Top 20 BBQ restaurants in Dallas
Dallas is a city known for its vibrant food scene, and BBQ restaurants in Dallas are no exception. These establishments offer a wide range of mouth-watering, slow-cooked meats, from tender brisket to juicy pork ribs. With a rich tradition of smoking techniques and unique sauces, BBQ restaurants in Dallas are a must-visit for any meat lover. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these joints are sure to satisfy your cravings for some of the best BBQ in the Lone Star State.
- 1. Pecan Lodge
- 2. Terry Black's Barbecue
- 3. Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ
- 4. Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ
- 5. Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse
- 6. Bone Daddy's
- 7. Pappas Bar-B-Q
- 8. OAK'D BBQ
- 9. Slow Bone BBQ
- 10. Smokey John's Bar-B-Que & Home Cooking
- 11. Smokey Joe's BBQ
- 12. Kooly’s BBQ
- 13. Off the Bone Barbeque
- 14. Blu's Barbeque & BBQ Catering
- 15. Heim Barbecue on Mockingbird
- 16. Mike Anderson's Barbeque House & Catering Company
- 17. Big Al's Smokehouse BBQ
- 18. T D's Barbecue
- 19. Back Country BBQ
- 20. Sammy's Bar-B-Q
1. Pecan Lodge
Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, long lines but worth the wait

BBQ restaurants in Texas have received high praise from customers for their flavor and quality. Many customers consider the BBQ they serve to be some of the best they have ever had, and recommend it as a must-try for anyone visiting the state. The waiting time at these restaurants varies, with some customers waiting for an hour and a half and others only having to wait 5 minutes. Despite the varying wait times, many customers believe that the wait is worth it for the delicious BBQ.
In summary, Texas BBQ restaurants are highly regarded for their flavor and quality, with some customers considering it to be the best they have ever had. The wait time can vary greatly, but many customers still find it worth the wait for the delicious BBQ. It is a must-try for anyone visiting Texas and looking for a unique and tasty dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. Terry Black's Barbecue
Uses all-natural wood-fired methods, Serves Central Texas-style BBQ

The brisket sandwich is a highly sought-after menu item that many customers find delicious. However, some reviewers believe that the sandwich and combo are overpriced.
In addition to their famous brisket sandwich, this business offers a range of drinks, all of which are well-liked by customers. Two of their most popular drinks are the frozen Jack & Coke and Coke.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ
Uses allwood-fired brick pits for smoking, and offers a variety of Southern-style sides.

The brisket stands out as the best we have ever tasted, featuring a fantastic smoke ring, tender texture that falls apart easily, and a savory dry rub. Moving on to the BBQ food as a whole, it has received high praise from customers for its distinct smoky flavor, traditional method of selling by the pound, and overall delicious taste.
The brisket is a clear highlight of the BBQ experience, boasting an impressive smoke ring, tender and pull-apart texture, and a dry rub that adds an extra layer of flavor. The BBQ food in general has been well-received by customers, who appreciate its traditional smoky flavor, authentic method of being sold by the pound, and outstanding taste.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
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4. Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ
Huge 60-foot ferris wheel and backyard games

The BBQ at this establishment is highly regarded for its tangy and delicious house sauce. One standout dish is the brisket sandwich, which is generously portioned but can be slightly salty for some. The food is widely praised for its exceptional taste, with popular dishes including the brisket sandwich, ribs, sausage, and turkey sandwich. Green beans are also a popular side dish.
The dishes served are described as amazing, delicious, and bursting with flavor. Among the most sought-after items on the menu are the brisket sandwich, succulent ribs, savory sausage, and tender turkey sandwich. The green beans are a popular choice for those seeking a side dish. Some diners have found the brisket sandwich to be a bit salty, but the portion size is more than generous.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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5. Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse
Family-owned business since 1958, drive-thru service

The BBQ restaurant in question is open 24/7, but customer reviews for its offerings have been mixed. Some customers have raved about the Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage, but others have been less impressed with the Brisket and Pulled Pork, criticizing them for lacking smokiness.
The quality of the food at this BBQ restaurant has been a point of contention among customers. While some have praised the brisket sandwich and potato salad, others have found fault with the chicken, describing it as dry, and the beans as unpleasant. Overall, it appears that there is room for improvement in the consistency and quality of the restaurant's food offerings.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
- Late Night
6. Bone Daddy's
Homemade sides and desserts, full bar with local beers

BBQ restaurants are often rated highly for their delicious taste, good portions, and affordable prices, and one such establishment is Bone Daddy's. Customers rave about the BBQ sauce, which is considered amazing and adds to the overall taste of the meal.
Bone Daddy's is not just known for its BBQ, but also for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. The menu offers a variety of options beyond BBQ, including notable dishes such as macaroni and cheese, fried okra, and baked beans. The restaurant's ambiance and menu combine to create a great dining experience.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
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7. Pappas Bar-B-Q
Hickory-smoked meats, homemade sides, and family-friendly atmosphere

The cost of the business is viewed as reasonable and affordable, with some reviewers noting that it is priced comparably to other similar businesses. This affordability makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in a business.
When it comes to the food offered, one reviewer had trouble creating a salad without onions and baked potatoes. This suggests that there may be limited options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. However, it is unclear if this is a widespread issue or specific to the reviewer's experience.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. OAK'D BBQ
Uses local and sustainable meats, Award-winning BBQ, Family-owned and operated

I recently had the opportunity to try Oak'd BBQ's 3-meat platter, which featured brisket, ribs, and cheddar jalapeño sausage. I was thoroughly impressed with the meal - the brisket was incredibly tender and full of flavor, the ribs were so tender they fell off the bone, and the sausage had the perfect amount of spice.
In addition to the delicious 3-meat platter, Oak'd BBQ also offers a variety of dessert options. One standout is their key lime pie, which is always a hit. However, if you're looking to splurge, I would highly recommend trying their beef rib. It is incredibly tender, with a peppery bark that adds an extra layer of flavor. Overall, Oak'd BBQ is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious, high-quality barbecue.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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9. Slow Bone BBQ
Voted Best BBQ in Dallas, Homemade sides, Family-owned

Slow Bone is a remarkable barbecue restaurant with an incredible atmosphere and exceptional service. The staff are extremely courteous, and the sight of the meats being cut right in front of you adds to the overall experience. The sandwich with sausage, ribs, and brisket is a must-try, and the sides, including the beans and mac, are equally delightful.
As one of the leading BBQ Joints in DFW, Slow Bone is renowned for its exceptional ribs, smoked chicken, and incredible brisket. The restaurant has even been voted as having the best fried chicken in DFW. While all the sides are excellent, the brisket beans and sweet potato praline are particularly noteworthy. Slow Bone is definitely a place to visit again and again.
TOPICS
- Cuisines
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
10. Smokey John's Bar-B-Que & Home Cooking
Family-owned business with award-winning BBQ

Smokey John's in Dallas is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates great barbecue, particularly if you hail from the BBQ capital of the world, Houston, Texas. The brisket, ribs, and sausage are standouts, with the brisket and ribs being especially noteworthy. The restaurant has a rustic look and offers a warm and inviting ambiance, making it an ideal spot for lunch.
In addition to the delicious BBQ, Smokey John's also offers mouth-watering sides. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who provide quick service. If you find yourself in the area, this little gem of a restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Smokey Joe's BBQ
Family-owned BBQ restaurant since 1984, Homemade sides

The food served at this establishment is known for its full-bodied flavors and subtle spiciness. One of the most popular dishes is the sweet and spicy pickles, although opinions differ on the ideal sauce consistency and level of saltiness.
As for side dishes, potato salad is a popular choice. However, customers' opinions on its taste and texture vary. Some describe it as sweet and reminiscent of mashed potatoes, while others compare it to deviled eggs. Despite these differing opinions, the potato salad remains a beloved side dish at the establishment.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Kooly’s BBQ
Family-owned and operated, Homemade sides, Award-winning BBQ

Koolies is a popular restaurant, especially for BBQ lovers. Their sides are a standout feature, though they can sometimes run out. The stuffed baked potato is a must-try, easily serving two people. During a recent visit, I enjoyed the sliced beef with collared greens and loaded mash potatoes. It's unfortunate that they do not accept credit cards, which is the only significant drawback.
Kooly's BBQ is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys BBQ. They offer generous portions of appetizing dishes, with options like 'Light Weight' and 'Heavy Weight' options being crowd favorites. Ribs and brisket plates are also popular choices for both kids and adults. Don't forget to save space for their Banana Pudding Cheesecake, a delightful dessert worth every bite.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Off the Bone Barbeque
Offers catering and online ordering

A delightful BBQ restaurant was discovered right near the Canvas hotel in Dallas. The interior has around 6-7 tables and offers outdoor seating, all kept clean. Deciding what to order was difficult due to the enticing options, but the fully loaded baked potato with brisket and a special pulled pork sandwich with bacon, accompanied by fried okra, were ultimate choices. Fast service led to receiving a three-pound potato covered in BBQ brisket, sour cream, cheese, jalapenos, and green onions.
This restaurant's catering service earned high praise when individual meals were ordered for 40 people. The pulled pork stood out as the best ever tasted, and the chocolate cake received compliments as "to die for". A reviewer even claimed it to be the best food they've ever brought in. The delivering driver added to the positive experience by being punctual, amicable, and helpful. Overall, the experience warranted a perfect 10/10 rating.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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14. Blu's Barbeque & BBQ Catering
Offers catering and delivery services, Family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere

BBQ restaurants are a staple, and one in particular stands out as the best in the area, known for its Franklin BBQ-esque feel. Two highly recommended dishes are the pork spare ribs and chicken BBQ, as well as their spicy BBQ sauce version. The food at this establishment is highly praised for its quality and taste, with a reputation similar to Franklin BBQ. The meat served is tender and not overly salty, making it a popular choice for BBQ lovers.
When it comes to specific dishes, the Dino beef ribs are a must-try, along with the bacon jalapeno poppers. To finish off the meal, the bourbon banana pudding is a delicious and popular choice. All of these offerings contribute to the restaurant's reputation for exceptional BBQ. Whether you prefer pork, beef, or chicken, this BBQ establishment has something to offer that will leave you satisfied and craving more.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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15. Heim Barbecue on Mockingbird
In-house smoked meats, Homemade sides

My husband and I recently visited Pretty Good BBQ and had a very pleasant experience. The food was fresh and delicious, and the sweet tea was particularly noteworthy. We were warmly welcomed by the host, Justin, who made our first time there a memorable one. We were so pleased with our experience that we plan to return in the near future.
Heim's BBQ had been recommended to us, and so four adults and two children went to try it out, all of us hungry for some quality barbecue. The service was friendly and attentive, and the clean-up service was also impressive. However, I found the barbecue to be a bit sweeter than I prefer, but overall it was still a positive experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
16. Mike Anderson's Barbeque House & Catering Company
Catering services, Award-winning BBQ, Casual dining

The food served at this establishment is truly delicious. The standout dish for me was a stuffed baked potato with chopped brisket. It was extraordinarily good and incredibly large, serving as both my lunch and dinner. I would certainly visit again.
The BBQ and sauce here are excellent, and the sides complement them well. The service is also fast and friendly. However, parking can be difficult during peak meal times, so it's worth keeping in mind. Despite this, the food is worth any wait or extra walk required to find parking.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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17. Big Al's Smokehouse BBQ
Family-owned with homemade sauces and slow-smoked meats

The delivery process of the service is speedy, but there have been issues reported by some users. These issues mainly concern the attitude of the delivery person and incorrect delivery location. It seems that while the food arrives quickly, there are concerns about the delivery process that need to be addressed.
The BBQ food offered by the service is highly regarded by its users. The taste, portion size, and quality of the food have all received positive feedback. Specifically, dishes such as brisket, deviled eggs, potato salad, bbq beans, and beef ribs have been praised for their flavor and generous portions. Therefore, it appears that the food offerings themselves are a strength of the service, despite some concerns about the delivery process.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Social Gatherings
18. T D's Barbecue
Family-owned and operated since 1951, drive-thru window available

The brisket sandwich at the Dallas BBQ joint is a popular choice, but some reviewers suggest it could be better with more brown sugar. The banana pudding is described as just "alright," while the banana cake receives high praise. However, the BBQ sauce is controversial, with some diners finding it too watery.
I visited a BBQ joint in Dallas that had a warm and inviting atmosphere, even if it wasn't the cleanest location. The rib plate I ordered was mouthwatering, cooked to perfection with a tender and flavorful texture. The sides and desserts were also delicious, enhancing the overall experience and making it worthwhile.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Back Country BBQ
Scratch-made side dishes and desserts

BBQ food is a topic of mixed reviews among guests, with some praising the quality of the ribs while others find it average. The prices of the BBQ food have been mentioned as being a bit steep by some guests. However, there are others who believe that the quality of the food makes the cost worth it.
In summary, opinions on the BBQ food are divided, with some enjoying the taste and quality of the ribs and others finding it lackluster. The prices for the food are seen as expensive by some guests, but many still find it to be a good value for the quality of the food they receive.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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20. Sammy's Bar-B-Q
Family-owned business since 1950, drive-thru window

Sammy’s Bar-B-Q is a must-visit destination for delicious Texas-style barbecue. During our lunch visit in August 2020, we were impressed by the array of flavorful meat options, all served cafeteria-style. The meat was tender, juicy, and full of smoky goodness, and the BBQ sauces were a great accompaniment. Although the sides were just average and the French fries could have been better, the main dishes more than made up for it. The staff members were helpful and added to the friendly atmosphere.
Sammy’s Bar-B-Q is known for offering authentic and high-quality barbecue with a lively ambiance. The diverse menu includes a range of delicious meats and sides that keep customers coming back for more. While some visitors mention that the prices are a bit steep, the majority of feedback highlights the excellent food and friendly service. Sammy’s Bar-B-Q is a great option for those seeking delicious and authentic Texas-style barbecue in a casual setting.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats