Coloradans are no stranger to good barbecue. Barbecue, which is meat typically grilled or smoked, is a southern classic that has found its way into Coloradan hearts. From southern-style barbecue to strictly Texas-smoked meats to even Colorado-inspired creations, barbecue is alive and well in the Centennial State.
Expect to find your next favorite barbecue spot among these 9 great BBQ joints in Colorado.
Roaming Buffalo is a Colorado treasure by featuring what can only be called Colorado-style barbecue. Colorado meats highlight the menu with Colorado lamb shoulder and bison ribs. The sides complement the well-prepared meat here at Roaming Buffalo. From smoked poblano mac and cheese to honey lime coleslaw, the sides here are seasoned with the perfect Southwest vibe. This place usually sells out by late afternoon, so get there early in the day before it’s gone.
Smokin Yard’s has been serving up incredible barbecue in Idaho Springs since 2008. This barbecue joint is the perfect spot to stop after a long day hiking in the mountains or hitting the slopes. Popular menu items range from the burnt ends to the hot links. Don’t forget to try Smokin Yards’ three signature sauces with your meat of choice.
For well-crafted meats barbecued to perfection, visit GQue BBQ. The brisket here at GQue is a fan favorite due to its slow-cooked nature. However to make your plate is a winner, pair it with GQue’s beans, which are full of porky flavor.
Only southern-style barbecue is served at this Denver BBQ joint. Ragin’ Hog smokes meat on a daily basis, making sure you are getting the freshest options available. Southerners will rejoice by the sweet-yet-smoky meat along with the Cajun-inspired specials. The only thing better than Ragin’ Hog’s tender meats are the shop’s homemade sauces and sides.
Oklahomans will feel right at home at Bird Dog BBQ, which boasts Oklahoma-style barbecue. A main characteristic of Bird Dog is the oak-smoked meats. And you won’t find pre-sauced meat here. All the sauces, which are all gluten-free, are put on the side, so you have an option to embrace the meat’s original flavor first and foremost.
Georgia Boys BBQ has two locations in Colorado, so you have two opportunities to get some great barbecue from this Colorado barbecue shop. This spot serves up Southern-style barbecue. The ribs are a fan favorite. However the Burnt End Philly sandwich is a unique item on the menu that can’t be beat.
Head to Front Range BBQ for Southern-style fare, live music and craft beer. From beef burgers to Cajun entrees to smoked meats, there is sure to be something on the menu for everyone. Grab some brisket or ribs paired with the perfect Colorado beer and enjoy Front Range’s outdoor dining area.
For meat slowly cooked to perfection, Piggin’ Out Smokehouse is the spot to visit. All the meat at Piggin’ Out Smokehouse is of high quality and smoked daily. The ribs are a must-try, and when paired with the mac and cheese and a hunk of cornbread, you’ll sure to be feeling full and satisfied.
The owner of Yazoo BBQ Company learned the tricks of the trade in Memphis, Tennessee before sharing his barbecuing craft with Denverites. The ribs, pork shoulder and brisket are seasoned with a Memphis-style dry rub, not sauce. However for sauce lovers, definitely try the homemade sauce found on all the tables at Yazoo.