When people think of Minnesota, they often think of cold weather and lots of lakes! In other words, great BBQ isn’t something that likely comes to mind when you think of the North Star State. From delicious spices to mouth watering sauces, there are many components to great BBQ food. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite BBQ spots that should definitely put Minnesota on the map!

1. Bayport BBQ - Bayport

This amazing barbeque joint, located about 40 minutes east of the Twin Cities, will leave you feeling satisfied after every visit! Every Wednesday through Friday, Bayport BBQ has a dine in lunch special consisting of a BBQ sandwich buffet special. The cole slaw and baked beans are true BBQ companions that can’t be skipped here. We’re positive you’ll love Bayport BBQ as much as we do! Address: 328 5th Ave N, Bayport, MN 55003

2. ZZQ Smokehouse - Eagan

Its not often you find great BBQ north of the Mason-Dixon Line, but that’s exactly what you get here at ZZQ Smokehouse! The brisket is perfectly seasoned and most with a hint of smoky flavor in every single bite. The sauces are fantastic, and so are the sides. ZZQ Smokehouse can only be described as a hidden gem in plain sight! Address: 3390 Coachman Rd, 204, Eagan, MN 55121.

3. Big Daddy's BBQ - St. Paul

This BBQ joint might be tiny, but its big on flavor! Tucked away in the St. Paul Midway neighborhood, this restaurant is easily accessible and mighty delicious. Get here early, as the locals know just how great this eatery is. Big Daddy’s BBQ will quickly turn into your BBQ favorite! Address: 625 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104.

4. OMC Smokehouse - Duluth

OMC Smokehouse is the North Shore BBQ hotspot, and its for good reason! From brisket to ribs to chicken, there is something for everyone at OMC. We recommend the Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah, which is pulled pork, pepper jack cheese, cilantro lime slaw and pickled jalapenos. Address: 1909 W Superior St, Duluth, MN 55806.

5. Smoke-in-D's BBQ - Sauk Rapids

If a good BBQ sandwich is what you crave, there is no better place than Smoke-In D’s! The BBQ sandwich is served with just the right amount of sauce on a soft, fresh, homemade bun. We recommend adding macaroni and cheese and their signature slaw to your meal for a down-home BBQ meal! Address: 31 N Benton Dr, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.

6. Smoke in the Pit - Minneapolis

Smoke In the Pit may possibly serve the best bbq sandwich in the state! Between the mouthwatering, perfectly moist beef brisket and the scrumptious beef tips, you’re sure to find a combo to suit your taste buds. And the BBQ sandwiches here take the cake! Run - don’t walk - to this amazing BBQ eatery! Address: 3733 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407.

7. Rudolph's Bar-B-Que - Minneapolis

Looking for fall-off-the-bone ribs? Look no further! From St. Louis-style to spare ribs, there is no bad choice here. The meat is so tender and moist that you’ll be begging for more! Paired with the garlic roasted mashed potatoes and red rice with bacon and andouille, peppers and tomato, you’ll have a winning combination on your dinner plate. Guarantee you’ll have a great meal by making a reservation at this popular BBQ spot! Address: 1933 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55403.

8. Smokey's Pub N' Grill - East Bethel

If you travel north about 30 miles north of the Twin Cities, you’ll find the tiny town of East Bethel, and quite possibly one of the most amazing BBQ joints in the state! Smokey’s Pub N’ Grill has been serving up delicious BBQ for only six years, but what they lack in years serving, they make up for with great fare! Rush in and try the pulled pork plate and pair it with one of over 100 varieties of craft beer. Address: 552 Lincoln Dr, East Bethel, MN 5592.

9. Rooster's BBQ - St. Paul

This little restaurant in St. Paul has been serving up mouthwatering Memphis BBQ for over 30 years, and they sure know how to do it right! This small restaurant has very limited seating, so either be prepared to wait, or get your food to go. Stop in for the BBQ rib dinner box. Served with fries, slaw and a roll, this meal will be an instant favorite! Address: 979 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55102.

10. FireBox Deli - Minneapolis

You might not see much when you look at FireBox Deli, but looks can be deceiving! Once inside, you’re greeted by a cheerfully decorated restaurant with the smell of down-home barbeque wafting to all corners of the restaurant. This BBQ joint is best known for its beef brisket, which is rubbed with a secret blend of spices and is smoked for up to 14 hours! We know you’ll love FireBox Deli just as much as we do! Address:4707 Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55430.

11. Q Fanatic - Champlin

This fantastic counter service restaurant serves some of the best slow roasted BBQ flavors in the state! Q Fanatic has been known to even run out of their melt-in-your-mouth smoked meats, but don’t let that deter you from a visit! Another great option is the Q Ban sandwich, with pulled ham and pork with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard BBQ sauce. Is your mouth watering yet? Address: 180 Miller Rd, Champlin, MN 55316.

We’re ready for a delicious BBQ meal! Do you know of any places we missed? Let us know in the comments below!