clam chowder you should send a mexican from Neveda to do your research. No mention of any southern states and left out Kansas City. Probably some pomus yuppy from Boston that wouldn't even dare tread into the areas known to have the best BBQ in the world, most likely afraid of getting funny looks.
Flip's Barbecue in Wilmington, NC has been my favorite for over 20 years. They have been around since the 1950's. Tell Bob(Owner) Steve sent you. Don't forget the sauce !
I was passing through Kansas City for the first time, probably a dozen years ago. So, I'm thinking, KC... I either want steak or BBQ. I didn't know any specific places, 'cause I'd never been there. As I'm checking into the hotel, I asked the clerk if she knew some good BBQ or steak place. She didn't. There was a guy standing in the lobby, though, that said, well, I know where there's a great steak place nearby. He said, pull out of the lot, take a left go about a mile take another left, then the first right, etc, I'm listening closely, and then, he said, you'll see the place on the right, it's called Outback Steakhouse. Thanks, buddy. I Never did find a steak place, but luckily, I did find Arthur Bryant's and have been a fan ever since.
YES! Arthur Bryants, I wonder if the ol' Chowder Head that wrote this article even ever heard of the place. She probably didn't like it becuase of the nieghborhood.
Now that is a sad story. At least it ended happily, at Bryant's.
Agreed, it's incredible that someone would leave KC off of the list (not to mention the Carolina's and Memphis). For me in the KC area, in this order it's 1) Oklahoma Joe's, 2) Arthur Bryants, 3) Gates. Heck, in a pinch KC Masterpiece is probably better than some place in NYC.
Um...clearly Kate has never been to Memphis. Try The Germantown Commissary or Central BBQ and this will erase any doubts. If you don't like those, then you're wrong.
One of the best BBQ joints in NYC?! Really? I'm originally from Brooklyn, and even I know that NYC could not even spell BBQ. And don't get me started about DC. I live here and even the locals say DC BBQ is a joke. Typical clueless Patriots fan...
Yes, no mention of NC BBQ, but the photo is likely from Shelby's Red Bridges' BBQ. LEXINGTON-STYLE, red slaw and hush puppies. it resembles nothing that the author lists, and is making me hungry.
islaaam is a cancer, it is a religion of violence and hate
Oh shut up . . . or we'll throw some sauce on you and eat you too! This is a chain on barbecue, not world affairs.
What a joke. It's articles like this that spread misinformation.
Clearly, Tiffani Faison has a lot more to learn about barbeque.
Sad.
I don't assume Lockhart, Tx is home to the number one bbq joint in Texas, I know it is. I've tried bbq all over the country and enjoyed it, but you just can't beat the Texas style. Heck, even the bbq joint in NY and DC on this list is owned by Texans.
Memphis !!!!!!!
Sorry, I meant Tiffani Faison doesn't know what she's talking about, not Kate Krader.
Sorry Kate!
We love Creekers BBQ in Carter County TN. If Creekers had a franchise in Dubai, they would make tons of money, because there are no real American bbq places to speak of in the entire region.
We eat there weekly and not only love the BBQ but their HUGE (Touchdown Club Sandwich). I heard that they won the Best BBQ from Morristown, Tn to Ashville, NC. for their RIBS. I would believe it!
I have had that club sandwich!! wow. We ate there at the last Race and it was crazy good!
I love Creekers BBQ in Elizabethton, TN. I've travelled and sampled BBQ joints all around the world. I love food, and I love BBQ. Creekers is hands down the best tasting bbq pork I've ever had. In my experience, it beats Texas and even NC bbq (but just barely:-). Creekers apparently is coming out with their own sauces, which from my last pass through, weren't even necessary becuz the smoked meats were so tender, juicy and full of flavor, I forgot to add one of the sauces until I got to my second pulled pork sandwich. This place needs to be all over the country, and maybe the world, so travellers like me can enjoy a taste of home overseas.
You missed, Smitty's in Lockhart, Tx, and the Saltlick in Driftwood, Tx,
Relax people! Like most culinary endeavors, good BBQ is not really that hard to make as long as you have quality ingredients, the right equipment and proper technique. What comes out of my smoker stomps 90% of the BBQ joints out there, and it's really not that difficult - you just need time and a few good beers!
Everyone that knows, knows that the best Bar-B-Q is in Memphis, TN or Kansas City. Obviously Kate Krader is Not in the know and should travel to more places. Texas has Bar-B-Q beef. Real Bar-B-Q oinks!
How can this list be legit without mentioning anyplace from KC, NC, Mempis, etc? Great BBQ is everywhere in Arkansas, Miss, Tenn, Bama as well.What's with the Texas obsession? Texas BBQ is great at beef and sausage but usually is pedestrain on pork. For those that grew up in the south, pork is the only cue meat to have....
I meant Tiffani Faison, not Kate Krader. Sorry Kate!
Barbeque Shop, Corky's Payne's, Rendezvous, Commissary, Interstate, all in Memphis.
I cannot believe not one Kansas City establishment was listed. OKLAHOMA JOES – KANSAS CITY!!!!!! One of the top 20 places to eat in the WORLD before you die!!!!!!!!
Agreed, agreed, agreed!!
2/3 of the entries are Texan? and not a single place listed in the South? This author needs to do a LOT more research.
You hit the nail on the head!
Redbones, Somerville, MA. I know, yankee bbq??? Yup. Travelled all over, and never have found ribs or bbq hash better than this place.
I know New Orleans is not a Bar-BQ town (have the best of everything else anyway), but The Joint is the best (ribs, pulled pork and beef brisket) I've had anywhere.
Memphis is one of the best around, Interstate BBQ, Commissary, CozyCorner,Corky's, are just a few.
Your article was riduclous
Born and raised in Memphis. Eaten BBQ from coast to coast and everywhere in between. I like something about all of the different regions where BBQ is king. So I can say that I haven't met much BBQ I haven't liked. But really, who expects a Bostonian to travel to the backwoods areas of the South to find the real deal BBQ? I fully expect her to only go to the trendy establishements in the big cities to do her "research." As a result, this is the list she provides.
Proud to be a born-n-raised Texan...but sorry to say, best is 12 Bones in Asheville, NC.
woop woop thats right. first i was amazed eastern NC BBQ didnt even get a mention here – what i sthis lady from texas or something? is that even the south?
and second, srsly....12 bones is AMAZING. its got a little bit of every style, and rather than doing a mediocre job with all of it (chicken, brisket, pork) its ALL really incredible.
AND after growing up on deep south and southeaster cooking, i can honestly say it has the best collard greens ive ever tasted in my entire life. theyre like candy. go to 12 bones and tip well.
Pecos Bill's – Glendale, CA. Best BBQ west of KC!
Sticky Fingers in Myrtle Beach, SC has the BEST BBQ hands down!!!
Sticky Fingers? Really? I'm ashamed that of all the great SC bbq you mention a lousy chain. But you are in Myrtle Beach so I would expect nothing else but bad taste.
Is this some kind of regional listing? KC and Memphis not being mention is moronic. NEW YORK CITY????
My son says if it's not CREEKER'S BBQ(Stoney Creek ,Tn.) it's not bbq. Requires a weekly trip :)
For an amazing pulled pork, try Knoth's BBQ next to Barkley Dam in Lake City, KY. Very smoky, very good.
No mention of Kansas City means you have no idea what you are talking about.
The fact that 90% of her list are Texas joints means she doesn't know what she's talking about either... Texas barbecue is terrible compared to KC style, Memphis Style, Carolina Style, MS delta style.... pretty much any other style. By the way... I live in Houston... and I still say that TX BBQ is the worst.
so true....
Dreamland in Tuscaloosa, pork only.
Dreamland's gone downhill in my opinion. They burn the sauce onto the meat. Big no-no. Doesn't even come close to Memphis BBQ.
When you first move to AL you hear how good Dreamland is. However, when you've lived in NC and Memphis....well, it's a good bit overrated. Flavor/style aside, the ribs are known to be tough; unacceptable by any cue standard.
Totally agree that Dreamland is not what it used to be ... for good Alabama BBQ I would go with the Shed in Mobile ... original place is in Miss
You've got to be kidding! No Kansas City BBQ? This is the first list I've seen that doesn't have at least 1 if not 2-3 KC BBQ icons. Jack Stack, Oklahoma Joe's, Arthur Bryants... I can go on. Big miss!
I agree. Nothing from KC or Memphis? Those are the basic picks when it comes to BBQ.
Writes article about iconic southern food. Asks some northerner.
for real, what the hell is this yankee talking about.
Any list that doesn't have KC or Tenn on it is a joke. Even Cincinnati Ohio has Montgomery Inn BBQ ribs to die for.
Never would I say NYC or D.C. is the place to go for ribs.
Nothing personal, but I hope the 'expert' Faison does not attempt any more Best of BBQ lists.
Best beef BBQ: Texas (Lockhart, TX and Salt Lick BBQ @ Driftwood, TX). Best pork BBQ: the Carolinas & most of the south (preferably whole hog, where the pulled meat gets mixed). Gotta have the vaunted vinegar sauce with the southern pork BBQ! Darn... Now I'm hungry! :-)
I agree! Texas does the best beef by far! Great pulled pork can be found ALL OVER the south (and even in the midwest) at many very good small BBQ places! For Ribs I would vote for Memphis and Kansas City, although good ribs can be found at many places across Texas, all over the south up to Kentucky and eastward to the Carlolinas! It all depends upon your favorite style!
My son says if it is not CREEKER'S BBQ (Stoney Creek,Tn.) it's not bbq, requires a weekly trip :)
We have eaten at many of Texas Hill country BBQ restaurants . The one we always go back to is Smitty's Market BBQ in Lockhart TX. We find the prices a little bit better and food is always great.
My house, backyard, Brooklyn, NY. Compliments of my husband!
The Quarters – Albuquerque, New Mexico.
This is the worst article I've ever read on CNN.com, which places it high in the running for worst article ever written anywhere. I hope that Kate Krader knows something about wine, because food is obviously not her area.
Oops, I couldn't find my original post. That sort of error happens to me every time I purport to be an expert on anything.
Well, since they listed 3 of my favorites (and I do barbeque), I think they were pretty much on-track. But now, I've gotta go to Snow's next time I pass through Lexington on a Saturday. Not sure where your complaint stems from. Sweet Cheeks has decent Q and a good idea of what's good food.
My daughter lives in Austin, and I eat a lot of bbq when we are visiting her. I have never actually been to Snow's, but she has, getting up early on Sat. morning to make the drive to Lexington, and I have eaten quite a bit of it. It is remarkable. You won't be disappointed. One of these times I should get up early to go with her, but for now just getting the food is enough.
The BBQ in eastern North Carolina (pork with a vinegary sauce) is different from the BBQ in the piedmont of North Carolina, which is a great deal different from KC BBQ (Mmmmm – burnt ends), which is very different than the stuff I've sampled in Memphis (I'm looking at you Arthur Bryant), which quite a bit different from Texas BBQ (best region to try some brisket), which is again different from the stuff I grew up with in the deep south near the gulf coast. There are GREAT BBQ joints in all of these regions of the country, specializing in the local variety that thse different regions have to offer. To write a review of "The Best BBQ Joints in the US" and merely point to some places in TX along with Manhattan and a neighborhood right next to LAX is a frigging joke. I am guessing that the author is a bi-coastal gal (who has also gotten off of an airplane in Texas once or twice) with some connections that allow her to write about whatever she wants whenever she feels like it. She has obviously has not really been anywhere and has not sampled the regional food that is out there.
I mean seriously, I doubt the woman has ever even seen a hush puppy. Somebody needs to stop this woman before she ever writes about food again!
My boyfriend and I are from Saint Louis and while traveling through Tennessee we stoped at Creekers BBQ in Elizabethon. Best BBQ we have ever had. Stayed a week just to try everything that was on the menu! In my opinion it beat out Pappeys from the STL!! You have to try out thier homemade sauses!! Cant wait to go back.
If you live west of Texas or north of Tennessee, you should not attempt to BBQ. It just isn't the same.
Now now now – there are ALL kinds of Barbeque. California BBQ has it's own style and flavor. We also eschew rubs for just a splash of lime and cumin.
get the hell off this thread! you can take your burritos and lime and cumin back across the mississippi. if i want a banh mi sandwich ill go to the bay, otherwise yall can keep your culinary fusion to your damn selves.
no gods
no masters
no californistan
Well that escalated quickly...
I wouldn't call ANYTHING that comes out of California genuine BBQ! California is well known for many excellent cuisines, but BBQ is generally NOT one of them!...
The fact that this article doesn't list any of the great places in Kansas City, NC or Tenn just proves that it's worthless! How on earth can you have an article like this and NOT include those places. Come on! Arthur Bryant's in Kansas City? Hello!?! Who the heck are you and where have you been "living"?
I've tried several of the Tenn/KY places, including some of the big names. I think Black's does better. But: Q is subjective. What I like, and what Tiffani likes, may not conform to what YOU like. Her Tx picks were spot on (save, I'd not discovered Snow's, so no opinion - yet).
If you like a sharp, peppery dry rum with no sauce, Texas Q is where you go. Sweeter rubs with sweet sauces? KC/St. Louis. Vinegar becomes more standard as you head to the Southeast. Go with the Q you like!
It just proves that liberal CNN folks don't come down to the south where true BBQ reigns! I can't help it if they eat crap and think its good. I think their politics are crap, it don't mean I'm gonna eat it.
CNN is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.
Best BBQ .. gotta be Bridges BBQ Lodge, Shelby, NC, home of the American Legion World Series.
No mention of North Carolina BBQ? 12 Bones in Asheville is by far the best BBQ in the Carolinas......
Come east young man.
Unfortunately even the New York City entry is wrong. Hill Country is for those that like to show they have been to the best known BBQ place in Manhattan and not very good if you actually know BBQ. Fette Sau in Williamsburg is one of the best in the country.
This guy knows what he's talking about, check out Dinosaur BBQ up in Harlem if you haven't yet
I'm confused. Pic is obviously of pork BBQ but your list seems to imply that only Texas-style beef brisket is the only "BBQ" that matters. Next time you're in NC, get some BBQ from the The PIt in downtown Raleigh and join us for some of the best tailgating NC has to offer – Carter-Finley Stadium before an NC State football game.
Worst article I've ever seen on CNN.com, which places it high in the running for worst article ever written anywhere. To exclude Kansas City is to put the universe on notice that you know nothing about the topic. I hope Kate Krader knows something about wine, because food is obviously not her area.
I absolutely agree. I visited Kansas City over the summer and stopped in at Oklahoma Joes – without question, the best barbecue I've ever had.
I agree even though I believe the best BBQ is in St. Louis, home of the St. Louis style rib. KC has a taste so unqie that they have KC style BBQ sauces and potato chips sold across the country. More research should have been done on this article.
I'm glad someone got to this before me. To leave KC off this list is just an absolute disgrace. Oklahoma Joes obviously should be on this. I would bet there is better BBQ in the parking lot at Arrowhead on game days than at some of places listed in this article. Someone at CNN.com, please take this article off your site. IT IS OBSURD!!!
Certainly the most inaccurate. As a Southerner, I scanned the list with absolute puzzlement. The fact that the only southern state on here is Texas implies that there is an entire region of the country known for its barbecue that isn't on any map she owns. This is ridiculous. California BBQ?? What about Kansas City, North Carolina, South Carolina, etc., etc.?? Has she ever even watched a Food Channel show on barbecue? As I read it, this list invalidates itself.
The best BBQ is made in the backyards of western NC.
Agreed! This article blows. The fact that one of the restaurants has two locations is evidence enough.
You missed JMueller in South Austin.
His brisket is just as good if not better then Franklin's and ribs, pork shoulder and prime rib are amazing as well
There is no doubt barbeque is an American passion. I've found some great BBQ joints all over the US. In CNY, The Limp Lizard in Syracuse, NY and Bob's in Homer, NY serve up tasty BBQ and great sides to boot. I'm also fond of Bethany Blues in DE.
The rankings come from someone that charges $18 for a standard bbq plate, expensive even in Boston and it's certainly not of a quality that comes close to the price. Oh and they won't let you take biscuits to-go because they have a "biscuit experience". Not a joke.
This list should be ignored.
Big Bob Gibson's in Decatur, AL – has won the Memphis in May several years. They don't have rustic character of the cement-block shacks– they've "gone Hollywood" in recent years–but still turn out great food. As far as chains go, Famous Dave's in Franklin, TN is good. Admit it–anybody's BBQ anywhere is better than not having BBQ!
Big Bob Gibson's has EXCELLENT BBQ! They really RULE! Don McLemore and Chris Lilly are world class BBQ chefs and have won many awards in St. Louis, Kansas City and Memphis BBQ competitions as well as some international cook-offs! They make some of the best BBQ sauces in the world!
There has been a lot of legitimate debate over the years regarding the hierarchy of Lockhart barbecue. When I first started my treks out to Caldwell county to eat smoked meat back in the early nineties I was of the opinion that Kreuz Market was the finest [Smitty's did not yet exist] with Blacks coming in a solid number 2.
Yet even in Kreuz’ halcyon days Blacks ran ‘em up a tree when it came to sausage-40 weight to be precise. Today is no different. Black’s sausage defines unctuous. For the uninitiated you have to be right careful when it comes to the first bite. Grease can spray everyone at the table if you get a little overly excited and chomp down with abandon
more http://chowpapi.com/wordpress/wordpress-2.8.6/wordpress/blacks-barbecue-supremacy-now-undisputed/
I've always preferred Blacks to Kreutz. And you're right,: In sausage, there's no comparison. But I like the ribs and brisket better, too.
Phil's Barbeque, San Diego
Jim – check out the BBQ House in Ocean Beach. Delicious.
Guys – give her a break...she's from Boston and simply just doesn't know any better. Blame her editor for assigning this poor girl a task that is obviously over her head. Bless her heart.
The below is from Food and Wine dot com.
Title: Restaurant Editor
Started at Food & Wine: 1992 (interrupted by a brief detour at a dot.com)
Born and Raised: New York City
Education: Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio; La Varenne cooking school, Villecien, France.
Cooking Experience: I don't like to talk about it, but I worked garde-manger and pastry at the now-defunct La Metairie in Manhattan for six months. It was kind of a disaster.
What I Do at Food & Wine: I'm Restaurant Editor. My job includes finding new chef talent and spotting trends in the food and restaurant world.
Job Benefit/Hazard #1: I eat out a minimum of five nights a week.
Job Benefit/Hazard #2: I always have to pick the restaurant. And make the reservations.
Current Obsession: Tweeting/name dropping every conceivable celebrity with a food connection I can find.
Pet Peeve: I'm very picky about brownies; I think I make the best ones.
Chef Hero: Old-school La Varenne cooking instructor Fernand Chambrette.
Favorite Pastime: Casting a hypothetical HBO series about the chef world with an all-star cast. The only person who would get to play himself is Anthony Bourdain.
with a resume like this no wonder the article was such crap. Its funny, cus obviously most of the commenters on here all have slightly different BBQ backgrounds, but universally despise this article for not repping NC or KC, or to a lesser extent gulf states bbq. And theyre right to do so.
This is some regional and class sh!t – her yankee ass resume might qualify her to write about some bougie french restaurant in williamsburg brooklyn, but she done walked in our territory now. I d trust some half drunk dude in camo overalls with a bright orange hat for BBQ advice more than this woman.
Food and Wine equals FAIL.
Like
Amazingly lackluster article. The best BBQ in the country is in KC and North Carolina, with close seconds to Memphis. I will put Oklahoma Joe's BBQ in KC up against any other in the world.
Quit your whining. Franklins in Austin Texas...Period!
Right on Rob! While Oklahoma Joe's is very very good, for my money you just can't beat the granddaddy of them all-Arthur Bryant's.
Got to love the Joe's (KS) vs. Bryant's (mostly MO) debate. It's almost as heated as what used to be the KU/MU rivalry!! haha I need to try that Smoking Guns place.
I live in Charlotte, NC and have family in Elizabethton, TN. When we go to visit, we always eat at Creekers BBQ. The BBQ where we live is no comparison to the BBQ at Creekers. It's a must stop when we are in the area every time. If you don't believe me, go see and taste it yourself! :)
Not a fan of Texas, Memphis, or Carolina BBQ, but to have a list about the best BBQ and not mention Memphis, Carolina, and the King of BBQ – Kansas City is a joke.
True, Kansas is the best
Smokey Bones or Famous Dave's isn't on the list? Preposterous! And what about the McRib?
LOL – Gotcha! It is sad to think, however, that for too many suburbanites across the country, chain BBQ is their only exposure. Love the ribs at Swallow at the Hollow in Roswell, GA. I haven't experienced hundreds of places but have visited a couple dozen and they are still the best I've had.
Have to rep it a little too, but how about Strawberry's in Holcomb, MO? Kind of a legend around these parts.
As someone who grew up in the bootheel and now moved far away I can totally tell you strawberry's is awesome! I try to get it everytime i go back for a visit!
If you are ever in Boise Idaho, look up Cutter's Grand BBQ: http://cuttersgrandbbq.com, they have great BBQ.
This list is pretty tough. As others have mentioned, bbq is regional celebration. You need to include all the different types of BBQ to make this a real list. My favorites are Arthur Bryants, Mitchell's and Luling City Market.... I will say that living in the northeast, I have been to Hill Country and that is a solid option. Also, Wilson's BBQ in southern CT is very good as well. I've only been to Sweetcheeks once but it was not enough to have my go back again.
Sorry, I need to clarify...
By Mitchell's I meant The Pit in Raleigh, NC run by pitmaster Ed Mitchell.
Arthur Bryants – KC
Lulings – Texas
Also a fan of 17th Street Bar & Grill, Pitmaster Mike Mills' joint. Great ribs.
Yup, Mike does it right. Here in Murphysboro, IL we're currently hosting the 25th annual 'Praise The Lard' M'boro BBQ cookoff. 75 teams from around the nation, both KCBS and MBS sanctioned/judging, top prize of $25,000. Yup, he's the instigator of it, and he's lived here his whole life.
The very best BBQ comes from China. Just as good as anyone on this incomplete and marginal list.
Just wanted to contribute my cry of outrage at this list. BBQ is a sensitive subject for anyone who genuinely loves food (and America, for that matter) and should be treated with respect. Respect means research. Don't Google or Yelp some spots around you and write an article for CNN. No Memphis, no Carolinas? Laughable at best; disrespectful at least.
Theres a little place in Carter County , Tennessee called Creekers that has some AMAZING barbeque, the pulled pork and ribs are to die for! great sauces too!!!!!!!! Yummy!!!!!!!!
Black's BBQ??? Seriously?
Black's is blocks away from Smitty's Market and Kreutz Market in Lockhart TX- both are vastly superior to Black's BBQ. Apparently the reviewer is basing his praise on the number of billboards an establishment puts up.
*her praise- sorry
I agree. Who cares how nice the people are. I am there to eat. Smitty's and Kreuz are the best in Lockhart along with Franklins in Austin. Smitty's and Kreuz together are partnering up in Bee Cave, TX called Schmidt Family BBQ. This place is right by my house in Lake Travis and will be amazing.
You are kidding me! Food & Wine should know enough about BBQ to know that just because this ladyrode around Texas for a few days then visited DC and California means she missed the best BBQ oin the country.
North Carolina, Kansas City, St Louis, and even Alabama White Sauce BBQ (not my favorite but to each his own) can not be ignored in such a story. Shame on you!!
Blacks is not NEARLY as a good as Smitty's. Franklins is not that good, either. This list is crap.
Really CNN, not a single one from Memphis or KC, or even anywhere in Missouri and Tennessee? I really have to question whether this is a "best of bbq" article, or simply a "bbq places I've eaten at" article.
Also would have been nice to see the Carolinas on the list.
Sorry KC, I perfer Texas Pit style, not to say the saucy stuff isn't good. Favorite would have to be the original Salt Lick in Driftwood TX.
No offense to California or New York Que but Kansas City and North Carolina being left off the list is wrong. Gary's BBQ in China Grove, NC is the real deal. About 30 minutes north of Charlotte. If you ever find yourself in the area its definitely worth checking out.
The author must be from Texas, and hasn't traveled much. Come on. Dinosaur in Syracuse. Montgomery Inn in Cincinnati, Calhouns in Knoxville...... I could go on and on and on.........
And I highly doubt she's even from Texas...no Saltlick or Rudy's?? This article is complete crap.
so basically the author likes Texas BBQ. Nothing like alienating Kansas City & Memphis and NC.
leaving those off is like leaving off christmas, thanksgiving & 4th of July as the best Holidays.
boo.
Gosh no mention of the best bbq in mass area, try KC's ribshack in Manchester, NH
BBQ is so subjective. To say that you can't get good BBQ anywhere other than the south is ignorance. I don't care for beef brisket, but that doesn't mean it's no good. BBQ was invented to make the best out of poor cuts of meat.
Wow... just... wow. Can't believe someone actually published this, and thinks it's representative of the best places to eat BBQ in the country.
I am the first Franchise owner of Creekers BBQ in Elizabethton Tn. Thank you for your kind words about our restaurant. We are extremely excited about the Franchise opportunities we offer. We do have unbelievable BBQ done the Creeker Way. Contact us if you are interested in a franchise. YouTube Creekers BBQ Franchise Opportunity or call 423-895-0392. Ask for Jim.
Would love to discuss franchise opportunities with you. But first, please send everyone who has commented here free samples of your pork shoulder and ribs. :) But seriously, the comments here have earned you a visit from me on my next trip through/to TN.
I agree. If I'm ever in that part of Tennessee I'll stop by since all these people seem to like your BBQ.
Gosh no mention of the best bbq in mass area, try KC's ribshack in Manchester, NH.
MEMPHIS....
Someone from BOSTON telling us where the best BBQ is?? Obviously this list is flawed to even start with. Then all she list is beef BBQ?? Was there a single place known for their pork on the list? This poor, misguided soul needs to venture to the southeast and try Memphis style, Eastern Carolina, Western Carolina, and Lexington style. Then venture to Kansas City for some Kansas style. You can't ask a non-expert to answer a question intended for experts.
I realize that people's taste vary and bbq styles vary greatly by region, but when four of the six places on a "best of bbq" are in Texas that makes me think that the person who put the list together hasn't done much travelling or spent much time at bbq competitions. Some of the best 'q in the country has been left off the list entirely...in lieu of a chain-style place in NYC/DC?
I'd add the following to the list:
Wall's BBQ in Savannah, GA
Rendezvous BBQ in Memphis, TN
Andy Nelson's in Cockeysville, MD
Bum's in Ayden, NC
She's obviously has no clue as to where her search should begin. MEMPHIS & KC!!!!!
All others are 2nd tier.
A picture of Lexington style BBQ from LEXINGTON, NC yet NC is left of the list? CNN is dead to me.
Amen
That was my thought precisely! Anyone from NC (or who knows real barbecue) could recognize a Lexington-style plate. And then all that's featured is the "faux cue" of "everywhere else." Not even the decency to mention Eastern NC style . . . Sad day for journalistic integrity.
Brother that's not a plate, it's a tray and it's from Speedy's in Lexington NC...i don't want to tell you how many of those I'm wearing right now. Never trust a skinny cook.
In fact, it's from Carter Bros. in High Point, NC. I didn't write the article, but I did put up the picture!
The Author of this article is an AMATEUR when comes to understanding and loving BBQ. I am a Native Texan and I can tell you without exception if you go eat at these two places you will never want to eat BBQ anywhere else ever again!
#1 – Euless North Main BBQ in Euless Texas home of the Sweet Meats Award Winning Cooking Team #1
#2 – Salt Lick in Driftwood Texas
In that order. I challenge anyone that has actually eaten at these places to dispute this.
THAT IS THE FACTS JACK!
Really? Four from Texas and nothing from KC or Memphis? Laughable!
I can accept some from Texas. I'd expect some from Tennessee, Missouri and the Carolinas but when they start including California, NYC and Washington DC on the list, you can just throw the whole thing out as garbage.
Loose meat from KC or Memphis is not BBQ. Come down to Texas and get some real BBQ.
If indeed one can even consider beef to be barbecue. Texas – had to use NC's flag for a model and then couldn't get 'cue right either.
Really? The Texas flag has been in use since it was its own nation in 1839. The North Carolina flag was adopted in 1861.
Exactly what I thought. This list is a joke. Hmm, let's see....let's ask some caterer from the NE about BBQ, that sounds like an excellent idea!
KC is full of good BBQ places. People swear by Bryants and Jack Stack, but the best overall is the original Oklahoma Joe's in the gas station. The best pulled pork is at Hillsdale Bank, where they are literally pulling the meat off the shoulder and onto your plate.
Seriously. I've eaten BBQ in Austin (including Franklin), Memphis, Raleigh, Savanna, Chicago, St. Louis, et cetera....and while many of the places I've been have some merit, nothing comes close to Kansas City. I'm sure all of the places on this list are delicious, but to not include 1 Kansas City joint is unfathomable. It is tantamount to giving and account of the history of American baseball and neglecting to mention the Yankees.
EPIC FAIL. I love me some Texas brisket, but to ignore KC, NC, Bama, Memphis, Georgia??????? COME ON! No way some California BBQ joint makes the list. West Coast pecan pie? Ms Krader has obviously never been down south.
The perfect Barbecue experience begins with an aroma that emanates from a rustic shack by a railroad track in Bartlett, Tennessee. It's a Friday evening in late October. The sun is down, the air is crisp and coming from about a quarter mile upwind we catch the first hint of autumn incense: hickory embers that have been glowing since dawn. That sets off a tingle of anticipation – we're in for another superb performance from the kitchen at Brad's Barbecue. I've eaten barbecue all over the U.S. and finally concluded it's like Grandma's cooking: everyone has their own Grandma' and each one is unique. They're all good, but Brad's makes me smile in my sleep.
Agree with so many of these posts: tragic that Memphis is left off this list. BBQ Shop in Midtown Memphis is my favorite. Great hot BBQ sauce, great place all around!
I'm a perm resident from overseas. Honestly, the best BBQ I've had during my stay here has been from a Korean BBQ food truck in Emeryville, CA. I've had one or two good American BBQ experiences, but most of the time it is vastly over-rated. The flavor almost inevitably comes from the sauce that is slathered on the meat and not the meat itself. Now, I've not had Mehphis-style, so there is some hope. Otherwise, give me a nice pot roast over a hunk of dry BBQ meat any day!
Clearly you have never been to the South East
WHAAAAAT!?!? A BBQ story that didn't even mention Memphis or Kansas City and mentioned Texas 4 times? You can tell they have no clue what good BBQ is. But as much as I like Memphis BBQ, the absolute best is made right in my backyard.
Rudy's Worst BBQ, i-10 just outside of San Antonio. Period.
Anybody here ever heard of Memphis?
I was wondering the same thing. I lived in memphis. I cannot believe that a story about the best BBQ in the country didn't mention restaurants like "Rendezvous" or "The Commissary" or even the original "Corky's" would have been good (anything but the original on Poplar Avenue is no good) Hands down the best BBQ I've ever had was in memphis, TN. And I've eaten BBQ just about everywhere.
I've been to a few of the so called best bbq places in Texas. They would have a hard time staying in business in Kansas City. Oklahoma Joe's is the best.
I have probably tried 30 other KC places that have good BBQ, but Joe's is just at another level. I don't like ribs as most of the time they are fatty and dried out, but I would literally order the pork platter (pulled pork and ribs) as my last meal on death row.
Wow, what a great list. I'm surprised the author didn't list Famous Dave's or Applebees. Come on now. If you don't mention delicious Memphis dry rub ribs or some Oklahoma Joe's you lose all credibility.
We drive down for the Bristol Nascar Race every year and this place is KING!!! There is no other BBQ! We eat there 2 times every race. Creekers BBQ located minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee just minutes from NC, KY, and Va!
My Favorite is the BurntEnds!!!! I can taste it now!!!!!
I agree there's really only good BBQ and great BBQ. I'm not slighting anyone's BBQ but here are some of my favorite places where I've been stationed or traveled. Jake Neely's Interstate BBQ, Corky's BBQ, & Rendezvous BBQ all in Memphis; Railhead BBQ in Fort Worth; Post Office BBQ in Atoka, TN (east TN north of Memphis off of Hwy 51); Jake's BBQ Va Beach, VA; County Grill & Smokehouse in Hampton, VA; and Woodchick's BBQ in Chesapeake, VA. I've also eaten some damn good BBQ in St Louis but it was a baseball weekend and I'd had lots of beers and forgot the name. NOW pass the Lipator and enjoy.
I started drooling just at the thought of Rendezvous BBQ.
I enjoyed nothing more in the spring than sitting in the stands at Autozone Park and watching the Memphis Red Birds play baseball in downtown Memphis; drinking a cold beer and eating the BBQ nachos and then walking down the alley to Rendezvous BBQ. If only Uncle Sam would offer me another tour in Memphis!!
Second the County Grill in Hampton VA.
Two words: Kansas City. One more word: Lame.
Santa Maria (CA) Style BBQ is hands down the best. If you don't know what tri-tip is you are not doing it right! :)
I'm pretty pleased with this list. 4 out of 6 are in Texas and the one in DC and NY are the same Texas BBQ founded by a central Texan. Pretty much nailed the list.
Leave important things like barbecue to the professionals.
I agree. She left out every BBQ in Memphis and St Louis. There are of course many great BBQ's out east and even a few good ones in the midwest. Obviously see has spent quite a bit of time in Texas.
Just ignoring Kansas City?
Oklahoma Joe's!!!
Kate, did you even come close to realizing the minefield you were walking into? :)
ACTUALLY the word BBQ comes from cooking a pig, A WHOLE PIG, from its bar (snout) to its Q ( Tail) so unless you are cooking and eating the whole pig YOU AINT EATING BBQ ! And if you want some of the best down home family BBQ stop by Pete Jones Skylight Inn in Ayden NC!
Nice try, Pete Jones.
Skylight is one fo the best if you want real BBQ. Nothing bette rthan a little paper tray of shopped whole hog and some cornbread. Of course, most people in this country think a McRib is real BBQ.
...and if you knew much about Pete Jones, you'd know he probably hasn't figured out how to use a computer and certainly doesn't have the time to post- he's too busy counting that BBQ money.
Amen!
Whole Hog BBQ in Little Rock and Fayetteville, AR – Memphis in May winners for Whole Hog, Ribs, etc. Shout out to Euless Main Street – Original Sonny Bryan's (yeah, Texas). Wish I could remember the names of two places – a joint on River Road in Louisiana and a joint on the NC/Tenn border just off the blue ridge parkway – got my Q (and Brunswick Stew in NC) to go and didn't pay attention to the names or the towns...learned my lesson...oh for just one more bite...
To me pulled pork is the best. I like it with hot sauce, like Tabasco. Different strokes for different folks.
Creekers BBQ in Elizabethton Tennessee is one of the finest BBQ I have every eaten. I have eaten BBQ in 9 States and theirs is the best by far!! They have 7 sauces that that are available for purchase. Ribs are incredible, Sliced Beef, Sliced Pork, Pulled Pork, and Brisket Tennessee Style!!! WoW!!!! A must eat if you are a BBQ aficionado!!
Drive to Georgia. Anywhere in Georgia. On the corner will be a BBQ shack. Order a pulled pork sandwich and a side of Brunswick stew. Now drive to eastern North Carolina. Order a side of BBQ sauce. Put it on your sandwich and pump your guts full of that hot meat.
Old Hickory in Owensboro KY. FAN-tastic!
I second Old Hickory and give a shout out to Moonlite as well. Need some burgoo right about now.
I shout out to Moonlite as well. I need to try Ol Hickory. I've heard nothing but good things about it.
I'm glad you didn't mention that other more famous Owensboro bbq place. Although I'm not from Owensboro, I've been there several times and real Owenboroan's tell you to eat Old Hickory. However I don't like mutten and I love my bbq slathered in hot and spicy sauce. Bootleg in Louisville is outstanding.
So basically, she's been to some places in Texas and a couple in the Northeast? JOKE..............Texas is one of many different styles of BBQ in the South. I'm afraid she is cheating herself and her readers. Texas knows brisket, but they dont know pork.
No Kidding Carl, Where the hell is Kansas City? Oklahoma Joes, and Arthur Bryant's should be on that list.
You completely ignored KC, TN, NC, Alabama, GA, The Whole Southeast, that's where BBQ was born and raised.
Kate Krader must NOT be from the south, and if she is, she needs to know Texas isnt the only state and they're mostly known for beef ribs, not pork. These are not representative of the entire US and I'm pretty sure a rib joint on Crenshaw is "good" at best.
Ridgewood Barbecue in Bluff City Tennessee , It's old school and family run. Definitely worth the drive.
I make some good stuff myself but Ridgewood is THE gold standard for BBQ. End of story.
NC Lexington style, SC mustard, AL White Sauce, TX Brisket, Memphis, KC all good in their own way and I've even had good que in Germany, India, China and Korea. But what in the $%% does NYC know about spending all nigt tending a fire as it slowly hickorifies that pig into a thin-sliced pile of Heaven on Earth!
Gates in KC! Ive lived in NC for over a year and haven't found good BBQ yet! Where's it at???
Where do you live? I need specifics if I'm going to change your life.
If you go through West Virginia via I 64, check out L & R Catering in Hurricane WV. The owners and cooks are just as good catering as they are serving in their dining area. They have a hard working staff and the food is unbelievably good. Put Hurrican WV on your map of aweseome BBQ brisket, pulled pork, ribs, homemade slaw, potatoes, and a custom BBQ sauce. Slow cooked and smoked to perfection.
Lets Go Mountaineers.
This article is what you get when someone from Boston is asked to rate BBQ. I'm sure the places mentioned are quite good, especially when it's just a cinder block building, but the best bbq joints are not all in big cities. You have to visit Wilber's BBQ in Goldsboro, NC, or Stamey's BBQ in Greensboro. Then you have to go to SC to try out mustard based sauce. Besides, there's a big difference in how you bbq beef and pork.
If you're making a list of best bbq shacks and the list does not include Memphis or Kansas City, your list incomplete, and you don't know 'que!
Comparing pork and beef BBQ really isn't appropriate - they are VERY different. Pork BBQ is also all about the sauce. Real beef BBQ stands on its own. Lockhart, TX (pop. <12,000) is the Official BBQ Capital of Texas. For years the restaurants didn't even offer sauce. And those who really "get it" still don't touch the stuff.
I agree 100%! The Texas BBQ joints are accurate, but the list is far from complete. No NC, KC, or TN locations? Come on!
Theres a great little place in Carter County, Tennessee called Creekers BBQ that has AMAZING barbeque! The pulled pork and ribs are to die for!!!!!!!!!
Creekers B.B.Q. in elizabethton tennessee is unbelievale. The absolute best ribs you have ever tasted. Pulled Pork is the most tender i have ever tasted. I hear they are franchising their restaurant and hav a entire line of sauces hitting stores soon. They smoke their meat over 14 hours and it reallt makes a difference. Creekers BBq 423 542 2272
Creekers BBQ Elizabethton, TN- The Best!
Smoke, Painesville Twp. Ohio
I am going to reiterate a lot of the other comments.
You seriously posted a Best BBQ in the US and completely ignored KC, Memphis and the entire South Eastern US? Or for that matter the 46 or 47 states you did not visit. BBQ is regional always has been, Texas is different than KC. North Carolina has 2 styles, South Carolina has their own style, the only similarities they all have the moniker BBQ that is it. So why don't you do this, take this article down, find 2-3 BBQ places in each state that have good LOCAL and Tourist reviews, eat at the locations THEN come back and rewrite this article. CNN should be able to afford your travel, food and accommodation expenses.
Agreed! My first response to this article was Define "Barbecue".....or is it BBQ, or Bar-B-Que, or Barbeque, or Bar-B-Q, or Bar-B-Cue........
As someone who lives in the southeast very near the border of NC I can say this listing is absolutely correct. Texas has the best BBQ in the WORLD hands down. You note KC with is nothing but ketchup and brown sugar. KC cue is disgusting. EVEN WORSE is the NC representation of so called BBQ sauce. The carolinas put a little spice in a vat of vinegar and call it BBQ. This article is spot on.
There are too many comments to read through and see what places have been named. Keeping this in mind, City Market in Luling, Texas, about 60 miles east of San Anton'. Darn good beef ribs and brisket.
Much agreed!!! I grew up about nine miles from Luling. We still go back for City Market. I have found no other brisket or sausage that comes close.
Bogarts in St. Louis. Pitmaster Skip Steel has the chops and the attitude that make that place untouchable. Nothing else comes close. Oklahoma Joe's (Kansas City) is second in Missouri.
I have never been to the St. Louis place you are talking about, but look forward to trying it the next time I am there, but wanted to give you a heads up that Joe's is actually in Kansas. They just opened a 3rd location in Leawood that I haven't tried yet.
How can you talk about the best BBQ in the US and not even mention Kansas City.....the BBQ capital of the US? Oklahoma Joes, Jack Stack, and Arthur Bryants?
My sentiments exactly Evan! Glad to see a fellow KC-itian posting.
Oklahoma Joe's which is less than a mile from my front door is the best BBQ in the nation. I have sampled BBQ in a thousand restaurants and nothing compares to KC BBQ. Get a clue and come on out.
Totally agree. Thanks for skipping KC on your BBQ post! OK Joes is the best.
A travesty not to mention Gates or Arthur Bryant's. AB's original sauce is unparalleled. It isn't overly sweet, it is just dang good.
I think the entire concept of "best barbecue in the U.S." is completely ridiculous. We all favor what we grew up with. I'm from Virginia and I grew up eating both styles of NC barbecue (Eastern and Western). Those are my favorites. Other folks in other parts of the country grew up eating something slightly different. I'm sure that a true barbecue fan will enjoy their own local fare better but, like me, they'll still appreciate the fine taste of Kansas City ribs, Texas brisket or beef ribs or any other regional style. It's all good and there is no true "best".
Please remember there is only two types of BBQ: Good and Better! As a NC BBQ Society Judge I would like to thank you for a photo with red BBQ slaw. Meat cooked over real charcoal has a wonderful flavor that exceeds meat over electric ovens. Go for the real smoke flavor!
As soon as I saw the photo, I said "Western Carolina slaw!"
I know one thing. I'm going to record the BBQ joints mentioned in these comments, and keep the list with me as my favorite traveling companion.
Phil's BBQ in San Diego. Best. BBQ. Ever.
Phil's BBQ in San Diego is THE BEST ever!!
Please. This is a bunch of cr@p... Best BBQ in the World is in KC! Specifically Arthur Bryants!
I support this statement 100%
Totally agree.
Im not even from KC (from Tennessee) and Arthur Bryants is, hands down, the best BBQ ever. Although, you must get it from the original store. And, presumably unlike the author of the article, I have travelled and sampled BBQ from all over the country, not just Texas, California and Foxborough.
What crack smoker wrote this article????
Seriously? You have Inglewood, CA and NYC but not Memphis? What cave do you live in man?
No, cave man make good BBQ. lol
This is one of the worst reviews on BBQ I've ever read. Kansas City is the BBQ Capitol!!! PERIOD. There are 5 BBQ places that could rank in the top 10 in the nation. I've been to Texas and Memphis and had theirs, but the only reason they think theirs is the best is because they've neve been to KC!!!!!! The American Royal holds their nationwide BBQ competition in Kansas City for a reason.
I've never tasted really great BBQ outside of Dooly County, GA.
Yeah this list is a joke. I have traveled all over the USA and had bbq from the east coast to the west coast. To some extent we are comparing apples and oranges, based on the regional styles and differences between cuts of meats and sauces. Texas, I think Brisket, STL and Memphis I think ribs, deep south – I think pulled pork.
Life to date this is my favorite BBQ: Fox Brother's BBQ – Atlanta, GA (You got to try the smoked chicken wings)
You really need to hit up Prater's in middle Tennessee. It's a hole in the wall place, and I do mean hole in the wall. It's on Hwy 55 going from Manchester to McMinnville. Some of the best I've had, and I've been to KC, NC, Texas, California, had it all, this I loved best. But, the best is bought in a small jar, but can't get it anymore. Hood Canal Mudd. Those of you who may have had it, you know what I mean.
I knew that "Texas" was thew answer to this question before opening the article... Sure enough, the top 4 places listed are in Texas!
Just so everyone is clear NC-style "BBQ" isn't BBQ. There is a reason no one outside of NC uses vinegar.
@ no NC
Just to let you know there are 2 types of NC BBQ. There is western style and eastern style. Western style is your tomato/ketchup based BBQ while Eastern style is the Vinegar based BBQ. Both are good, I prefer eastern for the tangyness.
Except the poor misguided souls in Memphis (and throughout northern Mississippi, northern Alabama, and western Tennessee). Lord knows they don't know ANYTHING about good BBQ. :sarcasm off:
What Philistinism! Barbecue originated in the Caribbean and along the Outer Banks and down the coast. They used vinegar because tomatoes were thought to be poisonous. If your palate is so ruined you don't know real barbecue – well, I don't think I'd post that on CNN.
I was reading this article with interest, suspect of the fact that no Memphis or Carolina BBQ was mentioned, then I come to Hill Country Barbecue. I've eaten at BBQ restaurants all over the country, including Hill Country Barbecue in DC, and I'll give them credit, their food is good, but in NO way is it one of the 'Best' in the country. Give me the cinder block buildings in NC, the back alley's in Memphis, or my Big Green Egg....any day of the week! Now I'm hungry...
That list seems Texas BBQ heavy. While I do enjoy Texas BBQ there are other BBQ styles out there that are good in their own rites
What a goofy list. If you don't have one joint from Memphis or KC then the list has no value. I am sure the places listed are good but come on, really?
Wallace BBQ in Austell GA. Good home style feeling with the best barbecue in the world!
Texas? CALIFORNIA???
I was in California one time visiting some friends. They told me they were having a BBQ. I laughed and told them they didn't know what BBQ was. My friend looked at me, in all seriousness, and said, "Yeah we do. We use KC Masterpiece."
I just about died laughing.
The best BBQ I've ever had is Rosedale BBQ in a subburb of KC. Anthony Bourdain went there when he visited KC, which, I might add, is listed as "The BBQ capital of the world" on his show. We have Gates, Arthur Bryants, Oklahoma Joe's, Woodyard, Rosedale, LC's and BB's, just to name A FEW of the biggest BBQ places. You can't drive down a street without seeing a BBQ place. Companies in Kansas City have BBQ contests. Please, please don't ever put California in the same boat as Kansas City.
At least the 9th reference to Oklahoma Joe's in these comments. Will have to try Rosedale's, which is just a few blocks from Joe's.
Thank you Jesse. No mention of KC is very much a slap in the face to the BBQ community
This list is spot on. Texas BBQ is the good stuff. Kansas City calls themselves the "BBQ Capital," but KC-style BBQ is garbage. It's all slathered in nasty, sticky, sweet goop. Yuck. Give me smoked brisket any day.
Now I will agree with that, even being from KC. The key is to find the right BBQ place just like finding the right barber. A lot of KC places do slather the sauce, which I am not a fan of. Restaurants use sauce to hide dry meat. That is what I love about Joe's, sauce is on the side.
The best BBQ is from the South Period!! But I must say Walker's BBQ in New Orleans East is the best i have ever tasted other than my own BBQ which is the bset also,lol!
Yeah, there's good BBQ in Texas and I'm sure the places in California, DC, and NYC are great, but how do you do a list of the Best BBQ in the US and COMPLETELY disregard the entire deep south.
Buzz and Ned's in Richmond, VA is really very good!!! However, Gate's in KC is better!!!!! But if you want the best BBQ, go to Authur Bryant's in KC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Arthur Bryant's maybe...Gates, not my fav at all...Smokin' Guns in North KC, Oklahoma Joe's, Rosedale...now that is BBQ.
this list is a joke, right?
This article is a joke. MEMPHIS MEMPHIS MEMPHIS MEMPHIS MEMPHIS MEMPHIS. How can you not name a city that is consistently voted best BBQ in America, and is known for its BBQ more than any other place I know of . This lady needs to do her research. Rendezvous, Interstate, Neelys, Toms cabin, Corkys, Paynes BBQ, Cozy Corner, Tops BBQ, and many many more. Those are just the world famous ones!!!! Although this lady probably wouldn't dare go to many of these places because they are in famous alleys (Rendezvous alley) and so called ghettos. Again do your research lady, you've just personally insulted a lot of people from the south, where real American BBQ was invented.
And I would still add one other to this list of Memphis's best, and that would be BB Kings........and you could go on to mention the Memphis cook off in May of each year......oh well maybe this is her first article on BBQ
Hear, hear!
Amen... Memphis es todos! Have they not had BBQ Bologna on Beale!?!
I've been in Memphis nearly 30 times, and Corky's is crap, and BB King's is a tourist trap with bad service. Germantown Commissary is the only place in Memphis that grades well in my book, but I still make a better bbq at home in my smoker.
Go to Central next time...best pulled pork, ribs and wings I have ever had and I've had them all over the country
AMEN...Don't forget Central BBq...The best....After that make sure you hit Guss's fried chicken...best ever
I've ate at Interstate in Memphis and loved it, awesome BBQ. But that is Memphis BBQ. If you want the good stuff, you have to go to KC. Oklahoma Joes is awesome, Gates and Jack Stack are great. I have heard Smokin Guns is really good. If a BBQ list doesn't list a KC place on it, you can't believe the person knows what they are talking about.
Gates BBQ in KC has been doin' right for almost 70 years. If you ain't down with Ollie Gates, get out. Seriously.
Oklahoma Joe's BBQ is the best restaurant of any type in Kansas City. Has to be on this list.
Oklahoma Joes, or Kansas City BBQ in general, not on this list is the most preposterous omission in the history of omission
this.
x eleventy billion
joes is by far #1 in KC, but to omit Bryants, Gates, and Zagat's #1 rated Jack's Stack (which isn't even that good compared to other KC joints) is a mockery of a BBQ list. When the author used a BOSTONIAN BBQ "chef" as the key cog in developing the list...well, you had to know it was going to suck.
The best BBQ on the planet comes from Lexington, NC. There are many great BBQ restaurant there but my favorite is Lexington Barbeque Center. One weekend a year Amtrak stops in Lexington for their annual BBQ featival, that should tell you how good it is. BTW the Lexington BBQ sauce is vinegar based which gives a great tang to the slow cooked hickory smoked pork.
Making a definitive list of America's Best Barbecue is like making a definitive list of most beautiful women in the world, or best novel ever written. It would be pretty impossible to form any consensus. That being said, given the examples in the article, it would appear Chef Faison doesn't eat/care for pork, which I think would preclude her from any expertise in the subject of BBQ. I've had a lot of BBQ in my time, and I work in the meat industry. Unquestionably, the best I've had has been mentioned multiple times in the comments section: Oklahoma Joe's in KC is amazing. I have no idea if they are lacing their sauce with Ecstasy or Magic Pixie Dust, but their BBQ is crazy good.
I can't speak as to any great BBQ restaurants but her list is very obviously texas style BBQ biased. All she mentions is beef and chicken. While Texas BBQ is a real thing it's laughable to make a best in the US list and only focus on that single style. You'd see similiar comments here if she had only talked about Memphis style BBQ and ignored the others.
Agree with those who say Oklahoma Joe's in KC is the best – and this from a Georgia native who has eaten BBQ all over the South.
The best BBQ hands down is Creeker's BBQ in Stoney Creek, TN * * * * *
I never got past the first sentence: "....NCAA football season."
That was enough for me to know that the rest of the article was probably flawed.
I agree !! She didn't even mention some of the biggest BBQ states in the country like NC, TN, KS or AL – if you haven't been to the South then you haven't truely had good barbeque – period!! Boston's for seafood and steaks – ARRRGH
I have no idea how you can have a "best BBQ list" without mentioning Kansas City, Memphis, or North Carolina BBQ. Stupid.
Agreed! You can't do a BBQ article without visiting a good "western style" Memphis BBQ shack or a good "eastern style" Raleigh bbq spot!
So close, and then you said "Raleigh" instead of "Lexington" (the king of Piedmont BBQ) or any of the towns known for Eastern NC BBQ. Even Chapel Hill has better BBQ than Raleigh.
The list is woefully incomplete! Big Bob Gibson's BBQ in Decatur, AL with over a dozen 1st place NBBQ awards, Jack Daniels World Championship winner, multiple awards from Chili Pepper Magazine, Scovie's etc. Alabama BBQ at it's best! Also worth mentioning is The Joint in New Orleans & The Shed BBQ in MS.
Branch out a bit Ms. Krader, your taste buds will thank you.
GOING TO TX FOR BBQ IS LIKE GOING TO CHINA FOR A PHILLY CHEESE STEAK THEY DON'T KNOW BBQ
You obviously haven't tried any bbq in Texas then unless you only tried the McRibs.
Or like going to you for advice on BBQ. And as they say here in Texas – get ya’ some darn grammar lessons.
This article should have been organized according to regional style and type of meat. No mention of chicken, sausage or lamb! That way you could have a list to travel and taste in a day or overnight trip.
My favorites are beef brisket from Adam's Rib in Lakeport, TX and a tie for pork ribs between Country Tavern in Kilgore, TX and Williams Bros in Marietta, GA.
mmmm ribs, I guess I know what I'm having for lunch!
I love Williamson Brothers or Dave Poe's in Marietta, Oklahoma Joe's in KC, Fox Brothers in Atlanta and hundreds of small holes-in-the wall in GA, AL, TN and MS. No mention of the deep South or KC? What a laughable list!
Slows Barbecue, Detroit, MI – Best in the country!
Slow's – great BBQ but unfortunatel lousy service!
Shhhhh don't tell everyone....let these idiots fight over the scraps down south. Adam Richman and the Food Network nearly blew our cover on "Best Sandwich in America" last month. The locals are already creating a 2.5 hour wait at this place, let's keep it that way! ;-)
I agree, KC, Memphis, and a lot of southeastern states have excellent BBQ joints and were left off the list. And surely there are great BBQ places in the US where you'd never expect them (I've frequented more than a few). But what kills me, how can you talk about BBQ in Texas and not mention The Salt Lick in Driftwood, TX? Makes me wonder if the author even visited these places and tried the fare, or just did a web search and slopped an "article" together.
When you leave pork completely out of a list of best BBQ places, you have a skewed list. I am not saying that they don't know how to BBQ in TX. I am saying that Tiffani Faison has lead a sheltered life.
BBQ is an inflammatory subject. We need a little objectivity here.
MEMPHIS PERIOD..... NUFF SAID
When you leave pork completely out of a list of BBQ places, you have a skewed list. I am not saying that they don't know how to barbeque in Texas. I am saying that Tiffani Faison has lead a sheltered life.
BBQ is an inflammatory subject...but we need a little objectivity here.
Florida's Kitchen in Livingston, TX
If you can find the place.
So pleased to see Meshck's on here. I enjoyed everyone claims and woe's about missing BBQ regions. Honestly though, none of that matters. BBQ is for everyone and I bet if you a N. Florida pit master talk to a N. TX pit master you'd get an opportunity to hear a very cool conversation.
Texas has many good BBQ places but my favorite is still Rudy's and she ignored all the other places who have BBQ. My other favorite is Interstate BBQ in Memphis. Interstate has ribs and brisket to die for. Hopefully she will explore a bit more BBQ before writing a post about the best BBQ.
fette sau brooklyn for sure!!!
I'm a weekend warrior and the bbq I make on my smoker will put to shame 99% of the product that 'bbq restaraunts' sell. Sorry but bbq is best when it's not 'left to the experts'. Anyone can do it with a little research on the many bbq forums out there.
I quit reading after the first paragraph and seeing that the author was a women. Females writing about bbq and tailgates makes as much sense as me writing about handbags and feminine products.
New Riegel Cafe in New Riegel, Ohio with extra sauce and sauce on your fries
Yes, but very, very different from Memphis or Texas or NC. Definetly a unique Q.
I live in NY and Hill Country is arguably the best we have in NYC. However, she only eats Texas style BBQ? California BBQ? Where are NC, SC, KC, Memphis, every other great BBQ center in the US? This article is full of holes!
BEST BBQ in Florida is "Brian's Bodashus BBQ" in Largo – he only cooks when he wants to and you have to have a private invitation to even get in – but if you do.... BBQ heaven!!!
Try Jazzy's in the Town N' Country area of Tampa. Good stuff.
Big Daddy's BBQ in Gary, IN. Not messing around!
While I agree with the thought that BBQ is more diverse than TX. Certainly, mention of Kansas City, Memphis, and the Carolinas should be required. It is time us Southerns get off our high horses, I was actually in the Boston area this summer and had very good Q at a little place in Newton, MA - Blue Ribbon BBQ. Was it the best I have ever had? No - but I have had some dynamite BBQ over the years as well as a mess of horrible "what-was-I-thinking-coming-here". But Blue Ribbon could hold its own in most areas easily. So, ease up a bit on the "yankees" that war ended some time ago and it is not like the South (while we invented it) holds the patent on slow cooking spiced rubbed meat.
The way this was written, I'm surprised they didn't mention McDonald's for their McRib sandwich. You can't write an article about where the best BBQ is...it's all relative. Everyone likes a different type of BBQ...Texas is known for its dry rub style of BBQ. In the deep south you have your molasses based and in the south east you tend to have more vinegar based BBQ. Kansas City doesn't really have it's own style because it includes all of them...that tends to be where great BBQ converges. If you want to try lots of great BBQ in one venue, I recommend the American Royal BBQ contest in Kansas City. It's held annually and has BBQ from all over the country. Also, in my opinion...some of the best BBQ I have ever had, nobody will ever know about because it usually comes from some no name shack in some back water, side road town from some purveyor who doesn't really promote their business. The best things are still sometimes a secret!
I don't complete agree with your catagories but I really do agree with your assumption. There are as you said many different kinds, not to mention the type of meats alone...Beef, Pork and Chicken to name but a few. And also as you said the regions. I like the southern North Carolina pulled pork smoke with vinager and and a Pepperrika rub. Also what is really great, which I believe falls in the catagorie of BBQ is Cuban pit cooked pork with citrus rubs. Man I'm getting hungrey. We need to judge BBQ, which is really just a style of cooking like frying, boiling etc., based upon the meat used and not the method. And like another bolger said...The best BBQ is from some unknown shack...at least that is what I have found.
McClard's in Hot Springs, AR
Been in the same location, in the same white stucco building for over 60 years. The ABSOLUTE best BBQ I've ever had. And, they have a tamale plate that is killer, too.
Have you never been to the Dinosaur BBQ in Syracuse, Rochester or Manhattan NY? The ribs are to die for.....................!
Dinosaur Barbeque is Syracuse!!! Not only known for their good eats, but cold beer and good ol' down home blues music!!! Definitely worth a mention!
Go Dinosaur! They just catered a wedding party with pulled pork, ribs and chicken. It was outstanding. You're right about the ribs....very tender. My wife is 99% vegetarian, until we pull up to Dinosaur.
Hill Country? Did you actually go inside and taste the rubber meat? Pitiful.
Rusty's BBQ- Leeds, Alabama. Hands down. Ribs, Hand Pulled Pork and birds....
Leeds, Alabama BBQ rocks! That whole area has the best BBQ in the world..my fav is Smokey Pig. I have lived all over the country (Tx for 20 yrs) and hands down SC, GA, Ala BBQ is the best...
lexington, nc...enough said!
Here here
One of the best!
dinosaur BBQ hands down! they already won a national competition conducted by ABC network....those of you who haven't tried it ...I understand you can't imagine a great BBQ restaurant from the North...but having tried out various BBQ joints from various southern states...I would definitely vote for Dinosaur...
My favorite was Mr. Rib in Ann Arbor. Home of the famous "Soul on a Roll".
Does this woman ever travel? How in the world can she list DC, NY, or CA and not list Kansas City and Memphis? Hellooooooooooo! EVERYONE knows those places are huge BBQ havens! Get your act together or go home!
Memphis -Alright. I think TX, CA, NY and DC must be the only places she ever ate BBQ.
It's Obamas fault
thank you, how can you not put Kansas CFity and Memphis on the top of any great BBQ list
Appears this lady didn't even go to Alabama, KC or the Carolinas. To list a NYC bbq'r tells me she has no idea what the hell bbq is. Please go write about casseroles and cucumber sandwiches.
The BEST BBQ is the stuff in my stomach!
Best BBQ is in South Carolina. Everywhere else is just snackin.
from the comments left here ,I'd have to say we all agree on at least one thing!
I live in NC now but Im from OK and lived in TX. By far OK/TX BBQ is the best! Bob's Pig Shop in Pauls Valley, OK is the best BBQ in the world. Again, I live in NC now so when you say "BBQ" here that means only one thing... Pulled pork. Oh, and dont freak out if your not from this area and order a BBQ sandwich and they plop down a big bile of coleslaw over the meat. I thought I was going to faint when I saw that (however I really liked it but dont tell any in OK that I said that).
It's not a BBQ Sandwich without the cole slaw ;)
This article should have been called "The best BBQ in Texas" because the rest of the country has...
Rendezvous and Cozy Corner in Memphis,
Fiorella's and Bryant's in KC,
the Skylight Inn or Allen and Son in NC
and, of course, a plug for both Fat Willy's and Smoque in my Sweet Home Chicago.
It's a big country, miss Faison. Perhaps you should visit more than Texas.
Agreed. There are a lot of styles out there, and she either only likes one kind or just doesn't travel much. I'm a Kansas City native that now lives in Texas and have sampled most of your mentioned spots and many, many more, and still don't feel anywhere near qualified to write an article of this scope.
Unless you have been to The Joint in New Orleans, you shouldn't be writing about the best bbq in the country.
I've had all kinds of BBQ in most the of famous BBQ states and the winner is .....TEXAS. Don't get me started on vinegar based sauce or pulled pork with a mustard based sauce, YUK.
Uh... Texas, Texas, Texas, Texas, California, and Washington D.C.? Uh, HELLO?
First of all, I'm from Boston originally. Let me tell you something – NO native Bostonian (or New Englander, for that matter) knows barbecue until they MOVE AWAY and live in a BBQ town for at least three years. Sorry, they just don't. I don't care if she thinks she's a master chef. She doesn't know barbecue. This list sounds like she made one quick pit (ha!) stop in Texas, and sample some faux-barbecue while she was on vacations in CA and DC.
Yes, Texas has some good barbecue, but she completely missed the entire southeast, North Carolina, and even worse, she missed Kansas City. KC is FAMOUS for barbecue. I currently live about a mile from the only barbecue joint on Anthony Bourdain's list of 13 places where you must eat before you die. You know what? There's a REASON it's on his list.
Seriously, this woman embarrassed herself (and Boston) by writing this article. Dear Bostonian chef: don't venture into the world of BBQ until you've traveled to and stayed in several of the major barbecue regions for more than a weekend. New England has some excellent cuisine. I know, I lived there most of my life, and I miss the food terribly. However, stop trying to be something you're not. Oh, and come to Kansas City. Try some real barbecue.
Not bad for a Bostonian. Well said, Leo. You sure you ain't from the south ;-) ?
Before even reading the article, my intuition told me to search "Boston" on the page, and I wasn't surprised that I found it here. I immediately knew this article wasn't worth reading I live in Boston, and people are all "oh, Red Bones is so great!" I'm sorry, but there's no such thing as REAL barbecue in a place that isn't known for barbecue. I agree with you–this lady just made herself look bad.
Dinosaur, downtown Syracuse, NY. I lived in the South, but nothing comes close.
Franklin's is SO OVERRATED. Its nothing more than hipster BBQ with idiots waiting in line for hours when they could walk down the street for BBQ just as good if not better.
The best BBQ comes only from TX, California, and New York/DC.....?????
To not list a BBQ joint in the Deep South is ignorant and wrong. Whitt's BBQ in Athens, AL (also available in Nashville, TN) is fantastic vinegar, not red sauce based, BBQ. Though imagine how good it would be if it was sold in Texas!!!!
Idiotic article.
You want great BBQ, Hemingway, S.C., Scott's BBQ. They sauce their BBQ on the pit and let it cook into the meat. It just can't be BBQ any better than this. I also believe Anthony Bourdain said it was the best he had ever had.
Whoever wrote the article doesn't have a clue about BBQ. They didn't mention NC BBQ in the entire article, yet there's a picture of a plate of NC BBQ (although western style) at the bottom of the article. Wilbur's in Goldsboro, NC is the best by far. Ask anyone from the eastern part of the state.
This is by far the most worst article I've ever read about bbq. If anything it should have been a "part 1". BBQ is so regional. With the multiple techniques and meats, you just can't lump them all together. By the way, where is the current world champion from?
Georgia
Dinosaur BBQ..The best..hands down
I've had BBQ in the Carolinas and in Georgia..none of it beats the Dino
Deadwood BBQ – Mason Texas. Owner Ed Velez.
“Kate Krader (@kkrader on Twitter) is Food & Wine's restaurant editor. When she tells us where to find our culinary heart's desire, we listen up.” Eatocracy, it looks as if you may have stepped “in your Barbeque”. Publishing this article was a rookie mistake and has diminished your credibility…
As most culinary experts expound “Barbeque is distinctly regional” with no single region being better than another. All regions providing their superb twist to that most wonderful of all foods “BARBEQUE”.
Sorry for you Eatocracy… You may want to consider a new restaurant editor or perhaps confine Kate to areas of food that she more clearly understands.
Where are the Memphis, Tn BBQ Joints? Central BBQ is tops in everything! Get on a plane and head this way!
No mention of Memphis? RIDICULOUS! Central BBQ, Corky's, Rendevous, and others. Take your pick. They're all great!
Crosstown BBQ in Springfield, MO= Best BBQ ever. I try to stop in when I visit the area.
Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood Texas. Hands down best BBQ on the planet. The only thing they lack is sawdust on the floor. Don't forget to leave room for the homemade cobbler.
North Florida has some awesome BBQ as well. Try Ken's in Madison, FL.
This list is so incomplete and Texas (beef) centric.... How could you leave out the 3 most important location in bar-b-que.. North Carolina, Kansas City and Memphis... I am a Memphis guys, but I appreciate all the styles and would make sure they are all included the list including Texas... but since it is Memphis how about Cozy Corner, Germantown Commissary, Bar-B-Que Shop, Central Bar-B-Que to name a few that kick the ass of most other places...
Memphis is the best!!
This article should be re-titled as "Texas BBQ Places and One Other". I love Texas, but this reporter missed so many great BBQ opportunities. I'm a Memphis girl - where's my town on this list? What about the Carolinas? Kansas City? There are many regional variations on BBQ, and everyone has their favorite, but this is hardly an article on BBQ. This is more like, "My name is Mary, I live in Texas, and here are the places in driving distance from me."
BBQ originated in North Carolina ...
Most of the comments have figure-out this writer is either completely ignoratn when it comes to Q – or he's just itchin' for a fight. I've eaten BBQ in the north, south, east and west, TX, KC, CA, VA, NC, SC – and even internationally – and I believe the best is good ole' Carolina Barbeque. Let's here it for Black's, RO's, Sonny's, Pig's and all the master chefs who know good Q starts with a pig!
Actually, slow-cooking seasoned meat or smoking it in a pit-like enclosure has been enjoyed by humans since the stone age. It did not originate in North Carolina. Wow.
Englewood? ENGLEWOOD? LMAO! Ok... after you have sampled classic ENGLEWOOD BBQ, come check out the world-famous sushi in St. Louis, MO.
I like Texas BBQ just fine, but come on...where is Memphis? They completely left out the deep South here, where the absolute best BBQ (IMHO) is made. Apparently only beef & chicken were included. You seriously cannot have BBQ without pork.
I hope that none of the food mentioned is pork or else the Muslims will storm CNN.
The Salt Lick, Driftwood, TX. It's all-you-can-eat beef brisket, ribs, and sausage is the best meal I have ever eaten. It is about an hour outside Austin, and it is worth the drive from anywhere in the U.S.
kc bbq is by far the best. i've had st.louis, memphis, detroit (yes, detroit has a pretty solid place called slow's). jack stack, oklahoma joes, gates, arthur byrants. kc dominates and even has it's on wikipedia page!
Obviously the person who wrote, while well intentioned, has no idea what they are talking about. Leaving Carolina, Memphis, and KANSAS CITY off of the list is an atrocity. Out of the BBQ joints I have been, Oklahoma Joe's in KC is still the best (heads and shoulders over the rest). Anthony Bourdain calls it one of the top ten restaurants to visit before you die...he was absolutely right...and you can actually afford it!
I live within a mile of Oklahoma Joe's. Talk about temptation at its finest. But like the author of this article, I'm originally from Boston. I didn't understand BBQ until I moved to Kansas City. Midwesterners don't understand seafood, but New Englanders don't understand barbecue. The fact that they're having someone from BOSTON writing an article about barbecue is just SAD.
Oklahoma Joe's is the best!! Where else can you pump gas and get great bbq?!?!?
There's only two kinds of BBQ "Good" and "Better", nuff said.
I love the fact they lead the article with a picture of NC barbaque and red slaw, but never mentioned a reviewed resturant in the state.
I noticed that immediately, too. Texas? Whatever. Don't mess with Lexington.
Where in the hell did they come up with this list? If North Carolina and Alabama are not on the list, then it's got nothing to do with the greatest BBQ joints. And I'm not talking about the fancy commercialized joints either, but rather dives where the focus is on the food and not the marketing and where you have to get directions by landmarks. That's where you'll find the greatest BBQ.
This list is stupid. Anyone who has been to Kansas cities big 4: Oklahoma joes, Arthur Bryant's, gates, and jack stack knows what BBQ is. This author obviously does not.
Im from Kansas City. I have tried two of the barbecue restaurants listed above. Trust me they dont come close to KC barbecue. Not in the same league!!!!!!!!!!
Here's to Kansas City barbecue! Pass the sauce, man.
it's people like this that vote Red lobser or captain d's for best seafood!
Really who the idiot that went to all these places to sample the bbq. I could consider Texas but really new york and Washington D.C. you got to be kidding me right. KC should been on this list since the have Gates and Arthur Bryants. And some other places which probably didnt even get stopped at would be North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Kentucky, Georgia and the rest of the southern states. But the question I have for you Kate did you even try these other places or are you just some yankee who thinks that those bbq places are the best. Also why didnt you put famous daves on your list since you want to put those establishments
I cannot comment on who has the best BBQ. Maybe the BBQ gods know. So many different styles ... let's eat them all !!!
However, I've ate at Blacks before and the BBQ is to die for. Lockhart TX has 3 or 4 killer locations.
I am sure all of those places are fine......but no NC places on the list..??? Very suspect!
http://www.ncbbqsociety.com/bbqmap/trail_map.html
Memphis. And that's a fact.
I can't believe no Kansas City joints made your list! My favorite is probably Fiorello's Jack Stack BBQ, a local chain with a few restaurants in the KC area.
Why all the Texas haters here? Seriously though, providing a list of the "best" barbeque joints is like providing a list of the cutest kids. No matter where I've been in this country (I'm from Austin, Tx, by the way) everybody thinks their barbeque is the best. I live in Georgia now and cooked up a spread of Texas style bbq and my guests kept asking me where was the hash and rice. "Barbeque ain't barbeque without hash and rice," I was told. I also know people in Georgia who think Mexicans in Mexico don't know how to cook Mexican food as good as Taco Bell. My granddaughter thinks McDonalds is the best restaurant in the world. People like what they like. And thats okay.
I'm in Austin, too...have to ask...what the heck is "hash and rice"? I think of hash as chopped beef mixed with potatoes,usually for breakfast. Hmmm... :D
Nobody is "hating on Texas" (at least, not for this). They're slamming the author for the fact that it seems like she hasn't actually been around to different regions. Look at the list: Texas, Texas, Texas, Texas, CA, and Washington DC. There's some good TX barbecue, but it looks like she hasn't been around enough to speak on the topic of barbecue overall.
Finally, someone states the obvious. I'm from Texas - but have eaten great BBQ in other parts of this great country. There's nothing that will start an argument easier than posting a list of "best BBQ places." The truth is this: BBQ is a regional food, and a credible list of the "best BBQ places" would be endless. I prefer to enjoy the different styles wherever I am. I love Texas BBQ - but the truth is, I just love BBQ, regardless of the style and where it is cooked. Finally, let me admit my prejudice in this matter: I had to laugh when I read the word "Boston" at the top of the story. Now, let's all go out and support our favorite BBQ joint for lunch today!
Ive lived in Tx, Ive lived in NC, eaten KC style, had Memphis style...... but the best in the land is Nordy's in Loveland, CO!!
I've been in NC for 2 months and have already found to BBQ places that rival anything I tasted in my 15 years living in TX.
Damn straight. Texans are hung up on using beef...
At least NC places serve up a variety!
Well, I am a North Carolinian and I can say by virture of trying BBQ in most of the mentioned places, and NONE equal
Griffins BBQ in Williamston, NC or Shaw's BBG.
Really? A barbeque review by a yankee? No mention of Virginia? South Carolina? North Carolina? Tennessee? I can find better barbecue at a roadside stand at a gas station in Alabama than any of the places she mentions. New York City....get a rope.
Damn straight! I appreciate that everyone has their own tastes but mentioning only BBQ places from one of the BBQ capitols and then a bunch of unknown places just shows that the writer hasn't traveled into the REAL BBQ territories. Of course with exception of Texas which they seem to be extremely versed in. I'm from Tennessee but I've tried BBQ in all the major areas except Kansas City to which I say they all can be pretty good. You just can't compare some places though. Kentucky uses lamb, Texas uses beef, North Carolina uses vinegar sauces. Some places smoke sausages some don't. It's apples and oranges.
I don't think I'd even give her that, seeing as how she left out THE SALT LICK of all places...
LOL.. Yankee..the Civil war ended years ago..get over it!
Buckshot got it right! What's a yankee know about BBQ , biscuits and gravy or sweet tea?!?
Parker's in Wilson, NC; Family Style only way to go!!!
I agree about there should've been mention of both eastern, as well as western NC style BBQ. I've lived in NC for 21 years (originally from NYC), and I *love* eastern style, with the vinegar and hot red pepper flaked mopping sauce. Parkers in WIlson – YUM! Even Smithfield's does in a pinch! The Southeast was definitely underrepresented! Dunno why they asked a Bostonian... And nary a mention of the accompaniments – hushpuppies, slaw, biscuits...
That is one great comment – and a sign that you are really "naturalized" (though NYC is a wonderful, wonderful city . . .).
Thanks! I'm a damn Yankee, cuz I've stayed. :-) Love it here.
Well said brother.
Of course the best Barbeque is in Texas. But Buzz 'N Ned's in Richmond is probably the best on the East Coast.
I live in Richmond and Buzz N Ned's is not that great, Pierce's in Williamsburg is much better. Payne's in Memphis is the best I've ever had (and I prefer NC style the most).
Recently did a BBQ tour of west TN, north MS, AL, and GA, and east TN, including some famous spots in Memphis and Tuscaloosa. Best single item was the rib sandwich at The Old Plantation in Chattanooga.
MMMMMMMMMMM! I have a road trip idea now!
And yea, I'm pretty sure this is not a very well researched article. Sounds like some visited Texas for the first time this summer
Great Article! I look forward to the next, where we go to Des Moines, IA to taste "Best Clam Chowder", then on to Casey's All-Nite HandiMart for "Best Deep Dish Pizza" and finally, we'll tempt your taste buds in Salt Lake City where we sample America's "Best Philly Beef"
MMmmmm – them's good eatins'!!
Good one! Yeah, next you know, I'll be writing about the best corned beef on (authentic) rye sandwich with a side of potato latkes or kasha varnishkes that I've had in Raleigh. NOT.
Is that sarcasm better wet or dry? ....funny stuff....
Matter of preference. I like my sarcasm both ways, on wry, hold the mayo. :-)
No NC, Memphis, or KC??? FAIL. Can I have my 2 minutes back?
The writer of the article is obviously an animal.
.... really?? this is not a great list... Letha's Barbeque in Hattiesburg MS? Why is it not on the list?!?!? Brett Farve had delivered up to Wisconsin when he was with the Packers... Letha's is the best. Fact.
As a native of North Carolina, I have to say I'm almost offended. If you left off NC for Memphis or KC, it would have been one thing; I would have been fine with it. But NY and CA? And then four from TX? One or two for TX would have been fine also. Maybe, the article should have been called "Best Barbecue according to someone who's only been to Texas, New York and California".
Tha' truth hurts, doancha know?
Given your inability to recognize it – I guess you wouldn't know.
Right there with you as a fellow tarhee. Speedy's in Welcome, NC can't be beat!!!
Now...Don't YA'LL know we do it BIGGER and BETTER in TX...Granted, YA'LL other states are catching up but TX is a POWERHOUSE...Oh, that's right, YA'LL don't cook anything but CK and PORK...TX COOKS BEEF...BEEF IS WHAT'S FOR DINNER...Brisket...Learn2cookIT...
What's that – everything is dumber in Texass ?
Ziggy leaves a real zinger. Owwwwww Ziggy, give us a break.
The Salt Lick in Austin and Phill's BBQ in San Diego should be on this list.
Very poor article and choice. Kansas City's Gates and Arthur Bryants should be on any BBQ list. The Smokehouse in Gladstone isn't far behind. I've had Oklahoma Joe's and wasn't impressed. I've been to Memphis and the one place we ate at was a close second to KC. I've been to a a big name downtown Austin Tex BBQ and was not impressed with the Bisket – it was cut thick and tough.
Now we know that you have no clue.... next.
what no mention of dinosaur bbq in syracuse, ny? easily the best bbq in the north east
"BBQ" and "Northeast" do not equate. Go have a Philly cheese-steak and listen to your betters.
Amen!
You gotta be kidding me........New York and California? Down here we don't use couscous or tofu!
A little more balance on your coverage next time dude......TN, GA, KY and the Carolinas would be nice.
Texas BBQ is great but it does not represent all of the various meats, sauces and styles of cooking.
Oh......and Kate – maybe next time you write such a crappy article, click on a link like the one above "America's Best BBQ Cities" from Food and Wine. It's not exceptional either but it certainly will increase your BBQ – IQ.
We drive from Boston to eat at Wilber's in Goldsboro, NC !
Or Kings in Kinston.
Shame on you Kate... Merely posting a picture from a North Carolina restaurant does not absolve you of your sin. How dare you produce such a list and not mention a single restaurant from South Carolina, North Carolina, or Tennessee? This list is offensive.
Clay's Smokehouse in PDX!
He got his training in South Carolina and Oklahoma.
Totally snubbed The Salt Lick in Driftwood, Texas which is in my opinion one of the best bbq joints around.
Kansas City should dominate this list. Texas, seriously? What a joke
I trust that the author understands little about the culture and process of good barbeque. Not only was the article devoid of any of the regional barbeque diversity that defines the craft, but the rationale for her selections missed meaningful substance. For the tens of thousands of Americans who dedicate themselves to barbeque's roots, this missed the mark.
BBQ isnt a destination or a place. BBQ is a "type" of cooking not limited to any State, Style, or Area Code. BBQ is what happens when women leave it to the MAN to cook the pig. Are there any great women BBQ chefs......Think about it.
Texas bqq> all but the writer must have landed on his head sometime circa birth Kreuz> Smittys, Blacks, et all.... I will throw a bone Memphis way though.... LOVE Rendezvous w/spicy sauce. The rest of you poor schmucks throw ketchup on pigs and call it bqq.... *Face crazy*
Someone mentioned interstate bbq.... Its ok... but that pork sandwich on the corn pancakes... now that's some good eating.
Interstate BBQ in Memphis–you got to be kidding. That and that Rendezvous bbq place in Memphis are places that probably at one time were really good, but now they are like aging whores, servicing customers based on a reputation that is long past.
My favorite barbecue place is Luling City Market, Luling, TX....don't be fooled by the one on the internet, not the same. They have ribs that make you wish you could die right there and have them cremate you so your ashes would be steeped in their heavenly smoke. Sauce? Good barbecue don't need no stinkin' sauce.
Memphis bbq is great, but nothing does it for me like Texas style bbq. You need to add Texas spots like City Market in Luling, Louie Mueller in Taylor, and Salt Lick in Driftwood to your bbq hall of fame list.
+1
And also fargos in Bryan, tx
hands down, oklahoma joe's in kansas city
OK Joes all the way. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ-man!!!
Not ONE NC bbq joint? This writer is seriously deluded. Try Bridges in Shelby, Smiley's in Lexington, Grady's in Dudley. I have eaten texas bbq and doesn't hold a candle to NC. Memphis was good as is KC.
Anyone ever heard of MEMPHIS ??????
Central BBQ, Interstate BBQ, Rendevous, Memphis BBQ (Horn Lake, MS)....just to name a few !
Memphis BBQ is highly overrated. Central BBQ is forgettable. Interstate BBQ is pretty good. Rendevous is terrible! I've had much better Q in OKC & Oakland CA.
You listed all those places in TX, but left out the best of them all, Salt Lick in Driftwood, TX!!
Anyboby been to Memphis???
Somebody might want to check Kate's bank account because it's obvious some big TX beef rancher is stuffing her pockets with lobby money. Kate – please my dear, buy a plane ticket out of TX and think about not flying to the east or west coast and missing the best damn BBQ in the world – it's smoked right here inn Kansas City. Shoot me an email before you come and I'll clear my schedule to treat you to what all my Texas friends drive 500 miles to eat – Kansas City BBQ. So many choices, so little time. Bryant's? Oklahoma Joe's? Rosedale's? I could go on and on....
4 Texas, 1 Cali, 1 D.C...... Are you sh!tting me!!! What are you ... new? Stop stepping on my d!ck! First off.... go to Memphis. Second off ... go to H.B's BBQ in Little Rock, AR.... http://www.yelp.com/biz/h-b-s-bbq-little-rock this list is a joke!!!!
You should be embarrased to publish this llist!!! A handful of places in TX and then a place in CA and another in NY/DC? Agree with comments above that KC should be all over this list....as should NC and TN. You can bet I'll pass on Sweet Cheeks next time I'm in Boston because they clearly don't know a thing about BBQ.
Now we know Memphis,TN is the king of que......
Did you even try BBQ in Missouri?
Best BBQ? You didn't even list one Kansas City restaurant and KC has several that should be on this list.
Amen. Sad
excuse for a list.
I have been to NYC 17 times on business, and tried 7 different BBQ places – that any of them made the list is a mystery to me. Nothing I've had in NYC would last a month in KC, Memphis, Austin or Charlotte.
Not one listing from NC or VA. This list is total BS.