If you love smoky ribs, juicy brisket, and that unmistakable BBQ aroma in the air, Florida has some hidden gems waiting for you in 2025. While the Sunshine State is better known for its beaches and seafood, its BBQ scene has quietly grown into one of the South’s tastiest secrets. From roadside smokehouses to award-winning restaurants, here are my top ten BBQ spots in Florida that every food lover should try this year.
If you’re serious about authentic, slow-cooked BBQ, Shiver’s Bar-B-Q is where you start. Established in 1950, this family-owned spot has been serving mouthwatering meats for over seven decades. Walking in feels like stepping into BBQ history — wooden benches, smoke-filled air, and the kind of southern charm that’s hard to fake.
Their baby back ribs and beef brisket are the true standouts — tender, juicy, and full of flavor from 12+ hours of slow smoking. Don’t miss their famous cornbread soufflé and mac ‘n’ cheese on the side.
Locals appreciate that Shiver’s hasn’t changed much over the years. Everything from the wood-fired pits to their homemade sauces keeps customers coming back.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends; popular items sell out fast!
Website: Shiver’s Bar-B-Q
2. 4 Rivers Smokehouse (Winter Park & Multiple Locations)
If you ask Central Floridians where to get the best BBQ, chances are they’ll say 4 Rivers. Founded by John Rivers, this smokehouse started as a small dream and is now one of Florida’s most recognized BBQ brands.
Their signature brisket is legendary — smoked to perfection and sliced just right. Pair it with burnt ends, jalapeño cornbread, and their house BBQ sauce for the ultimate meal.
4 Rivers manages to balance fast service with top-quality BBQ. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, consistency is their strength.
Tip: Each location has slightly different specials — try the brisket sandwich at Winter Park and the smoked turkey in Orlando.
Website: 4 Rivers Smokehouse
3. Mission BBQ (Tampa, Jacksonville, Gainesville, and more)
Mission BBQ isn’t just about great food — it’s about giving back. Founded by two friends with a passion for both BBQ and community service, Mission BBQ honors local heroes, veterans, and first responders daily.
Their pulled pork sandwich and St. Louis-style ribs are packed with smoky goodness. Pair them with Maggie’s Mac-N-Cheese or the green beans with bacon.
Aside from their food, the service and atmosphere make it memorable. Every day at noon, the entire restaurant pauses to stand for the national anthem — a truly unique experience.
Tip: Order the sampler platter if it’s your first visit. It lets you try a little of everything without missing out.
Website: Mission BBQ
4. Smokin’ D’s BBQ (St. Augustine, FL)
This family-run roadside BBQ joint is small, humble, and absolutely packed with flavor. Smokin’ D’s BBQ in St. Augustine might not look fancy, but once you’ve tried their food, you’ll understand why locals rave about it.
The pulled pork sandwich is phenomenal, and their brisket melts in your mouth. Their homemade sauces (especially the sweet heat version) are worth buying to take home.
Everything here is made fresh daily, and the owners are often the ones manning the smoker. You can taste the passion in every bite.
Tip: They don’t have indoor seating — it’s takeout only. Grab your order and enjoy it by the beach for the perfect Florida combo.
5. Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q (Jacksonville, FL)
Since 1949, Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q has been a Jacksonville institution. What started as a small pit has grown into a chain known for authentic Southern-style BBQ done the traditional way — over hardwood coals.
Their sliced pork sandwich and smoked chicken wings are customer favorites. Add in their collard greens and banana pudding, and you’ve got a classic Southern feast.
Consistency. Bono’s stays true to its roots, serving BBQ the same way they did over 70 years ago.
Tip: If you’re traveling across Florida, Bono’s has multiple locations, making it easy to find great BBQ wherever you go.
Website: Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q
6. Sonny’s BBQ (Multiple Locations Across Florida)
If you grew up in Florida, chances are you’ve eaten at Sonny’s BBQ at least once. Since opening in Gainesville in 1968, this iconic chain has been serving up comfort food that tastes like home. While it’s expanded across the South, it still feels proudly Floridian.
Their “Sweet & Smokey Ribs” are a must — tender, flavorful, and perfectly glazed. Add a side of BBQ baked beans or mac and cheese for the full experience.
Sonny’s combines quality and consistency. You always know what you’re getting — honest BBQ made with care, served fast, and full of flavor.
Tip: If you’re really hungry, go for the Sampler Platter to taste ribs, brisket, and pulled pork all in one plate.
Website: Sonny’s BBQ
7. Pearl Country Store & Barbecue (Micanopy, FL)
Right off I-75 near Gainesville, you’ll find Pearl Country Store — part gas station, part general store, and part BBQ heaven. It’s the kind of hidden gem locals whisper about.
Their smoked brisket and pulled pork are phenomenal. Everything is cooked slow and served fresh daily. Their coleslaw and baked beans also stand out — simple but perfect.
This spot was even featured by Southern Living as one of Florida’s best BBQ joints. It’s small-town charm meets serious pitmaster skills.
Tip: Get there early for lunch — they often sell out of brisket by mid-afternoon!
Website: Pearl Country Store & Barbecue
8. The Polite Pig (Orlando, FL)
Located in Disney Springs, The Polite Pig brings a modern twist to Southern BBQ. It’s part smokehouse, part gastropub — the perfect place to enjoy craft bourbon with your brisket.
Go for the baby-back ribs glazed with BBQ citrus sauce, or the smoked chicken with a side of roasted corn. Their house-made sauces (especially the Hot Honey) are incredible.
It’s ideal for families and couples — upscale enough for date night but still casual enough for a post-park meal.
Tip: Their bourbon bar is one of the best in Orlando — ask for a local whiskey pairing with your meal.
9. Mojo BBQ (Jacksonville, Gainesville & St. Augustine)
If you like your BBQ with a side of blues, Mojo BBQ is your kind of place. It’s all about smoky meats, soulful music, and a laid-back Southern vibe.
Their brisket sandwich is juicy and flavorful, and the pulled chicken is a great lighter option. The sweet potato mash and collard greens are crowd favorites.
They combine traditional barbecue with modern presentation and bar-style atmosphere. Think comfort food meets cool hangout.
Tip: Visit on weekends — live blues bands often play, and the atmosphere is electric.
Website: Mojo BBQ
10. Black Smoke BBQ (Miami, FL)
Black Smoke BBQ brings a Miami twist to Southern barbecue — bold flavors, tropical inspiration, and lots of creativity. It’s relatively new but already making waves among foodies.
Try the Miami-style ribs with guava glaze or the smoked brisket tacos. They’re unique, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
The vibe here is fun and lively — with Latin-inspired side dishes and great cocktails. It’s BBQ done Miami-style: bright, bold, and full of character.
Tip: Follow their Instagram — they often announce limited specials and pop-up events that draw big crowds.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s BBQ scene in 2025 proves one thing — great barbecue doesn’t belong to just one region. From Miami’s bold flavors to Jacksonville’s old-school pits, the Sunshine State has carved out its own smoky identity. Whether you’re craving tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, or sweet-and-savory pulled pork, these BBQ joints deliver passion, patience, and pure Southern comfort on a plate.
Each of these 15 restaurants has its own story — family traditions, local ingredients, and years of perfecting their craft. If you’re planning a food road trip across Florida this year, make sure to stop at a few of these spots. You’ll experience more than just great food — you’ll taste a piece of Florida’s culinary soul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the most famous BBQ restaurant in Florida?
4 Rivers Smokehouse is one of the most recognized names statewide, known for its slow-smoked brisket and consistent flavor.
2. Where can I find authentic, old-school BBQ in Florida?
Shiver’s Bar-B-Q in Homestead and Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q in Jacksonville both offer that true, traditional smokehouse experience.
3. Which BBQ place is best for families?
Sonny’s BBQ and Mission BBQ are family-friendly, affordable, and have menus that everyone can enjoy.
4. Are there any BBQ spots near Orlando’s theme parks?
Yes! The Polite Pig in Disney Springs is perfect if you want high-quality BBQ after a day at the parks.
5. What’s the best BBQ spot for a local, small-town vibe?
Pearl Country Store & Barbecue in Micanopy — it’s a cozy, hidden gem with a loyal local following.
6. Can I order from these BBQ restaurants online?
Absolutely! Most of them — including 4 Rivers, Mission BBQ, and Sonny’s — offer online ordering and catering options.
