24 Best Barbeque Restaurants in St. Louis

“I had heard about Pappy's for years before I actually went, which is embarrassing because it's not like I live that far. You hear enough people talk about a BBQ place like it's a life experience and you start to think they're being dramatic. They're not. The line was long when we got there, moved faster than expected, and everything after that was just really good food.
The baby back ribs are what this place is built on and they deserve the reputation. They come out dry-rubbed and slow smoked over apple and cherry wood, no sauce on them by default, and they don't need it. The bark has this slight sweetness from the wood and the rub and the meat underneath is tender without being fall-off-the-bone to the point of mushiness. There are four sauces on the table and you can go ahead and try them, but honestly the first rack I ate without any sauce at all and didn't feel like I was missing anything. The burnt ends were just perfect little caramelized cubes of beef that I kept eating until they were gone. The fried corn on the cob is a weird thing to talk about this much but I'm going to anyway because it's excellent, just a whole cob lightly battered and fried and it's hot and crunchy and a little sweet. We also got the baked beans which had plenty of meat mixed in and a good kick to them.
Counter service, seats yourself after ordering, loud and fun atmosphere. The place closes when the meat runs out so there's a hard daily limit. They're not going to reheat something to serve you the next day and that's the right call. Show up when they open if you can. I went back the following morning for an early lunch before driving out of St. Louis and had the pulled pork sandwich this time, which was simpler and still really good. There's something about the consistency here that you notice across visits, nothing feels like an off day or a rushed plate. The whole operation runs like they take it seriously but nobody in there looks like they're stressed about it, which is a hard combination to pull off.“

“Great food and great service. We had a very large group there for lunch after a funeral recently and it went really well. I’d recommend for lunch or hosting a large gathering. Thanks for the hospitality.“

“we moved from Knoxville Tn Olney IL a new months ago. When we came to st Louis for an event. A quick Google search lead us to the BEST BBQ we have ever had! living only 2and a half hrs away, st Louis has become our new favorite hang out. And Adam's is a must.“

“The food is delicious and the environment is welcoming with a vibe all its own. You definitely want to check this place out. Thank you Dalie’s for appreciating your customers and serving quality eats!“

“Awesome food! All sides are tasty. Beans are on the sweet side. But still yummy. Ribs are 10/10 Love the variety of sauces they provide.“

“We were in town (from the Twin Cities) for the 2025 President's Day Classic, and had Hogtown Smokehouse cater a team (and parents) dinner for 30 in our hotel. Rico was fantastic in helping us out. Quick to respond to calls and emails. Gracious, and just wonderful altogether... and that's just the service. The food? The empty pans, told the story. Brisket, Turkey and Pork for meats. Mac & cheese, potato salad and beans for sides. EVERYTHING was amazing! I never right reviews, but Rico and staff deserve this one. If you're reading this, don't hesitate to give them a try. Thanks again, Rico!“

“Great food! Awesome service! These guys are great! They really want to make sure you are happy! Food is great! Wings, Brisket, Brisket Rueben and Pattymelt , all excellently prepared. Cassidy who usually waits on us from the bar is so nice! She is the best Bartender/ waitress because we always sit over there so we see her! Is awesome! She is a friend now and alaways makes sure we have what we need! We are happy Nubbies is here in Oakville. Tina and her husband are doing a great job! Thanks guys for making a great place to go in Oakville!“

“The food was amazing!!! The staff VERY friendly! We had a great experience here!!!“

“Sharpshooter Pit and Grill in Affton Missouri always has the best BBQ in town! All of the food on the menu is always fresh and delicious! You won't go away hungry and you won't be disappointed. Great friendly staff too.“

“The food was delicious and a nice atmosphere. We had pulled pork and smoked turkey - so good!“

“My husband and I were on an anniversary road trip from Tennessee and decided to come to St Louis to see the Arch way. We decided to eat at Ace’s Smokestaq for an early dinner! Antonio and his family are so amazing and the food was absolutely on point! We felt like family! We even got a baby shower gift after we ate and brought it back for our new cousin 😉 Thank you for making our trip memorable and being who you are! Your family and restaurant are amazing! With love from Tennessee🫶🏻 -The Bush’s“

“Visiting St Louis and wanted to try the Brisket, Pork, and Sausage, all were great and I loved it.“

“My fiance and I ate here for the first time yesterday and the food was absolutely incredible! The beef ribs melt in your mouth! The owner Coach was so kind and welcoming. We can’t wait to go back and 100% recommend!“

“Best BBQ Brisket I ever ate! We got the 14lb box for Easter. Our family loved it! So convenient and easy. Such a great flavor and food was promptly delivered with a smile. The the aujus with the Brisket is superb! We also got mac and cheese and baked beans and bread. Loved it all! Looking forward to trying more of his food options. Amazing Job! Thank you so much!“

“Great place great experience, friendly, clean some of the best barbecue around“

“We just went for the first time tonight & hate we’ve missed out on going sooner! We are from Southern Indiana & it’s going to be hard to find anything to compare at home! Greg, Louis, and Eddie who were working the smoker when we left were so nice, told us all the ins and outs of the place, and truly take pride in their work. That pride is reflected in the delicious meal you’ll get! 10/10 recommend!“

“Ate at Cafe Smoke Shack recently. The food was fantastic. Service was excellent and our waiter was very attentive. Giant portions, well prepared & we were all extremely pleased with our meal. "Stan, Matt & Marlowe were charming and cordial to all. The owner (Matt/Chef) is one of the nicest and most hospitable folks you'll ever want to meet. Truly cares about his customers. Stay clear of Bill... Why you ask? He was a smug, rude & a disingenuous individual. Brought in six (6) people & spent over $300.00 with no other customers dining that day. He acted like he did us a favor. All of the other employees were wonderful.“

“I eat here often bbq tips are fire, chili 🔥and the potato salad is off the chain. Go find out for yourself. You get your money worth“

“First time there the food was really good I got a double cheeseburger, my mom and her friend got a whole Jack plate too and it was really good they didn't really add no salt to the whole Jack plate though so, my son got a Philly cheese steak and he only ate half of it so wow and he can eat“

“Salt + Smoke Ellisville recently hosted a Southern Wine pairing event that was nothing short of exceptional. One of the two owners personally hosted the evening, even taking the time to refill drinks, which added a personal touch to the experience. The intimate setting, with only 14 guests at the table, made the event feel exclusive and cozy, allowing us to connect with fellow diners and share plenty of laughs. The menu was a delightful journey through Southern flavors, featuring cheesy jalapeño cornbread with hot honey, a hearty seafood and sausage gumbo, smoked chicken with grits and greens, and a decadent peach cobbler with bourbon butter pecan ice cream. Each dish was served in generous portions, ensuring no one left hungry. The staff was incredibly attentive and friendly, contributing to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Overall, Salt + Smoke provided an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, great company, and a genuine sense of camaraderie. I highly recommend attending one of these exclusive events the next time they have one!“

“This is my second time getting some food from this facility. The first time the food was cooked to perfection but it wasn't seasoned. This time the food was fesh off the grill but not cooked all the way. I don't think there will be a third time.“

“The best BBQ! You won't regret it“