How to Choose the Best One
You’re hungry for BBQ and ready to find your new favorite spot—but how do you know if a restaurant is truly worth your time and appetite? From smoking methods and wood types to side dishes and pitmaster reputation, the best BBQ joints all share certain qualities.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 key things to look for before visiting a BBQ restaurant so you can confidently choose a spot that will leave you full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
Table of Contents
- BBQ Style & Regional Influence
- Meat Smoking Method & Wood Type
- Signature Meats & Specialties
- Sauce or No Sauce?
- Sides & Accompaniments
- Pitmaster Reputation & Awards
- Ordering Style: Counter vs. Full Service
- Pricing & Meat by the Pound Options
- Atmosphere & Seating Options
- Drink Options: Craft Beer, Sweet Tea & More
- Final Thoughts
1. BBQ Style & Regional Influence
Not all BBQ is the same. Different regions specialize in different meats, flavors, and cooking techniques:
- Texas-style BBQ – Brisket, beef ribs, and sausage with simple salt-and-pepper rubs.
- Kansas City BBQ – Sweet, thick sauces with burnt ends and a mix of meats.
- Memphis BBQ – Pork-heavy, often with dry rubs.
- Carolina BBQ – Pulled pork with vinegar-based sauces (Eastern) or mustard-based (South Carolina).
Tip: Check the restaurant’s menu online before visiting to see which regional influence they follow.
2. Meat Smoking Method & Wood Type
The type of wood and smoking method directly impact flavor:
- Texas BBQ often uses post oak for a mellow, smoky flavor.
- Hickory, mesquite, pecan, and cherry each bring unique flavor profiles.
- Look for “low and slow” cooking—true BBQ is cooked for hours at low temperatures.
Pro Tip: If you’re a backyard pitmaster, you can experiment with these woods at home. Read our blog BBQ Wood Flavor Guide
3. Signature Meats & Specialties
Every BBQ joint has its star menu items. Popular options include:
- Brisket (lean or fatty)
- Dino beef ribs (huge, smoky, and rich)
- Pulled pork or pork ribs
- Smoked turkey breast
- Sausage (jalapeño-cheese, classic, or spicy)
💡 Pro Move: If a spot is known for one cut, order it—it’s usually the dish they’ve perfected.
4. Sauce or No Sauce?
Some pitmasters serve meat with no sauce at all, letting the smoke and seasoning shine. Others offer a variety of house-made sauces:
- Vinegar-based (Carolina style)
- Tomato-based (Kansas City & Texas style)
- Mustard-based (South Carolina style)
Trying different sauces can be a fun way to experience regional BBQ flavors.
5. Sides & Accompaniments
Great BBQ isn’t just about the meat—sides complete the experience. Look for:
- Texas-style pinto beans
- BBQ baked beans with brisket or bacon
- Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw
- Mac & cheese (baked or creamy)
- Potato salad (mayo or mustard-based)
👉 Want to recreate these at home? Check out our BBQ Side Dish Recipes (internal link).
6. Pitmaster Reputation & Awards
Award-winning pitmasters and well-known BBQ personalities often bring years of skill to the table:
- Look for restaurants featured on TV food shows or in magazines.
- Search for past competition wins or BBQ championship titles.
Tip: Don’t overlook local legends—some of the best BBQ joints are hidden gems with no fancy awards.
7. Ordering Style: Counter vs. Full Service
Different BBQ restaurants have different serving styles:
- Counter service – Order at the counter, pay by weight or tray.
- Full service – Traditional sit-down dining.
- Buffet-style – All-you-can-eat options (less common, but fun for big appetites).
8. Pricing & Meat by the Pound Options
How you order can affect cost and portions:
- Solo diners may prefer plates or sandwiches.
- Groups should look for meat-by-the-pound pricing.
- Many spots also offer bulk trays or family packs for takeout.
9. Atmosphere & Seating Options
From rustic smokehouses to upscale dining, atmosphere sets the tone:
- Casual, communal seating is great for authentic BBQ vibes.
- Outdoor patios are perfect for live music and summer evenings.
10. Drink Options: Craft Beer, Sweet Tea & More
The right drink pairs perfectly with smoked meat:
- House-made sweet tea
- Local craft beers
- Specialty cocktails (bourbon, whiskey, spiked lemonade)
- Homemade lemonade or sodas
Final Thoughts
Visiting a BBQ restaurant is more than just grabbing a meal. It’s an experience steeped in smoke, tradition, and Texas pride. Whether you’re after tender brisket, snappy sausage, or a tray piled high with ribs and sides, knowing how to choose the right spot makes all the difference.
That’s exactly why we built the ExploringBBQ.com BBQ Joint Directory as your all-in-one guide to finding the best pit in town. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Search Listings
Start by searching for what you’re craving today. Choose your city and let the smoke guide you.
Step 2: Choose a Business
Browse hundreds of listings—filter by style, read reviews, check out photos, and find the perfect fit for your appetite.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Day
Head out for a plate of BBQ bliss.
Step 4: Leave a comment
Create an account to leave comments so others can be in the know as well.
👉 With this tool, your next BBQ adventure is just a few clicks away. Fire up your search today and discover your new favorite joint at ExploringBBQ.com.
