Top BBQ Joints to Try in Vermont
Vermont may border Canada, but that doesn’t mean it has no barbecue experience. Searing fresh meat over the open flame is probably as old as man himself, and this is state that knows its meat. With a plethora of fresh farm meat at every turn—from free-range chicken to grass-fed Angus—the Green Mountain State knows how to barbecue. So for a juicy, fall-off-the-bone road map to some great barbecue in Vermont, check out these top-notch eateries.
Curtis’ BBQ, Putney, VT
You place your order at the window of one of the blue-painted school buses that have expired on the lawn. When you have paid, and the food is ready, you can use cardboard cartons to transport your haul to an outdoor table. As far as the menu, the chef has prepared slabs, or half slabs, of chicken and pork slow-smoked and dripping with goodness. The meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, and sides include a simple baked potato, a cup of beans, and/or sweet corn. If a place could ooze barbecue, this is it.
Two Neanderthals Smokin’ BBQ, Springfield, VT
Once again food trucks prove that fresh, quality, house-made food prepared on the go can create killer combos. Featuring ribs, pulled pork, burgers, dogs, hand-cut fries, traditional sides, and caveman portions. Their barbecue sauce is homemade, and the meat is smoky and oh so fall-off-the-bone good.
Big Fatty’s, White River Junction, VT
Established in 2003 with their saying “We put South in Your Mouth,” Fatty’s offer seasoned meats, burgers & sandwiches are served at this unfussy barbecue spot with weekly live bands. All of the usual suspects inhabit the menu like smoked chicken, pulled pork, and beef brisket. However, the star of the show is "The Big Fatty's Challenge" featuring two pounds of pulled pork, one pound of fries, and a one-pound bun. Eat it all in one hour, and you earn a free t-shirt.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Vermont may border Canada, but it still has a strong barbecue culture.
- The state is known for its fresh farm meat, including free-range chicken and grass-fed Angus.
- Top-notch barbecue eateries in Vermont include Curtis’ BBQ in Putney, Two Neanderthals Smokin’ BBQ in Springfield, and Big Fatty’s in White River Junction.
- Food trucks in Vermont also offer delicious barbecue options, with homemade sauces and fall-off-the-bone tender meat.
- Some eateries in Vermont even offer eating challenges, like Big Fatty’s "The Big Fatty's Challenge," where you can earn a free t-shirt by finishing a massive meal in one hour.
