You’ll find barbecue worth planning a trip around in every state, from neighborhood smokehouses to legendary pit joints. This article points you to the BBQ places people say are worth driving for, so you can pick destinations that match your cravings and travel plans.
Follow along as the list highlights hometown favorites and destination-worthy spots across regions, from Texas brisket temples to coastal and Carolina styles. Use it to map out your next tasty detour and prioritize stops when you’re on the road.
Fat Daddy’s BBQ – Georgetown, TX
You’ll find classic Texas smoke with straightforward portions and bold flavors. The menu focuses on brisket, ribs, and smoked chicken cooked to order.
Stop by for takeout or catering if you’re feeding a group. Check hours and menu details on the restaurant’s official site.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Kansas City, MO
You’ll find the original Joe’s inside a converted gas station, still serving slow-smoked brisket, burnt ends, and the famous Z-Man sandwich.
Lines form early, so plan for a wait or grab takeout if you’re short on time.
Expect classic Kansas City flavors—sweet, tangy sauce and well-rendered smoke bark.
Check the official menu and hours before you go at Joe’s website (https://www.joeskc.com/).
Peg Leg Porker – Nashville, TN
You’ll find Peg Leg Porker in The Gulch, known for Memphis-style dry ribs and classic pulled pork.
Grab a plate, pick a craft beer, and sit on the patio when weather’s good.
The family-owned spot focuses on pork and chicken smoked well.
Check the menu and catering options before you go at Peg Leg Porker’s official site (https://peglegporker.com/).
Franklin Barbecue – Austin, TX
You’ll wait in line, but the brisket makes it worth the trip. Franklin Barbecue in Austin earned national praise and appears on lists like Southern Living’s best in Texas; check details at the Southern Living listing.
Bring cash or check the website for current ordering and Backyard reservations. Plan for early arrival and expect simple, focused barbecue done very well.
The Shed BBQ – Ocean Springs, MS
You’ll find big flavors and live blues at The Shed, a relaxed spot known for tender baby back ribs and smoky piles of pork. Plan to arrive early; it fills up fast on weekends and during events.
Order family-style or grab plates to-go if you prefer. Read more about the restaurant and hours at The Shed’s official site (The Shed BBQ) so you can time your visit right.
Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque – Kansas City, MO
You’ll find classic Kansas City smoke and a no-frills dining room at Arthur Bryant’s.
Order burnt ends or brisket and try the original sauce that built its reputation.
The walls display decades of barbecue history, and staff help you navigate the menu.
Plan for a line during peak times; the food rewards the wait.
Learn more about the restaurant on the official Arthur Bryant’s website.
Bessinger’s BBQ – Orangeburg, SC
You’ll find classic South Carolina mustard-based barbecue and generous sides at Bessinger’s BBQ, a family-run spot with deep local roots. Try the pulled pork or a burger basket; customers praise the onion rings and sweet tea.
If you want menu details or to order ahead, check the restaurant’s online menu and ordering. The place keeps a friendly, down-to-earth vibe that suits a road-trip stop.
Moe’s Original BBQ – Greenville, SC
You’ll find Alabama-style smoked meats and classic Southern sides on West Stone Avenue.
The spot offers indoor and patio seating plus a full bar for cocktails or beer.
Plan for lively, casual service and options for lunch, dinner, or catering.
Check the restaurant page for hours and menus before you go: Moe’s Original BBQ — Greenville.
Best Little BBQ – Shreveport, LA
You’ll find classic smoked brisket and ribs served without fuss, the kind that makes you slow down and savor each bite.
Locals praise the tender meats and straightforward sides; try the brisket plate if you want a reliable crowd-pleaser.
If you want more recommendations nearby, check listings like the best barbeque joints in Shreveport.
Plan for a casual, no-frills meal and leave room for a pecan pie if it’s on the menu.
Bludso’s BBQ – Los Angeles, CA
You’ll find Texas-style brisket and ribs in a relaxed La Brea spot that draws barbecue fans from across the city. Expect smoky meat, classic sides, and a friendly, casual vibe.
You can grab a seat or order catering for a group. Check the restaurant’s official site for hours and locations.
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As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
