The Buckeye State is a bit of a BBQ darkhorse. While we’re best-known for delicacies such as Cincinnati-style chili, goetta, coneys, Polish boys, and beer, there are some standout BBQ joints in Ohio that could stand against any Texas or Kansas City ‘cue. Eli’s is one of them. This is award-winning Ohio BBQ at its finest: slow-smoked pork slathered in a Memphis-style sauce that’s truly as good as it gets.

For 11 years, this humble little red restaurant has been smoking up some of the finest and tastiest award-winning Ohio BBQ.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
Welcome to Eli's, a BBQ hotspot in Cincinnati that boasts a robust resume of awards and accolades. City Beat, Food Network, Ohio Magazine, Cincinnati Magazine... you'd be hard-pressed to find a more decorated BBQ joint in Ohio.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
Let's start with the meat. It's the foundation of any top-notch BBQ joint, and Eli's proves that slow and steady truly does win the race -- in more ways than one.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
Eli’s started as a booth at Cincinnati's Fountain Square Market, then moved to a stand at the nearby (and über historic) Findlay Market. From there, word quickly spread about this small-but-mighty BBQ joint, and so Eli’s opened a brick-and-mortar shop at Riverside Drive.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook

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Today, this humble little building is a beloved local hangout where folks come to feast the best pulled pork BBQ in Ohio... and possibly the entire Midwest.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
Eli's isn't a one-trick pony (or pig?), however: the flash-fried hot dogs are a fan favorite, as is the smoked turkey sandwich.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
In addition to the 'wiches, people go gaga for the hickory-smoked ribs, which can be ordered by the pair, half-slab, full-slab, and everything in between!
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
And for fans of rib tips, Eli's doesn't disappoint. They're saucy and bite-sized and ridiculously addictive. What a fun way to mix up your BBQ game! If you're shy about licking your fingers clean (these morsels get messy!), be sure to bring along some wet wipes.
Eli's BBQ/Facebook
Of course, I would be doing Eli's a huge disservice if I didn't mention the sides. Anyone knows that BBQ "sides" are just as important as the main event, and Eli's has a perfectly curated menu of side dishes that turn your meal into a bonafide BBQ symphony. The mac 'n cheese and slaw provide the perfect crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory "oomph" to your 'cue!
Eli's BBQ/Facebook

Have you dined at Eli’s before? If you’ve yet to delight in the deliciousness that awaits at this this award-winning Ohio BBQ joint, you’re in for quite a treat.

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Featured Addresses
Eli's BBQ - Riverside, 3313 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
Eli's BBQ ?- Findlay, 133 W Elder St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA