25 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Kansas City
You're about to discover Kansas City's best barbecue spots. You'll find top picks like Arthur Bryant's and Gates Bar-B-Q, but that's just the start.
Arthur Bryant's Barbeque
Because you're looking for the best barbecue in Kansas City, you can't miss Arthur Bryant's Barbeque, a legendary institution that's been serving up exceptional 'cue since 1952.
Arthur Bryant's history and signature dishes, like burnt ends, make it a must-visit.
Gates Bar-B-Q
One of Kansas City's most iconic barbecue joints, Gates Bar-B-Q has been perfecting its craft since 1946.
You'll find multiple Gates locations, offering a variety of menu items, catering, and sauces, with great reviews, showcasing its rich history and specialties in a unique atmosphere with excellent service.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
One of Kansas City's most iconic barbecue joints may have set the bar high, but Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que is giving it a run for its money. You'll find Joe's history, menu, and awards in the table:
| Joe's | Location | Awards |
|---|---|---|
| menu | Olathe | awards |
| staff | KC | sauces |
| events | Leawood | specials |
LC's Bar-B-Q
You'll find one of Kansas City's most beloved barbecue spots in LC's Bar-B-Q, a joint that's been serving up classic 'cue since 1977.
You'll discover LC's Bar B Q history and enjoy LC's signature dishes, showcasing its rich heritage in Kansas City's barbecue scene.
Burnt End BBQ
Someone familiar with Kansas City's barbecue scene will likely tell you that Burnt End BBQ is a must-visit, and it's easy to see why – they're serving up some of the city's best burnt ends.
You'll enjoy a rich flavor profile with:
- Smoky notes
- Tender meat
- Spicy kick
- Savory depth
Char Bar
As you head to Char Bar, one of Kansas City's top barbecue joints, you're in for a treat that combines traditional 'cue with modern twists.
You'll enjoy Char Bar's ambiance and can also utilize their catering services for events, making it a great choice.
Slaps BBQ
You're now considering Slaps BBQ, a restaurant that stands out for its exceptional meat quality, with tender, smoky cuts that showcase the pitmasters' expertise.
As you explore Slaps BBQ, you'll notice its distinctive BBQ style, which blends traditional Kansas City techniques with modern twists and flavors.
You'll want to examine how Slaps BBQ's attention to meat quality and BBQ style combine to create a unique dining experience that sets it apart from other Kansas City barbecue restaurants.
Meat Quality
Slaps BBQ's commitment to meat quality is evident in every dish that leaves their kitchen.
You'll notice their high quality standards and careful meat sourcing.
Key factors include:
- Local farms
- Grass-fed beef
- Free-range poultry
- Strict quality control, ensuring exceptional meat quality.
BBQ Style
Because Kansas City's rich barbecue heritage is well-known, it's no surprise that Slaps BBQ's pitmasters have perfected their craft, blending traditional barbecue techniques with modern twists.
Incorporating regional variations to create a unique style, they showcase their expertise in BBQ style and regional barbecue techniques.
Plowboys BBQ
You'll find that Plowboys BBQ offers a wide range of meat options, including brisket, burnt ends, and ribs, all of which are smoked to perfection.
When you try their BBQ, you'll notice that their sauce is a key component, with a thick, tangy flavor that complements their meats well.
As you review their menu, you'll see that they offer a variety of items, from classic barbecue favorites to more unique dishes, all of which showcase their meat options and BBQ sauce.
Meat Options
Many barbecue enthusiasts flock to Plowboys BBQ for its impressive array of meat options, and it's clear they won't leave disappointed.
You'll find:
- Brisket
- Ribs
- Burnt ends
- Sausage, all showcasing expert cutting techniques and smoking methods.
BBQ Sauce
While Plowboys BBQ's impressive meat options are a major draw, their BBQ sauce sets them apart. You'll find various sauce varieties with distinct flavor profiles.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Sweet | |
| Spicy | |
| Tangy | |
| Smoky | |
Menu Items
Plowboys BBQ's menu boasts an extensive selection of mouth-watering dishes that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
You'll find
- burnt ends
- ribs
- brisket
- sausage, reflecting barbecue trends and regional specialties.
BB's Lawnside BBQ
BB's Lawnside BBQ, a Kansas City staple, serves up classic barbecue with a side of blues music, creating an immersive experience you won't soon forget.
| bb's lawnside history | signature dishes | price |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s | ribs | $15 |
| family-owned | burnt ends | $12 |
| traditional | brisket | $10 |
Kansas City Masterpiece Barbeque
Kansas City's vibrant barbecue scene doesn't stop at BB's Lawnside BBQ, as you'll soon discover that Kansas City Masterpiece Barbeque is another top contender.
You'll find:
- Masterpiece Techniques
- Flavor Profiles
- Saucing Styles
- Signature Dishes, showcasing Kansas City's barbecue history.
Zarda Bar-B-Q
You'll find Zarda Bar-B-Q to be a notable establishment in the city's barbecue scene, with a rich Zarda history.
It offers Zarda favorites, specialties, and sauces, along with Zarda catering for events at multiple Zarda locations, using secret Zarda recipes.
Hayward's Pit Bar B Que
You'll find a wide range of meat options at Hayward's Pit Bar B Que, including slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and burnt ends.
As you plan your visit, you should check the pit hours, which may vary depending on the day of the week and season.
You can also expect to taste their signature BBQ sauce, which is carefully crafted to complement the smoky flavors of their meats.
Meat Options
While Hayward's Pit Bar B Que offers an array of sides and desserts, its meat options are the main draw, with slow-smoked delights that'll leave you craving more.
You'll find:
- brisket cuts
- sausage varieties
- ribs
- burnt ends, to satisfy your cravings.
Pit Hours
How do you plan your visit to Hayward's Pit Bar B Que?
You'll want to check their pit schedules, especially during peak hours, to guarantee you get your barbecue fix.
Plan ahead to avoid long waits, typically between 11am and 2pm, and after 5pm.
BBQ Sauce
Hayward's Pit Bar B Que takes pride in its BBQ sauce, which is made in-house using a secret recipe that's been perfected over the years.
You'll find:
- Sweet sauce
- Spicy sauce
- Tangy sauce
- Smoky sauce, offering various sauce varieties and flavor profiles.
Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ
One of Kansas City's most beloved barbecue joints, Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ, has been serving up exceptional 'cue since 1983. You'll find:
| Flavor | Sauce | Meat |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet | BBQ | Brisket |
| Smoky | KC | Ribs |
| Tangy | Carolina | Burnt Ends |
| Spicy | Hot | Sausage |
The Golden Ox
You'll find The Golden Ox, a Kansas City staple, serving high-quality barbecue in a historic setting that dates back to 1946.
The Golden Ox history is rich, with a Golden Ox menu featuring:
- Ribs
- Brisket
- Burnt ends
- Sausages
The Bar-B-Que Shack
Because Kansas City's barbecue scene is incredibly diverse, one standout among the many options is The Bar-B-Que Shack, which serves up mouth-watering 'cue that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
You'll taste the city's rich barbecue history in their dishes made with local ingredients.
Kobi-Q
Several barbecue joints in Kansas City boast an impressive array of meats, but Kobi-Q sets itself apart with its unique fusion of traditional BBQ and Korean flavors.
You'll find:
- BBQ tacos
- Kimchi coleslaw
- Bulgogi beef
- Spicy Gochujang sauce
on the Kobi-Q menu, showcasing its rich Kobi Q history.
Porky's Blazin BBQ
Porky's Blazin BBQ is a local favorite that's been perfecting its craft, serving up tender, smoky meats that'll leave you craving more.
You'll enjoy Porky's atmosphere and try Porky's specialties, like ribs and brisket, which showcase the restaurant's expertise.
Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
One of Kansas City's most renowned barbecue joints, Smokehouse Bar-B-Q, serves up mouth-watering dishes that'll leave you wanting more.
You'll experience classic smokehouse techniques and barbecue traditions with:
- Meats
- Sides
- Sauces
- Desserts
The Roost
You'll find a unique barbecue experience at The Roost, which sets itself apart.
| Roost Atmosphere | Roost Specialties |
|---|---|
| Casual | Ribs |
| Cozy | Brisket |
| Inviting | Sausage |
| Friendly | Burnt Ends |
C&C BBQ
Several top-rated barbecue joints in Kansas City offer exceptional dining experiences, and C&C BBQ is among them, serving up delicious 'cue that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
You'll find:
- Ribs
- Brisket
- Burnt ends
- Sausages
on the C&C BBQ menu, rooted in C&C BBQ history.
Brobeck's BBQ
You'll find that Brobeck's BBQ offers a wide range of meat options, including smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all of which are carefully prepared to showcase the restaurant's barbecue expertise.
As you explore the menu, you'll notice that Brobeck's BBQ sauce is a key component, adding a rich, tangy flavor to the various meats.
When you order at Brobeck's, don't forget to try their burnt ends, which are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the restaurant's signature BBQ sauce.
Meat Options
At Brobeck's BBQ, one of the top barbecue restaurants in Kansas City, they're serving up a wide range of mouth-watering meat options.
You'll find:
- Smoked meats
- Various meat cuts
- Meat marinades
- Meat rubs, ensuring ideal meat tenderness.
BBQ Sauce
While exploring the menu at Brobeck's BBQ, it's clear that their BBQ sauce is an essential component that elevates their dishes. You'll find homemade barbecue styles with regional variations.
| Sauce | Style |
|---|---|
| Sweet | Kansas City |
| Tangy | Carolina |
| Spicy | Texas |
Burnt Ends
Brobeck's BBQ takes pride in its burnt ends, which are fundamentally the crispy, flavorful tips of smoked brisket.
You'll explore:
- Burnt ends history
- Burnt ends preparation
- Smoking techniques
- Trimming methods
McGonigle's Market
You'll find McGonigle's Market in the heart of Kansas City, where it's been a staple for barbecue enthusiasts since 1946.
It showcases rich barbecue history, using local ingredients to create traditional dishes that highlight Kansas City's unique flavor profile.
Jon Russell's BBQ
You'll notice that Jon Russell's BBQ stands out for its exceptional meat quality, which is evident in the tender, smoky texture of its brisket and ribs.
As you review the menu, you'll find a wide range of options to suit your taste, from classic barbecue favorites to more innovative creations.
You can expect to find a balance of traditional meats, like pulled pork and sausage, alongside unique offerings that showcase the restaurant's creativity and expertise.
Meat Quality
At Jon Russell's BBQ, the meat quality is a key factor that sets it apart from other barbecue joints in Kansas City.
You'll notice their sourcing practices impact flavor profiles with:
- Local meats
- Grass-fed options
- No fillers
- Premium cuts
Menu Options
Because Jon Russell's BBQ prioritizes using high-quality meats, their menu options reflect a commitment to showcasing these premium ingredients.
You'll find menu customization and seasonal specials, allowing you to tailor your meal to your tastes with unique offerings.
Heavy's BBQ
Heavy's BBQ stands out among Kansas City's barbecue scene with its tender, smoky meats and wide range of traditional sides.
You'll find:
- Ribs
- Brisket
- Sausages
- Burnt ends on Heavy's BBQ menu, backed by great Heavy's BBQ reviews.
Final Thoughts
You've explored Kansas City's best barbecue restaurants, from legends like Arthur Bryant's to award-winners like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. With a range of styles and flavors, you can satisfy your cravings for tender burnt ends, brisket, and ribs. Kansas City's vibrant barbecue culture has something for everyone, making it a top destination for barbecue enthusiasts.
