Best BBQ spots in the US

What to know about fast-casual bbq

BBQ has become one of the most reliable categories in the fast-casual world. The format works well at the $10-to-$16 price point, the kitchens can be standardized without losing character, and the dishes travel well for takeout — all of which has driven a wave of new openings over the last decade. The result is that most major US cities now have at least a half-dozen serious bbq options worth your lunch break.

Signature dishes to try

The shortlist of dishes that define this category and that most operators will have some version of:

• Brisket Plate — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.
• Pulled Pork Sandwich — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.
• Smoked Ribs — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.
• Burnt Ends — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.
• Mac & Cheese — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.
• Cornbread — a category staple. Quality varies a lot across operators, which is part of why specialty bbq spots have a leg up on the chains.

Price expectations

Most fast-casual bbq spots fall in the $9 to $18 per-person range. You'll pay closer to $9-$12 for a single sandwich or bowl in a smaller market, and closer to $15-$18 for a full combo in a coastal metro. Sides, drinks and add-ons are where the bills can quietly grow, so it's worth scanning the menu for combos or build-your-own options that lock in the total.

How we picked these

Every restaurant on this list is a real fast-casual operator with a real menu, current operating hours and a written summary of what the food and atmosphere are like. We don't list pure full-service or fine-dining venues, even when they happen to serve bbq. Use the city links on each card to drill into a specific market.