There's nothing better than sitting down to a delicious plate of BBQ, and even though Louisiana isn't typically known for BBQ, we sure do know our way around a smoker. These 15 spots are some of the BBQ restaurants in Louisiana, according to our readers. And our readers sure do know how to pick 'em!
1. Johnson’s Boucaniere
Starting off strong, we have Lafayette’s Johnson’s Boucaniere. This sunshine yellow building has been churning out some of the best BBQ in Cajun Country for many years, and it’s a family affair. Many of the recipes date back nearly a century, like the boudin, and it’s finger-licking good.
2. Blue Oak BBQ
If you're in New Orleans, then Blue Oak BBQ needs to be on your list. They've been at it since 2012, and this is one of those BBQ joints where the sides are just as good as the BBQ.
3. LA 23 BBQ
LA 23 BBQ is a time-honored tradition for many folks on LA-23 on the way to Venice, and this little roadside stand is worth a road trip even if you're not headed in that direction. Simple, no-frills, all flavor.
4. Cou-Yon’s Cajun Bar-B-Q
If you're in the Greater Baton Rouge Area, then you have to swing by Cou-Yon's. The homemade BBQ sauces are some of the best in the country, and the blend of Texas-style BBQ with Cajun spices will blow your taste buds away.
5. The Joint
Not one but two BBQ joints in New Orleans made the list! The Joint is a local favorite, and there's often a line out the door. The motto here is: "always smokin'" and their commitment to serving the best BBQ in town is the reason they've been so popular ever since they opened.
6. BRQ Seafood and Barbecue
A Baton Rouge favorite, BRQ Seafood & Barbecue has won numerous awards for best BBQ in town, and we'll let you be the ultimate judge. The pulled pork, in particular, is worth a road trip from any corner of the state.
7. Central City BBQ
Central City BBQ has been around since 2016, and many New Orleanians will swear to you that this place has the best BBQ ribs in the city.
8. Salty Joe’s BBQ Shop
Salty Joe's is more than a BBQ joint, it's a whole experience. There is frequently live music to score your meal to, and as you can see from the photo above, the BBQ is more like a work of art!
9. Sonny’s BBQ
The first chain to make the list, Sonny's BBQ has about 100 locations peppered around the United States, including one in Baton Rouge. These folks have been pitmasters since 1968, so rest assured you're in for a delicious BBQ plate.
10. Jeanne’s Bourbon St. BBQ
Despite the name, this Westlake BBQ joint is miles away from the Vieux Carre. Jeanne’s Bourbon St. BBQ is a locally owned, no-frills type of joint where the portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the BBQ is delicious. Need we say more?
11. Grayson’s Barbecue
Grayson's is a little off the beaten path, but so worth the effort to visit. Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you; delicious BBQ is inside waiting for you.
12. Smokin’ J’s BBQ
The locals will tell you there's not a bad thing on the menu at Smokin’ J’s, which is one of the reasons this Minden restaurant has developed such a loyal fan base. From the smoked chicken to the brisket, you'll want to try it all.
13. Bodacious Bar-B-Q
Bodacious Bar-B-Q is known for the "botato," a BBQ-inspired, fully-loaded baked potato that will change the game on how you eat BBQ. Don't worry, traditional BBQ plates are still on the menu, but once you try the botato, you'll never go back.
14. Shane’s Seafood & BBQ
Shane’s Seafood & BBQ has a few different locations peppered around Shreveport and Bossier City, and no matter which one you visit, your experience will be the same. Delicious BBQ, every single time.
15. Danken Trail B-B-Q
Last, but certainly not least, we have Danken Trail B-B-Q. This beloved BBQ restaurant in Monroe has been serving the community since 1983, and has earned itself a loyal following for a reason. It's a low-and-slow game over here, where the meat just falls off the bone.
Did your favorite BBQ restaurants in Louisiana make the list? You can nominate your favorite and maybe we'll do a part two!
If you're a foodie down for a sweet road trip, gas up the car and take this epic donut road trip in Louisiana.
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