Idaho does a lot of things right. Mountains, fishing, community… But the Gem State has never been known by the rest of the country as a barbecue mecca. That being said, Idahoans do know their meat, and determined carnivores that we are, we’ve learned the best ways to smoke it, rub it, sauce it, and still get that crispy-heavenly char that makes your eyes roll back in your head with happiness. Want to find the best BBQ in Idaho? Check out these nine places that will have you reaching for that table-side paper towel roll (you’ll need it).
Freshly smoked, stick-to-your-ribs style BBQ is what you'll find here, along with decor that features dozens of celebrity "Willies." Sausage is often an afterthought in American barbecue fare, but Willies has nailed the Cajun style spices down to perfection. The best part? You'll find a phenomenal dessert selection here as well -- if you have room after your meal, that is.
Epic bacon-wrapped pepper appetizers, unique menu items, and the option to order the "Animal Farm" all add up to "fingerlickinsaucedrippinamazingness" according to one reviewer, and we're inclined to agree. Every entree here is smoked to delicious, saucy perfection, with a crispy bark that is hard to come by these days.
A little glam, a little rustic charm, and a lot of amazing food is what you'll find at this welcoming, family-run BBQ joint. Delicious mop sauces and sides take the meat to the next level, while delightfully tasty breads (all too often overlooked as a key BBQ component) have the substance to sop up remaining saucy goodness or be eaten alone.
For some seriously legit mac and cheese, uber tender brisket, and out of this world BBQ sandwiches, Big Hole is where it's at. Just the right amount of smoke and all the juicy, meaty goodness you could ever ask for.
For an authentic Southern experience, complete with smoked meats, rich gumbo, fresh-baked desserts, and the friendliest service you've ever seem. Grandpa's is the place to be. This Idaho Falls staple is beloved for good reason.
This tiny restaurant is actually tucked away inside a humble gas station. But what we and our fellow diners particularly love about this unexpected eatery is the fresh-baked bread from Great Harvest.
What else is there to be said about a BBQ joint that offers all-you-can-eat ribs, other than "Honey, where are my stretchy pants?" Not much. The meat is of the melt in your mouth, fall off the bone type, while the sides -- especially the Tater Pigs -- are so good that we wish we had known about them sooner for our article on insanely delicious potato dishes.
What do you get when you combine a historic house-turned restaurant, a backyard yurt, St. Louis-style ribs, and unique dishes like Jalapeño Pulled Pork Pancakes? A unique and saucy little taste of Heaven, that's what.
Is it socially acceptable to eat barbecue for three meals a day? Because it really should be. What BBQ restaurant in Idaho sends you into saucy, smoked meat nirvana?
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