Here Are 7 BBQ Joints in Cincinnati That Will Leave Your Mouth Watering Uncontrollably
Barbecue is one of those foods that just seems to bring everyone together. Almost everyone loves it, it’s great for a crowd, and thankfully Cincinnati has seen quite an influx of incredible BBQ joints pop up over the past few years. They all do things a little differently, some are served from trucks, some at elaborate restaurants, but they all have one thing in common. Your mouth will be watering uncontrollably from the minute you step inside these 7 barbecue joints in Cincinnati.
This may be the most unassuming location on our list, but we promise you will not be disappointed in their unbelievable food. The family-owned team that runs this delicious food truck prepares the meat right there on site and your mouth will start watering as soon as you pull in the parking lot. You order your food at the truck's window (the pulled pork, mac & cheese, and green beans are amazing!), and can either take it to go or grab a seat at one of their adjacent picnic tables. They close when they sell out, so don't miss your chance to try some of the best barbecue in the city!
Eli's BBQ achieved legendary status pretty quickly in Cincinnati. You can find this mouthwatering barbecue at their largest location on Riverside Drive, but they also have locations at Findlay Market and inside the Newport Kroger. It's hard to know what to recommend here — because it's all so good. But choose your favorite style of barbecue, get the mashed potatoes, cornbread, and baked beans, and wash it all down with a bottle or can of your favorite pop.
Don't be discouraged if you head to Pontiac and discover a crowd. You probably will, but any wait is worth the unbelievable food you'll soon enjoy! There are many standouts here, but the wings and brisket both consistently get rave reviews. Their cocktails and atmosphere are both stellar, as well.
Often times, it's the hole-in-the-wall places that have the best food. Woots BBQ in White Oak provides plenty of delicious evidence for this theory as their barbecue has been called the best in the city by many loyal customers. The mac & cheese is also a big winner, and the charming, family-owned atmosphere just adds to the scrumptious food.
Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Woot's is no longer in business.
With a brand new carryout location on Beechmont Avenue, you'll no longer need to chase the Sweets & Meats food truck across town for a taste of their drool-worthy food. The smoked meats are to die for, but the sides are equally as impressive. The sweet cornbread, mac & cheese, and sweet potato casserole shown above are the ultimate trifecta when it comes to barbecue accompaniments.
6. Alabama Que — 2733 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45219
Two words: turkey tips. Alabama Que is famous for this signature menu item and if you haven't tried them yet, you don't know what you're missing. The smokey meat melts in your mouth and the homemade sides are pretty darn good, too.
7. Just Q'in — 975 East McMillan Street Cincinnati, OH 45206
Located in Walnut Hills, Just Q'in is doing just that — barbecuing some of the best tasting dishes in the city. Their brisket is incredible, especially atop their mac & cheese. The corn muffins are also melt-in-your-mouth good and the atmosphere is fresh and unique.
Towns like Memphis and Kansas City better watch out! Cincinnati has quite the barbecue scene and it’s only poised to get better. How many of these mouthwatering restaurants have you enjoyed? Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
And for more outstanding dining options in Cincinnati, check out our favorite mom & pop restaurants in our recent article here.
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Address: 1149 OH-131 Milford, Ohio 45150
Address: 975 East McMillan Street Cincinnati, OH 45206
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
