Massachusetts might be better known for clam chowder and lobster rolls, but the Bay State also delivers some serious smoke when it comes to barbecue. Whether you’re a brisket purist, a pulled pork fanatic, or someone who just appreciates smoky, fall-off-the-bone ribs — these are the BBQ spots in Massachusetts that foodies can’t stop raving about in 2025. From down-home Southern-style pits to creative New England mashups, here are the 15 best BBQ joints in Massachusetts worth the road trip (or detour).
1. Sweet Cheeks Q – Boston, MA
Celebrity chef Tiffani Faison’s flagship BBQ restaurant near Fenway Park isn’t just hype — it’s the real deal. Known for its Texas-style trays piled high with buttery biscuits, fatty brisket, and sweet tea-brined smoked chicken, Sweet Cheeks Q delivers a smoky experience that’s bold, authentic, and comforting.
- Must-Try: The Berkshire St. Louis ribs and mac n’ cheese with Ritz cracker topping.
- Vibe: Rustic-chic, loud, and full of energy — perfect for pre- or post-game eats.
- Â Visit Sweet Cheeks Q
2. BT’s Smokehouse – Sturbridge, MA
Tucked away in Central Mass, BT’s Smokehouse is often hailed as the best barbecue north of the Mason-Dixon. Pitmaster Brian Treitman brings a no-nonsense approach to traditional BBQ. We’re talking 18-hour hickory-smoked brisket, housemade sausage, and burnt ends that melt in your mouth.
- Must-Try: Burnt ends sandwich, Kansas City-style ribs, and their killer BBQ beans.
- Vibe: Casual, counter-service, picnic tables — it’s all about the food.
- Visit BT’s Smokehouse
3. The Smoke Shop BBQ – Cambridge, MA (Multiple Locations)
Chef Andy Husbands, a World BBQ Champion, brings refined smoke to New England with The Smoke Shop BBQ. With several locations across Greater Boston, it’s a go-to for locals and travelers alike craving award-winning brisket and ribs — with a bourbon list to match.
- Must-Try: Prime brisket plate, cornbread with honey sea salt butter, and burnt ends.
- Vibe: Lively and modern with Southern flair — part sports bar, part smokehouse.
- Visit The Smoke Shop BBQ
4. Mill City BBQ and Brew – Lowell, MA
A hidden gem in the Merrimack Valley, Mill City BBQ is a Black-owned, family-run restaurant that brings Southern soul to every plate. The food is slow-cooked and deeply flavored — just the way BBQ should be. Plus, they brew their own beer, which makes for the perfect pairing.
- Must-Try: Pulled pork sliders, collard greens, and peach cobbler for dessert.
- Vibe: Cozy, family-style setting with welcoming staff and live music nights.
5. Big Pig Barbecue – Peabody, MA
North Shore locals are fiercely loyal to Big Pig Barbecue, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Their meat is smoked daily and their sauces are house-made. Big Pig flies under the radar — but foodies know this is where the real-deal smoked meat lives.
- Must-Try: Texas-style brisket sandwich, smoked turkey breast, and sweet heat wings.
- Vibe: Low-key and welcoming, with a focus on flavor over frills.
- Visit Big Pig Barbecue
6. Redbones BBQ – Somerville, MA
An institution in Davis Square since the ’80s, Redbones BBQ brings a laid-back Southern roadhouse vibe to the heart of Somerville. With influences from Texas, Memphis, the Carolinas, and Kansas City, the variety here is unmatched — and the flavors are spot-on.
- Must-Try: North Carolina pulled pork, Memphis dry-rubbed ribs, and fried catfish.
- Vibe: Funky, colorful, and eclectic with a strong local following.
- Visit Redbones BBQ
7. Smokin’ Betty’s BBQ + Bar – Worcester, MA
One of the newest contenders on the Massachusetts BBQ scene, Smokin’ Betty’s is already turning heads with their slow-cooked meats, bold house rubs, and Southern hospitality. The smoked chicken and brisket here are phenomenal — and their cocktails bring a modern twist.
- Must-Try: Brisket tacos, smoked wings, and cornbread with jalapeño butter.
- Vibe: Trendy yet cozy — great for a casual night out or a quick lunch stop.
8. Firefly’s BBQ – Marlborough, MA
This Central Mass favorite combines Southern comfort food with serious smoke. Firefly’s BBQ is beloved for its large portions, family-friendly atmosphere, and house-made sauces — from sweet molasses to spicy chipotle.
- Must-Try: Pitmaster Platter (ribs, brisket, sausage), sweet potato fries, and banana pudding.
- Vibe: Casual and family-friendly with both indoor and patio seating.
- Visit Firefly’s BBQ
9. Blue Ribbon BBQ – Arlington & West Newton, MA
With over 25 years in the game, Blue Ribbon BBQ is one of the most consistent and respected BBQ joints in Massachusetts. They’re all about small-batch, oak-wood smoking and Southern-style sides done right.
- Must-Try: Texas brisket sandwich, black-eyed corn salad, and smoked turkey.
- Vibe: Low-key, fast-casual with takeout, catering, and a strong local fanbase.
- Visit Blue Ribbon BBQ
10. Route 20 Bar & Grill – Palmer, MA
A hidden treasure along the scenic Route 20, this BBQ and burger joint serves up no-frills, flavor-packed smoked meats that rival the big names. Their low-and-slow pork shoulder and fall-off-the-bone ribs keep locals (and truckers!) coming back for more.
- Must-Try: Half-rack ribs with sweet BBQ sauce, loaded potato salad, and smoked brisket chili.
- Vibe: Roadside charm meets local comfort — unpretentious and authentic.
11. Smokestack Urban BBQ – Worcester, MA
A favorite among Worcester locals, Smokestack Urban BBQ brings Southern heat to Central Mass with a focus on scratch-made comfort food and rich, smoky meats. Their rotating bourbon list and seasonal specials make every visit feel like a new discovery.
- Must-Try: Carolina pulled pork, brisket chili nachos, and their famous cornbread skillet.
- Vibe: Urban-industrial with Southern hospitality — ideal for casual nights or group outings.
- Â Visit Smokestack Urban BBQ
12. Off the Bone BBQ – Rowley, MA
A North Shore secret that’s slowly gaining cult status, Off the Bone BBQ is all about authentic Southern smoking and generous portions. Everything is made in-house, and their sauces — especially the tangy Carolina gold — are a standout.
- Must-Try: Baby back ribs, smoked brisket tacos, and smoked gouda mac & cheese.
- Vibe: Warm and casual, with rustic decor and a passion for BBQ that’s easy to taste.
13. Backyard BBQ – East Longmeadow, MA
As the name suggests, Backyard BBQ feels like eating at a friend’s cookout — if that friend was a professional pitmaster. This Western Mass hotspot blends traditional Southern BBQ with New England touches, all served with neighborly charm.
- Must-Try: Pulled pork loaded fries, brisket sandwich, and baked mac with bacon.
- Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and always smells like a backyard smoker on full blast.
14. Sauced BBQ – Southbridge, MA
A small-town favorite with a loyal local following, Sauced BBQ may not be flashy, but the flavor is next-level. With a rotating menu and daily specials, their meats are smoked slow and low, with an emphasis on creativity and quality.
- Must-Try: Brisket poutine, jalapeño cheddar sausage, and smoked meatloaf.
- Vibe: Cozy, counter-service joint that’s big on personality and passion.
15. Smokin' Jake’s BBQ – Northborough, MA
Known for its generous portions and unpretentious style, Smokin’ Jake’s is where locals go for comfort food with a smoky twist. The meats are wood-smoked on-site and served with hearty, homestyle sides.
- Must-Try: Beef brisket plate, pit-smoked chicken, and loaded baked beans.
- Vibe: Classic BBQ shack energy — laid-back, family-owned, and focused on flavor.
Final Bite
There you have it — 15 of the best BBQ spots in Massachusetts for 2025, each offering its own unique twist on smoky, slow-cooked perfection. Whether you’re hunting for brisket near Boston, ribs in Worcester, or pulled pork on the North Shore, these joints prove that the Bay State knows how to bring the heat.
Planning a food tour across MA? Stay tuned for our Massachusetts BBQ Trail Map — launching soon on the blog to guide you through all 15 spots!
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
