Explore New Jersey's BBQ Joints
Though you might not expect it, New Jersey offers Southern-inspired barbecue both out of popular food trucks and trendy sit-down restaurants. At these top spots, hungry diners will find tender beef brisket, juicy pulled pork, slow smoked ribs, and all the traditional sides to complete your meal. For other unique flavors taking you outside of America’s South, we’ve also included Korean and Portuguese barbecue for more flavorful options! Here are our favorite BBQ joints in the state.
Red White & Que Smokehouse, Multiple locations
Opened by a former U.S. Marine, Red White & Que pays tribute to America’s Southern-style barbecue. The menu offers barbecue lovers brisket, pulled pork, and ribs served by weight. All homemade sides are finger-licking good and some options to write home about are their jalapeno cheese cornbread, fried pickles, and coleslaw. They also serve Buffalo wings by the pound, and you can opt to finish off your meal with a traditional banana pudding.
Henri’s “Hotts” Barbeque, Folsom, NJ
Available for both catering and as an eat-in restaurant, Henri’s “Hotts” Barbeque can cure your barbecue craving with smoked Texas-style meats and homemade side dishes. The restaurant menu offers diners chicken platters, baby back ribs, pulled pork, and brisket as well as a few seafood options. They also offer wings, sandwiches, and sides such as mac & cheese, collard greens, potato salad, and whipped yams. Do note that Henri’s is closed for the winter.
Christine’s House of Kingfish Barbecue, Shamong, NJ
Christine’s House of Kingfish is a food truck that serves slow smoked ribs, grilled chicken, and grilled fish. Opt for their rib and fish platter if you can’t decide between one or the other, and get two sides to make it a very filling meal. Side options are delicious and include string beans, sweet potatoes, and corn bread among others.
Key Insights at a Glance
- New Jersey offers Southern-inspired barbecue from food trucks and sit-down restaurants.
- Top spots offer beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and traditional sides.
- Unique flavors include Korean and Portuguese barbecue options.
- Red White & Que Smokehouse pays tribute to Southern-style barbecue.
- Henri’s “Hotts” Barbeque offers Texas-style meats and homemade sides.
- Christine’s House of Kingfish serves slow smoked ribs, grilled chicken, and fish.
