Brian Nagele
New Mexico has a barbecue scene that deserves more attention. While it’s not always the first place people think of for smoked meats, those who live here or visit often find something worth coming back for. From small roadside shacks to longtime local favorites, BBQ in this state is all about deep flavor, slow cooking, and a mix of old-school methods with regional twists. The blend of smoke and spice reflects the mix of cultures and traditions found throughout New Mexico.
This article lists 30 of the best BBQ spots across the state. These places have built strong reputations through word of mouth and local support. We focused on joints that keep things simple, serve quality food, and stay true to their roots. If you’re searching for the best barbecue in New Mexico, this guide gives you a solid starting point. Each spot on this list has earned its place through steady, honest cooking and loyal fans who keep coming back.
#30 – Buffalo Hall & Cowboy Café BBQ
Buffalo Hall & Cowboy Café BBQ in Las Vegas, New Mexico blends a casual BBQ experience with a historic Western vibe. Inside, guests find wooden beams, vintage décor, and enough space to host live music and games like pool and cornhole. The smoked meats are cooked in a custom pit built from an old steam tank. Brisket, ribs, sausage, turkey, and pulled pork are among the regular items. One of their most popular sandwiches includes sliced brisket with provolone and roasted peppers. Customers often highlight the smoky flavor and tenderness of the meats. Sides like cornbread, slaw, and baked beans add to the comfort food appeal. Because it can get busy on weekends, many regulars recommend coming early before they sell out.
#29 – Jim Bob’s BBQ
Jim Bob’s BBQ in Las Cruces offers a wide selection of slow-smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, chicken, and turkey. The brisket is lean with a clean smoke ring and a slightly crispy bark. Many people enjoy the ribs for their meaty bite and seasoning, and the housemade sauces, including a prickly pear-habanero blend, add extra flavor without overpowering the meat. Pulled pork and sausage are also standouts, often mentioned for being juicy and well-prepared. You can get combo platters that allow you to try more than one meat, served with classic sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. The dining space is tidy and relaxed, and the staff are polite and quick to help. For travelers or locals looking for solid barbecue without the fuss, Jim Bob’s is a dependable stop in southern New Mexico.
#28 – Greg’s BBQ
Greg’s BBQ in Belen serves Carolina-style smoked meats prepared on-site using hickory and pecan wood. The pulled pork is tender and well-seasoned, while the brisket has a balanced mix of smoke, bark, and moisture. Green chile sausage is one of their signature items, offering mild heat with local flavor. The turkey slices are thin and juicy with a soft smokiness that doesn’t overpower. Sides like hand-cut fries, baked beans, and mac and cheese pair well with any meat combo. Fried pickle spears and coleslaw are also popular, adding crunch and tang to the plate. The interior is no-frills but clean and comfortable, with friendly service and fair prices. Portions are generous, and the quality has remained consistent over time.
#27 – Da People’s Choice BBQ & Seafood
Da People’s Choice BBQ & Seafood brings a Southern-style mix of smoked meats and seafood to Moriarty. Known for generous portions and bold flavors, the brisket and ribs are two of the most talked-about options, both seasoned well and cooked until tender. The pulled pork and turkey legs also stand out, offering a strong smoke profile without being dry. Sides like potato salad, fried okra, and coleslaw are made fresh and pair well with the main plates. One of the local favorites is the loaded baked potato, which can be topped with meats like brisket or pulled pork. Seafood options include fried fish and shrimp, making this spot a good choice for those who want more than just barbecue. The setting is casual, and the service is often described as friendly and efficient. It’s a reliable stop for a hearty, no-frills meal along Route 66.
#26 – SA BBQ
S-A BBQ in Albuquerque serves New Mexico-style barbecue with a strong focus on slow-smoked meats and local flavor. Located inside Tin Can Alley, the setup is casual and easygoing, with brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and sausage prepared fresh daily. The meats are seasoned with in-house rubs and paired with sauces that blend sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors without overwhelming the dish. Items like brisket sliders, pulled pork sandwiches, and Brisket Borracho Nachos are some of the most talked-about choices for their bold taste and good value. The team behind the counter keeps the service fast and friendly, adding to the overall experience. S-A BBQ is a dependable stop for well-prepared barbecue with a local twist.
#25 – Outlaw BBQ Company
Outlaw BBQ Company in Chama is a small roadside spot along NM-17 known for its smoky meats and generous portions. The menu includes sliced brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausage, all cooked low and slow to bring out bold flavor. Each plate comes with classic sides like baked beans, potato salad, street corn, and fries, offering a full and filling meal. The setup includes outdoor seating with a few picnic tables, and leashed dogs are welcome in the seating area during good weather. Outlaw BBQ Company is a solid stop for anyone passing through Chama looking for hearty barbecue in a relaxed setting.
#24 – Nomads BBQ
Nomads BBQ is a popular food truck in Albuquerque known for its smoky, well-seasoned meats and generous portions. It’s often parked around the city, and many regulars say the smell of the smoker is enough to lead them straight to it. The menu includes a solid variety of slow-cooked options, all made using a custom-built smoker that brings out a deep, rich flavor. What keeps people coming back is the consistency in taste and the friendly, no-fuss service. The meats are tender and full of flavor, and the homemade barbecue sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Portions are large, and prices are fair, which makes it a go-to spot for anyone looking for real BBQ without any extras. Locals say it’s one of those places where once you try it, you’ll want to track it down again the next time you’re craving good barbecue.
#23 – Rosie’s Smokehouse
Rosie’s Smokehouse in Questa serves slow-smoked meats with deep mesquite flavor in a laid-back setting right off Highway 522. The brisket, ribs, and pulled pork are known for being tender and well-seasoned, while the green chile mac and cheese, baked beans, and potato salad are made fresh and complement the mains. Homemade jams and pickles, often made from local fruit, bring a unique touch to the meals. The setting is quiet and relaxed, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Portions are generous and pricing is fair, making it a reliable stop for a filling meal. The staff keeps things friendly and efficient, helping make the experience feel welcoming from start to finish. Rosie’s has become a favorite among those who live nearby and travelers looking for real barbecue with local flavor and no fuss.
#22 – Craft Q Barbecue
Craft Q Barbecue is a food truck in Albuquerque known for its well-prepared smoked meats and straightforward menu. The brisket is tender with a deep smoky flavor, and the pork belly burnt ends have a rich, crispy finish that many locals look for in quality barbecue. Loaded brisket fries and combo rib plates are popular for their generous portions and bold taste. The house-made barbecue sauce adds a balanced layer of sweet and spice without covering up the natural flavor of the meat. Craft Q often appears at events around the city like local food truck gatherings and festivals, which adds to its strong following. Everything is cooked fresh and served hot, making it a solid choice for people who want a quick but well-made barbecue meal in Albuquerque. The truck has become a favorite for its consistent flavor and honest cooking.
#21 – Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is a Texas-style chain with multiple locations across New Mexico, including in Albuquerque, Gallup, Farmington, and Deming. The restaurant smokes its meats daily on-site using hickory wood, bringing a traditional smoky flavor to brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and sausage. The menu features classic sides like mac and cheese, barbecue beans, fried okra, green beans, corn on the cob, and potato salad. Meals are served in a clean, casual setting with options for dine-in or takeout. Many customers go for the pulled pork or sausage, which tend to be consistent across locations. Brisket and ribs may vary depending on the store, but most locations offer a steady and convenient barbecue experience. Service is usually fast, and the pricing feels reasonable for what you get. For travelers or locals looking for a familiar and simple barbecue meal, Dickey’s offers a reliable stop in several New Mexico towns.
#20 – La Sierra Mesquite Smoked BBQ
La Sierra Mesquite Smoked BBQ in Roswell brings classic mesquite‑smoked barbecue with bold flavor in a clean, welcoming setting. The brisket and ribs are known for falling off the bone and having a true Texas-style smoke profile. The chicken is often praised for its charred exterior and moist inside. Sides like potato salad, coleslaw, beans, and corn muffins round out meals and leave a satisfying impression.Staff are friendly and attentive, creating a relaxed atmosphere that works well for both dining in and takeout. The small, tidy interior and themed decor help set a down-to-earth tone without distracting from the food. If you’re in southeastern New Mexico and looking for barbecue that brings out deep mesquite flavor with hearty sides and straightforward service, La Sierra is a strong choice.
#19 – Tantrum Barbecue
Tantrum Barbecue is a well-regarded food truck in Albuquerque serving brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and creative sides with strong smoky flavor. The brisket is tender and flavorful, while the pulled pork holds its moisture and stays seasoned throughout. Ribs are easy to eat and packed with bold smoke. One of the standout items is the brisket nachos, loaded with meat, cheese, jalapeños, and sauce that adds just the right amount of heat. A side of green chile corn brings a New Mexico twist without overpowering the plate. The food truck often sets up at local breweries and events, offering a casual, clean environment with friendly service. Everything is made fresh to order, and the staff keeps things efficient and welcoming. Tantrum Barbecue is a solid choice for those craving real, hearty barbecue in Albuquerque.
#18 – Brother-N-Law BBQ
Brother-N-Law BBQ in Cloudcroft serves Texas-style barbecue in a small mountain town setting that feels both laid-back and welcoming. The menu includes brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage, all smoked to bring out deep flavor without being overly heavy. Sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and beans are made fresh and balance out the richness of the meats. The brisket sandwich and smoked turkey plate are popular picks for their tender texture and bold seasoning. The restaurant offers outdoor seating where guests can enjoy their meal while taking in the cool mountain air. The atmosphere is relaxed, and service is often described as friendly and fast. For anyone passing through southeastern New Mexico looking for a solid barbecue spot with a down-to-earth feel, Brother-N-Law BBQ is worth the visit.
#17 – Golden Pride BBQ
Golden Pride BBQ Chicken & Ribs is a long-running spot in Albuquerque known for its smoky barbecue chicken, hearty ribs, and fast, reliable service. The chicken is cooked with a light smoky flavor and served with a thin, tangy sauce that adds just the right touch of spice. Ribs are tender and flavorful, often compared to those at specialty barbecue joints. The fried chicken is also a standout for being crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Many people visit for the tortillas, which are made fresh and considered some of the best in the city. Sides include mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, and coleslaw, all prepared to match the comfort food vibe of the menu. With reasonable prices, generous portions, and a casual setting, Golden Pride remains a go-to choice for locals craving barbecue with a New Mexico twist.
#16 – J’s Var-B-Q
J’s Var-B-Q in Albuquerque brings Oklahoma-style barbecue to New Mexico, using white oak wood to slow-smoke meats like brisket, pulled pork, hot links, and turkey. The result is a mild, clean smoke flavor that doesn’t overpower the natural taste of the meat. Brisket and ribs are often ordered by the pound or as sandwiches, and the meat is cut or shredded fresh to order. One of the standout sides is the green chile mac and cheese, which gives a regional twist to a comfort food favorite. Other sides like baked beans, fried okra, and coleslaw round out the meal without feeling too heavy. The restaurant space is clean and casual with a counter-service setup that keeps things moving quickly. Meals are known for being generous and fairly priced, making J’s a reliable choice for anyone looking for slow-smoked flavor with a laid-back atmosphere.
#15 – The Ranch House
The Ranch House in Santa Fe offers richly smoked meats using Texas oak, bringing a mild but deep flavor to brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and half‑smoked chicken. The brisket melts in your mouth while the ribs fall off the bone. Signature touches like green‑chile brisket, red‑chile honey glazed ribs, and smoked pork belly tacos pair well with sides such as green‑chile cornbread, BBQ beans, sweet potato waffle fries, and green‑chile slaw. The restaurant sits in a comfortable space just off Cerrillos Road with indoor and outdoor patio seating. Staff take time to make guests feel at home, and the setting fits casual meals or relaxed dinners.
#14 – Danny’s Place
Danny’s Place in Carlsbad serves hardwood-smoked Texas-style barbecue in a relaxed setting. The brisket is one of the most ordered items, often chopped and tender with a light smoky crust. St. Louis-style pork ribs are cooked to be soft and easy to eat, and the pulled pork and turkey offer good flavor without being too heavy. Most plates come with two sides and a roll, with common choices like pinto beans, coleslaw, and potato salad. The portions are generous and pricing is fair, which makes it a good value for both locals and travelers. The space has a small-town feel with wood decor, a laid-back counter service system, and friendly staff. It’s a reliable stop for people visiting Carlsbad Caverns or driving through the area.
#13 – Red Chimney Pit Bar-B-Que
Red Chimney Pit Bar‑B‑Que has been serving southern-style barbecue in Carlsbad since 1954, using local pecan wood to smoke brisket, ribs, sausage, and chicken. The slow-cooked meats carry a classic taste that reflects the long-standing tradition of old-fashioned pit barbecue. Southern-style sides like pinto beans, potato salad, and fresh salads are made daily and pair well with the hearty mains. A standout dessert is homemade sourdough cobbler in flavors like apple, peach, or cherry served warm, often mentioned as a highlight of the meal. The setting has a cozy log cabin vibe and friendly staff add to the welcoming feel. If you are looking for traditional Kentucky-style smoked meats with generous portions and down-to-earth service, Red Chimney is a trusted choice.
#12 – Mighty Mike’s Meats
Mighty Mike’s Meats is a food truck in Albuquerque known for slow-smoked brisket, pork belly, and sausage cooked over fruit wood. The brisket is consistently tender with a well-developed bark and smoke ring, while the pork belly has a caramelized edge that adds flavor and texture. Their brisket nachos and loaded cheesy papitas have become local favorites, blending barbecue with New Mexico flair. The menu also features smoked chicken with a peppery rub and sausage links that hold their juiciness. It’s not just the food that draws people in, but the consistency, generous portions, and approachable pricing. The truck sets up at different spots around the city including parks and breweries, making it a convenient stop for regulars. Service is friendly and quick, and many customers return for the reliable flavor and well-balanced seasoning across all meats and sides.
#11 – Cowgirl BBQ
Cowgirl BBQ in Santa Fe offers mesquite‑smoked barbecue in a fun, lively setting on Guadalupe Street. The brisket and ribs are known for being tender, with rich smoke and a flavorful bark. The pulled pork sandwich is served with a spicy habanero-based sauce that adds kick without drowning the meat. Crowd favorites include the Five Pepper Nachos with Salsa Diablo, piled with beans, cheese, jalapeños, and meat for bold taste and texture. Sides like BBQ pinto beans, potato salad, and coleslaw come standard with meals. The space is spacious and lively, with indoor seating plus a dog‑friendly outdoor patio, live music several nights of the week, and entertaining pool hall vibes. Generous portions and fair pricing make it a satisfying stop whether you’re a local or traveling through Santa Fe.
#10 – Watson’s BBQ
Watson’s BBQ in Tucumcari is tucked inside Tucumcari Ranch Supply, right along Route 66. It’s known for large portions of slow-smoked meats, especially the brisket, ribs, and housemade sausage. The brisket has a noticeable bark and good smoke depth, while the ribs are tender with a light glaze that brings out the flavor. The sausage includes beef, pork, and cheddar, giving it a mix of smoky, rich, and spicy notes. Plates usually come with two sides like mac and cheese or beans, a thick slice of house bread, and a sugar cookie, making it a filling and complete meal. It’s common for travelers and locals to describe the place as friendly, unpretentious, and easy to enjoy. For anyone driving through eastern New Mexico, Watson’s offers a solid barbecue stop with a setting that feels one of a kind.
#9 – The County Line
The County Line in Albuquerque sits near the base of the Sandia Mountains and serves Texas-style barbecue in a relaxed, roadhouse-style setting. It’s known for its brisket and pork ribs, both smoked until tender and full of flavor. The brisket, especially the lean second cut, is juicy and slices clean. Ribs are thick, meaty, and hold their shape without being tough. The housemade sausage adds a smoky, peppery bite, and the smoked chicken is another solid option.Diners can enjoy wide mountain views through large windows, giving the place a calm, open-air feel. The County Line has been a steady barbecue spot for both locals and travelers looking for classic smoked meats in a scenic location.
#8 – Smokey Shack BBQ
Smokey Shack BBQ in Española serves slow-smoked meats in a simple, no-frills setting that focuses on strong flavor and generous portions. The brisket stands out for its soft texture and thick bark that pulls apart easily. Burnt ends are packed with flavor, while sausage and smoked turkey are cooked evenly with just the right seasoning. The place operates from a compact kitchen near a brewery, and many customers say the quality holds up visit after visit. Smokey Shack is often called one of the best barbecue spots in northern New Mexico, especially for people who enjoy rich, wood-smoked meats without too much sauce. If you’re heading through Española, this place offers a solid stop for dependable barbecue in a laid-back setting.
#7 – Sparky’s Burgers, BBQ & Espresso
Sparky’s Burgers, BBQ & Espresso in Hatch is known for mixing barbecue with local flavor and a playful atmosphere. Their pulled pork and brisket sandwiches are both slow-smoked and cooked until tender, with a smoky taste that doesn’t rely too much on sauce. The green chile cheeseburger is another standout, packed with roasted Hatch chiles and melted cheese, served without extras so the flavor comes through clearly. The sides, like pineapple slaw and seasoned fries, are made fresh and served in large portions. The fun setting is filled with vintage statues, upbeat music, and colorful signs. The outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and there’s often live music on the weekends. It’s one of the most recognized stops for barbecue and local New Mexican flavors, especially for those traveling through Hatch and looking for a casual spot with strong flavors.
#6 – Hot Mess BBQ and Soul Food
Hot Mess BBQ and Soul Food serves Southern-style barbecue and soul food in a no-frills setting just off Eubank Boulevard in Albuquerque. The brisket is moist with a noticeable smoke ring and balanced sweet‑tangy sauce that enhances without overpowering. Ribs offer a solid bite and clear smoke flavor. Pulled pork, chicken, and savory sausages deliver consistent seasoning and texture. Unique sides like fried okra, potato salad, and green beans stand out, and shrimp and grits have received praise from those seeking something beyond standard barbecue beans. If you’re looking for a blend of barbecue flavor with soul food classics, this spot delivers a reliable and flavorful experience.
#5 – Duke City BBQ
Duke City BBQ in Albuquerque serves slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, sausage, ribs, turkey and chicken using traditional barbecue methods. The brisket stands out for being moist with a good bark and thick smoke ring. The sausage links have a strong flavor and a satisfying snap. Sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, creamed corn and coleslaw often include fruit or spice blends that give them a slightly sweet twist. The loaded baked potato and jalapeño pepper stuffed with cream cheese and pulled pork are popular for their size and bold taste. The restaurant has a clean, casual setup with quick service and friendly staff. With fair prices and generous portions, it continues to be a favorite stop for New Mexico barbecue fans.
#4 – Whole Hog Cafe
Whole Hog Cafe has locations in Albuquerque and Santa Fe and serves Memphis-style barbecue smoked over pecan wood. Pulled pork, brisket, ribs, sausage and chicken make up the core menu, all prepared with traditional dry rubs and low-and-slow methods. The restaurant features several sauces from sweet and mild molasses-based versions to spicy vinegar-mustard blends for those who like heat. Service is usually fast and friendly, and the atmosphere has a food-hall feel with a BBQ theme throughout. Whole Hog Café remains one of the more consistent barbecue chains in New Mexico for visitors seeking classic slow-smoked flavors.
#3 – Nexus Blue Smokehouse
Nexus Blue Smokehouse in Albuquerque mixes barbecue with New Mexican flavors and house-brewed beer. Their smoked meats include brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, chicken and burnt ends, all cooked low and slow using pecan or hickory wood. The brisket is moist with a flavorful crust, and the ribs have a smoky bite and tender finish. Sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, fried okra, and baked beans with meat offer familiar comfort with a twist. What sets this spot apart is the use of local red chile in some sauces, giving the food a bold, earthy kick. The restaurant has a casual, clean setup with a patio and occasional live music. Nexus stands out in the Albuquerque food scene for combining solid barbecue techniques with a New Mexico touch.
#2 – Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q
Rudy’s Country Store & Bar‑B‑Q in Albuquerque is a Texas-based chain serving barbecue smoked over oak wood. The brisket is its signature offering, often described as moist with a well-formed bark and classic wood-fired taste. Turkey and sausage, including a jalapeño link version, are popular picks too. Plates come with sides like pinto beans, cream corn, potato salad, coleslaw or green chile stew. Desserts include banana pudding and cobbler that tie into the classic country store vibe. For travelers or locals seeking consistent BBQ with generous portions, Rudy’s remains a solid chain option.
#1 – Mad Jack’s Mountaintop Barbecue
Mad Jack’s Mountaintop Barbecue in Cloudcroft sits at one of the highest elevations for any barbecue joint in the country, offering Texas-style barbecue in a casual mountain-town setting. What sets it apart is the long smoking process over post oak wood, which gives the meat a bold, clean flavor. The brisket is thick-cut with a crust that adds texture, while the beef ribs are known for being large, juicy, and tender with a smoky finish. Sides like mac and cheese with red chile, cornbread, and baked potatoes add a local touch that complements the main plates. The setting is relaxed and fits the mountain town vibe, adding to the overall experience. People regularly drive from nearby cities to eat here, and long lines are common during busy hours. Still, many say the quality of the food makes the wait worth it.
What Makes New Mexico BBQ Stand Out
New Mexico BBQ stands out for its bold use of local flavors and cultural mix. One key feature is the use of red and green chile, which shows up in sauces, marinades, and side dishes. This local touch gives the barbecue a flavor that’s different from what you’ll find in places like Texas or the Carolinas. The state’s barbecue also pulls from Hispanic, Native American, and Southern influences, blending smoking techniques with traditional New Mexican ingredients.
Another thing that makes it unique is the variety of meats and smoking methods. Most spots offer more than just brisket or pork, including options like turkey, sausage, and ribs. Mesquite and oak wood are commonly used, giving the meat a deep, smoky flavor. Sides often reflect the region too, with dishes like posole, beans, or tortillas served alongside. This combination of slow-smoked meats and local ingredients helps give New Mexico BBQ its own identity.
FAQs About New Mexico BBQ
Is New Mexico BBQ spicy?
It can be, depending on the place. Some BBQ spots offer spicy sauces or rubs, especially if they use local chile, but many also provide mild versions.
Do BBQ restaurants in New Mexico use traditional smokers?
Yes, many use offset or barrel smokers, while others use custom pits or wood-fired setups to get that deep smoky flavor.
Are there vegetarian options at BBQ spots in New Mexico?
While meat is the focus, some places include sides like mac and cheese, grilled veggies, or salads that work for non-meat eaters.
Is BBQ popular in northern or southern New Mexico?
BBQ is enjoyed statewide, but southern parts of New Mexico often have more spots known for blending Southern BBQ with local cooking styles.
Can I find BBQ food trucks in New Mexico?
Yes, food trucks are a big part of the BBQ scene here. Some of them travel around towns or set up at breweries, offering quality smoked meats in a casual setting.
We love Mad Jacks in Cloudcroft! It’s so good. Excited to be in Cloudcroft next month. We will be at Mad Jacks a couple of times!