Brian Nagele
Louisiana has a deep love for food, and barbecue is no exception. From small roadside joints to well-known neighborhood spots, BBQ has become part of the state’s culture. What makes it special here is the mix of local flavor, family recipes, and cooking styles passed down through generations. Whether it’s smoked low and slow or grilled with a crisp edge, each place has its own way of doing things. That’s why narrowing down the top BBQ spots in Louisiana isn’t easy.
This list highlights 30 of the best places to get BBQ across the state. These picks were chosen based on quality, local support, and how well they represent what people in Louisiana enjoy. You’ll find a good mix of older names and newer spots that have made a strong impression. If you’re planning to try something with bold flavor and plenty of heart behind it, this guide is a helpful place to start. Every spot has its own story, and locals know where to find the real deal. Whether you’re passing through or live nearby, these BBQ places are worth checking out.
#30 – Cowlicks
Cowlicks is a Texas-style barbecue pop-up based in New Orleans, usually set up at The Crown and Anchor English Pub. It serves sliced brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and smoked chicken, with meat sold in plates or sandwiches. The smoke flavor is strong and the meat is served with sauce on the side, staying true to the Central Texas approach. The brisket is especially tender and packed with flavor, and the pork is juicy without needing much sauce. Portions are generous and the meat is consistent in flavor and quality. It’s a solid pick for those looking for well-prepared barbecue with deep smoke and tender texture.
#29 – JAC’s Craft Smokehouse
JAC’s Craft Smokehouse in West Monroe is known for smoked meats that are full of flavor and cooked until tender. The brisket and ribs are juicy and well-seasoned, and they pair well with sides like baked beans, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts. The setup is laid-back, with counter service and a choice of indoor or patio seating. The sauces, including sweet and spicy options, let people adjust the flavor to match their taste. The space feels casual and friendly, like a backyard cookout with solid attention to detail. Sandwiches and plates both deliver consistent quality, and the menu keeps things simple without cutting corners. JAC’s has built a steady reputation for serving BBQ that’s both approachable and satisfying, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal.
#28 – KK’s Cafe
KK’s Cafe in Youngsville is a local spot known for its Sunday barbecue plates that come with a good mix of flavor and comfort. The barbecue is served with rice dressing, baked beans, and potato salad. The food is packed with seasoning, and the portions are generous for the price. The space is simple and welcoming, and the service is fast and friendly even during busy hours. Customers like how the menu blends classic comfort food with local favorites. Breakfast is available all day, and the weekend specials bring in a steady flow of regulars. The BBQ menu isn’t large, but what they serve is done with care and consistency. Whether you’re there early for breakfast or dropping in for lunch, the food feels homemade and satisfying. KK’s offers a laid-back experience and a meal that keeps people coming back.
#27 – The Smokey Pit
The Smokey Pit in Baton Rouge is a laid-back BBQ spot where meats are smoked fresh each day for more than six hours, with some going over fifteen. The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and smoked catfish are seasoned well and served with or without sauce, which is offered on the side. Sides like green beans, sweet potatoes, baked beans, and corn are made from scratch and served hot. The restaurant has indoor seating with a lounge feel, outdoor space, and extras like pool tables and games. On Fridays, live music or karaoke adds a fun touch for those dining in. Portions are generous, service is steady, and the food comes out with solid consistency.
#26 – Cochon King BBQ
Cochon King BBQ in New Orleans is known for its whole-hog barbecue and smoked meats that are packed with flavor. The brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausage are slow-cooked and come out tender with a strong smoke taste. The pulled pork has a mild tang that works well with their sauce options served on the side. Sides like pepper jack mac and cheese, beans, and potato salad are made fresh and serve as a solid match to the meats. Cochon King operates both as a food truck and a fixed location on Franklin Avenue, giving people options to grab a plate on the go or sit down for a casual meal. The setup is simple, but the food stands out for its depth of flavor and consistency that keeps regulars coming back.
#25 – Walker’s Southern Style BBQ
Walker’s Southern Style BBQ in New Orleans has built a strong local reputation for its slow-smoked meats, especially its signature cochon de lait Poboy and ribs. The meat is cooked over hickory and pecan wood for many hours, resulting in a tender, rich flavor that stands out even before adding sauce. Sides like coleslaw, baked beans, mustard greens, and potato salad are made in-house and help fill out the meal. People often say the portions are generous and the food is consistently seasoned and smoky. The place is open for lunch only a few days a week and often sells out early, so it’s best to arrive before service ends. Walker’s is known for real flavor in a simple, no-frills environment.
#24 – Danken Trail B-B-Q
Danken Trail B-B-Q in Monroe has been serving slow-smoked barbecue since 1983. The cafeteria-style setup makes it easy to order and find a seat, and the service is quick and friendly. The menu features ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and catfish, all cooked over hardwood for deep smoke flavor. Their signature barbecue sauce is sweet with a smoky finish and works well with any meat. Sides are made from scratch and include baked beans, coleslaw, lima beans, potato salad, and BBQ beans that often include small cuts of smoked meat. Customers say the catfish is especially well-prepared, and the vegetables are hot and lightly seasoned. Danken Trail is a go-to spot in northeast Louisiana for dependable, flavorful BBQ served with care.
#23 – Shane’s Seafood & BBQ
Shane’s Seafood & BBQ is a casual chain with several locations in the Shreveport and Bossier City area. It offers a mix of Louisiana-style seafood and barbecue, with a menu that includes catfish, shrimp, ribs, chicken, and po’boys. The barbecue tends to be milder in smoke flavor, but the ribs and pulled pork are popular for their tenderness. The seafood, especially the fried shrimp and catfish, is often mentioned as a highlight. Portions are generous, and the atmosphere is laid-back, with a family-friendly setup that works well for both groups and solo diners. Shane’s is a solid pick if you want a wide variety of barbecue and seafood in one place.
#22 – Bodacious Bar & Q
Bodacious Bar & Q in Shreveport serves a variety of smoked meats with a strong Southern influence. Customers often mention the pulled pork, brisket, and pork belly as the highlights. Their meats are smoked slowly and served with optional house-made sauces. The restaurant also offers sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and mac and cheese that are made fresh daily. The setting includes both indoor and outdoor seating, with a bar that features happy hour specials and several TVs, giving it a relaxed, casual feel. It’s not just a place to eat but also a hangout spot for groups and gatherings. Guests appreciate the smoky flavor of the meats and the straightforward menu.
#21 – Smokin’ J’s BBQ
Smokin’ J’s BBQ in Minden is a gas station‑side eatery where the barbecue feels simple and satisfying. Meats like brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and ribs are smoked fresh, and customers say the flavor stands out even without sauce. Sides such as potato salad, beans, and greens are made in‑house and help round out the plate. It’s a convenient stop for locals or road‑trippers looking for quick, hearty barbecue. Portions are generous and the food delivers consistent results. The overall atmosphere is easygoing, with fast service and reliable flavor that keeps regulars coming back. Smokin’ J’s offers solid BBQ that fits well with local tastes.
#20 – Bad Wolf BBQ
Bad Wolf BBQ in Ruston brings craft-style barbecue served from its food truck and a small dining area on Railroad Avenue. The meats are wood-smoked slow and low, allowing rich flavor to shine through in brisket, ribs, sausage, and pulled pork even before adding sauce. The brisket is often described as melt-in-your-mouth tender and the ribs fall off the bone. People say the boudin and tacos are standout menu items alongside classic smoked plates. Portions are generous and this spot earns praise for consistency and bold flavor. Service is steady and the meals feel worth the price. Bad Wolf attracts locals and visitors looking for strong smoke flavor in a relaxed and unpretentious setting.
#19 – Hickory Stick
Hickory Stick in Shreveport is a longtime barbecue spot known for serving generous portions of smoked meats like brisket, ribs, sausage, ham, chicken, pork, and turkey. The meats are cooked fresh and come seasoned with a light smoky flavor that holds up well on its own or with sauce served on the side. A popular choice is the pick-two plate, which allows diners to try different meats with a choice of sides. Options like baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad are made in-house and praised for their freshness. The service is friendly and efficient, and the food is consistent from visit to visit. Hickory Stick is appreciated for offering solid barbecue in a simple, no-frills setting where the focus stays on flavor and value.
#18 – Jeanne’s Bourbon St. BBQ
Jeanne’s Bourbon St. BBQ in Westlake offers a relaxed barbecue setting with slow‑smoked meats like brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and sausage that are cooked until tender. The ribs and brisket receive praise for their fall‑off‑the‑bone quality, while the pulled pork pairs well with a sweet pepper‑style sauce served on the side so diners can adjust flavor to their taste. Sides such as potato salad, baked beans, and green beans are made fresh and served hot to round out the meal. Portion sizes feel fair for the price, offering good value in a simple, welcoming space. The interior feels rustic with wood and iron decor, and there is casual bar seating. The food delivers a smoky, hearty flavor and the overall experience feels consistent.
#17 – Salty Joe’s BBQ Shop
Salty Joe’s BBQ Shop in Hammond serves smoked pork, brisket, ribs, and sausage in a relaxed, casual setting. The pulled pork and ribs are often noted for being tender and packed with flavor. Sauce is served on the side, giving guests the option to adjust flavor to their liking. The outdoor seating area includes a covered patio that is pet-friendly, and live music is featured on Sundays, creating a social and family-friendly vibe. Sides like baked beans and coleslaw are prepared fresh and round out the meal well. Salty Joe’s is known for solid portions, a laid-back atmosphere, and barbecue that fits well into a weekend lunch or group gathering.
#16 – City Pork
City Pork in Baton Rouge offers a mix of slow-smoked meats and Louisiana-style comfort food in a casual, easygoing setting. Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausage are cooked until tender and full of smoke flavor, often served with sauces on the side. The menu includes house-made sides like mac and cheese, cornbread, and greens that add balance to the main dishes. Some guests also try their non-traditional barbecue items such as smoked salmon or pork belly sandwiches, which help set this spot apart. While it blends classic barbecue with regional touches, the food stays focused on smoked meats and hearty flavors. City Pork has built a reputation in Baton Rouge for offering a solid mix of barbecue and Southern favorites in a clean, casual space.
#15 – Deuce’s Taste of the South
Deuce’s Taste of the South in Broussard is a drive‑thru BBQ trailer with shaded picnic tables, known for slow‑smoked brisket, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage served as plates, tacos, or sandwiches. The brisket draws high praise for its tender texture and rich smoke flavor, while pulled pork and sausage also earn solid marks even before sauce is added. Sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, rice dressing, and baked beans are made fresh and pair well with the meats. Many customers point out that the friendly service and fast drive‑thru system make ordering easy, and the portions feel generous. The relaxed, outdoor setup encourages stop‑in visits especially on Fridays and Sundays when tacos and plate lunches are most popular. Deuce’s stands out in south Louisiana for combining Texas‑style smoke flavor with local hospitality in a simple, approachable setting.
#14 – Paul’s Rib Shack
Paul’s Rib Shack in Lake Charles offers Texas‑style barbecue with a Louisiana twist in a backyard‑style setting. The brisket earns praise for its tender, moist texture and deep flavor. Ribs are smoky and peppery without being overpowering. Sides like slaw, mac and cheese, green beans, and smoked red beans are cooked from scratch and round out the plate. Service is friendly and efficient, and many guests note the fun, relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating and games for kids. Portions feel generous and most customers say the food offers solid value even when busy. Paul’s Rib Shack stands out for delivering reliable smoke flavor, fresh sides, and a laid-back experience that feels both local and inviting.
#13 – Hannah Q Smokehouse
Hannah Q Smokehouse has several locations around Baton Rouge, including Prairieville, Mid City, and Bluebonnet, and is known for its smoked meats cooked low and slow over hickory wood. The brisket is well-liked for its rich flavor and moist texture, and the pulled pork and ribs are tender with a smoky finish. Sausage is also available and pairs well with one of their four house sauces, which include sweet, spicy, vinegar-based, and mustard styles. Sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, potato salad, and cornbread are made in-house and served warm. The atmosphere is laid-back, with both indoor seating and outdoor options, and some locations offer a drive-thru. Hannah Q is known for delivering reliable barbecue in a relaxed, no-fuss setting.
#12 – Sonny’s BBQ
Sonny’s BBQ is a regional chain with locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge and Gonzales. It’s known for offering a wide menu of smoked meats like pulled pork, chicken, and brisket. Pulled pork is often called tender and flavorful, while the chicken is noted for being juicy with a crisp outer layer. Sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread are popular and described as warm and consistent. The setting is casual, with options to dine in, order takeout, or use curbside pickup. Sonny’s BBQ is a reliable option for people looking for simple barbecue with familiar flavors and a comfortable space.
#11 – Gonzo’s Smokehouse
Gonzo’s Smokehouse & BBQ is located in Luling and is known for its Central Texas-style barbecue. It operates on a limited schedule, serving barbecue only on Fridays and smash burgers on Thursdays. The brisket, pork belly, and sausages are often described as rich in smoke flavor and cooked to the right tenderness. One standout item is the brisket boudin, which mixes traditional sausage with a smoky twist. Regulars say it’s best to arrive early since items tend to sell out quickly. The outdoor setup is simple, with a few tables for those who want to eat on site. Gonzo’s has built a strong local following through its small-batch cooking and consistent quality.
#10 – Grayson’s Barbecue
Grayson’s Bar-B-Q in Clarence, Louisiana has been serving smoked meats since 1959. This small-town spot is known for its pecan-smoked ham, sliced brisket, ribs, and chopped barbecue sandwiches. All meats are cooked in a classic brick pit and served with a vinegar-based sauce on the side. The ribs are tender with a firm bite, and the brisket has a light smoke ring with a lean texture. Guests also like the fresh-baked white bread, baked beans, and creamy potato salad. The dining room is simple and fast-moving, with counter service and plenty of to-go orders. Visitors often mention that it’s worth the drive even if you’re not local. Grayson’s stays busy most days, especially during lunch, and is considered a go-to spot for barbecue in central Louisiana.
#9 – BRQ Seafood and Barbecue
BRQ Seafood and Barbecue in Baton Rouge is a casual spot that blends smoked meats with local seafood favorites. The restaurant offers brisket, ribs, chicken, and pulled pork, along with seafood items like shrimp, crab cakes, and fish. Their meats are cooked low and slow over wood, using a mix of barbecue styles from Texas, Memphis, and the Carolinas. The brisket is smoky and tender, the ribs have a good crust, and sauces are served on the side. The space is bright and open with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a full bar that includes craft beer and cocktails. Service is usually quick and friendly, though a few people say the pricing can be higher than other barbecue spots in town.
#8 – Acadian Superette
Acadian Superette in Lafayette is a small, casual spot that mixes traditional barbecue with local Louisiana flavor. It started as a neighborhood grocery and has grown into a lunch favorite. The menu includes smoked brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and wings, along with rotating daily specials and sandwiches. Sides like baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw are made fresh and served in generous portions. Their meats are cooked low and slow using wood, giving them a deep smoke flavor that regulars often mention. Customers appreciate the relaxed, no-frills setting, which includes indoor seating and a shaded outdoor area.
#7 – Cou-Yon’s Cajun Bar-B-Q
Cou-Yon’s Cajun Bar-B-Q in Port Allen blends traditional barbecue with Cajun flavors in a laid-back setting. Known for generous portions, their menu includes smoked brisket, pulled pork, turkey, and ribs, along with seafood and loaded baked potatoes. One of their most talked-about items is the barbecue stuffed potato, often topped with meats, cheese, and green onions, finished with their signature sauces. The meats are smoked low and slow using wood for a deep, natural flavor. Cou-Yon’s is a go-to for locals who want bold seasoning and classic smoked meats with a Southern twist, all served in a casual and welcoming atmosphere.
#6 – LA 23 BBQ
LA 23 BBQ in Belle Chasse is a roadside barbecue stop known for its Texas-style approach to smoked meats. The brisket is one of the most mentioned items for its smoky bark and tender texture, while ribs and sausage links are also popular for their strong flavor. Customers often point out the house-made sauces that bring just enough spice without overpowering the meat. Sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw are served in hearty portions and made fresh daily. Regulars appreciate the reliable quality and simple menu that keeps the focus on flavor. LA 23 BBQ is a top pick for those looking for solid smoked meat along the highway without needing anything fancy.
#5 – Central City BBQ
Central City BBQ in New Orleans is a popular spot known for traditional low-and-slow smoked meats served in a lively, modern setting. Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and boudin earn praise for rich smoke flavor and tender texture. Red cabbage slaw, sweet corn spoonbread, mac and cheese, Brussels sprouts, and pit-style beans serve as solid matches to the meats. Many customers say the food stands out on its own without sauce, which is offered on the side. Central City has built a strong reputation for consistent quality, bold flavor, and a setting that’s relaxed yet energetic, making it one of the few top-tier BBQ options in New Orleans.
#4 – Johnson’s Boucaniere
Johnson’s Boucanière in downtown Lafayette blends Cajun tradition with smoked barbecue in a simple, welcoming space. Every Sunday they serve BBQ plates featuring meats like brisket, pork ribs, sausage, and boudin, all smoked for 11–13 hours over oak wood. The brisket is moist and tender, ribs are seasoned well with a Cajun-style rub, and house-made sausage brings bold flavor even before sauce is added. Sauce is always offered on the side so diners can set the spice level themselves. Sides such as mac and cheese, potato salad, green beans, corn maque choux, and rice dressing are made fresh and pair well with the meat. The vibe feels down-to-earth and communal, especially when people gather on the covered porch or inside at shared tables. Johnson’s maintains a loyal following for its consistent quality and flavorful, no-fuss BBQ rooted in local heritage.
#3 – Blanchard’s Barbeque
Blanchard’s BBQ in Lafayette serves slow-smoked meats with a Texas-style approach and a local twist. Their brisket stands out for its smoky crust and tender center, while ribs, pulled pork, and turkey also get steady praise for staying moist and flavorful without needing much sauce. They offer a rotating selection of house-made sauces on the side, including flavors like ancho espresso and Creole mustard, giving guests a choice without overwhelming the natural smoke. Sides such as chipotle slaw, mac and cheese, and smoked potato salad are made fresh and portioned well. The atmosphere is laid-back with counter service, indoor seating, and a clean, simple setup that’s easy to navigate during a busy lunch hour. Prices are fair and portions are filling. Many locals keep it in their regular lunch rotation for its consistent flavor and no-frills style that focuses on the basics done right.
#2 – Blue Oak BBQ
Blue Oak BBQ in New Orleans is known for putting a creative spin on classic smoked meats. Their brisket, pulled pork, and smoked wings have built a strong following thanks to consistent texture and bold flavor. The ribs are another favorite, often praised for their tenderness and seasoning. They serve a variety of house-made sauces on the side, and their rotating menu sometimes includes specials like pork belly or smoked turkey. Sides like garlic mac and cheese, Brussels sprouts, and baked beans are freshly made and portioned well. The setting is casual with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a full bar and local beers on tap. It ranks as one of the more talked-about barbecue spots in the city.
#1 – The Joint
The Joint in New Orleans is a go-to spot for smoked meats that hold their flavor without needing much sauce. Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage are slow-cooked over oak wood, giving them a deep smoke profile that regulars appreciate. The brisket stands out for its tender texture and bark, while the ribs are meaty with a balanced rub. Sausage and chicken also get good feedback for their smoky finish. The setting is laid-back, with picnic tables, indoor seating, and a bar serving local drinks. Classic sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans are served in generous portions. It’s a busy place, especially during lunch and dinner hours, and some items can sell out. Many guests return for the consistent taste and casual feel that The Joint delivers every day.
What Makes Louisiana BBQ Stand Out
Louisiana BBQ is shaped by the state’s deep mix of cultures. Cajun and Creole flavors, French and African roots, and Southern traditions all come together in one place. The result is a BBQ that doesn’t follow just one style. It’s common to find smoked pork, brisket, ribs, and sausage all on the same menu. Some places lean into bold spices, while others let the smoke and slow cooking speak for itself. Sauces are usually served on the side and can range from peppery and thin to thick and tangy, depending on the region and the cook.
The cooking methods are just as varied. Pit smoking over pecan or oak wood is common, but you’ll also find custom smokers and even open-flame grills in some spots. Many BBQ joints in Louisiana also serve local favorites like smoked boudin, rice dressing, or cornbread, giving the meal a strong regional touch. This mix of ingredients, tools, and techniques helps Louisiana BBQ stand out from other Southern styles.
FAQs About Louisiana BBQ
Is Louisiana BBQ influenced by seafood traditions?
Yes, some BBQ spots in Louisiana blend traditional smokehouse cooking with Gulf Coast seafood. It’s not unusual to find shrimp, catfish, or even crab added to BBQ platters or sides.
What time of year is best for a BBQ trip across Louisiana?
Spring and fall are great times to visit. The weather is mild, and many local festivals feature outdoor BBQ, live music, and regional dishes.
Are there differences between north and south Louisiana BBQ?
Yes. Northern areas tend to lean more toward Texas-style smoking, while southern Louisiana often adds more seasoning and a variety of side dishes that reflect Cajun or Creole roots.
Do BBQ joints in Louisiana usually offer dine-in service or takeout only?
Most offer both, but smaller spots or roadside setups may focus more on takeout. These local favorites often have limited seating but high turnover.
Can you find good BBQ outside of major cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge?
Absolutely. Some of the best BBQ in the state comes from small towns and rural communities where recipes have been passed down for generations.
