12 Missouri BBQ Joints That Keep The Pitmaster Tradition Burning
Missouri has long been home to some of the country’s most celebrated barbecue traditions, where pitmasters spend hours tending smoky fires to create tender, flavorful meats.
From Kansas City’s famous burnt ends to St. Louis ribs kissed with hickory smoke, the Show-Me State offers barbecue lovers a delicious journey through regional styles and time-honored techniques.
Whether craving tangy sauce or dry-rubbed perfection, these legendary spots prove that great barbecue is more than just food – it’s a way of life.
1. Pappy’s Smokehouse
Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs have made this St. Louis favorite a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts across the nation.
Located at 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103, the restaurant smokes its meats over apple and cherry wood, creating a distinct sweet and smoky flavor profile.
Long lines often snake out the door during peak hours, but the tender pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs make the wait worthwhile every single time.
Pappy’s embodies the passion of Missouri’s barbecue tradition, where each rack of ribs is a masterpiece in the making.
The southern hospitality and warm atmosphere make Pappy’s Smokehouse a destination for anyone serious about barbecue.
2. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque
Since 1908, this Kansas City institution has served presidents, celebrities, and everyday folks who crave authentic pit-smoked barbecue with serious history.
Located at 1727 Brooklyn Ave, Kansas City, MO 64127, the restaurant is where burnt ends were popularized and transformed into a regional delicacy.
Thick, tangy sauce coats every bite of brisket and ribs, while the no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus squarely on the smoky, savory meat that built this legendary reputation.
Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, Arthur Bryant’s offers a taste of Kansas City’s barbecue heritage that’s impossible to replicate.
The restaurant has become a Kansas City landmark, a place where history and flavor meet on every plate.
3. Gates Bar-B-Q
Walking through the doors of Gates Bar-B-Q means hearing the famous greeting – “Hi, may I help you?” – shouted with energy that matches the bold flavors on every plate.
Located at 1325 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64110, this family-owned spot has been smoking meats over hickory since 1946.
The signature spicy sauce adds a fiery kick to tender ribs and juicy beef, while sides like cheesy corn and baked beans round out a satisfying meal worth every calorie.
Gates Bar-B-Q has perfected the art of bold, smoky flavors that keep visitors coming back for more, whether it’s your first visit or your 50th.
With its long-standing history and consistent quality, Gates is a true staple of Kansas City’s barbecue scene.
4. HalfSauced Barbeque
Lake visitors and locals alike flock to HalfSauced Barbeque for brisket that melts on the tongue and burnt ends packed with smoky goodness.
Located at 4185 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach, MO 65065, HalfSauced offers consistent quality that keeps customers coming back trip after trip.
The brisket is tender and flavorful, while the pulled pork sandwiches and mac and cheese offer comforting sides that pair perfectly with a lakeside vacation.
With speedy service, you can spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your meal, making this the perfect place to grab a bite after a day by the water.
The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy hearty, satisfying barbecue.
5. Q39
Q39 brings championship-level barbecue into a more upscale dining setting, combining wood-fired meats with craft cocktails and an impressive bourbon selection.
Located at 1000 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111, Q39’s polished atmosphere elevates traditional pit-smoked flavors without losing authenticity.
Burnt end burgers and smoked chicken wings deliver bold taste, while the sleek interior and attentive service make this spot perfect for date nights or celebrations that deserve something special.
The upscale approach to classic barbecue makes Q39 a unique destination for those seeking a more refined take on Kansas City’s barbecue heritage.
While it offers an elevated experience, the flavors remain rooted in the deep tradition of Kansas City’s barbecue legacy.
6. Bogart’s Smokehouse
Bogart’s Smokehouse offers a blend of Jewish deli influences with traditional barbecue techniques, creating a unique flavor experience.
Located at 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, the restaurant is known for its pastrami and brisket sandwiches, which have earned a loyal following in the Soulard neighborhood.
Casual vibes and friendly service create a welcoming environment, while the smoky aroma drifting from the kitchen promises a meal that satisfies both adventurous eaters and barbecue purists alike.
The combination of deli-inspired barbecue and classic smoked meats makes Bogart’s a true standout in St. Louis’ barbecue scene.
It’s a perfect spot for those looking to explore unique flavors and dive into a barbecue experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional pit smoking.
7. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
What started inside a gas station has grown into a barbecue empire known for its Z-Man sandwiches piled high with brisket, provolone, and onion rings.
Located at 3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS 66103, just across the state line, Joe’s is beloved by Missouri barbecue fans.
Ribs glazed with sweet sauce and smoky pulled pork keep crowds lining up daily, proving that great barbecue can come from the most unexpected places and still earn national acclaim.
Joe’s has earned its spot as one of the best barbecue joints in the country, and its success proves that humble beginnings don’t limit greatness.
The unique setting and extraordinary flavor continue to draw visitors from all over the nation.
8. Sugarfire Smoke House
Creative twists on classic barbecue have turned Sugarfire Smoke House into a local favorite, with inventive sandwiches and bold flavor combinations that surprise and delight.
Located at 605 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101, Sugarfire offers a wide range of meats and sauces, making it easy to explore different tastes with each visit.
Generous portions and a fun, energetic atmosphere create a perfect environment for enjoying barbecue with friends and family.
The menu features everything from traditional ribs to unique creations like the Porky Pig sandwich, providing something for every palate.
Sugarfire’s ability to bring innovation to the world of barbecue while staying true to the roots of Missouri’s barbecue tradition makes it a standout.
9. LC’s Bar-B-Q
This spot serves up barbecue with family recipes passed down through generations, keeping this Kansas City treasure authentic.
Located at 5800 Blue Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64129, LC’s offers tender ribs and sauce that taste like they came straight from a backyard cookout.
The friendly service and neighborhood vibe make diners feel like part of the family, while the smoky, saucy flavors prove that tradition and heart matter just as much as technique.
LC’s is where you’ll find comfort food at its finest, with flavors that stay true to Kansas City’s barbecue roots while offering a warm and welcoming experience.
It’s a great spot for those seeking traditional barbecue with a personal touch and a true taste of Kansas City’s culinary history.
10. Old 76 Smokehouse
This smokehouse brings traditional Missouri barbecue to the heart of Branson, offering slow-cooked meats with rich, smoky flavors that keep locals and tourists coming back for more.
Located at 9273 State Hwy 76, Branson West, MO 65737, this spot specializes in a variety of meats, all smoked to perfection using a blend of hardwoods that create a distinct, savory taste.
The restaurant’s menu features favorites like tender ribs, juicy pulled pork, and mouthwatering sausage, all served with classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw.
With its rustic, cozy atmosphere and friendly service, Old 76 Smokehouse provides a down-home dining experience that reflects the welcoming spirit of the Ozarks.
Whether you’re here for a casual meal with family or a post-show feast, Old 76 Smokehouse delivers authentic barbecue with the perfect balance of flavor and hospitality every time.
11. Smokehouse BBQ
It is a favorite among college students and barbecue enthusiasts in Missouri, offering generous portions and smoky flavors that make it a go-to spot for comfort food.
Located at 19000 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64057, this casual spot is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, whether you’re visiting town or a local.
The welcoming atmosphere and delicious meats, like tender ribs and pulled pork sandwiches, make it a great place for game day gatherings or family dinners.
Smokehouse BBQ’s consistency and quality ensure that customers keep coming back for more smoky goodness year-round.
The convenient location and family-friendly vibe make Smokehouse BBQ a perfect stop for anyone craving delicious Missouri barbecue.
12. Big T’s BBQ And Smokehouse
This Springfield smokehouse serves hearty portions of smoked meats with a side of down-home hospitality that makes every visit feel like coming home.
Located at 6201 Blue Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64129, Big T’s delivers fall-off-the-bone ribs, juicy pulled chicken, and other barbecue favorites in a no-fuss atmosphere.
Friendly staff and generous portions ensure that every meal at Big T’s feels satisfying and comforting.
This Springfield institution proves that you don’t need fancy décor or a long wait to enjoy great barbecue – it’s all about the food and the experience.
Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse is where you’ll find delicious barbecue that satisfies your hunger and leaves you coming back for more.
