It’s doubtful that there is anyone in the world who isn’t a complete sucker for some phenomenal barbecue. While it’s clear that nowhere does BBQ like the South in the United States, it doesn’t mean you’re out of luck if you live in the Twin Cities. As growing foodie cities, both Minneapolis and Saint Paul are home to chefs who make some mean, finger licking barbecue. If you’re looking to fill up on some smokey, delectable, and sometimes spicy BBQ, here are 11 BBQ joints in Minneapolis-Saint Paul that will leave your mouth watering uncontrollably.
1. Q-Fanatic
Q-Fanatic's original location in Champlin is highly raved about and was proud to have been featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive Ins and Dives. Whether or not you like Fieri, you have to know the food at Q-Fanatic is downright delicious. Now with a location in South Minneapolis, you can get Q-Fanatic as much as you want- as long as it's not on a Monday or Tuesday when the restaurant is closed.
Q-Fanatic is located at 6009 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis MN 55419.
2. Smoke In The Pit
Owned and operated by the Alexander family for almost 20 years, Smoke in the Pit is something special. The dine-out dive is known for their smoked ribs and tender chicken wings. Every bite at this incredibly affordable BBQ joint is worth savoring.
Smoke in The Pit is located at 3733 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55407.
3. Revival
If you're looking for a revamped take on Southern food, look no further than Revival either in Minneapolis or at the newer location in Saint Paul. Everyone loves their spicy fried chicken, which is great on its own, but also perfectly compliments their waffles. Revival serves a ton of other southern fare, and the casual atmosphere will allow you to relax and chow down on some amazing food.
Revival is located at 4257 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55409.
4. Ted Cook's 19th Hole Barbecue
If you want to grab a bite to eat from a restaurant where locals line up outside just to get a taste of the most succulent rib tips in the world, you must make a stop at Ted Cook's 19th Hole. Although there is no seating at the restaurant itself, the takeout only joint keeps its food fresh and hot.
Ted Cook's 19th Hole Barbecue is located at 2814 E 38th St., Minneapolis, MN 55406.
5. C & G's Smoking Barbecue
The best part about local BBQ joints in the Twin Cities is that most of them are little holes in the wall that you wouldn't otherwise give a second thought. These unassuming eateries are often packed with complex flavors and exciting narratives, and C & G's is no exception. Their ribs are positively to die for. The place is very small and doesn't even have a website of its own, but is truly a hidden gem.
C & G's Smoking Barbecue is located at 4743 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55419.
6. Firebox Deli
We've praised Firebox Deli a few times on this site, and deservedly so. This family owned spot in the Camden neighborhood in North Minneapolis serves some of the most tender and juicy beef brisket along with many other smoked goods. Don't let the outside appearance deter you, this place is really something special.
Firebox Deli is located at 4707 Lyndale Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55430.
7. Handsome Hog
Handsome Hog is undeniably the best upscale southern food restaurant in the Twin Cities. It's menu is heavily based on pork, and the whiskey flows freely. Their brisket is the thing to try- it's only made in limited batches daily. Whatever you go with at Handsome Hog, your taste buds will be sure to thank you.
Handsome Hog is located at 203 6th. St. E., Saint Paul, MN 55101.
8. Scott Ja-Mama's BBQ
While this restaurant may seem tiny on the outside, it more than makes up for it with huge flavor. This one-table restaurant has super delectable pulled pork and chicken sandwiches for a fair price. It's cash or check only at this establishment, so when you visit, know that it's time to kick it old school.
Scott Ja-Mama's BBQ is located at 3 W. Diamond Lake Rd., Minneapolis, MN 55419.
9. Rooster's BBQ Deli
If you're craving Memphis-style ribs and aren't sure where to find them in the Twin Cities, you're in luck at Rooster's in Saint Paul. Their dry rub is phenomenally flavorful and oh so smokey. This family owned restaurant has been open since 1987 and has won countless awards for its stellar barbecue that people just can't get enough of.
Rooster's BBQ Deli is located at 979 Randolph Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55102.
10. Big Daddy's Old Fashioned Barbecue
Big Daddy's is another barbecue with a modest facade with bold taste. Here the food is cooked the old fashioned way in true southern tradition. Everything is slow cooked, and their grill out back will send heavenly scents your way before you even make it in the door.
Big Daddy's Old Fashioned Barbecue is located at 625 University Ave. W., Saint Paul, MN 55104.
11. Chef Shack Ranch
This is refined BBQ done well, right here on Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis. This fully organic and tasty joint is run by two women who are complete powerhouses. In addition to killer BBQ, Chef Shack has some incredibly decadent desserts such as a chocolate mousse and delectable creme brulee. This is BBQ in a whole new light.
Chef Shack Ranch is located at 3025 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55406.
Wow! There you have it, folks: the 11 best BBQ joints in all of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Of course, we know there are other places that serve stellar BBQ, but we couldn’t possibly list them all. What’s your favorite restaurant for BBQ in the Twin Cities? Let us know in the comments below.
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