Missouri’s Must-Visit BBQ Joints

Missouri holds a special place on the American barbecue map with a rich tradition that blends regional styles and delicious, bold flavors. Boasting two distinct styles, Kansas City and St. Louis, each type reflects the area’s BBQ heritage and love for smoked meats.

Missouri BBQ History

Kansas City Origins

Kansas City-style is celebrated as one of the most famous traditions in the country. Its story begins in the 1920s when Henry Perry, a.k.a. Barbecue King, started barbecuing in an outdoor pit next to the streetcar barn, serving slabs of food wrapped in newspaper. His popular technique inspired others to imitate and create their own distinct recipes. A second wave of barbecue connoisseurs — including Bryant, Gates and Rieke, whose names still appear on thriving businesses — emerged in the ‘30s and ‘40s. Drawn by Kansas City’s renowned stockyards and meatpacking industry, pitmasters flocked to the area seeking work and a chance to hone their craft. Over time, the city’s barbecue scene flourished, evolving from simple beginnings to a culinary staple. Today, Kansas City boasts more than 100 restaurants dedicated to grilling, smoking and serving up rich tastes.

St. Louis Origins

Barbecue King’s legacy sparked a statewide love for smoked meats, and St. Louis quickly embraced the trend. As a result, residents began crafting their own recipes, blending local flavor with growing barbecue traditions. In 1926, local businessman Louis Maull boosted St. Louis barbecue by launching the first commercially sold sauce. Fittingly, the city reportedly leads the nation in barbecue sauce consumption per capita. Originally, St. Louis-style ribs referred only to the butcher’s cut — clean, rectangular and trimmed of cartilage. Today, however, St. Louis-style also means grilling first and saucing afterward. The technique saves time and features a rich, tangy sauce that author Steven Raichlen calls a “sweet, slightly acidic, sticky, tomato-based barbecue sauce usually made without liquid smoke.”

Missouri Barbecue Restaurants

Kansas City BBQ

• Arthur Bryant’s – Known as the “King of Ribs,” Arthur Bryant was a well-known barbequer. The restaurant opened in 1908, and Bryant’s unique sauce and style has attracted celebrities, former presidents – including Harry S Truman and Barack Obama – devoted locals and hungry travelers from around the world. One of the more popular items, burnt ends are served slightly pulled (rather than cubed) in a sweet, savory sauce.
• Gates BBQ – Gates BBQ has been welcoming guests since 1946 with its signature greeting – “Hi, may I help you?” The family-run chain has faced hardship, including a fire and relocations, but the Gates didn’t give up. Their commitment to serving high-quality food has created a KC-style experience that draws visitors from near and far.
• Q39 BBQ – Taste “Kansas City BBQ with a twist” at Q39 where chef-driven expertise blends with competition-style barbecue. Founded by competitive barbecue champion, late Rob Magee, the restaurant serves delectable fare in honor of his legacy. Whether grilling for six judges or 60 guests, no shortcuts are taken. Guests can expect fresh ingredients, sliced-to-order brisket straight from the smoker and wood-fired grill plates served from flame to table.
• Rosedale Bar-B-Q – This community staple opened in 1934 and is Kansas City’s oldest, continuously ran by the same family barbecue restaurant. Rosedale’s Bar-B-Q began as a neighborhood hot dog and beer stand, but the owners had their sights set on barbecue. With $183, they started their business that is now a down-home place offering traditional, supreme quality barbecue. Also, loyal to the restaurant’s origins, they still offer some of the best hot dogs in town.

BBQ in St. Louis

• Dalie’s Smokehouse – Opened in 2015, Dalie’s Smokehouse aims to provide quality, homestyle food in a warm atmosphere. While Dalie’s offers traditional favorites (beef, chicken, pork, etc.), the restaurant also serves items like the BBQ Ham ‘n Cheese, the Ultimate Reuben stacked with two types of flavorful pastrami and a Blackened Chicken Salad with spiced smoked chicken and diced pears. It’s a new take on St. Louis barbecue that keeps patrons coming back for more.
• Salt + Smoke – Boasting award-winning barbecue, Salt + Smoke serves “St. Louis-style BBQ that will make your mouth water.” From popular dishes like the brisket and trashed ribs to the delicious salmon sammie and fried jalapeno + cheddar bologna sandwich, there’s something for everyone.
• Sugarfire Smokehouse – Sugarfire Smokehouse aims to be different and its St. Louis-style barbecue is all its own. Serving up specials including brisket cheesesteak and “the meat daddy” (4-bone rib; jalapeno cheddar sausage link; and 4 ounces each of brisket, pulled pork and turkey), the restaurant has received compliments from The New York Times and Snoop Dog!

More Missouri BBQ Spots

• Strawberry’s BBQ, Holcomb – Tucked away in the bootheel of Missouri, Strawberry’s BBQ draws fans from miles around. It’s a true roadside classic with generous portions and a staple seasoning – Strawberry’s Bar-B-Que Seasoning. It’s very popular on ribs and leaves friends and family fighting for the last bone.
• City Butcher and Barbecue, Springfield – Inspired by Texas-style barbecue, City Butcher and Barbecue delivers perfectly smoked brisket and house-made sausages with minimalist flair. Using premium cuts and expert techniques, meats are seasoned, smoked over oak and sliced to order on butcher paper.
• Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que, Cuba – Drive along Route 66 and stop by Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que in Cuba. The rustic charm of the log cabin-style restaurant paired with appetizing barbecue provides a nostalgic, small-town experience.

• Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop, Branson – A favorite in the Ozarks, Danna’s has something for everyone’s taste – tender pork piled high on a plate, BBQ nachos, not-to-be missed ribs, chicken and burgers. Speaking of, the burgers may not be perfectly round, but they are perfectly cooked and handmade from fresh beef or turkey.
• JQ’s on High, Jefferson City – Travel to capital city and enjoy the exceptional, fresh menu at JQ’s on High. The restaurant is described as a “food truck meets brick and mortar structure” that serves comfort foods made from scratch. In addition to crowd favorites, including JQ’s smoked pulled pork and award-winning wings, the restaurant offers an ample selection of gluten-free items.