Minnesota may be known for lakes and snow, but let me tell you—our BBQ scene is seriously underrated. Whether you’re craving smoky ribs, tender brisket, or house-made sauces that slap, the Land of 10,000 Lakes has some hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems that will leave your fingers sticky and your soul satisfied. After road-tripping across the state and chatting with locals, pitmasters, and fellow foodies, here are my top 10 must-try BBQ joints in Minnesota for 2025.
1. Animales Barbeque Co. – Minneapolis
Animales isn’t just BBQ—it’s a full-on flavor experience. Run by chef Jon Wipfli, a former fine-dining chef turned pitmaster, this food truck parked outside Able Seedhouse + Brewery serves up some of the boldest, most creative BBQ in the Twin Cities.
Don’t miss:
The beef rib (available weekends only) is fall-off-the-bone perfect, and the rotating specials like smoked pork belly tacos and brisket burgers are worth stalking their Instagram for.
Pro tip:
Grab a beer from Able Seedhouse while you wait—this is BBQ worth slowing down for.
2. Smokey’s Pub N’ Grill – East Bethel
Smokey’s is the kind of place where the smoky scent hits you before you even park. A local favorite for over a decade, it’s where small-town vibes meet big-time BBQ flavor.
Standouts:
The smoked wings are ridiculously good, especially with their house Carolina Gold sauce. Their St. Louis-style ribs have the perfect balance of bark and tenderness.
What locals say:
It’s not uncommon to see folks from Minneapolis or even Duluth make the drive just for a plate here. That’s how you know it’s the real deal.
3. FireBox Deli – Minneapolis
Located in North Minneapolis, FireBox Deli has been gaining serious respect in the BBQ world—and rightfully so. This Black-owned gem brings Southern soul to the Twin Cities, one slow-smoked slab at a time.
Must-tries:
The brisket sandwich is melt-in-your-mouth magic, and the smoked turkey is incredibly juicy (trust me, it’s not your average dry bird). Don’t skip the mac and cheese—it’s comfort food perfection.
Insider tip:
FireBox sells out fast, so go early or call ahead.
4. Big Bore Barbecue – Hanover
This roadside BBQ joint feels like it belongs in Texas—but you’ll find it just northwest of the Twin Cities. Big Bore Barbecue is family-run, and their attention to detail shows in every bite.
What to order:
The “Brisket Bomb” sandwich is a local legend—chopped brisket, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese on a grilled bun. Also, their burnt ends are arguably the best in Minnesota.
Bonus:
The rustic indoor-outdoor setup makes it a great summer stop with friends and family.
5. ZZQ Smokehouse – Eagan
A relative newcomer that’s already making waves, ZZQ is where Texas-style BBQ meets Minnesota hospitality. Located in a cozy strip mall, it’s one of those “blink and you’ll miss it” places—but trust me, you don’t want to miss it.
Try this:
Go for the 3-meat combo plate so you can sample the brisket, pulled pork, and sausage. Their sauces are made in-house and range from sweet to spicy—ideal for customizing your bite.
Word on the street:
Their weekday lunch specials are a hidden treasure if you’re BBQ-craving on a budget.
6. Ted Cook’s 19th Hole Barbecue – Minneapolis
This South Minneapolis staple has been smoking meats since 1968, and it still holds its own among new-wave BBQ joints. Ted Cook’s is unapologetically old-school—and that’s what makes it legendary.
Must-order:
The pork ribs are the crown jewel. They’re cooked over cherry and hickory wood, giving them a flavor you simply cannot replicate.
No frills, all flavor:
You won’t find trendy decor or craft cocktails here—just down-home BBQ served in generous portions.
7. Q Fanatic BBQ – Champlin & Minneapolis
Chef Charlie Torgerson, the man behind Q Fanatic, has taken Minnesota BBQ nationwide—literally. He’s cooked at the James Beard House and catered for Super Bowls, but his heart (and smoker) stays local.
What to try:
Their hickory-smoked pulled pork sandwich is a masterpiece. And the maple bourbon BBQ sauce? Next-level.
Bonus:
They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly sides, which is rare in the BBQ world.
8. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit – Rochester
Yes, it’s a chain—but hear me out. The Rochester location is consistently praised for its quality and service. For travelers heading to or from Mayo Clinic or Southeastern MN, it’s a convenient and tasty pit stop.
Fan favorites:
The smoked kielbasa sausage and brisket are consistently on point. Plus, the buttery rolls and mac & cheese are always a hit with families.
Good to know:
Kids eat free on Sundays.
9. Interstate BBQ – Albertville
Right off I-94, this underrated BBQ joint is a road-tripper’s dream. Clean, casual, and unexpectedly good, Interstate BBQ brings slow-smoked meats to outlet mall shoppers and commuters alike.
What to get:
The brisket sandwich with pickled onions and spicy sauce is a flavor bomb. Also, their applewood-smoked chicken is one of the juiciest in the state.
Local tip:
Stop here before or after shopping at the Albertville Premium Outlets—it beats the food court, guaranteed.
10. Junkyard Dogs BBQ – Mankato
Junkyard Dogs started as a pop-up and quickly gained a cult following in Southern Minnesota. Known for its bold rubs and no-compromise meat quality, it’s now a permanent fixture in Mankato’s food scene.
Don’t miss:
The smoked meatloaf is surprisingly phenomenal, and their brisket chili on colder days hits the spot like nothing else.
Local love:
They often collaborate with local breweries like Mankato Brewery—BBQ and beer? Say no more.
Wrap-Up: 10 BBQ Spots Worth Every Mile in Minnesota
From Minneapolis legends to roadside finds and small-town secrets, Minnesota’s BBQ game is stronger than ever in 2025. Whether you’re a brisket purist or love saucy ribs, you’re bound to find your new go-to joint on this list.
📍 Planning a BBQ tour? These spots stretch across the state—perfect for road trippers and locals alike. Bring napkins. Bring friends. Bring an appetite.
FAQs About the Best BBQ in Minnesota (2025)
Q1: What is the best BBQ spot in Minnesota in 2025?
A: Animales Barbeque Co. in Minneapolis is widely considered one of the best, known for its smoky beef ribs and creative specials.
Q2: Are there any good BBQ joints outside the Twin Cities?
A: Yes! Big Bore Barbecue in Hanover and Junkyard Dogs BBQ in Mankato are top-rated by locals and well worth the drive.
Q3: Does Minnesota have Texas-style BBQ?
A: Absolutely. ZZQ Smokehouse in Eagan and Q Fanatic BBQ offer authentic Texas-style smoked meats with bold rubs and sauces.
Q4: What’s the best BBQ place in Minneapolis?
A: FireBox Deli and Ted Cook’s 19th Hole BBQ are top Minneapolis favorites, each serving classic, slow-smoked meats.
Q5: Is there a family-friendly BBQ restaurant in Minnesota?
A: Smokey’s Pub N’ Grill in East Bethel and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Rochester are both family-friendly and offer kid-friendly meals.
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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.
