Wisconsin definitely isn't on most people's lists of great BBQ destinations, but there are actually a great handful of places serving up slow-smoked, well-loved and delicious BBQ if you know where to look. One of the hallmarks of great BBQ is not taking itself too seriously. These places don't have white tablecloths and aren't fancy. They aren't the most popular joint in town. They're just small places in hidden spots cranking out amazing smoked meat and tasty sauces to the folks lucky enough to know about them. In no particular order, here are the 10 best hole in the wall BBQ restaurants in Wisconsin.
1. Bob's Bitchin' BBQ - Dodgeville
With an industrial look and an interesting array of non-standard sauce choices, Bob's would be at home in much bigger cities. Instead, it's a cozy little local joint well worth the drive. Order your meat naked and then take advantage of the smorgasbord of sauces at your table.
Located at 167 N Iowa St, Dodgeville, WI 53533. To learn more, visit the official website for Bob's Bitchin' BBQ.
2. J & J BBQ - Nelson
So popular they've expanded into neighboring space, this is another place that would do well in a bigger area, but is happy just feeding the fine folks of their small town. You'll feel like family here, especially since half the folks will be regulars.
Located at 208 N Main St, Nelson, WI 54756. To learn more, visit the official website for J & J BBQ.
3. LD's BBQ - East Troy
Any good southerner knows the best food comes from the most unexpected places and that's often gas stations. LD's is Wisconsin's very own proof of that rule. Most folks aren't heading to East Troy for dinner, but they should be. Well worth the short drive from Milwaukee, LD's is packed full of flavor - you'll start smelling the smoke when you get off the freeway.
Located at 1880 Co Hwy ES, East Troy, WI 53120. To learn more, visit the official website for LD's BBQ.
4. Bad Bones Barbecue - Woodruff
The Northwoods is more known for supper clubs and fish fry than BBQ, but Bad Bones is a newer place that's making a place for themselves. Not only will you get stellar food, but you can't beat the location. Take your food outside on a picnic table lakeside and enjoy the Up North life.
Located at 1421 US-51, Woodruff, WI 54568. To learn more, visit the official website for Bad Bones Barbecue.
5. Big Guy's BBQ Roadhouse - Hudson
This place has a stellar sandwich selection and you won't regret going on Taco Tuesday.
Located at 1237 WI-35, Hudson, WI 54016. To learn more, visit the official website for Big Guy's BBQ Roadhouse.
6. T Bacon's BBQ - Ashwaubenon
Some unusual flavors, like the spicy root beer rib sandwich, make this place a must-stop for any bbq-lover. Adjoining a casino and a gas station, this is another of those nondescript places hiding in plain sight.
Located at 3120 Packerland Dr, Ashwaubenon, WI 54115. To learn more, visit the official website for T Bacon's BBQ.
7. Double B's - West Allis
Hidden among some shops and bars on West Allis' main drag, this place is doing really interesting things with their smoker - if they have the smoked deviled eggs, definitely try those. But you'll not go wrong with anything on the menu. Check out the interesting drinks, as well.
Located at 7420 W Greenfield Ave, West Allis, WI 53214. To learn more, visit the official website for Double B's.
8. Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ - Madison
This woodsy joint has some of the best, fall-off-the-bone ribs you'll ever have. Located at 2310 Packers Ave, Madison, WI 53704. To learn more, visit the official website for Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ.
9. Iron Grate - Milwaukee
These guys moved into a bigger spot which should solve the biggest complaint about them - they run out of food quickly. But that speaks to how much everyone loves them. The mac and cheese is a favorite side and the smoked sausage is amazing. Located at 4125 S. Howell Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207. To learn more, visit the official website for Iron Gate BBQ in Wisconsin.
10. Speed Queen - Milwaukee
A Milwaukee institution, Speed Queen has been there for more than 60 years serving up stellar take out BBQ in the largest pit in the city. Located at 1130 W Walnut St, Milwaukee, WI 53205. To learn more, visit the official website for Speed Queen BBQ.
Have you been to any of the best hole in the wall BBQ restaurants in Wisconsin? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another joint that should have made the list, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
Looking for more of the best BBQ restaurants in Wisconsin? Check out our previous article: The 13 Best BBQ Sandwiches In Wisconsin And Where To Find Them.
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