12 Best Barbeque Restaurants near Monroeville

“Nestled in a modest plaza at 226 Center Road in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, Big Rig’s BBQ is the kind of place that turns barbecue lovers into regulars. Owned and operated by the warm and welcoming husband-and-wife team of Josh and Susan Toney, along with their talented chef, this local spot has quickly become a standout in the Pittsburgh-area BBQ scene since opening a few years ago. What sets it apart? It's chef-driven smoked meats using a blend of hickory, cherry, and apple woods, creative sides, craft sandwiches, and an unwavering commitment to quality. But let's get to the heart of it—the food, the people, and the vibe that make every visit feel like coming home. If there's one item that defines Big Rig’s BBQ, it's the brisket. This Texas-style brisket is nothing short of exceptional. Smoked low and slow daily, it arrives at your table with a beautiful bark, a perfect smoke ring, and tenderness that rivals the best pits in the country. You can order it lean or fatty (I always go for a mix), and it literally melts in your mouth. Fork-tender, juicy, and packed with deep, smoky flavor, it's the kind of brisket that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. Reviewers from North Carolina to Texas have raved about it, with many calling it the best they've had outside their home states. Pair it with one of their house-made sauces— the sweet house sauce, tangy Carolina mustard, or spicy variant—and you've got barbecue perfection. Whether sliced on a platter, stuffed into a baked potato, or melted into their famous Brisket Grilled Cheese sandwich (a gooey, indulgent masterpiece), the brisket is consistently outstanding and the reason many drive from across the region. But Big Rig’s isn't just about classics; their creativity shines in the Burger of the Week, a rotating special that drops every Wednesday and keeps things exciting. Each new burger is a stroke of genius, blending premium ingredients with BBQ flair in ways that surprise and delight. One week, it might be a double smash burger topped with chopped brisket, crispy onions, and a tangy sauce that elevates it to legendary status. Another features bold flavors like jalapeño cheddar, bacon, and raspberry honey mustard slaw on a pretzel bun—sweet, spicy, smoky, and utterly addictive. I've tried several, and every single one has been phenomenal: juicy patties cooked to perfection, fresh toppings that balance textures and tastes, and portions that leave you satisfied but plotting your return. Diners frequently call these burgers the best in the Pittsburgh area, with one declaring a brisket-topped version "the BEST burger I've had." The anticipation for each new creation builds community buzz on social media, and it's easy to see why— these aren't ordinary burgers; they're innovative, flavorful triumphs that showcase the kitchen's talent. Beyond the stars of the menu, the supporting cast is equally impressive. Sides like the creamy mac and cheese, smoky pit beans with burnt ends, sweet vinegar coleslaw, and melt-in-your-mouth cornbread are generous and house-made with care. Other meats—fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich pork belly burnt ends, pulled pork, and even smoked kielbasa—round out platters that feed families effortlessly. There's a kids' menu with favorites like grilled cheese and chicken tenders, making it easy to bring the whole crew. What truly elevates Big Rig’s is the owners and staff, who are incredibly friendly and genuinely passionate. Josh and Susan are often on-site, chatting with guests, recommending pairings, and ensuring everyone feels welcome. The service is attentive yet relaxed, with staff going above and beyond—whether explaining the sauces at the table or accommodating special requests. It's clear this is a family-run operation built on love for great food and community. The environment is perfectly family-friendly: clean, casual, and cozy with ample seating, including space for larger groups. It's not a fancy spot, but it's inviting—think warm ligh“

“The food was really good! The service was awesome and fast! And they have the good ice“

“Stopped in today for lunch. We ordered the trinity. Baby back ribs, pulled pork and burnt ends, Collared greens and cornbread casserole. The staff was very friendly and the food was amazing!!!! For every meal purchased a donation is made that feeds three children. I love that❤️ We will definitely be back.“

“Omg! Best bbq in the burgh. The ribs are to die for. Both pork and beef. And the bbq sauce was so good. But the brisket was the winner! Can’t wait to try the turkey leg“

“First time last night. Great experience. Went specifically for the Donnie Bell band who were on fire. So kudos to off the rails for having great live entertainment consistently. Used a promotional offer which was honored without issue. I love being marketed as long as promotions are honored. No questions asked here.. effortless. No for the food..bbq is something we get a lot of in our travels and this place doesn't disappoint. Pulled pork nachos..coleslaw..pulled chicken and fries all ordered... everything tasted good..every bit of food..every flavor of the 3 sauces..mustard was my favorite..the coleslaw was tart and vinegar heavy..great contrast with the bbq...beer specials were worthy $2.50 labatt..service was as service should be..it does get crowded it seems so finding a spot could be a challenge..fire pit outside cures some of that...the only improvement needed is a different cutlery situation and more napkins on the tables. The current cutlery situation seems wasteful with the packets of multiple items that may or may not be needed in packaging..I know it's really easy but wasteful. The napkins seemed to be sporadically on tables and I didn't see like communal napkin station where you picked up the other stuff. Very very minor things but easy fixes. Can't wait to go back and will be telling everyone I know.“

“Best bbq I’ve had. 10out of 10 would recommend. Prices are great food even better!!“

“I ordered today. Food was excellent. Cooks were professional and courteous. I’ll definitely order from there again. Had an emergency about a month or so ago and needed to serve at least 60 people. They accommodated my entire order on the spot. 5 stars is my rating.“

“We had Uncle Rick’s cater our Thanksgiving dinner this year and it was excelllent. The turkey, mac n cheese, and cornbread dressing was a huge hit! Not just the food, but the ordering process and service was smooth and friendly. Uncle Rick’s Smokehouse is AMAZING!“

“Great food! Everyone was super nice and friendly. Affordable prices. Nice variety of food. Highly recommend!“

“We had a great experience at City Kitchen this weekend! We went to the Stranger Things pop up and then stayed for dinner! The food was exceptional and the service was great! I liked being able to order myself using a QR code and I loved the variety of options in one location. I would say the only con to this is that you don’t have a set server taking care of you, so I was unsure if we could have refills of our pop and they were not offered either. We will definitely be back though, and I’m looking forward to it!“

“Good food! I always enjoy myself when I visit the restaurant!“

“Oh LongHorn Steakhouse, gather around,
Here’s a rhyme of great food and joy that we found! 🥩✨

We walked through the doors both hungry and glad,
And quickly felt welcome—now that felt quite rad!
The smell of fine seasoning filled up the air,
A promise of comfort and genuine care.

Now pause for a cheer and a hip-hip-hooray,
For our lovely waitress who brightened the day!
Brand new from South Carolina, fresh on the scene,
(Sorry her name slipped away in between!)
But goodness oh goodness, you’d never have guessed—
Her service was smooth, confident, and well-blessed.

Attentive and kind, with a smile so sincere,
She treated us warmly, like family right here.
Checking just often, but never too much,
Every detail handled with thoughtful, kind touch.

And the magic spread wide—it wasn’t just one,
The whole staff was shining, each job well done.
From the hosts to the kitchen, the teamwork was clear,
A place built on effort, pride, and good cheer.

And yes—we must mention (it’s true, it’s no jest),
The bathrooms were spotless—among the very best!
So clean and so calm, so polished and bright,
Almost Tokyo-style—what a surprising delight!

Just one little wish, said with humor and glee:
A bidet someday? Now *that* would be key! 🚿😄
But even without it, let truth still be said—
These restrooms impressed us from floor tile to thread.

So here’s to LongHorn, to steaks cooked just right,
To service that sparkles from morning to night.
To a waitress so new, yet wonderfully skilled,
You made our whole visit feel warmly fulfilled.

Five stars? Oh yes—we’d give even more!
We’ll be back again soon, of that we’re quite sure.
For food, for the kindness, the care, and the cheer,
LongHorn Steakhouse—you’re truly top-tier! 🌟🥩“