Can you smell that? That smoky, sweet aroma that whispers of summer evenings and backyard gatherings? The month of May brings not just warmer weather, but also National BBQ month. It’s the perfect time to celebrate this beloved American tradition, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a curious newcomer to the world of slow-cooked goodness.
But who wants to spend hours tending the grill when there are legendary bbq institutions just waiting to be explored? This year, ditch the apron and grab a fork. We’re taking you on a virtual road trip across the US, highlighting some of the most acclaimed barbecue restaurants in 2024. From the tender brisket of Texas to the vinegar-kissed pork of North Carolina, get ready to discover a melting pot of flavours and techniques guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds. So, fire up your appetite and join us as we celebrate national bbq month with a delicious journey across the nation’s smokiest hotspots.
Wright’s Barbecue, Johnson, Arkansas
Craving some delicious barbecue this National BBQ Month? Then look no further than Wright’s Barbecue in Johnson, Arkansas. Here’s a detailed breakdown to whet your appetite:
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- Raved Reviews: Wright’s Barbecue boasts a loyal following, evident in their stellar reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor. Customers rave about the generous portions, reasonable prices, and friendly service. One reviewer even called it the best BBQ in NW Arkansas, if not the entire state.
- Rewarding Loyalty: While specific details aren’t available online, it’s always a good idea to inquire about a loyalty program when you visit. Many restaurants offer rewards for frequent diners, so you might be able to score some free barbecue or sides on future visits.
Customer Service and Ambiance:
- Down-Home Hospitality: Reviews consistently mention the friendly and welcoming staff at Wright’s Barbecue. Expect a casual atmosphere where the focus is on good food and good company.
- Laid-Back Location: This isn’t a place for fancy tablecloths. Wright’s Barbecue is described as a laid-back outpost, perfect for a relaxed meal. They do have a roomy outdoor patio, which might be a nice option for enjoying the Arkansas weather.
Menu and Must-Tries:
- Smoked to Perfection: Wright’s menu features an array of smoked barbecue meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and sausage.
- Homemade Delights: They’re known for their homemade barbecue sauces, with options like original, sweet, spicy, and mustard to complement your smoked meats. Don’t forget to try their classic sides like baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw for a complete barbecue experience.
National BBQ Month Special?
Since it’s National BBQ Month, it’s worth calling Wright’s Barbecue directly to see if they have any special offers or limited-edition menu items. They might have a special combo plate or a new sauce to celebrate the occasion. You can find their contact information on their website
With its mouth watering barbecue, friendly service, and laid-back atmosphere, Wright’s Barbecue in Johnson seems like the perfect place to celebrate National BBQ Month. So grab your napkin and get ready for a delicious barbecue feast.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Kansas City, Kansas
A Kansas City institution, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is famous for its delicious barbecue and unique location in a converted gas station. This National BBQ Month, experience:
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- Reviews: Customers rave about Joe’s on Tripadvisor with a 4.5 star rating (over 3000 reviews). They love the tender, flavorful BBQ, especially the brisket sandwich and pork ribs.
- Rewards: While there isn’t a formal loyalty program, Joe’s offers deliciousness as its own reward. They also ship nationwide, so you can send their BBQ as a gift – perfect for National BBQ Month.
Customer Service and Ambiance:
- Customer Service: Reviews mention friendly and helpful staff who can guide you through the menu.
- Ambiance: Get ready for a unique experience. Joe’s occupies a converted gas station, offering a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Don’t expect fancy decor, the focus is on the BBQ.
National BBQ Month Special
National BBQ Month is the perfect time to visit Joe’s. While they don’t have specific promotions listed, celebrating with some of the best BBQ in the country is a win in itself.
Overall:
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que offers a combination of award-winning BBQ, friendly service, and a unique ambiance. With National BBQ Month upon us, it’s the perfect time to see why Joe’s is a Kansas City staple.
CorkScrew BBQ, Spring, Texas
Craving some smoky, delicious barbecue? Look no further than CorkScrew BBQ in Spring, Texas. They’re sure to tantalise your taste buds during National BBQ Month.
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- Reviews: CorkScrew boasts a stellar reputation, with a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor (based on over 600 reviews). Customers rave about the consistently high-quality meats, particularly the brisket, and the amazing homemade cobblers, especially the peach.
- Rewards: There’s no mention of a formal rewards program, but CorkScrew offers a bigger reward: incredible BBQ. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and house-made sides, making every visit a delicious adventure.
Customer Service and Ambiance:
- Customer Service: Reviews praise the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at CorkScrew. The staff is described as helpful, offering guidance through the menu selections.
- Ambiance: CorkScrew offers a casual dining experience. While it’s not fancy, it’s comfortable and perfect for enjoying a hearty BBQ meal. Picnic tables with semi-covered seating create a relaxed vibe. Keep in mind, they are BYOB (bring your own beverage).
National BBQ Month Special
Celebrate National BBQ Month right with some of the best. While CorkScrew doesn’t have specific promotions advertised, they consistently serve up incredible BBQ that speaks for itself.
Overall:
CorkScrew BBQ is a local favourite known for its delicious wood-smoked meats, friendly service, and laid-back atmosphere. During National BBQ Month, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience what makes them a Spring, Texas gem. Just be prepared to arrive early, especially on weekends, as they can sell out quickly.
Swig & Swine, Charleston, South Carolina
Swig & Swine in Charleston, South Carolina should be on your radar this National BBQ Month. Let’s dive into the details:
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- Reviews: Swig & Swine boasts a strong reputation with a 4-star rating on Tripadvisor (based on hundreds of reviews). Diners rave about the slow-smoked meats, especially the brisket and pulled pork, along with the creative and flavorful sides like pimento cheese and Brunswick stew.
- Rewards: There’s no mention of a formal loyalty program, but Swig & Swine offers a different kind of reward – the chance to experience authentic Low Country BBQ. They focus on fresh, local ingredients and time-tested smoking techniques, making every visit a delicious celebration.
Customer Service and Ambiance:
- Customer Service: Reviews highlight Swig & Swine friendly and attentive staff. They’re happy to answer questions about the menu and offer recommendations based on your preferences.
- Ambiance: Swig & Swine offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere. The restaurant has a “funky BBQ spot” vibe with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a laid-back meal.
National BBQ Month Special
While Swig & Swine doesn’t have specific National BBQ Month promotions advertised, they’re all about celebrating barbecue excellence every day. Expect them to be serving up their best pit smoked meats and creative sides throughout the month.
Overall:
Swig & Swine is a Charleston staple known for its commitment to slow-smoked, flavorful BBQ and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to experience the unique flavours of Lowcountry cooking during National BBQ Month. With their dedication to quality and friendly service, you’re sure to have a memorable meal.
Haywood Smokehouse, Waynesville, North Carolina
Nestled in Waynesville, North Carolina, Haywood Smokehouse offers a taste of paradise for BBQ lovers, especially during National BBQ Month. Let’s delve into the details:
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- Reviews: Haywood Smokehouse pulls in the crowds, boasting a near-perfect rating on Tripadvisor with 4.5 stars (over 700 reviews). Customers rave about the melt-in-your-mouth barbecue, particularly the pulled pork and ribs, and the generous portions. They also love the extensive selection of craft beers on tap, perfect for pairing with BBQ.
- Rewards: While there’s no mention of a formal loyalty program, Haywood Smokehouse offers a delicious reward: consistent quality BBQ. They use time-tested smoking techniques with local ingredients, and their passion for BBQ shines through in every bite.
Customer Service and Ambiance:
- Customer Service: Reviews commend Haywood Smokehouse’s friendly and helpful staff. They’re knowledgeable about the menu and happy to guide you towards your perfect BBQ plate.
- Ambiance: Haywood Smokehouse offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a hearty BBQ meal with family and friends. The restaurant has a rustic, mountain lodge feel, complete with exposed beams and a large stone fireplace.
National BBQ Month:
Haywood Smokehouse might not have specific National BBQ Month promotions advertised, but they celebrate BBQ excellence year-round. Expect them to be firing up the smokers and serving up their most flavorful barbecue throughout the month.
Overall:
Haywood Smokehouse is a beloved Waynesville establishment known for its commitment to slow-smoked, authentic BBQ and a comfortable atmosphere. With friendly service and a dedication to quality, it’s the perfect place to celebrate National BBQ Month in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Be prepared to savour the smoky goodness and settle in for a delightful BBQ experience.
The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint
Down by the Mississippi, The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint offers a one-of-a-kind experience. You’ll enjoy mouthwatering Southern BBQ, from fall-off-the-bone ribs to brisket piled high, all in a relaxed, shack-like atmosphere filled with live blues music on weekends.
Customer Reviews and Rewards:
- High praise: An impressive 91% of customers on Goldbely loved their orders, highlighting the restaurant’s quality [1].
- Award-winning BBQ: Reviewers rave about the slow-cooked, heritage-breed meats and unique, “junk-free” rubs and sauces, making it a true BBQ dream come true [1].
Customer Service and Ambiance:
Unfortunately, there isn’t much information available online about the specific customer service or ambiance at the restaurant itself. However, positive reviews often point to friendly and helpful staff, which goes hand-in-hand with good BBQ experiences.
The Blues Joint Bonus: The “Blues Joint” part of the name suggests a lively atmosphere with live music, which can definitely elevate the dining experience.
Overall:
Based on customer reviews and the focus on high-quality BBQ, The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint sounds like a fantastic place to enjoy delicious food, potentially good music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tips:
- Check the restaurant’s website or social media pages (if available) for more details about their ambiance, live music schedule (if any), and potential reward programs.
- Look for local reviews on platforms besides Goldbelly to get a more comprehensive picture of the customer experience.
Conclusion
So fire up your taste buds and get ready to dig into some delicious barbecue. With so many fantastic options across the US, National BBQ Month is the perfect excuse to explore the rich and diverse flavours of American barbecue. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a curious newcomer, there’s a BBQ restaurant out there waiting to tantalise your taste buds. So grab your friends and family, and celebrate National BBQ Month with a smoky, delicious feast.