The Big Kansas Barbecue Trail Everyone Should Take This Summer

Kansans love barbecue, and most of us have a preference for our favorites. Despite favoritism, we're always up for trying out a new spot we've never been to before. If you're a big lover of barbecue, get your napkins ready for this big barbecue trail. You might need a few days to fight through this feast, but each and every location here has great barbecue, made in their own way.

If you haven't gone on a food trip yet this year, consider making this one your first. There's a lot of barbecue out there, so let's kick off this summer with all of our favorites.

1. Slap's BBQ

Slap's BBQ is a Kansas classic, and has been around for a good while. However, if you do visit, make sure you get here early, as the meat you like best could be gone by the time you arrive.

2. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Joe's has won many awards for being the best around, but that isn't the opinion of every Kansan. Everyone has their favorites, but you can't deny Joe's makes some bomb barbecue, even if your heart lies elsewhere.

3. Bates City BBQ

Bates is another big name in barbecue in Kansas, and you can't deny that they've got a handle on what they do best.

4. Biemers BBQ

A new addition to our personal favorites list is Biemers, who makes homemade barbecue that feels just like home. I'm not sure how they do it, but they're in our top 10 list forever.

5. Smoked Creations

Smoked Creations is another big favorite for many in Kansas, whether you're there for their pulled pork or their fall-off-the-bone ribs.

6. We B Smokin'

If you're an owner of a plane, you can have an easy meal here at We B Smokin, located at the Miami County airport. Even without the plane, feel free to drive by for a great meal served by great people.

7. Guy & Mae's

Guy & Mae's is a Kansas barbecue joint that's been serving us well for quite a few years, and we hope their hometown flavors stick around for years to come.

8. The Angry Elephant

This new spot in Wichita is making barbecue moves in town, and is a new popular place for tasty and tender barbecue flavors.

9. Roy's Hickory Pit BBQ

Roy's is a name many know and love, especially if they've been in the Hutch area where they can have it anytime. Their ribs are nothing to joke about, and a plate of these will have anyone marking them on their map to return to later.

10. The Ole Cook Shack

Last but not least, we've got this mini barbecue shack with great pulled pork and other barbecue forms made with that hometown Kansas touch.

Here's a link to the map you see below, where you can bookmark the trail on your device. If you have any other suggestions for barbecue spots, let us know in the comments and we may come up with a second road trip for everyone to enjoy.

While you're out exploring, maybe these barbecue spots would be great for stopping by on your way to one of these beautiful lavender fields this summer?