Updated October 2026
We’re not here to debate the merits behind the claim of Kansas City being the “Barbecue Capital of America.” What’s true is that Kansas City has a wealth of barbecue options that vary widely in style. Each has it’s own unique flavors and claims to fame.
As Kansas Citians, we have a difficult time narrowing down the list but below are some of our favorite joints serving up the best barbeque in the city.
Joe’s Kansas City - Best for BBQ Sandwiches
Joe’s is one of the most popular BBQ destinations in Kansas City and for good reason. What started out of gas station is now a bustling restaurant serving up the usual barbecue fare.
Don’t be deterred by the line snaking out the door, they move fast and so does the line.
What to Order
The Z-Man Sandwich. This sandwich is what they are best known for. Brisket, smoked provolone and onion rings perfect this sandwich. You can also order pulled pork, chicken or portobello instead of brisket, but brisket is the OG.
Fries. The fries are not an afterthought here. These are arguably the best fries in the city. I’m not sure how they do it, but they are always freshly fried and tossed with an addictive fry seasoning. You’ll get a huge portion and you’ll be sad you can’t finish them all.
Know Before You Go
Come at peak lunch or dinner time expect a line out the door. As mentioned before though, the line moves fast.
They’ve got locations in KCK, Olathe and Leawood. The KCK location is the home of the infamous gas station (where you can still get gas) and a more authentic BBQ experience.
Just across the street from the gas station location in KCK, Joe’s recently opened Joe’s Next Door. If you are looking for a more relaxed, chill atmosphere head over there. It’s a fun place to hang outside on a nice day. They’ve got the infamous Z-mans plus a few other items you can’t find at the regular locations such as brisket tacos, burgers and interesting appetizers as well as cocktails.
Q39 - Best for Upscale BBQ
This place opened with the goal of serving competition barbecue to the masses in the early 2010s. They’ve delivered and become the go-to barbecue joint if you’re in the mood for something more refined.
You’re not going to get any great deals here or giant portions, but you’ll get arguably the best brisket, smoked wings and sides of any barbecue restaurant in the city.
What to Order
Best Wings on the Planet. We’re not sure about the best wings on the planet, but they’re pretty far up there. Smoked chicken wings with your choice of chipotle BBQ sauce or dry rub.
The Pit Master. They may have copied Joe’s here, but we aren’t complaining. Another brisket sandwich topped with provolone and fried onion. They use onion straws and they are chef’s kiss. If you don’t order this, order an appetizer of onion straws. You’ll get a tower of spiced onion straws that are addictive.
Competition Plate. You can’t go wrong with a standard BBQ plate. There are a few different options of meat plates or you can go with the you pick two or pick three along with two sides.
Know Before You Go
This is probably the most expensive BBQ joint in the city, but it’s worth it. Being one of the few sit down and relax style BBQ restaurants, it’s the perfect option when you want to linger over a meal with a cocktail. We highly recommend securing reservations as they get quite busy.
They’ve got locations in Midtown, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit and newly opened in Lawrence, KS as well.
Char Bar - Best for Hanging Out
This multi-faceted restaurant serving up “smoked meats and amusements” opened up around the same time as Q39 and quickly became a Kansas City staple.
What sets Char Bar apart is the creativity and atmosphere. At Char Bar, you’ll want to linger a little longer and enjoy yard games, cocktails and a great beer selection.
What to Order
Cheesy Hushpuppies. The jalapeno jam that is served with these is the perfect compliment to the golden fried hushpuppies.
CBGB Burger. This burger is a lot. It uses ground smoked brisket for the burger and is topped with smoked bacon, smoked gouda smear and caramelized onions. It’s messy, but delicious.
Burnt Heaven. This sandwich has smoked burnt ends, smoked sausage, fried jalapenos, BBQ mayo and slaw. Another creative, guilty pleasure sandwich.
Know Before You Go
You can’t go wrong here. Get a bunch of appetizers and BBQ plates to share or a unique sandwich, they are all great. They also have a good brunch on weekends. The chicken and waffles are a particular favorite of ours.
We love the atmosphere here and is a great option for a nice day in their outdoor space. It’s a sit down style restaurant, so come hang out and enjoy the day.
Chef J BBQ - Best for Burnt Ends
The newest entry on our list is Chef J. This no frills operation in the West Bottoms focuses on classic barbecued meats and sides and has fewer of the unique barbecue inspired dishes you’ll see at Q39 and Char Bar.
What to Order
Bacon Burnt Ends. Chef J has some of the best burnt ends in the city, in our opinion. They are smoky, tender and charred to perfection.
Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage. I don’t order sausage often, but man the sausage at Chef J is divine. Just order it.
Know Before You Go
This place is only open for lunch. Get here early because when they’re out, they’re out. There’s consistently a line at the door waiting for their 11:30 AM opening time.
You’ll order at the counter and take a seat. It may be not frills, but it’s a really cool atmosphere being in the West Bottoms. The space is open and old-school.
Jack Stack Barbecue - Best for Date Night
Another Kansas City staple, Jack Stack does not disappoint. If you are looking for a nicer sit-down restaurant this is the place to be. The location in the Crossroads especially has a great atmosphere.
What to Order
Kansas City Combo. Pick two or pick three meats. Just a basic staple with overall good smoked meats.
Hickory Pit Beans. Jack Stack has some of our favorite BBQ beans in the city. They are saucy and delicious.
Know Before You Go
This is just a good overall BBQ joint to go to especially with family or a nice date night. You can make reservations to secure your spot.
Jack Stack has locations in the Plaza, Crossroads, Overland Park, Martin City, Lenexa and Lee’s Summit. We love the Freight House location in the Crossroads.
Looking for places to grab a drink after your fill of BBQ?
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Honorable Mention
Gates BBQ
Gates is a Kansas City institution as well. Another casual, counter-style BBQ joint it serves up some of the best simple, delicious BBQ in the city. Be prepared when you get to the counter to order as it all moves very fast. They also have some of our favorite BBQ sauce. If you like a tangy, vinegary sauce then you’ll love Gates.
Planning a full trip to Kansas City?
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