North Dakota might be one of the least-populated states in the US, but that doesn't mean we don't know good BBQ when we taste it. Who says the big cities get all the fun, and for that matter, who says Texas has the best barbecue? We think North Dakota might just be a contender for that top spot, and the reason for this is that we've got a good, solid handful of excellent eateries that fans of saucy, smoky BBQ will be proud to call our own. We went ahead and put together this awesome BBQ road trip in North Dakota that'll probably introduce you to your new favorite place. From hole-in-the-wall restaurants in North Dakota to phenomenal BBQ food trucks, follow this map to some of the best BBQ in North Dakota.

1. Revival Ribs, Ellendale

Our first delicious stop is in Ellendale, at Homeland REVIVAL RIBS.

This little hole-in-the-wall isn’t actually in between four walls at all – it's one of North Dakota’s most ridiculously underrated food trucks that serves up some of THE most amazing, tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs you’ve ever eaten. REVIVAL prides itself on preparing different kinds of ribs in all sorts of styles, so there’s something for everyone here – as long as they love ribs. Read more about this little local gem on their official Facebook page.

2. Jays Smokin' BBQ, Fargo

For our second stop, we'll pay a visit to the local legend in Fargo known as Jay's Smokin' BBQ.

Nestled inside the space once known as Mom’s Diner inside Tailgators (which might make it the MOST hole-in-the-wall spot on this list), Jay’s Smokin’ BBQ seems to get the same description in the vast majority of its reviews; folks all seem to agree on one thing, and that thing is this: BEST. BARBECUE. EVER. This one is so awesome that it’s got two locations – one's here in North Dakota, and the other is out in Minnesota. Both locations are wonderful. This is one stop you’ll need to bring a huger-than-huge appetite for! Check out the official website to learn more.

3. Monty's BBQ, Minot

Up next is Monty's BBQ, which you'll find nestled in Minot.

Maybe the modern form of a hole-in-the-wall is the food truck. After all, they’re small, they are capable of traveling, and boy, do they have some of the best food in the universe! Monty’s BBQ, found in Minot, is one of those amazing places where you’ll be sad by the time you’re done eating because it’s over (seriously, one person in the reviews says they "literally cried" when it was over because it was so incredibly good). The flavor here is second to none, and this little stop is well worth your time (and appetite). Learn more on the official Facebook page.

4. Backdraft Café & BBQ, Berthold

Our fourth place is the amazing BackDraft Cafe & BBQ, which is relatively new, but oh so amazing and well worth a stop.

So, this petite BBQ restaurant in North Dakota began as a food truck, but it was so wildly popular that it recently became its own brick-and-mortar restaurant. Its overwhelming popularity is for obvious reasons; every item on the menu is fresh, juicy, tender, and delicious. Backdraft is everything good BBQ ought to be if you ask us (and other rabid fans). Your taste buds will go on an unforgettable adventure at this little nosh spot. Check out the official website for menus, specials, hours, and more.

5. Pit 105, Williston

We conclude our adventure at Pit 105 in Williston.

The epitome of a hole in the wall, this little pit stop is perfect for folks obsessed with fall-off-the-bone goodness and ridiculous amounts of explosive flavor. It’s a relatively new shop, and it definitely needs way more love than it gets. You’ll find yourself daydreaming about the food here – which means you’ll want to come back ASAP. Get all the details, including hours, specials, and menus, on the official website.

For a taste of some of the best BBQ in North Dakota, these hidden gems are a fantastic place to start! Of course, this is one of the lengthiest North Dakota road trips that we've written about, so feel free to break this delicious journey into smaller pieces!

So, what do you think? Are you hungry yet? Do you plan to embark upon this juicy, fall-off-the-bone barbecue road trip in North Dakota? What are your favorite BBQ spots in this beautiful state? If you have a suggestion you'd like to share with us, you can do so by filling out our nomination form.

For more hole-in-the-wall restaurants in North Dakota, these mom-and-pop stops are well worth a visit.