disKCovery

disKCovery has declared 2023 to be “The Year of the Pit”. In honor of National Barbeque Month, this installment is the first half of the pinnacle of a year-long deep dive into Kansas City barbeque. To see the rest of the 2Q23 series, click HERE.

The unexpected closure of North Kansas City’s Smokin’ Guns BBQ in the Fall of 2022 was one factor in my decision to publish the sum of my Kansas City barbeque knowledge while I still could. These really were the best burnt ends in Kansas City. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

But first, a note from the writer…

About 11 years ago, I moved to Kansas City. Shortly after, I uttered those nine words that nearly every Cowtowner has said at one point or another, “I’m going to visit every barbeque place in town.” Like many, I didn’t truly realize the full weight of what I was saying when I said it. I mean, the reason this city has been dubbed The World Capital of Barbeque has to do with the sheer number of top-flight barbeque joints, and the diversity of offerings. Knowing that, I still underestimated the breadth of my goal. Soon, I came to understand that this was not going to be a quick jaunt. Instead, it would be a marathon; a constant pilgrimage for as long as this city would have me.

I have remained true to that goal. At one point I could list every place I had been on one or two hands and now? I just passed the century mark**. But as my list has grown, so too has the scene. It feels like there is a new spot opening every month! While that excites me, it is also starting to feel like the same thing can be said for closures. In the past year or so, this city seen a number of long-time institutions permanently close their doors. Smokin’ Guns, Plowboys, Papa Bob’s, Luther’s - the number of permanently closed joints that I have been to is over a dozen on its own. It began to hit me that, for many of them, I never got a chance to share my own knowledge or insight. As I started adding all the new places to my own list, something occurred to me.

Nearly every Kansas Citian has uttered the same words I did. The journey itself is so easy to begin, but where does it end? There is no finish line. Even more, there is no set checklist to track progress. There’s no bingo card. There’s definitely not an order guide of what to get at each place. There’s no one-stop shop that accounts for the opening of new barbeque joints, or for the permanent closures of others. Nobody is out there saying, “Here is every barbeque joint you can visit in KC and what they do best.” I know that, for myself, there is no clear record of my quest to achieve KCQ nirvana.

Last fall, in light of several closures and openings, I mentioned to a friend the need for there to be such a guide. An all-encompassing list of Kansas City barbeque restaurants, joints, stands, trucks, trailers, pop-ups, and concepts. A resource that advises people on what they should order there, and yes, even what should be avoided. A list that would only include barbeque joints native to Kansas City and that would exclude national/regional chains (at least the ones that didn’t begin here), restaurants that dabble in select barbeque entrées, or “barbeque-flavored” restaurants. What I hoped to create was a full list of the actual Kansas City BBQ joints that exist here, that can be updated to reflect the expansion and retraction of the scene. I needed this guide to be editable and able to be updated. I needed to chronicle my own journey, which has been matched by few.

When I told my friend all this, I will never forget his response:

“Devan, it almost sounds like you want to write some kind of ‘Barbeque Bible.”

“Yes! That’s it! That’s exactly what it will be - a Barbeque Bible.”

So I set out to write the Kansas City “BBQ Bible” and give others the resource that I wish I’d had. Then, I went a bit overboard with the concept.

After several months of work, and years of traversing this city’s barbeque scene, here it is - the first of two parts of KC’s own “BBQ Bible”. For all the places I have been to, you have my honest recommendations. For those I haven’t, they will come in time. Due to the length and format, it made sense to split it into two parts. So go ahead read this, pin this, bookmark it and come back. Download this checklist! You likely won’t read through it all in one go, and you don’t have to. This is a resource for all who find it.

This is an account of MY journey through the World Capital of BBQ. Allow it to be YOUR guide to a similar quest. Godspeed!

Published May 1, 2023 - Individual Entries Updated Intermittently.

Part I: The Missouri Testament

In the beginning, Henry Perry created Kansas City barbeque.

This has made a lot of people very happy and been widely regarded as a great move.

Or, it may be better to say, Perry created Kansas City barbeque as we know it today.

In those earliest of days, the BBQ Capital was still new, and without reputation or form. And so, Henry Perry moved upon the Earth. He dug a pit in the ground and filled it with oak wood and hickory wood. He said, “Let there be fire!” and set the pit ablaze. The chunks of wood burned, and Perry saw that it was good.

Perry said, “Let the butchers bring forth every living creature, the beasts of the field, every creeping thing, and the winged fowl of the skies, each according to their kind.” Perry acquired cuts from the livestock, the wild game, and the birds of the air and placed them in the pit. He separated the light meat from the dark and he saw that it was good.

“In the beginning was the wood. And the wood was with Perry. And the wood was Perry’s. Through the wood, all meat was smoked. Without it, nothing was smoked or had been smoked.”

— Son of Gates, 19:08 - 09

Low and slow, Perry smoked beef and pork; chicken and mutton. He cooked woodchuck and duck, raccoon and possum. As they cooked, the fat of each beast dripped on to the embers below, and the smoke it produced rose towards the heavens. Perry smelled the sweet mix of wood and meat and drippings, and he deemed that it was good.

In those days, Henry Perry looked upon the Garment District and saw that they were hungry. He gathered wood and made for himself a cart. The length of the cart was nearly three cubits, the width was less than two, and the height was just under three. He filled the cart with meat of every kind, and set it up in an alley, where it could best serve the flood of hungry factory workers. He sold newspaper wrapped portions of his meats for a quarter apiece to all who would receive them. He made for his meats a harsh, peppery sauce. The hungry workers covered the meat with Perry’s hot barbeque sauce, and they tasted that it was good.

Word spread far and wide of Perry’s offerings and his cart could no longer suffice. So Perry said, “Let there be a building on Kansas City’s Eastside where I can sell these meats.” In that building, Perry built Kansas City’s first barbeque restaurant in his own image. He crowned himself “The Barbecue King” and painted it on the window. His sauce baked in large jars in those very same windows. And his many subjects confirmed that it was good.

People from all neighborhoods, of all races, and all income levels gathered at Perry’s restaurant. As Perry smoked the birds of the sky and the beasts of the field, all of Kansas City, and beyond, were united by their shared appetite. Perry decreed, “My job is to serve you, not to entertain you.” He fed all who would come to him, and they were satisfied that it was good.

“Perry said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them. Let them dine on sandwiches of beef and pork and mutton. Let them devour watermelon and drink soda. Truly I tell you, barbeque belongs to those such as these.’ And so Perry gave the children plates, placed his sandwiches upon them, and fed them.”

— The Acts of the Pitmasters, 7:03

Perry looked around and saw a great neighborhood that had risen up to support him. He said, “How then should these people be fed?” And so he started a tradition of feeding the children and elderly, and those who could not afford his fare, without accepting payment. He continued his generosity throughout his entire reign. And in his fourth decade of ruling over the kingdom he established, Henry Perry found eternal rest.

And so Perry’s empire passed to his disciple Charlie Bryant, and then Charlie’s brother Arthur. Arthur, the Apostle, declared Perry’s sauce to be “way too hot” and said, “Let there be molasses.” He gathered for himself some potatoes and cut and fried them, introducing the French fry to the world of Kansas City barbeque. The people took the fries and dipped them in the sweeter sauce and they celebrated, for it was most assuredly good.

The smoke of Bryant’s, and other barbeque joints, filled the air around Municipal Stadium. Radio broadcasters salivated and mentioned it when they covered games. Saint Arthur’s restaurant was declared by Calvin Trillin to be “the single best restaurant in the world”, and people around the globe came to learn that Kansas City barbeque was good.

And so, as time passed, the barbeque scene was fruitful and did multiply. It soared to heights that the Barbecue King could have never imagined. It grew beyond the 18th & Vine neighborhood to encapsulate nearly every single corner of Kansas City. It grew to influence barbeque on a national, and international, scale.

And this is how Kansas City barbeque was created.

This is how the Barbecue King established his kingdom.

This is how Kansas City became the World Capital of Barbeque. These are the territories of the Q Capital, born from the work that Henry Perry did, in the beginning.

There is a movement to name the new Kansas City International Airport after Henry Perry, Kansas City’s original “Barbecue King”, and give him long overdue recognition in this city. CLICK HERE to sign the petition!

The Book of Bates

Bates County was named after Frederick Bates who served as Missouri’s second governor. It is comprised of the towns of Adrian, Amoret, Amsterdam, Butler, Drexel, Rich Hill, Rockville, and Hume. Butler is the county seat.

You would think that Bates County is home to Bates City. Most shocking is that it’s not. By way of Butler, Bates County was the home to the “Dean of Science Fiction Writers”, Robert Heinlein.

As such, it seems that, as of the time of initial publication, that there is an entire county in the Kansas City metro that is barbeque-deprived. For this reason, Bates County should bear much shame.

The Book of Caldwell

One of the smaller counties in the metro, Caldwell County has a population of less than 10,000 and was named after Kentucky State Senator John Caldwell. Caldwell County is comprised of Braymer, Breckenridge, Cowgill, Hamilton, Kidder, Kingston, and Polo. Kingston is the county seat.

By way of Hamilton, Caldwell County was famously the home of James Cash Penney, the founder of JC Penney department stores.

Disappointingly, the surprises keep coming as the outer edges of Kansas City are, seemingly, a barbeque desert - dry and devoid of any delicious smoked meats. Sadly, Caldwell County is also without KCQ. Much like Bates County, Caldwell should also feel deep shame.

The Book of Cass

Cass County was named after Lewis Cass, a former U.S. Senator, Governor of Michigan, Secretary of War, and Secretary of State. It contains Archie, Belton, Cleveland, Creighton, Drexel, East Lynne, Freeman, Garden City, Harrisonville, a portion of Kansas City, Lake Annette, Lake Winnebago, a small portion of Lee’s Summit, Peculiar, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, and Strasburg. Harrisonville is the county seat.

By way of Garden City, Cass County was the home of Ewing Marion Kauffman who made a fortune with the creation of Marion Laboratories. More famously, he brought the Kansas City Royals to this city, and left behind a foundation that continues to do so much for this city.

At long last, The Book of Cass is one with a little more meat on its bones (PUN TOTALLY INTENDED!) than its predecessors.

The smoked pork chops from Kurzweil’s Country Meats in Harrisonville are unlike anything offered in the metro. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Branding Iron BBQ - Est. 1991
2027 N. Commercial Street, Harrisonville, Missouri

Branding Iron BBQ is a surprisingly large restaurant located in a strip mall on one of the main stretches of downtown Harrisonville. It is very popular in both Harrisonville and across the metro.

So, What Do I Get? The Burnt End Dinner is an excellent option. Choose a combination of beef and sausage. The beef burnt ends are a tender, melt-in-your mouth burnt end. The sausage rounds have nice flavor and texture. Choose for your sides, the pit beans (which are so delicious) and pay the upcharge for the hashbrown casserole. You’ll thank me later! For an appetizer, consider the Texas Toothpicks - a mix of fried onions and jalapeños that tends to be a little more onion heavy.

Buyer Beware? As advertised, the pork spare ribs are indeed “fall-off-the-bone”. They have a wonderful flavor and a nice sweetness but, if like me, you consider such a rib to be overcooked, you may want to pass on these.

HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY
Website: www.brandingironbbque.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Beans (23), Best Onion Straws / Petals, Honorable Mention (23), Best Toast / Bread, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23)

Harold’s Country Mart & Smokehouse
27500 S. State Route 2, Freeman, Missouri

Tucked away behind a truck stop in the absolute middle-of-nowhere, lies perhaps the largest barbeque restaurant space in the entire metro - Harold’s. Right as you think that civilization has left you behind, Harold’s Smokehouse, and its Chicago Daily News-covered walls, will reveal itself to you. It is one of the cooler BBQ restaurant spaces in the metro.

So, What Do I Get? The beans, seriously. Whatever you get, just order the beans. They are tangy and sweet and scraps of meat are littered throughout. These are everything you could dream a pit bean would be. As far as the meats go, go with the ham and / or turkey on bun. Those two are the only smoked meats on the menu worth even considering. When asked, the majority of patrons recommended items that were not barbeque - such as the steaks and chicken tenders.

Buyer Beware? Nearly everything else from a barbeque standpoint! The mac ‘n cheese is mushy and lacks flavor. Harold’s has the distinction of being home to the worst pork ribs in Kansas City, and maybe in the nation. The outside bark is so dry and chewy. And the meat within? Well, it’s like licking lard off a popsicle stick. The pulled pork is incredibly dry. The brisket is passable but not of the quality of the ham and turkey, which is already frightfully average, so I recommend staying away.

HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 4pm - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 4pm - 1am | Sunday 2pm - 1am | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

*The Jiggy Pig^**- Est. 2017*
Peculiar, Missouri

The Jiggy Pig is a mobile barbeque trailer that does a number of events and even private catering. They primarily serve the Raymore and Peculiar area.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: HOURS AND LOCATION VARY
Website: www.thejiggypig.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Kurzweil’s Country Meats - Est. 1995
2817 Cantrell Road, Harrisonville, Missouri

What appears to be a butcher shop in a strip mall (well because it is), Kurzweil’s hides behind their meat counter a warm family style restaurant with exceptional service and a cozy ambiance.

So, What Do I Get? The Short-Rib Grilled Cheese is one of the best barbeque specialty sandwiches in town with its perfectly griddled toast, shaved beef short rib, grilled onions, and gooey cheese and horseradish mix. The star of the menu though is the Kurzweil’s Pork Chops. The pair of pork chops are smoky, tender, and a nice cut at just under an inch thick. They are one of the best, and more unique, meat cuts offered in the metro. Served with two sides, I recommend subbing out the beans for their perfect, batter-style, French fries. The coleslaw is nice, crunchy, and refreshing. At under $15, the pork chop meal is impossible to top.

Buyer Beware? The curly fries. They’re actually quite good, but why pay an upcharge when the normal French fries are so perfect?

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 11am - 3pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.kurzweilscountrymeats.com/pages/restaurant
Past disKCovery Accolades: Top 12 BBQ Sandwiches (23)

There’s just something about the signature “chopped meat” at Long Barbeque Company in Pleasant Hill. And there’s no better way to enjoy it than on the famed Hot Mess Fries.
PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Long Barbeque Company - Est. 2017
304 N. State Route 7, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Located on the main stretch of downtown Pleasant Hill, Long Barbecue Company definitely has the look and feel of a small-town neighborhood restaurant. There is a rural Missouri hospitality and charm that simply cannot be faked.

So, What Do I Get? Long BBQ advertises themselves as the “Home of the Hot Mess Fries” and this is where you should start! Long covers their fries with a yellow cheese sauce, and then a ton of their house “chopped meat”. While available as a side, these fries are enough to be a meal. While you’re at it, be sure to throw some of the house Fry Sauce on there! The chopped meat is a mix of chopped up ham, brisket, and pulled pork that is tossed in their house-sauce then thrown back in the smoker to cook some more. It’s scrumptious! Whether on a bed of fries, or a sandwich, it’s the way to go! Among the other offerings, the white cheddar mac & cheese is quite good. Additionally, the pulled pork and coleslaw are simply elite among Kansas City barbeque. Luckily, you can get both of these on the same hoagie with the aptly named Pulled Pork & Slaw sandwich.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday 11am - 1pm | CLOSED TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY | Thursday - Saturday 11am - 7pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.longbbqcompany.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Pulled Pork, Honorable Mention (23)

Oden’s BBQ Steaks & More - Est. 1982
1302 N. Scott Avenue, Belton, Missouri

Oden’s BBQ is a longtime, family restaurant located in Belton that serves a mix of barbeque and non-barbeque favorites.

So, What Do I Get? Oden’s does a great job of offering a Variety Platter that allows you to sample the best of their fare. The ham is quite fantastic and something only offered at the more classic KC spots. The brisket is of the older Kansas City style and is a little drier but has nice flavor. The pork spare ribs are nice, meaty, and cooked to perfection. They are not so soft that they flop off the bone, but have just that bit of toughness where you just need to give a light tug. There are a lot of great side options but for me it’s all about the beans, which have a lovely flavor reminiscent of bell pepper, and the hearty mac ‘n cheese.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth nothing.

HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 11am - 8pm | Sunday 11am - 4pm | CLOSED MONDAY AND TUESDAY
Website: www.odensbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Ray Rae’s Rib Shack - Est. 2007
20301 S. State Route 291 #8578, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Located on the outskirts of Pleasant Hill, near Country Creek Golf Club, Ray Rae’s is truly a shack that has been a destination for barbeque lovers in Ray County, and beyond, since it first opened. With only two indoor tables and an outdoor picnic table, this is definitely a spot where the majority of diners get their food to go.

So, What Do I Get? As the name implies, this is a place for ribs. Both Kansas City cut spare ribs and babyback ribs are served here. While the dry-served ribs are quite nice, the best way to enjoy them is their Boneless Rib Sandwich. The pulled rib meat is served on bread or bun with their incredible, homemade bacon jam! Ray Rae’s also serves up some of the best pulled pork in the entire metro. The textures and flavors are flawless. As far as sides go, the beans and potato salad are both great but it’s all about the brisket mac ‘n cheese. This mess of gooey, yellow cheese sauce and noodles has a grittiness that I did not know mac ‘n cheese could have but I am definitely grateful for it.

Buyer Beware? CALL AHEAD! Given its remote location, and given the sell-out model and truly micro nature of it, there is nothing worse than making the trek all the way out to Ray Rae’s only to discover they are unexpectedly closed.

HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm | CLOSED SUNDAY - TUESDAY
Website: www.rayraesribshack.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Snead’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 1956
1011 E. 171st Street, Belton, Missouri

Snead’s Bar-B-Q may be the most historic Kansas City barbeque joint that you have never been to. It seems to be in a bit of an odd place but it is the definition of a destination restaurant. The massive restaurant sits on the corner of an estate in rural Cass County. For its history alone, it should be a must for any Fountain City Foodie. Luckily, they deliver a menu that matches the history.

So, What Do I Get? As Calvin Trillin aptly wrote in 1972, “A mixed plate of ham and beef brownies [from Snead’s] makes a marvelous meal.” Who am I to disagree with Kansas City’s greatest food writer? The brownies are what Snead’s calls their take on the burnt end. Any combination of the beef, sausage, or ham brownies is a certifiable winner. Just make sure the beef brownies are one of the two! They are so effortlessly and rarely found classic example of the burnt end that just nails what they need to be. The cubes of smoky ham and the medallions of flavorful sausage will leave you happy as well. As for the other meats, the turkey is simply exceptional. It’s hard to find a sliced smoked turkey finer than what they’re serving up at Snead’s. The Cowboy Sandwich features pepperjack cheese, jalapeños, and onion rings on a bun with two smoked meats. Getting a Cowboy with smoked turkey and sliced sausage is the pro move. When it comes to the sides, the coleslaw and the fries are phenomenal but it’s all about the beans. Many consider these the best beans in Kansas City, and the argument definitely has merit. As an added bonus, the large side dish is typically enough for two people. Whatever you do, SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT! The pecan-laden bread pudding is the kind of heavenly dessert that will make you hate your own grandmother.

Buyer Beware? The ribs are about the floppiest you will find in Kansas City. You will need a fork. However, the meat is so tender and rich that it makes them worth a try. It makes one wish they offered these on bun or as a topper to fries or the loaded mac because straight off the bone is no way to eat them.

HOURS: Sunday, Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: www.sneadsbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best (BBQ) Desserts, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (20), Best Cole Slaw, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated April, 2024

The Book of Clay

Clay County was named after Henry Clay - a statesman from Kentucky, Secretary of State, and presidential candidate. It is comprised of Avondale, Birmingham, Claycomo, Excelsior Springs, Gladstone, Glenaire, Holt, a portion of Kansas City, Kearney, Lawson, Liberty, Missouri City, Mosby, North Kansas City, Oaks, Oakview, Oakwood, Oakwood Park, Pleasant Valley, Prathersville, Randolph, Smithville, and Sugar Creek. Liberty is the county seat.

By way of Kearney, Clay County was home to outlaw and famed train-robber Jesse James.

My affinity for Hawg Jaw’s Irish Hawg sandwich, and their incredible fries, are well-documented. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Chop’s BBQ & Catering - Est. 2016
109 E. Main Street, Smithville, Missouri

Chop’s BBQ & Catering is a small, charming restaurant located on the main square in Smithville. Their sauces are some of the best in Kansas City and featured in my ranking of the top 12 barbeque sauce line-ups in the city in 2022.

So, What Do I Get? Go ahead and start things off with a basket of corn nuggets. The crispy and perfectly fried nuggets with a side of creamy, house-made ranch dressing, are fantastic! Chop’s is definitely a place for sandwiches. When it comes to the meats for said sandwich, the turkey is the way to go! It’s thick cut and has an ideal moisture and flavor. There’s a lot of options to choose for a second meat but the turkey is a must. If you’re a pork rinds person, or just avoiding the carbs, their house-made ones can be a great side choice. For me, the sweet potato waffle fries and the fried okra are where it’s at! The brisket-laden beans are also a strong choice.

Entry updated November, 2023

Cotton Blossom Bar B Que - Est. 2019
4545 Worlds of Fun Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Cotton Blossom Bar B Que is a full-service barbeque restaurant located within the Worlds of Fun amusement park. The only way to dine here is to have a ticket to Worlds of Fun.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: VARY BY SEASON
Website: www.worldsoffun.com/dining/cotton-blossom-bbq
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Fox & Fire Barbecue ^ - Est. 2020
102 W. Lawrence Street, Kearney, Missouri

Fox & Fire was one of the forebearers of the craft-style, or even Texan-inspired, barbeque that we have seen pop up in Kansas City in recent years. Originally a trailer located in Northtown, I provided an in-depth review of their original location HERE. Now permanently parked in Kearney, Missouri, they continue to serve up a rotating menu of craft-style barbeque, until sell-out.

So, What Do I Get? There are so many great choices! And due to Fox & Fire’s constant creativity or options, there seems to always be new entrants to the menu. The beef brisket is incredible. If you love the tender, Texas-style of this cut, Fox & Fire provides a prime version of it. The pork belly is some of Kansas City’s best - large chunks with a lovely sweetness that melt in your mouth. They are also a great place for smoked sausage. There are few places turning out a more quality sausage than Fox & Fire. As far as the sides go, they are constantly changing. If offered, the potato salad and agave-lime red cabbage slaw are both dreamy.

Buyer Beware? The sell-out nature of Fox & Fire. If you want the good stuff - arrive early! Also beware the seasonal nature, come winter, they may be closed.

HOURS: Wednesday - Friday 4pm - 7pm OR SELLOUT | Saturday 11am - 3pm OR SELLOUT | CLOSED SUNDAY - TUESDAY
Website: www.foxfirebbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23), Best New (To Me) BBQ Joint (21)

Entry Updated March, 2024

Since 1987, Smokehouse Barbecue has offered traditional, but elevated, Kansas City barbeque. For the sauce averse, you may want to request it on the side. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

F325 BBQ - Est. 2022
1825 Buchanan Street, North Kansas City, Missouri

A food truck turned brick and mortar, F325 is located in the “bar district” of Northtown, just a couple of blocks away from the main stretch of Armor Road. They are in the storefront that was formerly Repeal 18. The flexibility of their menu makes them a haven for anyone hoping to try multiple things in one-go.

So, What Do I Get? The fried pickles are an incredibly popular starter here. It’s all about the platters at F325 and for me, it’s all about the combo of pulled pork and house-made kielbasa. Given its seasoning profile, the kielbasa is more of an Italian sausage than a traditional kielbasa but it’s so wonderful! The pulled pork is about as good as it gets. If you go for a third meat, consider the turkey which is an actual turkey breast, coated in a nice rub, and cut into strips. Of the sides, the clear stand-out is the Whiskey Sweet Potato Casserole. They feel like more than a dessert than a side! The beans are also fantastic, and this is one of the only BBQ joints where you’ll find collared greens. Also important to note, with smoked jackfruit, smoked Portobello mushroom, and a black bean burger on the menu - this might be the best barbeque joint option in the metro for vegetarians. Try the smoked jackfruit on bun with some creamy coleslaw.

Buyer Beware? There is a parking lot directly in front of the entrance. It is a paid parking lot. And the owner circles that lot like a hawk ready to ticket anyone who even goes a minute over. So if you are going to park there, make sure you get back to your car on time! Additionally, the mac ‘n cheese which utilizes a spinach artichoke cheese sauce is intriguing, but it just tries to do too much. Choose another side item.

HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 10pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 1am | CLOSED SUNDAY - MONDAY
Website: www.f325bbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Vegetable Side (23), Best Fried Pickles, Honorable Mention (23), Best Vegetarian BBQ (23)

Entry updated September, 2023

Hawg Jaw Que & Brew - Est. 2012
900 Swift Avenue, North Kansas City, Missouri

Originally located in Riverside, Hawg Jaw Que & Brew moved into their current Northtown location in 2017. A popular spot during the lunch hour for Northtown workers, they also offer delivery inside of the next-door Big Rip Brewing.

So, What Do I Get? My longtime readers will be “shocked” to read this, but it’s got to be the Irish Hawg! Hawg Jaw is unique in that their house-made smoked corned beef is a daily offering. By extension, their take on the Reuben, is a special treat. The Roma marble rye and the spicy house-made kraut make this sandwich truly special. The inclusion of their delicious deli-sliced smoked sausage is inspired. There’s a reason that I went so far as to feature it in this piece on Kansas City Reubens! The French fries are the best in the city and should be regularly enjoyed with some of the best sauces in the city. Notably, Hawg Jaw is one of the few BBQ joints that makes their own ketchup and the Smoked Ketchup is something to be enjoyed. The smoked mac and cheese is a mind-melting, decadent treat. The fried pickles are a very popular side and when available, they also do a really nice brisket chili. As a place that does a lot of things well, the Hawg Trough Sampler is always a great choice on your first visit as it provides the chance to sample all of their fantastic meats at an affordable price.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.hawgjaw.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Fried Pickles (23), Best Chili, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ For Drinks, Honorable Mention (23), Best Toast / Bread, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Corned Beef, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sandwiches (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best French Fries (20), Best Sliced Brisket, Honorable Mention (20), Best Smoked Pork Sausage, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated April, 2024

Porter’s PIg Shack^ - Est. 2014
14123 Earth Works Drive, Smithville, Missouri

Porter’s Pig Shack is a barbeque trailer that is typically parked on the south end of Smithville.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: VARY
Website: Yelp!
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Salute ‘n Smoke^ - Est. 2021
North Kansas City, Missouri

Salute ‘n Smoke is a family-owned mobile barbeque operation based out of North Kansas City. They provide catering and appear at a number of public events throughout the city. As for their serving locations, and hours, follow them on social media.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: VARY
Website: www.salutensmoke.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Smokehouse Barbecue (Gladstone)* - Est. 1987
6304 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Missouri

Smokehouse Barbecue is a long-held favorite among many Northlanders and was one of the city’s barbeque joints to combine the ambiance of fine dining with Kansas City barbeque favorites.

So, What Do I Get? Smokehouse offers an expansive menu that can be difficult to navigate. The appetizers list alone is longer than many barbeque joints’ entire menus. This is a great place for a platter. For the sides, the hickory pit beans and the cheesy corn are tremendous. They also do a nice mac ‘n cheese. Any of the deep fried items are a fantastic option. The fried zucchini slices and onion rings are especially fantastic when dipped in their house ranch. They are one of the few places to serve beef ribs, and also offer babyback ribs. These are some of the better babybacks you will find in KC. As far as meals go, the ribs and ribs plate or the sliced meat platter are proven winners. Anything with their beef burnt ends is also a great choice.

Buyer Beware? The sauce. Don’t get me wrong - it’s great! But if you are sauce-averse, you may want to ask for your meat dry, or at least with the sauce on the side. Sometimes they get a little too carried away topping the meats.

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm
Website: www.smokehousebbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Beef Ribs, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry updated January, 2024

3 Halves Brew Pub & BBQ has a lot of great options but getting their cheesy macaroni topped with smoked meat (brisket pictured) is an excellent choice. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

3Halves Brewpub & BBQ - Est. 2022
110 E. Kansas Street, Liberty, Missouri

Located in downtown Liberty, 3Halves began as a brewery that soon partnered with Jousting Pigs BBQ to offer top-flight beers and smoked meats. After Jousting Pigs left in 2022 for KCK, the brewery decided to go it on their own and has never had cause to look back. The brewpub combines the best aspects of a microbrewery, gastropub, and craft barbeque into one very desirable eatery.

So, What Do I Get? The mac ‘n cheese is incredibly popular, and for good reason! The curvy cavatappi is rich, smoky, and fantastic. Getting it topped with a smoked meat is a meal in itself! The brisket is my recommendation here. Where 3Halves excels is both versions of the burnt end. The beef burnt end has a lovely char but still so tender. There’s such a nice peppery quality to the rub that really enhances the bite. The pork belly is special. It’s some of the best you will find anywhere! The full-bodied richness and the overall effervescence of these cubes of sinfully senational pork are hard to put into words. The ribs have a wonderful flavor and bark but are overdone by this writer’s standard, usually flopping off the bone before you can give them a full lift. However, the Mr. Rib sandwich which takes pulled, and fried, rib meat, shredded white onion, and pickle slices and puts them on a toasty hamburger bun is the perfect way to eat 3Halves’ ribs. Beyond the mac, other side suggestions are the cheese curds and the beans. The beans are very meaty and so well-balanced. While not usually a barbeque recommendation, don’t sleep on the salads. They’re massive, well-built, and fantastic. This is a well-balanced menu with something for everyone. .

Buyer Beware? The spicy curds. They are not messing around with the heat on these! They will set a five alarm fire in your mouth. Luckily, the housemade ranch is so wonderful and helps to pacify the bite.

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm | Sunday 12pm - 6pm
Website: www.3halvesbrewingco.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Pork (Belly) Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Turkey, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ Mac ‘n Cheese, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ Joint for Drinks, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry updated April, 2024

Wabash BBQ and Blues Garden - Est. 1997
646 Kansas City Ave S, Excelsior Springs, Missouri

As the name implies, Wabash is so much more than a restaurant, they are also a music venue. Wabash BBQ and Blues Garden is located in an old train depot in Excelsior Springs. The building is two different dining rooms with a small kitchen sandwiched in between. The smaller dining room seems like a small-town diner while around back there is a larger dining room which is also home to a much darker sports bar. Wabash’s award-winning menu is available in both sides of the building.

So, What Do I Get? The first thing I would say about Wabash is they sure know their way around a bird. The Sidecar Chicken is some of the best in the city, and at around seven dollars for half of a bird - it also represents a fantastic value. There are so many things that make this copper-skinned fowl so fine, but just know that it’s some of the best smoked bone-in chicken you will ever taste. They also do a wonderful job with all their meats. The pulled pork is delicious but heavily sauced. The other meats are all served dry. The sliced turkey and ham have an exquisite taste and texture and represent some of the better smoked options you’ll find. The brisket is in the classic style with just the right amount of fat. The Roundhouse sandwich with a combo of sliced turkey and brisket, topped with their spicy barbeque sauce. Speaking of the spicy sauce, it makes a wonderful dip for their incredible fries. The beans are another solid side dish choice. However, no matter what you do, an appetizer is a must! The fried pickles and fried mushrooms are fantastic but the thing for which they are best known is the corn nuggets. Dipped in their house-made buttermilk ranch, it’s nearly impossible not to get an order every time you go.

Buyer Beware? The Piggyback Platter offers the best way to sample nearly all of their meats but beware, this thing is massive! With 8 - 10 slices of each meat, this platter can easily feed 3 people.

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 11am - 8pm
Website: www.wabashbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Corn Nuggets (23), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Bone-In Chicken, Honorable Mention (23), Best Corn Nuggets (20), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (20), Best Bone-In Chicken, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated April, 2024

The Book of Clinton

Clinton County is comprised of Cameron, a portion of Gower, Holt, Lathrop, Osborn, Plattsburg, and Trimble. Strangely enough the county was named for New York Governor and U.S. Presidential Candidate DeWitt Clinton. Just as odd, Plattsburg is the county seat, and named after Plattsburgh, New York - the county seat of their Clinton County.

Plattsburg was the home of U.S. Senator David Rice Atchison, who some still famously claim was “President for a Day” due to President Zachary Taylor’s refusal to be inaugurated on a Sunday.

While this county is home to a President for a Day, you cannot get barbeque on any given day. The only option, at time of publication, seems to be a food truck that does special events throughout the metro.

Pit Stop Catering & Food Truck^ - Est. 2010
Lathrop, Missouri

Based out of Lathrop, Missouri, Pit Stop Catering is a small catering company whose food truck can be found at various public and private events, festivals, and fairs in the metro.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: VARY, Check Social
Website: www.pitstopcateringkc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Find the complete Fountain City Foodie’s BBQ Capital Checklist HERE so that you can track your own KC BBQ journey!

The Book of Jackson

Jackson County is the largest county in terms of population in the Kansas City metro. It was named after President Andrew Jackson. It contains the bulk of Kansas City, Missouri as well as Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Grandview, Independence, Lake Lotawana, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, and a few others. Kansas City and Independence are both considered to be co-county seats of Jackson County.

Among the multitude of famous people from Jackson County, the most significant has to be Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States and the only U.S. President to hail from Missouri. It is also the place where Charlie “Bird” Parker, the Father of Bebop and greatest saxophonist to ever play, was raised. Jackson County is also home to the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) and Kansas City Royals (MLB).

When it comes to Kansas City restaurants, there are only a few as iconic as Arthur Bryant’s. The sliced pork sandwich with handcut fries is a throwback to a past era. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque - Est. 1946
1727 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

What can be said about the original Arthur Bryant’s beyond it being Kansas City and barbeque royalty? Calvin Trillin, on multiple occasions, called the original Bryant’s “the single best restaurant in the world” and in doing so, put KCQ on the map. If that’s not enough for you, they’re clearly Ted Lasso’s favorite BBQ joint as well!

So, What Do I Get? Arthur Bryant’s is credited with introducing French fries to Kansas City barbeque, as well as introducing molasses to the sauce and giving Kansas City its signature style. So definitely, enjoy both those things! It is hard to beat Bryant’s hand-cut fries dipped in one of their trio of sauces. The fries are best enjoyed with either a pork (sliced over pulled personally) or turkey sandwich. A combo of the two is fantastic but the towering double-decker can feed 2 - 3 people. Either of these meats pairs best with the Sweet Heat sauce. A half slab of their famous spare ribs or baby backs is also a strong option. Whatever you do, don’t forget the famous sauce!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10am - 8pm | Sunday 11am - 7pm
Website: www.arthurbryantsbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Sliced Pork (23), Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23), Best Babyback Ribs, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Joints (21), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best Sliced Pork (20), Best BBQ Sauce, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pulled Pork, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pork Babyback Ribs, Honorable Mention (20), Best Sliced Turkey, Honorable Mention (20)

Aunt Mildred’s #10^ - Est. 2020
10805 E. Truman Road, Independence, Missouri

Aunt Mildred’s #10 is a tiny black food trailer parked outside of Pappy’s Den in Blue Summit. It continues a barbeque legacy that began back in 1944 with the creation of a sauce.

So, What Do I Get? The must-order item on the menu is the sausage. Not only is it one of the better smoked sausage is town, it is definitely the biggest! Served butterflied on white bread, even a quarter link is plenty to fill the sandwich. Be sure to ask for it dry. Aunt Mildred’s is proud of their sauce (as they should be!) and loves to drench everything in it. When it comes to the sides, the homemade potato salad topped with paprika is quite lovely. If you must go with anything else, consider a pulled pork sandwich, but be warned; it’s a saucy mess! If you’re a dog owner, this trailer also, quite brilliantly, sells smoked pork shoulder bones which they call the “K9 Special”.

Buyer Beware? The menu does not lend itself to much flexibility and the location and set-up means you are absolutely taking this meal to go. As far as the menu goes, tread carefully. The ribs are terribly overcooked and the brisket lacks flavor. Everything is tender and juicy which allows Aunt Mildred’s to cover up a lot of deficiencies by drenching everything in sauce. Thankfully, it’s a fantastic sauce. If you are hoping to sample their burnt ends (I cannot speak to their quality), they’re only available on Friday and Saturday.

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 12pm - 8pm | CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY
Website: www.auntmildreds10.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Potato Salad, Honorable Mention (23)

Back Porch Bar-B-Q - Est. 2015
1620 SE Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

UPDATE: At time of publication, Back Porch Bar-B-Q is considered to be “temporarily closed”. They continue to do private catering as they seek out a permanent location.

Back Porch Bar-B-Q is a homestyle barbeque joint with a wide selection of smoked meats and sides. They have existed in multiple iterations at multiple locations, currently in Lee’s Summit.

So, What Do I Get? The Back Porch Double-Up with brisket and turkey is the way to go! Simply put, the thin-sliced smoked turkey is sensational! The real pro move would be to sub out the bun for some of their buttery, nicely griddled Texas toast. While there are some fantastic side options to choose from, the Baked Beans are the cream of the crop. These are some of the best BBQ beans you can find anywhere in the metro!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Wednesday - Friday 3pm - 8pm | Saturday 12pm - 8pm | Sunday 12pm - 6pm | CLOSED MONDAY AND TUESDAY
Website: www.backporchbarbqkc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Breads, Honorable Mention (20), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (20)

Barbacoa - Est. 2023
5500 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Barbacoa is a concept that fuses together the two culinary genres that Kansas City arguably does best - barbeque and Mexican cuisine. The name “Barbacoa” refers to the long-held art of smoking meats low ‘n slow. In many ways, Barbacoa is not quite Kansas City barbeque, but it’s not quite Mexican either. It’s the best of both worlds and because of that, it’s something entirely new.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: Thursday - Saturday 5pm - 10pm | Sunday (Brunch) 11am - 3pm | CLOSED MONDAY - WEDNESDAY
Website: www.barbacoakc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

I know those look like chicken tenders in the top left, but those are actually the famed Battered Fries from BB’s Lawnside! PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

B.B.’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ - Est. 1990
1205 E. 85th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Located in the Marlborough Heights neighborhood, BB’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ is as much of a destination for music as they are smoked meats. The Cajun influence on both the culinary and musical stylings should be lost on no one. Aside from the large dining room, they have a very spacious covered patio out front.

So, What Do I Get? Kick things off by ordering an appetizer of Smoked Wings with the Sweet Heat Peach sauce! The mix of sweet fruit and sensational fire makes this a really special sauce. There’s a lot of great options here but the Hickory Smoked Meat Platter highlights some of the best that BB’s has to offer. Go for the sliced beef and the turkey. This is also a great option for a combo sandwich. Similarly, there are a number of fantastic sides. The pit beans are a great option. No matter what you do, order one of the two fry options. The Skillet Fries are nice, well-seasoned cubes of fried potatoes. The Battered Fries are giant, dense, crunchy battered and fried potato wedges. Getting one of the two fries is a must on every visit, and a great way to enjoy the sauces.

Buyer Beware? The live music. This is a music venue that can get quite loud on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays when there’s a performer.

Entry updated May, 2024

Big T’s Bar-B-Q
6201 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

Big T’s is a classic Kansas City barbeque joint in the truest sense of the words. It is divey, old-school, has a loyal following, and their southside location serves their ‘que in the classic KC style - meaning oversized portions covered in sauce. The counter-style joint is always popular among locals, especially during the weekday lunch hour.

So, What Do I Get? Here, it’s all about the sides and everything starts with the fries! Big T’s makes a fantastic hand-cut French fry and they are some of the better ones you will find in town. The beans and potato salad are both delightful and represent the best of classic ‘que. The textures and flavors in both these dishes are nearly perfect. As far as the meats go, the beef burnt ends are likely the best option. The smoked ham or the rib tips are a strong second option. Notably, this is one of only two barbeque joints in town that serves a turkey drumstick year-round. The massive leg is well-smoked and worth ordering if for no other reason than the novelty of it all.

Buyer Beware? The portion sizes really are obnoxious. Many of the combo plates have enough food to feed a small family. Additionally, many of the meats are best left avoided. Big T’s seems to be aware of the poor meat quality as they drench everything in their warm, very tomato-forward sauce. The best description of it is a barbeque-inspired marinara. If you don’t want a sauce-laden plate, be sure to ask for yours on the side. Overall, deviating from these specific recommendations can prove risky.

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 10:30am - 10pm
Website: None could be found.
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Smoked Turkey Leg, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry updated April, 2024

Buck Tui BBQ at GEHA Field - Sections 121 & 339 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

For the 2023 Season, the Kansas City Chiefs introduced Overland Park’s innovative Buck Tui BBQ as a concession stand within Arrowhead Stadium. With stands both on the lower level (121) and upper level (339), Buck Tui offers ballpark fare versions of the Thai-inspired Kansas City barbeque dishes that made them famous.

So, What Do I Get? The Brisket Rangoon is one treat that it’s nearly impossible to visit Buck Tui without getting, so why should gameday be any different? The fried Wontons filled with marinated cream cheese and smoky brisket are too good to share. The Chili Crunch Nachos loaded with cheddar, pulled pork, and chili crunch are also wonderful. A classic brisket or pulled pork sandwich is never a bad call.

Buyer Beware? Get in line early and before they sellout!

HOURS: Chiefs home games until sellout. View the entire schedule HERE.
Website: www.bucktuibbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Given the nature of the stand, any accolades would be listed with the individual restauranteurs, not here.

Entry added August, 2023

Burn Theory Fire Kitchen - Est. 2021
Diametric Brewing, 949 NE Columbus Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Burn Theory Kitchen is a scratch kitchen specializing in hickory-smoked barbeque that operates out of a bright green trailer that is parked outside of Diametric Brewing in Lee’s Summit. The menu infuses smoked meats into gastropub-adjacent offerings. Diners order their Burn Theory food at the bar inside of the brewery.

So, What Do I Get? For starters, The Bog Hog is as unique as specialty sandwiches in KC get. The house-smoked pulled pork is phenomenal. Combined with ham, bacon, pickled peppers, Swiss cheese, “bog sauce” and served on blueberry swirl bread - there’s a lot going on here but it’s a lot to love. The pickled peppers are not as pickley as they are nicely tart and the sweetness of the purple-tinted bread is there but not too overbearing. The melty Swiss just ties it all together. Similarly, the K-Cheesy is a fantastic sandwich. Burn Theory’s take on the Philly features smoked brisket, taco-seasoned queso, poblanos, onions, and mushrooms on a pillowy soft hoagie. The Smo-Fried Wings are some of the best smoked wings in KC. While offered with a variety of sauces, it would be criminal to drown these in a sauce. Instead, ask for a rub, such as the Burn Theory BBQ Rub or the Garlic Parmesan. The sauces offered are fantastic but the wing flavor is great without it. The Taylor Tots are always a must, as an appetizer or a side. Resembling hushpuppies, the fried balls of shredded potato and Gouda are delightful. Get them plain or tossed in a rub! The best side on the menu or the crispy, hearty Brussels which feature Burn Theory’s grainy, honey mustard sauce. No matter what you order, the Brussels are a must. Also, be sure to try one of Diametric Brewing’s awesome beers or even better? Their Cini Vanilla Root Beer.

Buyer Beware? It may be more fair to consider Burn Theory Kitchen a barbeque-inspired kitchen than a barbeque joint. That is not any kind of knock, just the reality of what they are. Smoked meats are at the heart of all that they do but this is not a place where you can just order a platter or a meat-on-bun. Primarily their smoked meats are incorporated into tacos, specialty sandwiches, or as toppers on other dishes. Occasionally there is an opportunity to buy a more traditional offering so be sure to ask the bartenders about what the daily offerings are.

HOURS: Monday, Wednesday - Friday 4pm - 9pm | Saturday 12pm - 9pm | Sunday 9am - 4pm | CLOSED TUESDAY
Website: diametricbrewing.com/our-food
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ For Drinks, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Potatoes, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Wings, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry updated April, 2024

Burnt End BBQ - Crown Center - Est. 2020
2450 Grand Boulevard #130, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Kansas Testament, The Gospel of Johnson, “Burnt End BBQ - Overland Park*”

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | Sunday 11am - 7pm
Website: www.burntendbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Cornbread, Honorable Mention (23)

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ* - Est. 1988
6805 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

As the name implies, Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ is a small, divey joint on Prospect known for serving those two things above all else.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware? Just call ahead. This is not a place that you can expect to always be open during advertised hours.

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 10pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 4am | Sunday 9am - 5pm
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ Food Truck^
Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson, “Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ*”

HOURS: VARY, Check Social
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

There are few delicacies in this city greater than the Cheesy Hushpuppies at Char Bar. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements* - Est. 2014
4050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Located in Westport, the name really does say it all. Part BBQ joint, part playground, part bar, part restaurant - entirely wonderful. Char Bar has been a destination for barbeque, and non-barbeque, favorites since they first opened. Char Bar has the distinction of being featured in four editions of Devan’s Dozen, more than any other restaurant!

So, What Do I Get? Choices, choices, so many choices! While you take a look at the menu, just go ahead and order some Cheesy Hushpuppies! The fried balls of cheddar grits with a jalapeno jelly glaze are one of the best small bites in the entire city, and are terrific any time of day. It is worth noting that Char Bar is one of a few BBQ joints that does offer a regular weekend brunch. If that’s your play, the Burnt End Benny is definitely the order. For lunch and dinner, it really is hard to go wrong. This is a specialty sandwich haven (check out The Burnt Heaven or the Jacknife). The Jacknife, when made with smoked jackfruit, is the single best vegetarian barbeque entrée in the city! On the platter side, The Holy Trinity (ribs, brisket, and beef burnt ends) is tough to beat! When offered, their pork belly is some of the best in town! The pork belly makes a wonderful topper for the “Pigtail” Mac ‘N Cheese. Other sides that must be enjoyed are the BBQ Pit Beans, Bacon-Broccoli Slaw, Sweet Potato Fries, and Jalapeño Cheesy Corn Bake. Also, don’t sleep on the Cornbread Muffins.

Buyer Beware? Getting overwhelmed by all the incredible options.

Chef J BBQ* - Est. 2020
1401 W. 13th Street, Suite G, Kansas City, Missouri

Chef J BBQ is a craft barbeque eatery, with roots in the competitive circuit, located in the ground floor of The Beast haunted house in the West Bottoms. It has wildly grown in popularity since they first opened their doors. Like most craft joints, Chef J operates on a sell-out model.

So, What Do I Get? If you have a group to feed, The Full Monty offers the best opportunity to try all of the best things that Chef J has to offer. For the individual diner, the flexibility of the meat plates (one, two, three, or four), each served with two sides, is a BBQ fiend’s dream! The two-meat plate with Bacon Burnt Ends and their Texas-style brisket is my top choice. The thick-cut tender brisket is some of the best in Kansas City and the Bacon Burnt Ends are such a wonderfully prepared, and super-lean, take on pork belly. For the sides, give the Smoked Elotes, the delightful Bacon & Blue Potato Salad, or the decadent Mac ‘n Cheese a try. The balance of flavors and textures in these side dishes is something to behlod. Speaking of the amazing Mac, getting it topped with brisket or pulled pork is another excellent entrée option. Whatever you do, consider getting yourself a dessert, even if it is to go. Where else in town can you get a cheesecake that has actually been smoked?

Buyer Beware? First of all the demand. As the restaurant has grown in popularity, it is important to arrive early since lines form as early as 10:45am on the weekends. The limited hours and sell-out nature of the meats means that meats like the Bacon Burnt Ends tend to go FAST. There’s no guarantee they will even make it to 4:00pm. Lastly, they do a wonderful turkey but due to shortages, it is rarely available. When it is an option, give it a try.

HOURS: Thursday - Saturday 11:30am - 4pm OR Sellout | Sunday 12pm - 4pm OR Sellout | CLOSED MONDAY - WEDNESDAY
Website: www.chefjbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Potato Salad, Honorable Mention (23), Best Vegetable Side, Honorable Mention (23), Best Mac ‘n Cheese, Honorable Mention (23), Best (BBQ) Desserts, Honorable Mention (23), Best Pork (Belly) Burnt Ends (23), Best Sliced Brisket, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked (Pork) Sausage, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Turkey, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Joints (21)

Entry updated April, 2024

Chef J BBQ at GEHA Field - Section 107 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

For the 2023 Season, the Kansas City Chiefs introduced the West Bottoms favorite, Chef J BBQ, as a concession stand within Arrowhead Stadium. Located on the lower level behind Section 107, Chef J’s stand offers the elite craft barbeque for which they are known, a few stadium-friendly concepts unique to the stand that are sure to be fan favorites.

So, What Do I Get? The use of an offset smoker makes the craft Texas-style brisket some of the best in they city. There’s a few options with the brisket but the Beef & Cheddar Sandwich is a great choice. The real showstopper of the line-up is certain to be the Loaded BBQ Tots. Crispy tots loaded with chopped smoked meat, smoked cheddar sauce, crema, and diced green onion. Whatever you get, there are no mistakes.

Buyer Beware? Get in line early and before they sellout!

HOURS: Chiefs home games until sellout. View the entire schedule HERE.
Website: www.chefjbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Given the nature of the stand, any accolades would be listed with the individual restauranteurs, not here.

Entry added August, 2023

County Road Ice House - Est. 2018
100 E. 14th Street #2919, Kansas City, Missouri

Located in the Power & Light District, County Road Ice House is a collaboration between Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and the Rockhill Restaurant Group. It utilizes classic Joe’s meats and sauces to create a menu that, while Joe’s-inspired, is entirely County Road Ice House’s own.

So, What Do I Get? A starter of the Burnt End Taquitos (fried corn tortillas stuffed with beef burnt ends and chipotle mashed potatoes) is a great option. A Ribs and two-meat plate (with beef burnt ends and pulled pork) is a wonderful way to sample the best of Joe’s meats. Joe’s ribs are some of the best in the nation! A two-meat sandwich with pulled pork and burnt ends OR brisket is also a great choice. What makes County Road special is the unique sides. Of course they have Joe’s iconic fries but don’t sleep on the Spicy Mac ‘n Cheese, the Green Chile Cornbread, or the Spicy Street Corn. For years this was the only place to pair a mac ‘n cheese with Joe’s incredible meats. The Spicy Street Corn is the best side dish on the menu!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth nothing.

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm | Sunday 11am - 8pm
Website: www.countyroadicehouse.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best French Fries, Honorable Mention (23), Best Cornbread, Honorable Mention (23), Best Vegetable Side Dish, Honorable Mention (23), Best Pulled Chicken, Honorable Mention (23), Best Breads, Honorable Mention (20), Best Fries, Honorable Mention (20),

Danny Edwards BLVD BBQ - Est. 1980
2900 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Danny Edwards BLVD BBQ is a classic barbeque spot in the heart of Kansas City. The late Danny Edwards was the son of the legendary Jake Edwards making this a family barbeque tradition that goes back nearly a hundred years to KC BBQ’s earliest days.

So, What Do I Get? Longtime readers know that it all starts with the Big D Special. This sandwich features smoked sirloin point, provolone, and crispy onion rings on chewy marble rye. There’s just something about the tastes and textures of this sandwich that makes it one of my favorites in town. For the sides, the sweet potato fries and the Spicy Rancher Beans are elite. The sweet potato fries are the best in the city among barbeque joints. The wings, ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and mac ‘ n cheese (when offered) are also great options.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10:30am - 3pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.dannyedwardsblvdbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Sweet Potato Fries (23), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Beef (23), Best Smoked Corned Beef, Honorable Mention (23), Best Pork Spare Ribs (KC Cut), Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23), Top 12 BBQ Sandwiches (23), Top 12 BBQ Joints (21), Best Sweet Potato Fries (20), Best Sliced Beef (20), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (20), Best Potato Salad, Honorable Mention (20), Best Onion Rings, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pork Rib Tips / Riblets, Honorable Mention (20)

*Dunn Deal BBQ**- Est. 2024*
506 Main Street, Grandview, Missouri

Opened in Grandview, Missouri in April of 2024, Dunn Deal Barbeque purports themselves to be, “where the soulful sounds of KC jazz and blues meet the mouthwatering flavors of Texas BBQ.” The pitmaster behind it all, Gerald Dunn, is also a saxophonist and the Director of Entertainment for the American Jazz Museum’s Blue Room. Operating out of the space that was once Lueck’s Barbecue & General Store, Dunn Deal offers grab-and-go barbeque favorites on Fridays and Saturdays.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: Friday & Saturday 11:00am - 4:00pm OR SELLOUT | CLOSED SUNDAY - THURSDAY
Website: www.dunndealbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Entry added April, 2024

Filling Station Bar-B-Que - Est. 1999
333 SE Douglas Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

The Filling Station is a nostalgic barbeque restaurant located in an old Texaco station in downtown Lee’s Summit.

So, What Do I Get? Go for the Rib Combo Dinner with the ribs and sausage. The ribs are the classic Kansas City cut with the tip still attached but still have a wonderful flavor and texture. Unlike many Kansas City ribs, they are served dry, not pre-sauced or even glazed. For your sides, the classics play best. The baked beans, cole slaw, and potato salad are all fantastic options. The freshness of the slaw and salad ingredients are particularly noteworthy.

Buyer Beware? The bone-in chicken tends to be extremely dry so best to stay away.

HOURS: Tuesday - Sunday 11am - 7pm | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: www.fillingstationbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Potato Salad, Honorable Mention (20)

Chef J is probably the most well-known of a recent influx of "craft BBQ joints” in Kansas City. I had the distinction of writing the first-ever *Yelp!* review for Chef J. I knew right away that this place was elite. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Fuego’s BBQ Mexican Cocina - Est. 2021
9013 E. Highway 40 #A, Independence, Missouri

Located on 40 Highway, Fuego’s is best described as Mexican and Kansas City barbeque fusion. While it is definitely more of a Mexican restaurant, they do offer some traditional staples. The meats are grill-finished which makes this restaurant unique.

So, What Do I Get? The half chicken (Dinner #1) is a phenomenal value and is the must-order here. It is hard to put into words how incredible this chicken is. Smoked, tender, juicy, and that grill flavor; just order it! This is some of the best chicken in town! The hot corn tortillas and the rice that come with every meal are such a nice change-of-pace and so lovely.

Buyer Beware? The ribs are hyped up and included in their biggest barbeque platter but should be avoided. The sauce on them is nice but it makes them unnecessarily messy. The ribs are somehow both overcooked and undercooked at the same time. Just stick to the chicken. Otherwise, pivot to the smoked sausage.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 8am - 8pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.fuegosbbqmo.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Rice Dish, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Bone-In Chicken, Honorable Mention (23)

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard)* - Est. 1946
1325 Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

One of the most historic barbeque joints in town, Gates Bar-B-Q is a Kansas City favorite that is still owned and operated by the Gates Family. Drawing a direct culinary lineage to Henry Perry, the family still utilizes the exact style of smoking the meat first taught to Arthur Pinkard by Henry Perry. For many Kansas City natives, Gates and their food has been a very important part of their upbringing.

So, What Do I Get? A Combo Double-Decker is always a strong order. The brisket and turkey is the best of the bunch. However, this is one of the only places in town for mutton or sliced pork so if you’re so inclined - do it. For the sides, the steak fries are a sure winner and a great reason to enjoy some of the best sauce in Kansas City. Beans, potato salad, and macaroni salad are also fine choices. Their absolutely brutalized, shredded burnt ends, served on a spongy hoagie, are beloved by many in Kansas City. There are some who will tell you that this may be the closest to the original Kansas City burnt end you’ll find today. They’re not for everyone but if you do fall in love with them, you will likely consider them your favorite burnt ends in town. There’s nothing else quite like them. If you go that route, the Nooner sandwich which features the burnt ends plus a sliced meat of your choice is a good option. My personal recommendation for that combo is the ham or turkey. If you do save some room for dessert, you won’t be mad you tried the Yammer Pie.

Buyer Beware? You’re going to get yelled at the minute you walk through the door so be prepared to order. “HOW MAY I HELP YOU?” is the most intimidating question in Kansas City. It takes much practice, and a certain mental fortitude, to be prepared for that moment. I don’t know if I ever will be.

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am
Website: www.gatesbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Ham, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best Sauce, Honorable Mention (20), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated October, 2023

Here in Kansas City, Gates is an institution with multiple locations on both sides of Stateline. With a history that very few BBQ joints can match, the most impressive thing about Gates is that after all these years, they are still family-owned and operated. Shown here is the Emmanuel Cleaver location, which this publication most recommends. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Main Street)
3205 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson, “Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard)*”

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am
Website: www.gatesbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Ham, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best Sauce, Honorable Mention (20), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (20)

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Brooklyn Avenue)
1221 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson, “Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard)*”

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am
Website: www.gatesbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Ham, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best Sauce, Honorable Mention (20), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (20)

Gates Bar-B-Q (on East 40 Highway)
10440 E. US Highway 40, Independence, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson, “Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard)*”

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am
Website: www.gatesbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Ham, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22), Best Sauce, Honorable Mention (20), Best Sliced Pork, Honorable Mention (20)

Harp Barbecue - Est. 2019
6633 Raytown Road, Raytown, Missouri

Operating out of Crane Brewing for the past few years, Harp Barbecue is now a craft barbeque spot operating out of a standalone restaurant with a sign that simply reads, “BARBECUE” on Raytown Road.

So, What Do I Get? Harp is primarily known for two things above all - their brisket and their sausage. Their brisket is thick, juicy, and melts in your mouth. The sausage varieties are creative and they frequently rotate (Blueberry / White Cheddar and Garlic / Black Pepper are just two of the awesome varieties). The Truth Bomb sandwich, which features chopped brisket and the sausage of the day, can be a great way to sample both. When it comes to the sides, the Sweet Potato Burnt Ends are king. They are large chunks of smoked sweet potato with an idyllic texture and a fantastic glaze. They work as a side or a unique vegetarian BBQ entrée.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm OR Sellout | CLOSED SUNDAY - TUESDAY
Website: www.harpbarbecue.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Vegetable Side, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked (Pork) Sausage (23), Best Sliced Brisket, Honorable Mention (23)

As a side dish, or a vegetarian entrée, the Sweet Potato Burnt Ends at Harp Barbecue reign surpreme. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City* - Est. 1957
13441 Holmes Road, Martin City, Missouri

Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue is often seen as the original purveyor of “high-end” barbeque in Kansas City. Gone are the creaky wooden floors, gritty veneers, and large menu boards. In are the cloth napkins, tablecloths, and table service. Jack Stack is also notable for being the inventors of the iconic Kansas City BBQ side dish - cheesy corn. The well-known restaurant operates six locations in the metro.

So, What Do I Get? Going to Jack Stack can be intimidating because they offer such a wide variety but the good news is, no matter what you choose - you’re likely to be right. Let’s get the essentials out of the way. Order a tower of their famous, cornmeal-dusted, giant onion rings for the table. Jack Stack is all about the sides and while there are several great options, if you don’t get your meal with a side of pit beans and cheesy corn, you’re missing out! (And remember, even if your meal comes with one large side, you can always sub it for two small ones - THIS IS THE WAY.) If you’re looking at the meats, the Crown Prime Beef Rib may be the single best cut of meat in the city. This is one of the few places in town to get mutton. The lamb ribs are fantastic! A mixed plate of beef and pork burnt ends is always an excellent choice. The turkey is phenomenal. If you are looking for a sandwich? The Big Pig is the clear winner - pulled pork, smoked ham, bacon, provolone, and an onion ring piled high on a toasted Kaiser roll with some mustard-based BBQ sauce. If you’re looking to try a bunch of things on a budget, the family plates, such as The Roundup, are great deals.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House - Est. 2000
101 W. 22nd Street #300, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson “Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City*”

Jack Stack Barbecue - Country Club Plaza - Est. 2006
4747 Wyandotte Street, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson “Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City*”

Jack Stack Barbecue - Lee’s Summit - Est. 2015
1840 NW Chipman Road, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

SEE The Book of Jackson “Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City*”

Originally located on the outskirts of Lee’s Summit, Jazzy B’s is now located in a strip mall on Blue Parkway. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Jazzy B’s Diner - Est. 2016
320 SW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Jazzy B’s Diner fuses together the best of barbeque, Cajun, and southern fare traditions to be a place that truly has something for everyone. The versatility of the menu makes this a great spot for families or large groups. In 2023, Jazzy B’s opened a new location after a temporary post-COVID hiatus. This place is a must for alumni of Northwest Missouri State University as owner / pitmaster Brandon Simpson was a player on their earliest National Champion football teams. His pride in his Alma Mater is quite evident in the restaurant.

So, What Do I Get? There are a lot of great options! The tacos that utilize smoked meats are incredibly good. For a barbeque fan, the best order is the 3 Meats and 3 sides with beef burnt ends, sausage, and wings. These are some of the best smoked wings you’ll find anywhere. If you’re a babyback rib fan, this is one of the best examples of this cut in the city and a slab is a similarly great choice. When it comes to the sandwiches, the Adult Grilled Cheese is super popular. You can add a smoked meat or smoked Portobello mushroom. In fact, for vegetarians, the Portobello option makes this a great eatery. For the sides, the Miles Davis Baked Beans, Garlic Cheesy Corn, and the Apple/Jicama Slaw are fantastic choices. The fries are another strong choice but the cinnamon dusted on them isn’t for everyone. While it may sound weird, I would be the first to tell you - don’t knock it ‘til you try it! In that regard, nearly every “traditional” side at Jazzy B’s has some kind of flair you won’t find elsewhere but that’s also makes this Lee’s Summit favorite so “jazzy”!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 11am - 9pm
Website: www.jazzybsdiner.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Cheesy Corn, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Potatoes, Honorable Mention (23), Best Coleslaw, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Wings (23), Best Babyback Ribs, Honorable Mention (23), Best Vegetarian BBQ, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Pork Sausage, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pork Babyback Ribs, Honorable Mention (20), Best Cole Slaw, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated September, 2023

Joe’s Kansas City BBQ at CPKC Stadium - Sections 122 - 123 - Est. 2024
CPKC Stadium, 1460 E. Front Street, Kansas City, Missouri

The first official food vendor that the Kansas City Current announced before opening CPKC Stadium in 2024 was the iconic Joe’s Kansas City. The news was very well-received! Located in the northeast corner of the concourse near Section 123, the Joe’s stand serves some of the items that they’re most well-known.

So, What Do I Get? The obvious answer is to get a Z-Man! Available in both the classic brisket, and chicken varieties, the Z-Man is Kansas City’s most iconic sandwich. Smoked meat, melted provolone, Joe’s sauce, and crispy onion rings piled on to a Kaiser roll. What’s not to love?!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: KC Current games until sellout. View the entire schedule HERE.
Website: www.joeskc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Given the nature of the stand, any accolades would be listed with the individual restauranteurs, not here.

Entry added March, 2024

KCQ at Kauffman Stadium - Sections 216 & 232 - Est. 2023
Kauffman Stadium, 1 Royal Way, Kansas City, Missouri

Beginning with the 2023 season, the Kansas City Royals began to partner with a trio of local barbeque joints to offer their fares for ballpark attendees. The stand(s) feature Chef J BBQ, Scott’s Kitchen, and Smoak Craft.

So, What Do I Get? Given the nature of the stand(s), the best advice is to defer to the entries for Chef J and Scott’s Kitchen within The Missouri Testament and for Smoak Craft BBQ within The Kansas Testament. One thing that holds true for all three - the brisket is exceptional. The stand(s) operate on a sell-out model and features a rotation of three different local BBQ restaurants so the offerings will vary from one game to the next.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Royals Home Games until Sell Out. See the full schedule HERE.
Website: www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark/food
Past disKCovery Accolades: Given the nature of the stand(s), any accolades would be listed with the individual restauranteurs, not here.

Entry updated April, 2024

LC’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 1996
5800 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

Namesake L.C. Richardson passed away in 2021 but not before leaving his mark on the Kansas City barbeque scene. The small, smoky, dingy joint on Blue Parkway with a memorable “closet of meat” behind the counter and a soupy sauce continues to be both family-owned and a favorite for several locals.

So, What Do I Get? More than anything, LC’s has always been a destination for burnt ends. That has not changed a bit. A half-and-half plate with both the beef and pork varieties is the way to go here. You can just taste the smoke in each tender, yet chewy, bite. LC’s beef burnt ends may be the closest thing being served today to the “burnt brisket edges” that first put Kansas City on the map. The pork burnt ends have such a soft bark and a lovely finish. There is a whole list of marvelous sides but the two that must be mentioned at the Spicy Green Beans and the hand-cut fries. There is a charm to these fries that are never uniform in shape or size. They are just a hodgepodge of shapes as if made in someone’s home. Crispy, yet fluffy, non-greasy, and full of flavor. These are the perfect accompaniment to LC’s incredible sauce. So soupy and wonderful, it is best sopped up with the fries or some good ol’ white bread.

Buyer Beware? When you go. Many locals that love L.C.’s also know about the inconsistency. While there is no set pattern, a good rule of thumb seems to be to avoid L.C.’s when the Royals or Chiefs have a home game. The proximity to the stadium doesn’t seem to lend the restaurant to their best quality on game days. The ribs have a tendency to be overcooked. They are best enjoyed, after they’ve flopped off the bone, between two slices of white bread with that awesome sauce. Lastly, you are probably going to smell like smoke afterwards. Few smells are sweeter but it’s something to be cognizant of if you have plans after you eat.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED SUNDAYS
Website: www.lcsbarbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Fried Veggies, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Mushrooms, Honorable Mention (23), Best Pork (Belly) Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23), Best Pork Belly / Pork Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated August, 2023

A Little BBQ Joint - Est. 2013
1101 W. Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

A Little BBQ Joint is exactly that. Located in Independence on US 24, the garage-themed restaurant with over-the-top service is the epitome of a hole-in-the-wall with a small town feel.

So, What Do I Get? Feel free to kick things off with an order of the Bacon Chips. The chunks of thick-sliced, maple BBQ glazed bacon are enough to make your visit worthwhile! This is a great place for beef burnt ends so the burnt end plate with two sides is always a great call. The 3 Ribs and Chicken Plate is a similarly excellent choice. The St. Louis style ribs and the massive smoked chicken hindquarter are sure to please. The cheesy casserole-like Hot Potato Salad is an ooey-gooey winner. It’s also hard to go wrong with the cheesy corn, beans, or fries. The pea salad is a cold side packed with cheese, mayo, onion, bell pepper, and bacon. It is very popular among regulars and unique among Kansas City barbeque joints. When offered on Saturday nights, their babyback ribs are insanely popular and one of the metro’s better versions of that particular cut.

Buyer Beware? The lack of menu flexibility as it pertains to burnt ends. The burnt ends are some of the best you will find but is hard to get them on a plate with any other meats.

HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 7 pm | Friday 11am - 8pm | Saturday 12pm - 8pm | Sunday 12pm - 7pm | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: www.alittlebarbqjoint.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Cheesy Potatoes, Honorable Mention (23), Best Toast / Bread, Honorable Mention (23), Best Babyback Ribs, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23), Best Pork Babyback Ribs (20), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (20)

Entry updated April, 2024

McGonigle’s KC BBQ^ at Fareway Meat Market - Est. 1951
1307 W. 79th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

McGonigle’s has been a Kansas City institution for over 70 years! While the local market did end up selling to the Iowa-based Fareway in 2020, the McGonigle’s BBQ truck is still parked out front, serving their a la carte barbeque seasonally. Out of season, some of the favorites can still be found in-store.

So, What Do I Get? Every conversation about McGonigle’s begins, and ends, with the smoked Italian sausage. Available for sandwiches or in roll form, this is a must! This is easily a top 10 smoked sausage in the city and the best of the Italian variety! The sausage roll is entirely meant for sharing. It is actually a giant log of ground, smoked Italian sausage, akin to a meatloaf. And it’s marvelous! The Parmesan Ranch Fries are waffle fries tossed in those two seasonings and they’re fantastic. The onion strings get top marks. If you’re a baby back rib person, that’s also a decent choice here. The bark on them is so pleasing. While brisket is not my meat of choice here (and I would not order it again), the brisket mac ‘n cheese is a solid side choice. Also, don’t sleep on the State Fair Corn Dogs! They really are just a great food truck corn dog but it’s just intriguing because, “How many BBQ joints have a corn dog listed as a side dish?!”

Buyer Beware? The order process. While you will see the truck parked out front, and smell that smoke, when you pull in, you will need to walk inside to a check stand to place an order. Once you pay, take your receipt outside to the truck so it can be filled. While there are picnic tables nearly the parking lot for seating, this barbeque is best ordered to-go.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 8am - 7pm | CLOSED SUNDAY | SEASONAL
Website: www.fareway.com/meatmarkets/store/202
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Onion Straws / Petals, Honorable Mention (23)

Moocho Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
1704 S. Broadway, Oak Grove, Missouri

Located on the main stretch of Oak Grove, Moocho Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is a very traditional Mexican restaurant who has the entire back page of their menu dedicated to actual Kansas City barbeque. A barbeque place that serves great margaritas and offers complimentary chips and salsa? That’s not something you see everyday.

So, What Do I Get? As the name implies, the servings really are “moocho”. The Moocho BBQ Meat Plate is a fantastic bargain. Advertised as a two-person meal, it could easily feed three. The plate also highlights the three best meats on the menu - the sliced brisket, pulled pork, and the ham. For the sides, I recommend some form of potato (baked, salad, or fries) alongside the coleslaw.

Buyer Beware? Much like different types of pasta, the only discernible difference between the beef burnt end and the brisket seems to be the shape. There is no difference in preparation. Therefore, it is quite redundant to order the burnt ends if you’ve already ordered the brisket, and vice versa. Personally, the burnt ends are best avoided. Just go for the brisket if you want beef. Also, the fried okra is unbearably salty and should be avoided. It’s quite sad because this is a side item rarely found in KC BBQ.

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 11am - 10pm
Website: www.moocho.biz
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Housemade Chips, Honorable Mention (23),Best Rice Dish, Honorable Mention (23)

Night Goat Barbecue is a barbeque concept that operates out of Fox and Pearl on Thursday evenings. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Night Goat Barbecue (at Fox and Pearl) - Est. 2021
2143 Summit Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Night Goat Barbecue rose to prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic as a pop-up barbeque concept at Fox and Pearl near the Crossroads. Then it became a Sunday morning brunch and lunch favorite in the primary restaurant space before being shifted down to the basement and moved into primetime. On Thursday nights, when Night Goat is open, this represents the only day of the week that the basement space is open and that these offerings are available. Should you choose to eat in the basement, only the limited Night Goat menu is available.

So, What Do I Get? In its current form, the tricky thing with Night Goat is that it’s a set, ever-rotating, and limited menu for the space. The small scale of the menu should instill confidence that what is offered is of the utmost quality - because it is! When offered, any dish that utilizes their amazing beef brisket or sliced pork belly is the way to go. The thick-cut Texas style brisket has such a lovely rub on the bark and is so tender that it just melts in your mouth. Much of the same can be said about the luscious pork belly. They also kill it with the sausage options. When available, the mustard potato salad and the Cheesy Polenta are superb. However, it’s just hard to say what you should order except to say, bring a friend and explore the menu. Some nights you may be able to order a full barbeque platter and others it may just be some smoked meat tacos or a hot dog and fries. The mustard barbeque sauce is a nice option any night. It may be the best type of that sauce you will find in KC.

Buyer Beware? The price. For the sheer quality of food you will eat, it’s hard to call it expensive. The quality is there. That doesn’t mean it isn’t pricy. The boutique barbeque speakeasy has a tendency to charge for everything. Even a side of sauce or some pickles carry a price tag. A dollar for side of barbeque sauce or a $9 smoked meat taco is not what many barbeque seekers expect to find. Additionally, this is barbeque that, as Forrest Gump would put it, “… you never know what you’re gonna get.” The menu is ever changing. You never know what’s on the menu until you arrive. . The food is phenomenal but the nature of the concept, and the price, is not for everyone.

HOURS: Thursday ONLY 5pm - 10pm
Website: www.foxandpearlkc.com/bbq
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Potato Salad, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork Belly (23)

Entry updated April, 2024

Nikki-G’s SoulQ Bistro^ - Est. 2017
Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City based food truck can be found at a number of events. Nikki-G’s specializes in smoked meats and southern-inspired sides. They have also been known to provide a barbeque / southern brunch menu on select occasions.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: VARY, Check Social
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

P. Moore and Moore BBQ - Est. 2015
3260 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

P. Moore and Moore BBQ has had a number of iterations, mostly in the Independence area. But now, they are operating out of an old Chinese restaurant near Westport. However, given the ease of the owners and laid back feel of the restaurant, you may feel more like a guest in someone’s home than a diner, for better or worse.

So, What Do I Get? While I usually don’t go for the chopped-style burnt ends, their version, served on a bed of homestyle smashed potatoes is a fantastic dish. The mix of textures and savory meat and potatoes with sweet sauce is lovely. There’s also something about the beef. It’s not brisket, more like shaved sirloin, but this is a beef sandwich worth stopping in for!

Buyer Beware? A LOT OF THINGS. Notably, the service time. The staff and owners are incredibly friendly but are often more interested in socializing than serving the customers so make sure you have time to spare. Additionally, the majority of the side items do not impress. I would personally be careful of venturing too far outside of the recommended entrées.

HOURS: Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm | Sunday 1pm - 6pm | CLOSED MONDAY - WEDNESDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Porky’s Blazin Bar-B-Q - Est. 2016
9512 S. Buckner-Tarsney, Grain Valley, Missouri

Located on a county road halfway between Grain Valley and Lake Lotawana, Porky’s Blazin Bar-B-Q is only open three days a week. Despite that, they never hurt for customers! This red barn with flags flying is a family-owned gem that has been a destination for barbeque lovers ever since it opened. They were the subject of piece I wrote in March of 2023.

So, What Do I Get? THE RIBS! Everything must begin and end with these ribs. Porky’s serves the babyback style and not only are these the best babyback ribs in Kansas City, they are some of the best ribs over all! The Sampler (intended for four people) can be a great way to taste everything that Porky’s has to offer, and includes half a slab of those wonderful ribs. When it comes to the sides, the house-made pasta salad, white cheddar macaroni and cheese, and the burnt-end laden beans are all great options that will leave you happy.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Friday - Saturday 11am - 8pm | Sunday 11am - 3pm | CLOSED MONDAY - THURSDAY
Website: www.porkysblazinbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Pasta Salad (23), Best Babyback Ribs (23), Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23)

Q39 - Midtown* - Est. 2014
1000 W. 39th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Q39 is a high-end barbeque joint located in the West 39th Street district. The brainchild of decorated chef and competitive pitmaster Rob Magee, Q39 made waves by challenging the norms of barbeque. While Magee is no longer with us, his emphasis on quality and innovation continues at one of the more popular barbeque restaurants in town.

So, What Do I Get? Sit down, order a round of drinks, and get a order or two of the Crispy Onion Straws for the table. They’re phenomenal. Magee famously bucked trends with his intensive brisket preparation and it shows. There’s a lot to love at Q39 but everything begins with the brisket and the beef burnt ends. The Certified Angus Beef Brisket Plate features both. The star of the sandwich line-up, the Mr. Burns, features two of the menu’s stars - the onion straws and the burnt ends. When it comes to the sides, the light, refreshing Apple Slaw is a must. It is hands-down the best slaw in town. Another great option is the Mac & Q - their gooey mac ‘n cheese topped with a smoked meat of your choice.

Buyer Beware? The only weaknesses in an amazing menu, the Chipotle Sausage and the beans both leave much to be desired. Additionally, Q39 is known for shaking up their menu every 6 - 12 months. Finally, make a reservation! This place fills up fast.

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 10pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm
Website: www.q39kc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Coleslaw (23), Best Onion Straws / Petals (23), Best Pasta Salad, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Brisket, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork Belly, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23), Top 12 BBQ Sandwiches (23), Top 12 BBQ Joints (21), Best Sliced Brisket (20), Best Cole Slaw (20) Best Beef Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pork Belly / Pork Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (20), Best Assorted Fried Veggies, Honorable Mention (20), Best Mac ‘n Cheese, Honorable Mention (20)

Smoak Craft Barbecue at GEHA Field - Section 316 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

For the 2023 Season, the Kansas City Chiefs introduced Olathe’s own Smoak Craft Barbecue as a concession stand within Arrowhead Stadium. Located on the upper level behind Sections 315 - 317, Smoak Craft is known for their craft brisket and coffee-brined pulled pork. As a pop-up concept and trailer, this stand represents the first semi-permanent home for the local smokers.

So, What Do I Get? There are so many things that Smoak does well. The Big Red Sandwich features two of their best meats, the brisket and the pork, topped with cheddar cheese, pickles, and barbeque sauce on a toasted brioche bun. The pulled pork features again in the Green Chile Pork Tacos. When it comes to the sides, fries are always a great choice but there’s absolutely no reason to pass on the Queso Cheesy Corn which gives a Tex-Mex flair to the Kansas City staple.

Buyer Beware? Get in line early and before they sellout!

HOURS: Chiefs home games until sellout. View the entire schedule HERE.
Website: www.smoakcraftbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Given the nature of the stand, any accolades would be listed with the individual restauranteurs, not here.

Entry added August, 2023

Smoke Brewing Company - Est. 2017
209 SE Main Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

As the name implies, Smoke Brewing Company is both a microbrewery and a barbeque restaurant located in downtown Lee’s Summit. While others have mimicked this format, Smoke Brewing was, to the best of my knowledge, the first such hybrid in KC.

So, What Do I Get? Well first things first, get yourself a beer! This menu has a lot of options and it’s tough to go wrong. Smoke knows their way around a pig so the Pork 3.0 platter is a fine option. The pork belly is the best thing on the menu and it’s available as a smoked meat, an appetizer, or a topper. Similarly, the beef burnt ends are great so a two-meat plate with both is excellent. The beans are exquisite. The macaroni ‘n cheese is so well-known and popular that there’s an entire section of the menu dedicated to it. While not traditional barbeque options, the smoked meatloaf and the weekly brunch are also can’t miss.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 10pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am | Sunday 10am - 4pm
Website: www.smokebrewingcompany.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Mac ‘n Cheese (23), Best BBQ For Drinks, Honorable Mention (23), Best BBQ Beans, Honorable Mention (20), Best Pork Belly / Pork Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (20)

Smoke ‘n Magic ^ - Est. 2023
Grain Valley, Missouri

Smoke ‘n Magic is a husband and wife competition team out of Grain Valley. Their journey began in 2020, but it was when they won the inaugural Made for KC BBQ Championship that they burst on to the scene as a commercial venture. That win resulted in a year-long residency in the Made for KC Barbeque Experience restaurant at Kansas City International Airport. They were featured in this piece from 2023 about the food offerings in the new airport! No longer a part of the airport, Smoke ‘n Magic has returned to their competition roots taking advantage of the opportunity to tour but can still be found at events throughout the metro.

So, What Do I Get? When offered, don’t miss your chance to get your hands on their breakfast burrito! While the pulled pork is recommended, both meats are a great option. A BBQ plate with pulled pork and either brisket or burnt ends is a similarly strong order. For the sides, the Smoke-Kissed Cheesey Corn is a superb take on KC’s most iconic barbeque side. And consider an order of their perfectly fried crinkley-style fries tossed in their rib rub. The Level Up sauce is the perfect dip for these! Last of all, just consider the Pulled Pork Sandwich. The pulled pork is the strength of this meat line-up and the vinegary cole slaw that tops it is some of Kansas City’s best!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: CHECK WEBSITE
Website: www.smokenmagic.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Pulled Pork, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry Updated March, 2024

My obsession with the babyback ribs at Porky’s Blazin Bar-B-Q is well-documented by now. They are the best babybacks I’ve ever had. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Smokehouse Barbecue (Independence) - Est. 1987
19000 E. 39th Street S., Independence, Missouri

SEE - Book of Clay, “Smokehouse Barbecue (Gladstone)*”

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm
Website: www.smokehousebbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Corn Nuggets, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Veggies, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Mushrooms, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Pickles, Honorable Mention (23), Best Beef Ribs, Honorable Mention (23)

Smokey’s BBQ ^ - Est. 1971
(NSK Kustoms Lot) 537 E. US Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

Smokey’s BBQ has been serving the people of the metro, off an on, for decades. What originally started as a concept in Belton became Smokey’s in Excelsior Springs in 1971. The original purveyor’s grandson resurrected Smokey’s in its current form in 2020. The food trailer is regularly parked at the NSK Kustoms address provided.

So, What Do I Get? The brisket and burnt ends are ever popular! The brisket is typically one of the first meats to sell out. Aside from the beef options, I would strongly recommend the turkey. It is everything it should be! A combo sandwich with the turkey and the smoked sausage is a fine order indeed. As for the sides, the beans, loaded with beef, are a must! They also make a mean potato salad.

Buyer Beware? The travel time and the sell-out model. Going here for dinner likely means some of the more popular meats will be gone. While there is a picnic table, and NSK customers have the options of eating inside, the vast majority of orders are to go. While the curly fries are wonderful, and the loaded fries are pretty good, it is hard to recommend either because after traveling in a foam shell, they will be rather limp by the time you get to eat them.

HOURS: Tuesday - Wednesday, Friday 11am - 7pm | Saturday - Sunday 12pm - 7pm | CLOSED MONDAY & THURSDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Status updated November, 2023

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill*
7935 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill operates a small dine-in restaurant in Marlborough Heights, as well as a food truck and catering company. They are known for serving ridiculously large portions of old-school Kansas City barbeque.

So, What Do I Get? Admittedly, I never tried the Brisket Philly from Taste of Kansas City prior to publishing my list of the Top 12 BBQ specialty sandwiches in the city. Had I done so, there’s no question it would have made the top half of that list! Everything about it is so flawless! While many have attempted to create one, this is the most idyllic Kansas City cheesesteak. The smoky, tender, brisket chunks with a hint of “burned on the grill” flavor combined with bell pepper, onion, white melted cheese, and warm barbeque sauce on a pillowy soft Roma roll is the kind of sandwich that Dagwood Bumstead could only dream about! The ribs are a classic Kansas City style rib that are exactly what they need to be. If you love rib tips, this is one of the best places in town to get a proper plate of them. And I love the turkey here! For the sides, the homemade potato salad or just a side of fries or onion rings to dip in that wonderful sauce are both fine options.

Buyer Beware? It’s all about the P’s - the pepper and the portions. There are a few dishes, like their beans, where the seasoning may be too extreme for some! If you’re spice-averse, stay away from those beans. As for the portions, they are obnoxiously large. Many of their dishes can serve two people! The value is simply unmatched in KC! Additionally, this is an old-school style place which means sauce on top. While they don’t overdo it, it may be wise to ask for your meats to be served dry depending on your tastes.

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 8pm | CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY
Website: www.tasteofkcbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Rib Tips, Honorable Mention (23)

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill (Food Truck) ^
Kansas City, Missouri

SEE Book of Jackson, “Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill*”

HOURS: VARY, SEE WEBSITE FOR EVENTS AND INFO
Website: www.tasteofkcbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Rib Tips, Honorable Mention (23)

Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Independence) ^
(Thrift World) 3848 S. Noland Road, Independence, Missouri

SEE Book of Clay, “Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Lee’s Summit)*”

HOURS: Tuesday - Sunday 11am - 7:30pm | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: www.threepigsbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

***Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Lee’s Summit)*^*** - Est. 1998
(At Home) 601 Missouri Highway 291, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Three PIgs BBQ & Catering is a catering company that also sells good old-fashioned straightforward barbeque from trailers in Lee’s Summit and Independence at regular, fixed locations. While they started serving from their trailers in 2012, they did operate a barbeque restaurant near the Lake of the Ozarks from 1998 - 2010.

So, What Do I Get? If you’re one that likes the “old-style” of Kansas City spare rib, with the tip still attached, then this is an excellent version of that style. Perfect char, tender rib tip, and a deep rose smoke ring makes this rib perfect. The burnt ends similarly have a great char, are tender, and a good buy here. The pit beans are wonderful, full of meat scraps, and have a peppery profile that is delightful. The corn is unique. Almost like an elotes but with a cream cheese base. The mix of textures and flavors just work.

Buyer Beware? It’s a trailer in a parking lot. There are no tables, no seating, and no trashcans. You’re getting this meal to go!

HOURS: Wednesday - Sunday 11am - 7:30pm | CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY
Website: www.threepigsbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Fatty, meaty, with an exquisite char and a deep rosy smoke ring, it could easily be argued that Wolfepack has the best brisket in town. It’s definitely elite. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Wolfepack BBQ - Est. 2022
910 E. 5th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Originally a pop-up style barbeque joint inside of Northtown’s Call Sign Brewing, Wolfepack recently moved to Columbus Park where they operate a beautiful bar and restaurant space in what was formerly The North End. They are a craft-style barbeque joint that is not afraid to experiment with rotating offerings while serving traditional Kansas City favorites. You can read more about Wolfepack HERE.

So, What Do I Get? If you’re a brisket fiend, this is the place for you. You could easily argue that this is the best brisket in Kansas City. It’s definitely a Texas-style cook and cut. Similarly, Wolfepack also knows how to smoke a bird. Getting a two-meat sandwich with brisket and turkey is a great idea. Although, if you wanted to sub out one of the meats for pork belly when it is actually offered? No one would fault you. The burnt ends are some of the best in town. The same can be said for the smoked wings. The beans are a surefire winner and so is the mac ‘n cheese. The potato salad, street corn salad, and seasoned fries are all fantastic. If you like the Carolina style of barbeque, get yourself a pulled pork sandwich and ask for a side of some of their vinegar sauce. Keep in mind that Wolfepack is always experimenting, and always for the better. So if there’s a pumpkin curry soup or smoked mutton dish on the menu being advertised as a weekly special, don’t miss your chance to try something that won’t be there another time!

Buyer Beware? As they open up their new space, be patient. This is an elite Kansas City barbeque joint that is quickly growing into their new space and neighborhood.

HOURS: Thursday - Sunday 11am - 7pm | CLOSED MONDAY - WEDNESDAY
Website: www.wolfepackbbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best French Fries, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Brisket (23), Best Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Pork Belly, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Wings, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23), Best New (To Me) BBQ Joint (22)

Entry added August, 2023

***Zarda Hickory Pit Bar-B-Q (Blue Springs)* -*** Est. 1976
214 N. 7 Highway, Blue Springs, Missouri

Zarda is an institution that has been around for generations. A favorite of those in its hometown of Blue Springs, they are best known for their sides (available at most local grocers) and for having one of the best sauce line-ups in town.

So, What Do I Get? There’s a reason that people flock to supermarkets to buy Zarda’s beans - they’re that good! They’re almost a serving of burnt ends in their own right! They balance sweet and savory perfectly. A two meat plate with the pork burnt ends and the sliced beef is a great order here. A pulled pork sandwich or a beef burnt end plate are also a fine way to go. The panko breaded onion rings are always a hit. Order onion rings or fries for no other reason than to sample all the sauces!

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm
Website: www.zarda.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces, Honorable Mention (23), Best Sliced Beef, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ Sauces (22)

The Book of Lafayette

Lafayette County is on the outer reaches of the metro. As one may expect, it was named after French aristocrat and American Revolutionary War ally, Lafayette (you know, the dude from Hamilton). It includes Bates City, Concordia, Higginsville, Lexington, Odessa, Waverly, and Wellington. Lexington serves as the county seat. Famously, the Lafayette County Courthouse is one of the most beautiful in the state and has had a cannonball lodged in one of the pillars since the Battle of Lexington in 1861.

By way of Lexington, Lafayette County was also the home of William Hepburn Russell, who founded the Pony Express.

For many locals, the yellow trays at Bates City Bar-B-Que are iconic. For me, if the tray is filled with some of the city’s most amazing fries? I’m all in! PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Bates City Bar-B-Que* - Est. 1976
201 E. Market Street, Bates City, Missouri

Bates City Bar-B-Que is likely the reason you have heard of Bates City. For nearly half a century, this little shack has kept this town on the Kansas City map! Among its loyalists, there can be no substitutes for Bates City ‘que.

So, What Do I Get? It may seem alarming to begin any recommendation with “order the fries!” but that’s exactly what I am doing. Bates City has some of the best fries that I have ever had (and not just for a barbeque joint!). For me though, this is a place to get a pulled pork sandwich. They do this classic meat-on-bun exceptionally well. You can also combo the pulled pork with turkey if so inclined, as they smoke an A+ bird! Additionally, this is a great place for barbeque beans. They have a wonderful flavor and are jam-packed with crystals of onion and bell pepper. I am crazy for that kick on the back of every bite. If you are a person who like a good, classic Kansas City-cut spare rib, this definitely a place to go for that as well.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Tuesday - Sunday 11am - 8pm | CLOSED MONDAY
Website: www.batescitybarbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best French Fries (23), Best French Fries, Honorable Mention (20),

Dempsey’s BBQ - Est. 2015
103 NE 2nd Street, Concordia, Missouri

Dempsey’s BBQ is located in Concordia right off of an I-70 exit ramp. They notably utilize a number of ingredients from their local area in their sauces and rubs. Serving a variety of barbeque and American fare favorites, Dempsey’s is most known for their rotating menu of daily specials. Notably for travelers, there is a sizeable Tesla charging lot located directly behind the restaurant.

So, What Do I Get? Start things off with a fried side item. The onion petals and corn nuggets here are all the rage, and for good reason. They are perfectly fried, non-greasy, and served with a nice ranch dipping sauce. They do offer a very affordable sampler platter that does give you a chance to try all their meats so that’s a viable option. For me? I’m going with the Smoked Chicken Breast sandwich or the Hot Ham & Cheese. The hot sauce seems more like a Louisiana sauce than a BBQ but it’s so nice on the chicken. The Texas Toast is so amazing that I would take this over a bun on any sandwich. As for the sides, the beans and hand-cut fries are both great.

Buyer Beware? The picnic table motif is very charming until you realize you may as well be eating outside. Having to shoo flies away throughout your meal is far from ideal. I would also avoid the mac ‘n cheese. One bite of the radioactive yellow, flavorless glob is enough to make you question if you ever loved mac ‘n cheese to begin with. As it appears the broccoli & cheese uses the same style of cheese - I would avoid that too. Also, while the ribs are solid (and gigantic!) they are a bit on the greasy side.

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 11pm
Website: Facebook Page
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Corn Nuggets, Honorable Mention (23), Best Onion Straws / Petals, Honorable Mention (23)

Red Shanty BBQ & Roadside Cafe - Est. 2008
2201 Highway 13, Higginsville, Missouri

Red Shanty BBQ & Roadside Cafe is located in the heart of Higginsville and features a wide variety of barbeque and comfort food favorites. Beyond a barbeque restaurant, the place has a real “country store” feel as they also sell packaged liquor.

So, What Do I Get? While there are some nice platter options to be had, for me it’s about “sandwiches”. The Frog Pollard, featuring their sausage, pickles, red onions, mayo, and BBQ sauce on a toasted kaiser, is a unique and excellent sandwich. The sausage is almost like thick-cut deli pepperoni. It works so well on a sandwich here! They do an awesome job with their pulled pork so why not give the Pulled Pork Wrap a try. Their pulled pork and coleslaw in a spinach tortilla is a great way to enjoy this. Their ribs may be the best example of Kansas City cut in the metro so that’s a good get here as well! The sliced and smoked chicken is nice on a sandwich or in a wrap. Whatever you do, order the house-made chips, with your choice of seasoning, as a side. These are likely the best homemade potato chips of any restaurant in the metro. The Potato Salad is nice but heavy with chopped bread-and-butter pickles so it’s not for the pickle-averse. Also, save room for dessert! Their Ooey Gooey Butter Cakes are the stuff of legend.

Buyer Beware? THEY GIVE YOU SO MANY CHIPS! The chips are amazing but one side of chips is probably the equivalent of a shareable bag. Personally, this is not a place for beef. The brisket and the beef burnt ends are best left avoided. The same goes for the beans. Everything about them from texture to flavor is just off.

HOURS: Wednesday - Thursday 11am - 8pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED SUNDAY - TUESDAY
Website: www.redshantycafe.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Housemade Chips (23), Best (BBQ) Desserts (23), Best Pork Spare Ribs (KC Cut), Honorable Mention (23)

Waverly Apple BBQ - Est. 2011
315 E. Walnut Street, Waverly, Missouri

On the outer edges of the Kansas City metro, Waverly Apple BBQ is a family restaurant known for their catfish, pork tenderloins, and, of course, their barbeque. Once inside, it definitely has the look and feel of a beachfront mom & pop fish place.

So, What Do I Get? Start things off with a bucket of onion rings or fried pickles. The breading on them is wonderful and they are perfectly fried. Then sit down and think long and hard about if this is a place where you want to order barbeque. If you’re going that route, a sandwich with their chopped burnt ends or pulled chicken, and one of the deep fried side items, is your best bet.

Buyer Beware? SO MANY THINGS. The people who own this place are so warm, lovely, and accommodating. It’s easy to want to support their business. However, the regulars don’t seem to take too well to anyone that’s not familiar to them. It’s not a reason to stay away, just something to be aware of going in. The meat quality is so sub-standard that they insist on drenching everything in sauce. It’s a nice enough sauce but it’s almost impossible to taste the meat, which is probably for the better. The potato salad and the beans are both way too sweet and an absolute mess. While they bill themselves as a BBQ joint, it’s probably best to stick with the fried fish, chicken, side items, and pork tenderloins that they’re known for. This is where they really excel.

HOURS: Monday - Wednesday 11am - 2pm | Thursday - Saturday 11am - 8pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Onion Rings, Honorable Mention (23), Best Fried Pickles, Honorable Mention (23)

The Book of Platte

Platte County most notably contains Platte City and is named for the Platte River. It also contains a portion of Kansas City, Camden Point, Edgerton, Parkville, Platte Woods, Riverside, Smithville, and Weston among others. Platte County is the home of the Kansas City International Airport. (But really, the airport should be named for Henry Perry!)

By way of Parkville, Platte County was home to George S. Park. Park was a hero of the Texas War of Independence. He established Parkville and Park University (both named for him) and was also responsible for the establishment of Manhattan, Kansas and Kansas State University.

Auggie-Q is one of the few BBQ joints to regularly offer smoked corn beef. As expected, they absolutely nail their take on the Reuben. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Auggie-Q BBQ at Jockey Club Lounge - Est. 2022
4312 NW Gateway Avenue, Riverside, Missouri

Riverside’s Jockey Club Lounge is a small, friendly, neighborhood bar with a garage vibe that offers a menu that features Auggie-Q BBQ. All meats, sauces, and sides are smoked / made in-house.

So, What Do I Get? It’s all about the smoked corned beef! Auggie-Q is one of the few joints in town that regularly offers smoked corned beef brisket and it’s phenomenal. The Smokin’ Irishman, their take on the Reuben, is the clear-cut star of the menu. There are few better examples of a Reuben in KC, let alone from a BBQ Joint. If you’re not one for corned beef, The Gateway, which features brisket, muenster cheese, and sautéed onions & jalapenos on a toasted bun is also a strong order. Of the side dishes, the house-made potato salad that utilizes red-skinned potatoes is virtually perfect. The cheesy corn is also a fantastic order. It is full of ham chunks and has a lighter cheese sauce than most of it’s contemporaries. It’s quite tasty.

Buyer Beware? Auggie’s spicy sauce is not for the faint of heart! Using a blend of habanero and Trinidad scorpion peppers, this sauce has a scorching heat that lingers. If you’re spice-averse, stay away!

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 7pm | CLOSED SUNDAY - MONDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Smoked Corned Beef (23)

Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements - Est. 2023
15348 Old Town Drive, Parkville, Missouri

Opened in 2023, Char Bar’s Parkville location really leans into the “amusements” side of the original concept focusing on pickleball, yard games, and other drinks while also serving up award-winning barbeque. Char Bar has the distinction of being featured in five editions of Devan’s Dozen, more than any other restaurant!

SEE - Book of Jackson, “Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements”

Entry added November, 2023

Made for KC Barbecue Experience: O.G. Bandits BBQ - Est. 2020
Kansas City International Airport, Concourse B, Near Gate B52

The Made for KC Barbecue Experience is a restaurant concept from Outstanding Hospitality Management (OHM) on Concourse B of the Kansas City International Airport. The occupant is actually determined via an annual barbeque competition. The winner of the second annual Made for KC BBQ Championship was O.G. Bandits BBQ of Oak Grove, Missouri. A family owned and run operation, O.G. Bandits started serving from a trailer in 2020 and has been very active on the competition circuit. The airport location (for the 2024 year) is this first-ever stand-alone store for them.

So, What Do I Get?

Buyer Beware?

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 6am - 10pm
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Entry Updated March, 2024

Meat Mitch - Est. 2023
Kansas City International Airport, Concourse A, Near Gate A10

SEE The Kansas Testament, The Gospel of Johnson, “Meat Mitch*”

So, What Do I Get? Given the nature of their location in the new airport, I am willing to differentiate a little bit on the recommendation. First of all, the Cheesy Hog Fries are absolutely amazing! Hopefully you have a travel companion to share them with because the mix of curly fries (with some honey), pulled pork, bacon, pepperjack fun-do cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapenos is a very hefty dish. There’s a lot of great barbeque on the menu but don’t sleep on the burgers. Both the Royal Double and The Smash & Grab feature double-stacked smashed brisket patties on a toasted bun. It’s hard to believe that you would find a better burger in the airport, or anywhere else for that matter. Given that there’s not a change in quality, any other Meat Mitch barbeque favorites are similarly great here.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Sunday - Saturday 6am - 10pm
Website: www.meatmitch.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best BBQ Sauces (23), Best French Fries, Honorable Mention (23), Best Coleslaw, Honorable Mention (23), Best Burnt Ends, Honorable Mention (23), Best Pork Spare Ribs (STL Cut), Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 (Beef) Burnt Ends (23), Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23), Best New (To Me) BBQ Joint, Honorable Mention (22)

It may not look like much but Off the Hook BBQ’s simply named Baked Potato, topped with a meat of your choice and four-cheese mac, is tremendous. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Off the Hook BBQ - Est. 2021
115 Main Street, Parkville, Missouri

A newer entrant to the Kansas City barbeque scene, Off the Hook isn’t exactly a restaurant or joint, actually, it’s just a sidewalk window. Located in downtown Parkville it is one of those places that you will miss unless you know exactly what you are looking for.

So, What Do I Get? Just get the baked potato! The loaded russet potato is surprisingly large and loaded with their 4-cheese mac ‘n cheese, as well as a meat of your choice. The potato has an ideal pinch of salt, and is nice and buttery. I don’t know if I’ve ever had a potato this good. The mac ‘n cheese is lovely. As for the topper, it’s hard to go wrong. The brisket is shredded and tender, it has an au jus type taste that makes it feel more like a sandwich beef than a traditional smoked brisket. Still, it’s delightful. The pulled pork is finely shredded as well with a great flavor. When offered, the sausage varieties are hard to beat and have a very pleasant pop from the casing. Whatever you do, cover that potato in that sweet, tangy sauce that is indeed “off the hook”.

Buyer Beware? Off the Hook operates on the sell-out model so plan accordingly. If you’re a pork rib person, they’re only offered on Saturdays.

HOURS: Thursday - Friday 11:00am - 2:00pm OR Sellout | Saturday 11am - 4pm OR Sellout | CLOSED SUNDAY - WEDNESDAY
Website: www.offthehookbbqllc.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Cheesy Potatoes, Honorable Mention (23)

Scott’s Kitchen and Catering at Hangar 29* - Est. 2017
11920 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

A few years back, Scott’s Kitchen turned a lot of heads. They were the top-ranked Kansas City barbeque joint on Yelp! and most had never heard of them. In recent years, that has definitely changed! This northland eatery is located near the airport and has the distinction of being a barbeque joint that serves breakfast daily.

So, What Do I Get? If you can, go for breakfast! I am so obsessed with the Bern Street Breakfast Burritos that I snuck it into my list of the best BBQ sandwiches in town. The beef burnt end breakfast burrito is a full meal in itself. If you go for lunch, the barbeque meat tacos are a similarly great option. The best meats on the menu are the St. Louis Ribs, which are a nice thick, meaty cut, the beef burnt ends, and the pulled pork. The smoked wings are also nice. Offered with the a choice of three very good sauces, I always recommend the horseradish-laden Alabama white sauce for these. The Ghost Pepper Jack Sausage is fantastic but be warned - it packs a punch! As for the sides, there are so many great options. The cheesy potatoes, which exist somewhere between a loaded mashed and a casserole, might be the city’s best. The beans are fantastic. In the winter months, the Turkey Sausage Gumbo cannot be ignored. The brisket chili, when in season, is quite nice.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 7am - 6:30pm | CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
Website: www.scottskitchenandcatering.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Pork Spare Ribs (STL Cut), Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked (Pork) Sausage, Honorable Mention (23), Top 12 BBQ (Pork) Ribs (23), Top 12 BBQ Sandwiches, Honorable Mention (23)

Entry updated January, 2024

Smokebox BBQ Cafe - Est. 1994
10020 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Located in the Northland just off of I-29, Smoke Box BBQ is a longtime family-style restaurant.

So, What Do I Get? This is a place that does a lot of things well but if I had to choose a stand-out star, it’s the smoked Italian sausage. The well-smoked, seasoned links, have a nice plump texture, and are thinly long sliced. Paired with the turkey, this makes for a nice sandwich. The pork spare ribs exist somewhere in the middle between the Kansas City traditional style and the more recent competition style. They have a nice flavor and the texture of the bark is ideal. Some may consider these to be overcooked as they are closer to the “fall-off-the-bone” type rib but they do have a great flavor. With the sides, it’s hard to go wrong. The potato salad is elite. The fries are quite fantastic. The beans and cheesy corn both hit the mark. Nearly everything on this menu meets the standard of what traditional Kansas City style barbeque should be.

Buyer Beware? In old school Kansas City tradition, they sauce their meats. They will typically ask if you’d like it on the side. It’s a good sauce but sometimes, they can be a bit heavy-handed with it. Choose wisely.

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 11am - 8pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: www.smokeboxbbq.net
Past disKCovery Accolades:

Entry updated January, 2024

Smokehouse Barbecue (Kansas City) - Est. 1990
8451 NW Prairie View Road, Kansas City, Missouri

SEE - Book of Clay, “Smokehouse Barbecue (Gladstone)*”

HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm
Website: www.smokehousebbq.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Beef Ribs, Honorable Mention (23)

When it comes to Weston’s Tin Kitchen, the order is simple. The Smoked Chicken is some of the better bone-in chicken you’ll find at a BBQ joint. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Tin Kitchen Southern Smokehouse - Est. 2014
509 Main Street, Weston, Missouri

Located in the heart of Weston, Tin Kitchen may be the most popular restaurant in town. A surprisingly large barbeque, restaurant, and bar with a historic feel, Tin Kitchen perfectly marries the charm of Weston with Kansas City’s best culinary tradition.

So, What Do I Get? Do yourself a favor and kick things off with the pimento cheese. This southern favorite is served with an assortment of crackers and smoked sausage and is a must when you visit. For your meal, just order the smoked half-chicken. Simply put, it is excellent and one of the best smoked birds in all of Kansas City. This is also a good place for pork ribs. As for the sides, the shoestring-style fries, the mac & cheese, and the 24 HR Slaw are all tremendous choices.

Buyer Beware? Nothing worth noting.

HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | Sunday 11am - 4pm | CLOSED MONDAY - TUESDAY
Website: www.tin-kitchen.com
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Coleslaw, Honorable Mention (23), Best Smoked Bone-In Chicken, Honorable Mention (23)

Twisted Rib BBQ - Est. 2020
(At Worth Harley Davidson) 9420 NW Prairie View Road, Kansas City, Missouri

Twisted Rib is a small, pop-up barbeque concept that regularly serves their food, a la carte style, at Worth Harley Davidson in the Northland. They have extended hours on Thursdays due to Bike Night.

So, What Do I Get? This is a very solid menu with a lot of great options. Among the meats, the stand-outs are the pulled pork, cheddar jalapeno sausage, and the turkey. The flavor and texture of each are impeccable. For the pulled pork sandwich, the real pro move would be to order a side of the vinegary, crunchy, coleslaw and throw it on the sandwich itself. As for the sides, the batter style fries are nice. Twisted Rib does not make their own sauce but they use the sauce from Kansas City’s own Smoke ‘n Magic and it works on everything! The potato salad is also delightful! Also, since Twisted Rib does sell their namesake meat by the bone, adding a spare rib or two to any plate is never a bad idea.

Buyer Beware? Of Bike Night! Given the live music, cheap beer portables, and hundreds, if not thousands, of motorcycles - it is an awesome experience. But also, you’re going to wait in line for a solid 45 minutes (or more!) if you arrive anytime after 5:30. There’s always a line! Luckily, the service is speedy once you do order.

HOURS: Wednesday 11:30 am - 6pm | Thursday 11:30 am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday 11:30 am - 6pm | CLOSED SUNDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Smoked Turkey, Honorable Mention (23),

The Book of Ray

Ray County is one of the smaller counties on the Missouri side of the metro and is named for former Missouri state legislator John Ray. It includes Camden, Harden, Henrietta, Orrick, and Richmond among others. Richmond is the county seat.

Aside from the county being known by locals as a bit of a “speed trap”, Richmond also declares itself the “Mushroom Capital of the World” due to the biodiversity of mushrooms and morels native to the region. Richmond was also home to outlaw Robert Ford, who killed Jesse James.

From a barbeque standpoint, the smoked pork belly appetizer is one of the better meats on the Oink & Moo menu. PHOTO CREDIT - *disKCovery*

Oink & Moo BBQ & Taproom (at Branded Steakhouse) - Est. 2022
708 Wollard Boulevard, Richmond, Missouri

Oink & Moo BBQ & Taproom is a component of the Branded Steakhouse event space located in a strip mall on the edge of Richmond, Missouri. It is definitely a steakhouse first but there is quite a wide selection of barbeque to be found on the menu.

So, What Do I Get? Of the barbeque meat options, the best choice is easily the babyback ribs. While it is on the fattier end of the spectrum, the sauced and tossed smoked pork belly appetizer is another meat option here. Of the sides, the potato options (baked potato, mashed potatoes, chips, and French fries) are where it’s at. The best is the giant, crispy house-made chips that come standard with their sandwiches. The baked beans are bell pepper heavy and quite heavenly. One thing to note, the barbeque platters come garnished with a wedge of fresh pineapple.

Buyer Beware? Of practically everything else from a barbeque standpoint. The mac ‘n cheese is nice to look at but is devoid of any actual flavor. The same is true for most of their meats. It’s hard to taste any smoke, rub, or wood flavors. Essentially, Oink & Moo is the Fruit Stripe gum of Kansas City BBQ. Whatever flavors are there, are quickly fleeting. The sauce is way too molasses forward and doesn’t help matters. Ham, turkey, brisket, and pulled pork should be avoided. The beef burnt ends are a greasy mess not worthy of the game. This is a steakhouse first, so do what the locals do and order the steaks and burgers. There is no other reason to eat barbeque here than for the sake of crossing it off your list.

HOURS: Tuesday - Wednesday 11am - 8pm | Thursday - Saturday 11am - 9pm | CLOSED SUNDAY - MONDAY
Website: Facebook
Past disKCovery Accolades: Best Housemade Chips, Honorable Mention (23)

In the beginning Henry Perry created Kansas City barbeque. He formed a hole in the dust of the ground and set it ablaze. He took from the West Bottoms a rib bone, and some mutton, and a bit of possum for good measure. In his image, he built a barbeque cart, and then a restaurant, and breathed life into this city.

Thus the World Capital of BBQ was formed. Thus, Kansas City became Kansas City. And that capital continues to grow, evolve, and change, for the work will never be finished.

Today, there are over 120 barbeque establishments in KC. Over 70 of them reside on the Missouri side. And should the day ever come to pass where I have dined at every single one of them, I will rest. I will set aside that day for it shall be a blessed one. In that hour, I will be full of burnt ends and cheesy corn, and I will feel no shame.

Find the complete Fountain City Foodie’s BBQ Capital Checklist HERE so that you can track your own KC BBQ journey! Subscribe below so you can know when Part II is released!

Those Pesky Endnotes I Often Insist Upon

*Denotes original or flagship location of a barbeque restaurant with multiple locations in the metro.

^ In the case of food trucks, any address given or county designated is based on the place where the truck most routinely operates. In the case of mobile operations, be sure to visit their website or call ahead to be certain of where they are going to be set-up on a particular day.

** I count each unique barbeque brand as only one place for my personal list. For instance, while I have been to every Jack Stack location, that only counts as one on my personal list. The same is true of Joe’s or Gates. But then the stand-alones also count as one. If I accounted for multiple locations, I probably passed 100 around 2021. For my purposes, I passed 100 the week of original publication.

DISCLAIMER: Please understand that disKCovery is an independent, self-financed operation. I am merely a person who hopes to spread the gospel of Kansas City barbeque. As such, I am fallible and prone to make a few mistakes. It is possible that in the expanse of nine Missouri counties, a barbeque joint or two may have been left off the list. If there’s a place that I skipped over or need to try, please let me know in the comments. If there is a place that has blank recommendation fields, it clearly means that I either have not dined there yet or that I do not yet feel qualified to make a recommendation. If, as time passes, there is information in here that is outdated or irrelevant, please let me know! If there’s a new spot, I need to be there! Lastly, if you are a barbeque proprietor and would like to be included, or discuss what I wrote, please reach out HERE. As mentioned in my initial notes, this is intended to be a “living article”. Unlike other posts on this page, this one, and its successor, are subject to edits and updates in perpetuity.

All thoughts and opinions are my own as I strive to honestly share my own barbeque journey, and give guidance to both casual diners and Fountain City foodies alike.

The Fountain City Foodie’s Guide to the World Capital of BBQ (MO)

But first, a note from the writer…

Part I: The Missouri Testament

The Book of Bates

The Book of Caldwell

The Book of Cass

Branding Iron BBQ - Est. 19912027 N. Commercial Street, Harrisonville, Missouri

Harold’s Country Mart & Smokehouse 27500 S. State Route 2, Freeman, Missouri

The Jiggy Pig^- Est. 2017Peculiar, Missouri

Kurzweil’s Country Meats - Est. 19952817 Cantrell Road, Harrisonville, Missouri

Long Barbeque Company - Est. 2017304 N. State Route 7, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Oden’s BBQ Steaks & More - Est. 19821302 N. Scott Avenue, Belton, Missouri

Ray Rae’s Rib Shack - Est. 200720301 S. State Route 291 #8578, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Snead’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 19561011 E. 171st Street, Belton, Missouri

The Book of Clay

Chop’s BBQ & Catering - Est. 2016109 E. Main Street, Smithville, Missouri

Cotton Blossom Bar B Que - Est. 20194545 Worlds of Fun Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Fox & Fire Barbecue ^ - Est. 2020102 W. Lawrence Street, Kearney, Missouri

F325 BBQ - Est. 20221825 Buchanan Street, North Kansas City, Missouri

Hawg Jaw Que & Brew - Est. 2012900 Swift Avenue, North Kansas City, Missouri

Porter’s PIg Shack^ - Est. 201414123 Earth Works Drive, Smithville, Missouri

Salute ‘n Smoke^ - Est. 2021North Kansas City, Missouri

Smokehouse Barbecue (Gladstone)* - Est. 19876304 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Missouri

3Halves Brewpub & BBQ - Est. 2022110 E. Kansas Street, Liberty, Missouri

Wabash BBQ and Blues Garden - Est. 1997646 Kansas City Ave S, Excelsior Springs, Missouri

The Book of Clinton

Pit Stop Catering & Food Truck^ - Est. 2010Lathrop, Missouri

The Book of Jackson

Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque - Est. 19461727 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Aunt Mildred’s #10^ - Est. 202010805 E. Truman Road, Independence, Missouri

Back Porch Bar-B-Q - Est. 20151620 SE Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Barbacoa - Est. 20235500 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

B.B.’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ - Est. 19901205 E. 85th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Big T’s Bar-B-Q6201 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

Buck Tui BBQ at GEHA Field - Sections 121 & 339 - Est. 2023GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Burn Theory Fire Kitchen - Est. 2021Diametric Brewing, 949 NE Columbus Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Burnt End BBQ - Crown Center - Est. 20202450 Grand Boulevard #130, Kansas City, Missouri

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ* - Est. 19886805 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ Food Truck^Kansas City, Missouri

Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements* - Est. 20144050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Chef J BBQ* - Est. 20201401 W. 13th Street, Suite G, Kansas City, Missouri

Chef J BBQ at GEHA Field - Section 107 - Est. 2023GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

County Road Ice House - Est. 2018100 E. 14th Street #2919, Kansas City, Missouri

Danny Edwards BLVD BBQ - Est. 19802900 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Dunn Deal BBQ- Est. 2024506 Main Street, Grandview, Missouri

Filling Station Bar-B-Que - Est. 1999333 SE Douglas Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Fuego’s BBQ Mexican Cocina - Est. 2021 9013 E. Highway 40 #A, Independence, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard)* - Est. 19461325 Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Main Street)3205 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Brooklyn Avenue) 1221 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on East 40 Highway)10440 E. US Highway 40, Independence, Missouri

Harp Barbecue - Est. 20196633 Raytown Road, Raytown, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City* - Est. 1957 13441 Holmes Road, Martin City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House - Est. 2000101 W. 22nd Street #300, Kansas City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Country Club Plaza - Est. 20064747 Wyandotte Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Lee’s Summit - Est. 20151840 NW Chipman Road, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Jazzy B’s Diner - Est. 2016320 SW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Joe’s Kansas City BBQ at CPKC Stadium - Sections 122 - 123 - Est. 2024CPKC Stadium, 1460 E. Front Street, Kansas City, Missouri

KCQ at Kauffman Stadium - Sections 216 & 232 - Est. 2023Kauffman Stadium, 1 Royal Way, Kansas City, Missouri

LC’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 19965800 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

A Little BBQ Joint - Est. 20131101 W. Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

McGonigle’s KC BBQ^ at Fareway Meat Market - Est. 19511307 W. 79th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Moocho Mexican Restaurant & Cantina1704 S. Broadway, Oak Grove, Missouri

Night Goat Barbecue (at Fox and Pearl) - Est. 20212143 Summit Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Nikki-G’s SoulQ Bistro^ - Est. 2017Kansas City, Missouri

P. Moore and Moore BBQ - Est. 20153260 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Porky’s Blazin Bar-B-Q - Est. 20169512 S. Buckner-Tarsney, Grain Valley, Missouri

Q39 - Midtown* - Est. 20141000 W. 39th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Smoak Craft Barbecue at GEHA Field - Section 316 - Est. 2023GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Smoke Brewing Company - Est. 2017209 SE Main Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Smoke ‘n Magic ^ - Est. 2023Grain Valley, Missouri

Smokehouse Barbecue (Independence) - Est. 198719000 E. 39th Street S., Independence, Missouri

Smokey’s BBQ ^ - Est. 1971(NSK Kustoms Lot) 537 E. US Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill*7935 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill (Food Truck) ^Kansas City, Missouri

Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Independence) ^(Thrift World) 3848 S. Noland Road, Independence, Missouri

Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Lee’s Summit)*^ - Est. 1998(At Home) 601 Missouri Highway 291, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Wolfepack BBQ - Est. 2022910 E. 5th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Zarda Hickory Pit Bar-B-Q (Blue Springs)* - Est. 1976214 N. 7 Highway, Blue Springs, Missouri

The Book of Lafayette

Branding Iron BBQ - Est. 1991
2027 N. Commercial Street, Harrisonville, Missouri

Harold’s Country Mart & Smokehouse
27500 S. State Route 2, Freeman, Missouri

*The Jiggy Pig^**- Est. 2017*
Peculiar, Missouri

Kurzweil’s Country Meats - Est. 1995
2817 Cantrell Road, Harrisonville, Missouri

Long Barbeque Company - Est. 2017
304 N. State Route 7, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Oden’s BBQ Steaks & More - Est. 1982
1302 N. Scott Avenue, Belton, Missouri

Ray Rae’s Rib Shack - Est. 2007
20301 S. State Route 291 #8578, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Snead’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 1956
1011 E. 171st Street, Belton, Missouri

Chop’s BBQ & Catering - Est. 2016
109 E. Main Street, Smithville, Missouri

Cotton Blossom Bar B Que - Est. 2019
4545 Worlds of Fun Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Fox & Fire Barbecue ^ - Est. 2020
102 W. Lawrence Street, Kearney, Missouri

F325 BBQ - Est. 2022
1825 Buchanan Street, North Kansas City, Missouri

Hawg Jaw Que & Brew - Est. 2012
900 Swift Avenue, North Kansas City, Missouri

Porter’s PIg Shack^ - Est. 2014
14123 Earth Works Drive, Smithville, Missouri

Salute ‘n Smoke^ - Est. 2021
North Kansas City, Missouri

Smokehouse Barbecue (Gladstone)* - Est. 1987
6304 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Missouri

3Halves Brewpub & BBQ - Est. 2022
110 E. Kansas Street, Liberty, Missouri

Wabash BBQ and Blues Garden - Est. 1997
646 Kansas City Ave S, Excelsior Springs, Missouri

Pit Stop Catering & Food Truck^ - Est. 2010
Lathrop, Missouri

Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque - Est. 1946
1727 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Aunt Mildred’s #10^ - Est. 2020
10805 E. Truman Road, Independence, Missouri

Back Porch Bar-B-Q - Est. 2015
1620 SE Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Barbacoa - Est. 2023
5500 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

B.B.’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ - Est. 1990
1205 E. 85th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Big T’s Bar-B-Q
6201 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

Buck Tui BBQ at GEHA Field - Sections 121 & 339 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Burn Theory Fire Kitchen - Est. 2021
Diametric Brewing, 949 NE Columbus Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Burnt End BBQ - Crown Center - Est. 2020
2450 Grand Boulevard #130, Kansas City, Missouri

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ* - Est. 1988
6805 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Catch-n-Release Fried Fish & BBQ Food Truck^
Kansas City, Missouri

Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements* - Est. 2014
4050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Chef J BBQ* - Est. 2020
1401 W. 13th Street, Suite G, Kansas City, Missouri

Chef J BBQ at GEHA Field - Section 107 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

County Road Ice House - Est. 2018
100 E. 14th Street #2919, Kansas City, Missouri

Danny Edwards BLVD BBQ - Est. 1980
2900 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

*Dunn Deal BBQ**- Est. 2024*
506 Main Street, Grandview, Missouri

Filling Station Bar-B-Que - Est. 1999
333 SE Douglas Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Fuego’s BBQ Mexican Cocina - Est. 2021
9013 E. Highway 40 #A, Independence, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard)* - Est. 1946
1325 Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Main Street)
3205 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on Brooklyn Avenue)
1221 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Gates Bar-B-Q (on East 40 Highway)
10440 E. US Highway 40, Independence, Missouri

Harp Barbecue - Est. 2019
6633 Raytown Road, Raytown, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Martin City* - Est. 1957
13441 Holmes Road, Martin City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House - Est. 2000
101 W. 22nd Street #300, Kansas City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Country Club Plaza - Est. 2006
4747 Wyandotte Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Jack Stack Barbecue - Lee’s Summit - Est. 2015
1840 NW Chipman Road, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Jazzy B’s Diner - Est. 2016
320 SW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Joe’s Kansas City BBQ at CPKC Stadium - Sections 122 - 123 - Est. 2024
CPKC Stadium, 1460 E. Front Street, Kansas City, Missouri

KCQ at Kauffman Stadium - Sections 216 & 232 - Est. 2023
Kauffman Stadium, 1 Royal Way, Kansas City, Missouri

LC’s Bar-B-Q - Est. 1996
5800 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri

A Little BBQ Joint - Est. 2013
1101 W. Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

McGonigle’s KC BBQ^ at Fareway Meat Market - Est. 1951
1307 W. 79th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Moocho Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
1704 S. Broadway, Oak Grove, Missouri

Night Goat Barbecue (at Fox and Pearl) - Est. 2021
2143 Summit Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Nikki-G’s SoulQ Bistro^ - Est. 2017
Kansas City, Missouri

P. Moore and Moore BBQ - Est. 2015
3260 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri

Porky’s Blazin Bar-B-Q - Est. 2016
9512 S. Buckner-Tarsney, Grain Valley, Missouri

Q39 - Midtown* - Est. 2014
1000 W. 39th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Smoak Craft Barbecue at GEHA Field - Section 316 - Est. 2023
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Smoke Brewing Company - Est. 2017
209 SE Main Street, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Smoke ‘n Magic ^ - Est. 2023
Grain Valley, Missouri

Smokehouse Barbecue (Independence) - Est. 1987
19000 E. 39th Street S., Independence, Missouri

Smokey’s BBQ ^ - Est. 1971
(NSK Kustoms Lot) 537 E. US Highway 24, Independence, Missouri

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill*
7935 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Taste of Kansas City BBQ & Grill (Food Truck) ^
Kansas City, Missouri

Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Independence) ^
(Thrift World) 3848 S. Noland Road, Independence, Missouri

***Three Pigs BBQ & Catering (Lee’s Summit)*^*** - Est. 1998
(At Home) 601 Missouri Highway 291, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Wolfepack BBQ - Est. 2022
910 E. 5th Street, Kansas City, Missouri

***Zarda Hickory Pit Bar-B-Q (Blue Springs)* -*** Est. 1976
214 N. 7 Highway, Blue Springs, Missouri

Bates City Bar-B-Que* - Est. 1976
201 E. Market Street, Bates City, Missouri

Dempsey’s BBQ - Est. 2015
103 NE 2nd Street, Concordia, Missouri

Red Shanty BBQ & Roadside Cafe - Est. 2008
2201 Highway 13, Higginsville, Missouri

Waverly Apple BBQ - Est. 2011
315 E. Walnut Street, Waverly, Missouri

Auggie-Q BBQ at Jockey Club Lounge - Est. 2022
4312 NW Gateway Avenue, Riverside, Missouri

Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements - Est. 2023
15348 Old Town Drive, Parkville, Missouri

Made for KC Barbecue Experience: O.G. Bandits BBQ - Est. 2020
Kansas City International Airport, Concourse B, Near Gate B52

Meat Mitch - Est. 2023
Kansas City International Airport, Concourse A, Near Gate A10

Off the Hook BBQ - Est. 2021
115 Main Street, Parkville, Missouri

Scott’s Kitchen and Catering at Hangar 29* - Est. 2017
11920 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, Missouri