New Jersey’s barbecue scene sizzles with smoky sanctuaries that turn first-timers into regulars.
From slow-cooked traditions passed through generations to finger-licking innovation, these spots blend bold flavors with local charm.
Each pitmaster’s secret? A dash of pride, a heap of fire, and recipes worth writing home about.
♨️ Boss Hog Barbecue
Fire up your taste buds at Boss Hog Barbecue in South Plainfield, NJ—where smoky perfection meets downright delicious! 🍖🔥
This joint slings slow-cooked magic that’ll have you licking your fingers and plotting your next visit.
Think tender meats, bold flavors, and sauces that dance on your tongue. 🎉🚀
Food Highlights
- Brisket Sandwich: Juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef piled high on a bun—smoked low and slow for that iconic bark and smoky punch.
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Shredded pork shoulder drenched in tangy sauce, balancing sweet and savory like a BBQ rockstar.
- Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Succulent, smoky chicken with just the right char—finger-lickin’ good without the fuss.
- Mac & Cheese Wrap: A carb-loaded masterpiece mixing creamy mac, your choice of meat, and sauce—comfort food meets BBQ genius.
Atmosphere
Laid-back, no-frills, and buzzing with good vibes. Come for the meat sweats, stay for the friendly chatter and plates piled sky-high.
Why It’s One of the Best in New Jersey
Boss Hog nails the holy trinity: quality, flavor, and unapologetic portions.
Regulars swear it’s the best BBQ this side of the Mississippi, with rave reviews praising its “consistently killer ‘cue” and no-nonsense charm.
Address: 13 S Plainfield Ave, South Plainfield, NJ 07080
♨️ Brothers Smokehouse BBQ & Soul
Hold onto your napkins, BBQ lovers! Brothers Smokehouse BBQ & Soul in Ramsey, NJ, is where smoky perfection meets Southern soul 🍖🔥🎶.
This family-owned hotspot slings slow-cooked magic with a side of live jazz, turning first-timers into regulars faster than you can say “extra sauce” 😉.
Think tender meats, crispy fried delights, and cornbread so good it’ll make you whisper ”thank you, Jesus” 🙌🍴.
Food Highlights
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Juicy, vinegar-kissed pork piled high on a bun—so addictive it’s earned cult status among regulars.
- Bacon Burnt Ends: Crispy, caramelized pork belly bites that crackle with smoky-sweet goodness.
- Fried Chicken Sandwich: A colossal, crispy masterpiece with tender meat that’ll leave you in a happy food coma.
- 3 Meat Combo: Brisket, ribs, and pulled pork team up for a carnivore’s dream—best paired with collard greens (buttery, bacon-laced perfection).
- Smoked Wings: Dry-rubbed and smoky, these wings are a flavor explosion waiting to happen.
- Cornbread: Crusty, buttery, and sweet—the undisputed MVP of the sides menu.
Atmosphere
Step into a rustic-meets-modern space with exposed beams, TVs for game days, and a buzzing bar.
Live jazz Fridays 🎷 turn dinner into a soulful party, while the aroma of smoldering oak seals the deal.
Staff greet you like family, and portions? Let’s just say you’ll need a doggy bag 🐶.
Why It’s One of the Best in New Jersey
Brothers Smokehouse nails the trifecta: heirloom recipes, generous portions, and vibes that feel like a backyard BBQ with your coolest cousins.
Come for the meat sweats, stay for the brownie sundae (yes, it’s legendary).
Address: 900 Route 17 N, Ramsey, NJ 07446
♨️ Pulled Fork BBQ
Long Valley’s BBQ scene just got hotter 🔥—Pulled Fork BBQ slings finger-licking smoked meats with a side of Southern sass!
Run by a Texan transplant, this family-owned joint smokes its meats daily, sells out fast, and leaves customers plotting their next visit.
Think smoky aromas, bold flavors, and portions so generous they’ll have you loosening your belt. Pro tip: Arrive early—this place closes once the meat’s gone!
Food Highlights
- Chopped Brisket Classic: Piled high on a Kaiser roll with a hint of sauce, this tender brisket sandwich is a lunchtime legend. Regulars call it a “lunch winner” with rave reviews about its smoky bark.
- Dadgum Shrimp Po-Boy: Crispy shrimp meets tangy “Saddle Up” sauce in this Southern-inspired twist. One reviewer declared it “extra special” and a must for seafood lovers.
- Cornbread Pudding: Described as “out-of-this-world good,” this sweet-savory side blends crumbled cornbread with creamy custard—a comfort-food home run.
- Rack of Ribs: Smoked to perfection with a caramelized bark, these ribs earned praise as “some of the best we’ve had” from BBQ enthusiasts.
- Pulled Pork Quesadilla: Melty cheese and smoky pork collide in this crowd-pleaser, dubbed “delicious every time” by loyal fans.
Atmosphere
Expect a cozy, no-frills vibe with Texas charm. The small space features BBQ-themed decor, counter seating, and a chalkboard announcing daily specials.
Staff greet regulars by name, and the owners’ pride in their craft shines through—whether they’re cracking jokes or handing out veteran discounts.
Why It’s One of the Best in New Jersey
Pulled Fork BBQ brings authentic Central Texas flavors to New Jersey, using techniques honed over years of drum-smoker experimentation.
Meats are smoked fresh daily, sides are homemade, and the menu rotates to keep things exciting.
Voted one of NJ’s top BBQ spots by NJ.com, it’s a haven for meat lovers craving legit smoked fare without the pretension.
Address: 38 E Mill Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853