These 5 Hole In The Wall BBQ Restaurants In New Jersey Will Make Your Tastebuds Go Crazy

Some people still insist that the best barbecue is only found in the south, but Garden State residents know better! The best pitmasters in the United States have traveled all around our fine shores, and many of them have settled down right here in New Jersey. You can find a BBQ joint or ten in just about any major NJ city, but to find the best barbecue in New Jersey, you've got to go a little off the beaten path. The best brisket, ribs, smoked sausage, and pulled pork are often found in unlikely roadside shacks and casual storefronts. You might pass them by if you don't know where to look - but if you do stop, you'll be rewarded with slow-smoked meat goodness beyond your wildest dreams.

1. Big Ed's BBQ (Matawan)

The kitschy, barn-like exterior might make Big Ed's look like a tourist trap - but the owners of this beachside BBQ restaurant know their meats.

The brisket and pulled pork are excellent, but the highlight is the ribs - perfectly caramelized to lend them a sweet and smoky grill flavor.

2. KB's BBQ Smokehouse (Irvington)

One of the most acclaimed Black-owned BBQ restaurants in the northeast, KB's is known for their flavorful sauces and tender meats.

Their pulled meats are especially succulent, and the best way to get a taste of them all is to order the popular slider sampler.

3. Fink's BBQ Smokehouse (Dumont)

Fink's is a small-town pub that looks like any other watering hole - but boasts some of the state's best smoked meats.

The brisket, ribs, and chicken are all excellent, but Fink's smoked sausage may be the best of its kind in the whole state.

4. Back Bay Barbecue (Somers Point)

Located on a backroad south of Atlantic City, this roadside shack is the definition of "hidden gem".

With only a few seats and limited hours, competition is stiff to get to enjoy the perfectly-smoked and grilled meats offered here.

5. Henri's Hotts Barbeque (Hammonton)

A central Jersey institution run out of a humble roadside shack, Henri's Hotts has won BBQ competitions and even hosts a weekly all-you-can-eat buffet.

The tender pulled pork is a favorite here, but the southern-style sides are also worth a try - so a hearty combo plate is the way to go.

How many of these New Jersey barbecue hidden gems have you visited? Tell us about your visits and your pick for the best barbecue in New Jersey in the comments section. You can follow Big Ed's BBQ, KB's BBQ Smokehouse, Fink's BBQ Smokehouse, Back Bay Barbecue, and Henri's Hotts on their Facebook pages for all the latest details. For another New Jersey hidden gem, check out this pierogi paradise.