Massachusetts BBQ: Southern Flavors in the Bay State
Who says you only get good barbecue in the South? No one in Massachusetts says it—especially since there are some excellent barbecue joints in the Bay State. Check out the following options—they’re the best in the Commonwealth.
Larry J’s BBQ Café, Boston, MA
Featuring Texas-style barbecue, including pulled pork and brisket, Larry J’s BBQ Café is a city staple. Be sure to check out the baked beans as one of your hearty sides to make your southern barbecue meal complete.
Blackstrap BBQ, Winthrop, MA
Even though the restaurant is tiny, Blackstrap BBQ packs a mighty punch. Their slow-cooked meats and tasty sides are popular with locals, but people come from all around the Bay State to enjoy the southern-style cuisine. They’re referred to as the “home of the hog” for their tangy pulled pork.
Theodores', Springfield, MA
The tagline at Theodores' is “Booze, Blues & BBQ,” and they excel at all three. The pulled pork, brisket, chicken and sides are akin to dishes served in a southern smokehouse.
Sweet Cheeks Q, Boston, MA
The food at Sweet Cheeks Q is plentiful and the options are, too. Choose a tray for one or take a big tray home to feed your family. Either way, the brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and ribs are flavorful and hearty. Guests are seated family style. After all, isn’t that how real barbecue is served?
Redbones Barbecue, Somerville, MA
You’ll be hard pressed to find better barbecue ribs than those served at Redbones Barbecue. Featuring both St. Louis and Memphis style ribs, you’ll be in hog heaven—especially when pairing them with their hand cut French fries.
Tennessee’s Real BBQ, Braintree & Peabody, MA
Featuring their own sauce in three flavors, Tennessee’s Real BBQ serves up their barbecue “real fast.” Every entrée comes with homemade cornbread and tasty sides. Keep them in mind for your catering needs, too.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Massachusetts has some excellent barbecue joints that rival those in the South.
- Larry J’s BBQ Café in Boston offers Texas-style barbecue, including pulled pork and brisket.
- Blackstrap BBQ in Winthrop is known for their tangy pulled pork and tasty sides.
- Theodores' in Springfield is famous for their pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and sides served in a southern smokehouse style.
- Sweet Cheeks Q in Boston offers plentiful and flavorful options like brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and ribs served family style.
- Redbones Barbecue in Somerville serves up delicious ribs in both St. Louis and Memphis styles.
- Tennessee’s Real BBQ in Braintree & Peabody offers their own sauce in three flavors and serves up barbecue "real fast" with homemade cornbread and tasty sides.
