From brisket to pork ribs and all the decadent sides, our editors rounded up the best spots in DC to satisfy your barbecue cravings.
2Fifty Texas BBQ
Recognized by locals as one of the best barbecue spots in the DMV, this Texas-inspired barbecue is one not to miss. Meats are smoked fresh daily over oak wood, and the menu features a delectable selection of beef ribs, pork ribs, sausage links, prime brisket and so much more. Multiple Locations / Website
Cinder Neighborhood Barbecue
Head to Cinder for tasty barbecue and smoked meats, along with a vast collection of whiskey, bourbon, beer and wine. The friendly neighborhood joint prides itself on its delicious dry rubs and pays hyper-close attention to the cut and flavor of each piece of meat. The approachable menu includes Texas-style brisket, pulled pork, ribs and more. Each piece of meat is smoked over fruit woods and seasoned to perfection. 800 Upshur St. NW / Website
DCity Smokehouse
Stop into DCity Smokehouse for a delightful meal of barbecue and beer. The joint’s signature brisket and ribs are smoked for eight to 10 hours in a custom smokehouse. Each day, the Mac & Jack Cheese, chicken wings and coleslaw are freshly homemade. Head next door to sip on fruity cocktails at the joint’s DCity Daiquiri. The restaurant is truly a staple in the DC barbecue community and frequently hosts fun social events. 203 Florida Ave. NW / Website
Fat Pete’s BBQ
Having been awarded critical acclaim from the DMV’s top food critics, Fat Pete’s serves up slow-cooked authentic southern-style barbecued cuisine. The menu features barbecue classics like brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, smoked turkey and more, many of which are available in heaping sandwiches, along with the usual platters. Fat Pete’s even has delicious meals for guests who are vegan or vegetarian—a rarity among many barbecue joints. Try the tofu lettuce wrap with caramelized onions and hydro-bibb lettuce. 3407 Connecticut Ave. NW / Website
Federalist Pig
The winner of four Michelin Bib Gourmand awards, Federalist Pig, is uber-popular and equally delicious. The menu includes brisket, pork rib tips, pork spare ribs, turkey breast, chicken wings, jalapeño cheese sausages and pulled pork, all of which are served with Texas toast and pickles. Vegetarian options include tofu banh mi, crispy brussels sprouts and chipotle garlic green beans. 1654 Columbia Road NW (& DMV pop-ups) / Website
Hill Country Barbecue Market
Inspired by Central Texas barbecue techniques, Hill Country Barbecue Market smokes their fresh meats slowly over Texas Post Oak daily. The menu includes pulled pork, spare ribs, brisket, hot links and jalapeño cheddar sausage. To drink, choose from a lengthy list of craft cocktails, nonalcoholic beverages, and an array of beers. Hill Country frequently has live music acts and karaoke nights. 410 7th St. NW / Website
Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster Barbeque
Decorated pitmaster Myron Mixon has won more awards than any other pitmaster worldwide for his barbecue, including international recognition at the Jack Daniels World Championship in the whole hog category. Needless to say, this barbecue joint has a menu you need to experience. Try the beef brisket, pulled chicken, pulled pork or a combination of meats accompanied by sides like peach barbecue baked beans, loaded baked potato salad, collard greens, Mama’s slaw and fresh-cut fries. 2670 Avenir Place, Vienna, VA / Website.
Rocklands Barbecue & Grilling Company
You’re likely familiar with the flavorful barbecue of Rocklands Barbecue & Grilling Company because of their stands at Nationals Park. Owner and chef John Snedden has been barbecuing since 1977 and has mastered a delectable recipe. Find their menu full of barbecue classics like beef ribs, pork ribs, chicken, wings, hot Italian sausage, and grilled lamb and fish. To finish the meal, try the honey jalapeño cornbread, minted iced tea and a slice of pie. Multiple Locations / Website
Sloppy Mama’s BBQ
Sloppy Mama’s was started by husband and wife duo Joe and Mandy Neuman in 2014 after successfully catering their own wedding. They set out with a love of barbecuing and a food truck to sell their food. Meats are cooked on wood daily for heating and flavor purposes, which is something special for the joint. The menu is loaded with classic barbecued meats like prime brisket, pork, ribs, turkey, chicken and sausage. For vegans, there’s a barbecue jackfruit. 5731 Langston Blvd., Arlington, Va. / Website
Smokecraft Modern Barbecue
Find delicious barbecue with Instagram-worthy plating at Smokecraft Modern Barbecue. The team of chefs has won awards for their barbecue and has continued to further hone their craft. The menu includes hits like pulled pork, St. Louis Ribs, prime brisket, smoked turkey and Chesapeake smoked crab cakes, among others. 1051 N Highland St., Arlington, Va. / Website
Photography by: Oscar Salgado/ Unsplash
