Barbecue is the type of food that's meant for gatherings, and there are many locally-owned places to get it popping up all over Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Each restaurant does things a little differently, and everyone has their favorites, but there is definitely no shortage of mouthwatering barbecue in the Queen City area.
We shared some of the favorites around town last summer here, and we're back this season with a new list filled with places you may not have tried yet (and a few tried-and-true favorites). These seven Cincinnati restaurants are so delicious and you can even smell the delightfully smokey barbecue from a mile away. Follow your nose (and taste buds) to these mouthwatering eateries around the city.
1. Just Q'in
Just Q'in is a BBQ joint that's filled with heart and soul, and, of course, mouthwatering food. Their meats are prepared fresh daily and gain incredible flavor through the low and slow wood-firing process. The restaurant started as a catering business, then a food truck, and opened their first brick-and-mortar location in Newtown in 2011 and one in Walnut Hills shortly after. It's the real deal and one of the best in the city! For more information, visit the Just Q'in website here.
Newtown: 6901 Valley Ave.
Walnut Hills: 975 E McMillan St.
2. Harmon's Barbecue
Texas-style BBQ arrived in Fort Wright in Northern Kentucky this past spring, and this family-owned restaurant has quickly become a local favorite. You know something good is happening when you pull up and see a pile of wood and a smoker producing mouthwatering smells. You can't go wrong with their array of meats and homemade sides, and Harmon's is a welcome addition to the smokin' hot BBQ scene in the Cincinnati area. Learn more about Harmon's Barbecue by following along with them on Facebook here.
Address: 3481 Valley Plaza Pkwy., Fort Wright, KY
3. Pickles & Bones Barbecue
What's not to love about the melt-in-your-mouth barbecue that is served up at Milford's Pickles & Bones Barbecue? Their meats definitely rank at the top of many BBQ lists in the city and the sides are nothing to shy away from. It's carry-out only and they also do a fabulous job if you need a large amount for a gathering, but no matter how you try it, just make a point to visit this smokey heaven. The smells will draw you in from the minute you pull in the parking lot, and the incredible flavors (try their new hotlink sausage!) will keep you coming back for more. For more information on Pickles & Bones, visit their website here. Address: 1149 OH-131, Milford, OH
4. Webb's BBQ
Webb's BBQ is another family-owned NKY restaurant that is so good, visitors crowd the place on its only open day: Friday. Webb's may only smoke their famous meats one day a week, but they can also cater your next event and it really is worth waiting for. Go early, as they often close when they run out! Since it's in Kentucky, try your BBQ with a Bluegrass favorite Ale-8. For more information on Webb's BBQ, visit their website here. Address: 115 E 9th St., Newport, KY
5. Lucius Q
Lucius Q, located in the rapidly growing Pendleton neighborhood, may be the new kid on the BBQ block, but it already has a faithful following. It definitely has one of the coolest vibes in town, with an amazing patio and interior decor, and the food is equally as appealing. If you're looking for a brand new BBQ spot in Cincinnati to try, this is it. For more information on Lucius Q, check out our previous article here. Address: 1131 Broadway St., Cincinnati, OH
6. Smokin' This and That BBQ
Smokin' This and That in Florence, KY has been voted the best BBQ in the region and they offer up some of the most unique smokey options around. In addition to their mouthwatering meats, you have to try the smoked tater tots and the smoked egg - the flavor is incredible! It's a laid-back, family-friendly restaurant that is often crowded for a reason. Find out more about this tasty gem on their website here. Address: 10020 Demia Way, Florence, KY
7. Jim Dandy's Family BBQ
Last but not least, Jim Dandy's Family BBQ in Sharonville is another local spot where you can smell the deliciousness when you pull into the parking lot. The ribs and 1/2 chicken are favorites on the menu and the friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for the entire family to enjoy some tasty barbecue. Find out more about Jim Dandy's on their website here. Address: 2343 E Sharon Rd., Sharonville, OH
There's always room for more good quality, mouthwatering barbecue in the Queen City and we are all happy to taste test our way through their delicious creations. Did your favorite local BBQ joint make this list? Do you now have some you're excited to try? Let us know in the comments!
And for more mouthwatering restaurants in Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.
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