Denver's Top 10 BBQ Spots

Denver didn’t use to be known for its smoked meats scene, but over the last decade, a finger-lickin’ barbecue scene has been growing steadily in the Mile High City. From staples like Georgia Boys and GQue to newcomers like Owlbear and AJ’s Pit Bar-B-Q, Colorado’s flourishing barbecue culture is only bound to grow. These are the spots that smoke the finest meats, slather the best sauces, and serve up the choicest sides to comprise this ultimate list of Denver’s essential joints for barbecue.

1. Georgia Boys BBQ

The good down-home Georgia Boys have perfected Southern-style barbecue in Longmont and have an outpost in Frederick. The Longmont location transports patrons directly to backcountry Georgia with rocking chairs out front and sunny Southern vibes. The pulled pork is arguably the best in the entire state, and the premium sides are not to be missed. Sweet potato casserole, hand-breaded fried okra, and collards ‘n' mustards pair perfectly with the high-quality, unbelievably tender smoked meat options.

2. Wayne's Smoke Shack

Texas-style barbecue is what this beloved Superior smokehouse is all about. Tender brisket and ribs, smoked turkey, candied pork belly, and great sides get the crowds in early at this lunch-only spot. The shop is open from 11 a.m. until it runs out of meat. Wednesdays are all about the pork shoulder, which is not to be missed.

3. GQue BBQ

Owner Jason Ganahl's passion for barbecue brought him to many national competitions and also to this brick-and-mortar shop in Westminster. If there is 30-day aged, prime hickory-smoked brisket, get it, but don't shy away from chicken wings, turkey, or pork. GQue’s sandwiches are worth a look: The Carolina features pulled pork and slaw, while The Meltdown features brisket with onion rings and cheese. Sides — apple slaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, onion rings — are done right.

Also, now serving the Lone Tree area with a great location at Park Meadows!

4. Pepperbelly Barbecue

Pitmaster Ryan Smith studied the work of barbecue masters and graduated from the Texas Culinary Academy in Austin before bringing his craft to Arvada. Now he wood-smokes sausage, beef brisket, pulled pork, and more and serving it up on white-bread buns. Homemade sides include potato salad, charro beans, and a daily slaw special.

5. Globe Hall

At this no-frills saloon in north Denver, the meat trays are generous, the drinks are strong, and there’s always a show or live music going on. Diners can choose from wood-fired barbecue dishes done in a variety of takes — smoked turkey or chopped brisket tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, loaded nachos, sampler plates, and meat by the pound. Tasty accompanying sides include a smoked cheddar mac and cheese, sweet citrus apple slaw, and a creamy herbed potato salad.

6. Ragin' Hog BBQ

Northwest Denver's go-to Southern barbecue spot is undoubtedly Ragin' Hog BBQ. All of the meat is smoked fresh daily and served with a variety of sides and accoutrements. Sauces are on-point and include Carolina, Georgia, Memphis, sweet, and hot. The meat is impossibly tender, and the coleslaw is easily some of the best in town. Check Facebook for daily Cajun specials like crawfish étouffée.

7. Smok Barbecue - Denver

Located inside the Source Hotel and Market Hall in RiNo, this barbecue eatery boasts an eclectic offering of favorite smokehouse flavors. Influenced by his upbringing in Kansas City, Missouri, and Austin Texas — as well his years working in the kitchens at establishments like Oak at Fourteenth and Acorn — chef William Espiricueta’s approach to barbecue is thorough, thoughtful, and flavor-filled. Guests can select from sandwiches — brisket, smoked fish, fried Nashville hot chicken — smoked meat by the pound, typical sides like creamed corn, mac and cheese, cornbread, and coleslaw as well as smokey takes on a Cobb or pork belly cabbage salad.

8. Rolling Smoke BBQ

From food truck to brick-and-mortar counters at the Stanley Marketplace and in Centennial, this family-owned operation led by Terry Walsh draws on Southern roots and offers smoked meats with all the sides and fixings. Don’t miss out on the bacon candy.

9. Yazoo BBQ Co.

Located in the heart of Denver, with a second location down in Greenwood Village, this Memphis-style barbecue shop has kept a steady stream of loyal customers that often buy out the daily supply of smoked meat. Owner Don Hines uses four types of spice rub — but no sauce — in his cooking process. He believes in letting the flavor of the smoked meat speak for itself before guests slather on their choice of sauce. Don’t miss the St. Louis-style pork ribs or the rooftop patio.

10. Boney's Barbeque

With over six generations of family barbecue expertise and deep Southern roots, Boney's Barbeque is no joke. It specializes in slow-cooking, pit-style barbecue with a nod to influences from regions like Tennessee, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, and the Carolinas. Try the beautifully smoked spare ribs or the famed Pig-a-Dilly sandwich with pulled pork, fried pickles, and coleslaw with a side of fried okra. Wash it down with a jar of sweet tea and a serving of peach cobbler.