New Jersey might not be the first place you think of when it comes to BBQ, but the Garden State has some incredible barbecue joints that rival even the best in the South. From Texas-style brisket to Carolina pulled pork, NJ offers a range of flavors and BBQ styles to satisfy all cravings. Here are some of the best spots you should check out when in New Jersey for mouthwatering BBQ.
1. Kimchi Smoke BBQ – Westwood, NJ
- Signature Style: Korean BBQ Fusion
- What to Try: “Fat Gangnam” Brisket Sandwich
- Details: Kimchi Smoke combines classic BBQ techniques with Korean flavors. Their “Fat Gangnam” sandwich, loaded with smoked brisket, kimchi, and sauce, is a fan favorite. This fusion-style BBQ spot has gained a cult following and is a must-visit for BBQ lovers looking for something unique.
2. Surf BBQ – Rumson, NJ
- Signature Style: Coastal BBQ with Texas Influence
- What to Try: Brisket, St. Louis Ribs
- Details: Located near the Jersey Shore, Surf BBQ brings Texas-style smoked meats with a coastal twist. They specialize in brisket and ribs, smoked for hours to perfection. Their sides, including cornbread and mac ‘n’ cheese, are just as popular as their meats.
3. Red White & Que Smokehouse – Kearny, NJ
- Signature Style: All-American BBQ
- What to Try: Pulled Pork, Beef Ribs
- Details: Red White & Que Smokehouse prides itself on traditional BBQ methods and veteran-owned management. Known for their tender pulled pork and beef ribs, this spot captures the essence of Southern BBQ. They also offer an array of classic sides, making it a great spot for a complete BBQ experience.
4. House of ‘Que – Hoboken, NJ
- Signature Style: Texas BBQ
- What to Try: Brisket, BBQ Sandwiches
- Details: House of ‘Que brings the Texas BBQ experience to Hoboken. With pitmasters trained in Austin, Texas, they offer authentic smoked meats, particularly known for their brisket. Their BBQ platters and sandwiches are perfect for those who want to indulge in Texas-style BBQ right in New Jersey.
5. Local Smoke BBQ – Red Bank, Neptune, and Cookstown, NJ
- Signature Style: Competition-Style BBQ
- What to Try: Smoked Chicken Wings, Pork Ribs
- Details: Local Smoke BBQ has won several BBQ competitions, and their food speaks for itself. With multiple locations across NJ, they serve up award-winning BBQ including pulled pork, ribs, and their famous smoked chicken wings.
6. Henri’s Hotts Barbeque – Flanders, NJ
- Signature Style: Southern BBQ
- What to Try: Burnt Ends, Smoked Sausages
- Details: Known for their Southern-style BBQ, Henri’s Hotts is beloved for its burnt ends and sausage links. Their BBQ is deeply rooted in Southern traditions, offering a comforting, smoky flavor that keeps customers coming back.
7. Jersey Shore BBQ – Belmar, NJ
- Signature Style: Carolina BBQ
- What to Try: Pulled Pork, Pork Belly
- Details: Jersey Shore BBQ specializes in Carolina-style BBQ, focusing on smoked pork and pulled pork dishes. Located near the shore, it’s an ideal spot for BBQ fans who want to enjoy smoked meats with a beachside vibe.
8. Hamilton Pork – Jersey City, NJ
- Signature Style: Mexican-Inspired BBQ
- What to Try: Brisket Tacos, Chorizo
- Details: Hamilton Pork brings a unique Mexican influence to BBQ, with brisket tacos and spicy chorizo on the menu. Located in Jersey City, it’s a popular spot for BBQ lovers who enjoy a Tex-Mex twist.
Tips for Enjoying BBQ in NJ
- Go Early: Many BBQ spots have limited quantities of popular items like brisket and ribs, so it’s best to arrive early.
- Try the Sides: Don’t miss out on the sides—mac and cheese, cornbread, and coleslaw often complement BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Bring Friends: BBQ is best enjoyed in a group so you can try a variety of meats and sides.
Final Thoughts
New Jersey’s BBQ scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. From classic Southern BBQ to fusion and coastal twists, NJ has established itself as a go-to destination for BBQ lovers. Whether you’re in the northern part of the state or down the shore, these BBQ spots are worth a visit to experience some of the best flavors and smokey goodness New Jersey has to offer.
