Dallas is a quintessential American city with exciting activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. With a bustling historical downtown, sprawling parks and botanical gardens, plus expansive museums for history and art lovers, there’s an endless supply of attractions to explore that showcase the best of Texas.
Of course, no visit to Dallas is complete without trying some of its acclaimed barbecue and this list will help you find only the best of the best. Whether you wish to dine in a gorgeous outdoor garden, or simply enjoy your BBQ in an old-school warehouse setting, this guide has you covered for every occasion.
To satisfy your taste buds on your next Texas vacation, here are the best BBQ restaurants in Dallas to make your trip perfect.
1. Pecan Lodge
- AAA Diamond Approved
- 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
Pecan Lodge is one of Dallas’ top-rated BBQ restaurants and they serve a variety of savory smoked meats made to Texas perfection.
Try their famous ribs, expertly smoked brisket or get a combo plate to sample all of their hearty offerings. The Pitmaster Sandwich combines brisket with shredded pork and sausage, among other spicy and tangy toppings, or you can keep things lighter with a plate of smoked turkey.
For sides, you have your choice of Texas classics, including fried okra, collard greens, plus many variations of potatoes and salads. If you still have room for dessert, you can try their renowned peach cobbler or banana pudding.
Even with its high praise and numerous accolades, the Pecan Lodge retains its casual Texas charm and is friendly for all budgets.
Local tip: the line around the building may look long at first, but it moves fast and is always worth the short wait.
2. Smoky Rose
- AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
- 8602 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
Just minutes from the Dallas Arboretum, the Smoky Rose is a beautiful and welcoming restaurant with some of the juiciest and most flavorful BBQ in town. Dine indoors or enjoy their spacious garden patio that feels like a destination unto itself.
For larger groups, the Full Board allows you to try all of their smoked meats at once, or you can order meats à la carte including ribs, spicy smoked sausages, shredded pork and their classic blackened brisket. Plus, their full bar features numerous local craft beers along with cocktails and other specialty drinks.
Along with filling sides like their famous mac and cheese and garlic sautéed string beans, the Smoky Rose is a great place to relax and enjoy an unforgettable Texas BBQ during your stay in Dallas.
3. Slow Bone BBQ
- AAA Diamond Approved
- 2234 Irving Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
With rave reviews from locals, visitors and many top Texas food critics, Slow Bone BBQ is a must-visit restaurant that serves mouthwatering meats in a quaint yet cozy location.
Their slow-smoked brisket may be what made them famous, but it’s worth trying a tasting-meal to sample all of their items, including jalapeño sausages, juicy turkey and last but not least, premium Texas ribs with tangy homemade BBQ sauce.
For sides, make sure to try their flavorful collard greens for an unforgettable pairing. With a no-frills and casual atmosphere alongside world-class meats, Slow Bone represents the true spirit of local Dallas BBQ.
4. Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ
- AAA Diamond Approved
- 1950 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ is an outdoor restaurant right under a large Ferris wheel, making it a great place for families and groups to enjoy Texas smoked meats and live music from local bands.
Enjoy the best of Dallas BBQ, from smoked turkey to cheddar and jalapeño sausages, smoked chicken, plus some of the city’s best brisket and ribs. Try some local-approved fried okra along with their homemade coleslaw and indulge in their classic peach cobbler for dessert.
Plus, the patio stays open late into the night, making this a perfect place to unwind with dinner and drinks after a busy day in Dallas.
5. Terry Black’s Barbecue
- 3025 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
Although this is one of the pricier restaurants listed here, many locals insist that Terry Black’s BBQ has the best smoked meats in all of Dallas and it’s hard to argue otherwise. With highly blackened brisket, juicy ribs, plus a huge selection of homemade BBQ sauces, meat lovers will have no problem finding something to savor and enjoy at this Texas staple.
With ample seating both indoors and outdoors, complete with cozy string lights and large booths, you can enjoy your hearty meal alongside a vast selection of local wines and craft beers. For sides, don’t forget to try their super cheesy mac and cheese, or go with their coleslaw for a true Texas classic.
6. Lockhart Smokehouse
- 400 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208
The Lockhart Smokehouse is one of Dallas’ top-rated BBQ restaurants and it serves expertly prepared meats alongside tangy homemade sauces, delectable sides and a large drink menu to make your night perfect.
As a staple of local Dallas BBQ, you can’t go wrong with their tender brisket that melts in your mouth, juicy smoked ribs that fall off the bone, or spicy jalapeño sausages made fresh in-house.
For sides, try their buttery Texas toast, or go with baked beans for a classic pairing.
Due to the fairly small capacity and exceptional popularity, there may be some wait time during peak hours. However, you’ll never regret waiting in line after trying these masterfully smoked meats and you can also order your food to go if you wish to dine at your hotel instead.
Whether you choose just one restaurant from this list, or even decide to enjoy all of them, you’ll be treated to some of the finest BBQ Dallas has to offer. Some of these restaurants are perfect for a quick bite, while others offer a sit-down dining experience complete with garden patios and full wait service. However you choose to dine, all the restaurants on this list will provide unforgettable meals and a welcoming break from your busy day visiting all the essential Dallas attractions.
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