There’s something about barbecue that makes it a perfect year-round food. Sure, it’s synonymous with summer cookouts, but there are so many fantastic places in Indianapolis to get delicious, flavorful BBQ all year. Rain, sleet, snow, or sun, there’s nothing better than a good rack of ribs or some smoked brisket. Here are nine of the city’s best BBQ joints:
1. Black Diamond BBQ
It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but who cares? This BBQ joint is home to delicious smoked ribs and some of the best brisket in the city.Address:
6404 Rucker Rd., Ste. 105, Indianapolis, IN 46220
2. Hank's Smoked Briskets
A long-time fixture in Indianapolis, Hank’s features old-school takes on smoked brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. Address: 3736 Martin Luther King Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46208
3. North End BBQ
One of the newer spots in Indy, you’ll find great BBQ and moonshine conveniently located in the Nora neighborhood.Address: 1250 E 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46240
4. King Ribs Bar-B-Q
Since 1990, King Ribs has delivered top-quality barbecue throughout the city. Now, after nearly 30 years of operation, you can find locations on Keystone and on West 16th Street. If the name didn’t make it clear enough, you’ll need to try the ribs here.Address: 4130 N Keystone Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46205
5. City Barbeque
Fishers, Carmel, and Greenwood offer City Barbeque locations, which feature a simple, yet absolutely fantastic brisket sandwich, as well as green beans with bacon and homemade mac & cheese.Address: 621 West 11th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202
6. Smokehouse on Shelby
If you’re in Fountain Square, head here for a unique BBQ experience. Located in the historic Theatre Building, Smokehouse features baby back ribs with a special Chef’s seasoning, as well as delicious hand-dipped shakes.Address: 1103 Shelby St., Indianapolis, IN 46203
7. Jimbo's BBQ
You’ll find some fantastic brisket and ribs here, but Jimbo’s might have the best cornbread you can find in Indianapolis. If you don’t order it, you’re certainly missing out.Address: 9211 Crawfordsville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46234
8. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Yeah, Dickey’s happens to be the biggest BBQ chain in the nation, however, you’ll only find one location in Indianapolis (the only other one in the state is in Plainfield) and it’s definitely worth a trip. Don’t miss out on the ribs and pulled pork, as well as the scrumptious stuffed baked potatoes. There’s even a great tailgate party pack option for football Sundays.Address: 8624 Pendleton Pike, Indianapolis, IN 46226
9. Big Hoffa's Smokehouse
If you’re around the suburb of Westfield, you have to check out Big Hoffa’s. As it’s still pretty new to the area, it’s often crowded and busy... but for good reason! This BBQ spot provides large portions of mouth-watering food and does it in a unique, pirate-themed restaurant.Address: 800 E Main St., Westfield, IN 46074
I don't know about you, but I'll definitely be heading to a BBQ joint or two this weekend! What's your favorite BBQ in Indianapolis? Let us know in the comments below.
In the mood for something different? Hop in the car and make your way along our tasty Taco Trail through the city or head to one of these epic pizza shops in Indianapolis!
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