Kansas City is known for BBQ. It’s arguably in the same league for BBQ as places like Texas and Memphis in the discussions of top BBQ in the country. Having grown up in KC and eating KC style BBQ my whole life, I certainly have a preference for it’s style. All of that being said, if you come to KC, BBQ must be on your list of must try things while you’re here.

Today, I’m sharing my top three bbq restaurants in KC!

-1- Joe’s KC. If you head to the original location of Joe’s KC, it’s located in a gas station. The gas station still sells gas, but you’re hard pressed to be able to squeeze your car in to the two pump stand around all of the parked cars and line for Joe’s KC BBQ. If you go at lunch or dinner, expect to wait in line. It goes relatively fast, but it’s probably my favorite BBQ in the city. The Z-man is a brisket sandwich topped with two onion rings and provolone cheese, and is hands down the best bbq sandwich in the city, IMO. Get a side of fries to share and a beer, and it’s the perfect BBQ meal.

-2- Jack Stack. Jack Stack is more of a sit-down BBQ joint. There’s a hostess, you can make dinner reservations, and there’s no long line that winds around the building for your meal. I’m a big fan of Jack Stack’s baby back ribs, but the burnt ends are also delicious. For me, yes, the BBQ is fantastic, but the sides at Jack Stack are <chef’s kiss.> Must order the cheesy corn and the bbq beans. They’re so popular in KC, that their sold in container at Costco for at-home bbq’s.

-3- Q39. A relative newcomer to the BBQ field in KC, Nathan and I are both so impressed with it. The meat is fantastic – Nathan gets the BBQ sample platter dinner, and I get a BBQ sandwich. You can make a reservation – but be sure to do so at least a week in advance! They book up quickly. Otherwise, come prepared to wait for a seat, but promise, it’ll be worth it.