10 barbecue spots we’re fired up about

Here’s where you can get great barbecue at local restaurants around the River City

RICtoday_PigAndBrew_BBQ_Manchester

Pig and Brew also offers brunch, wings, cocktails, and more.

Photo via Pig and Brew

We asked readers and social media followers for their picks for the best barbecue in Richmond — and the results are making us hungry.

Here are 10 local spots for the next time you’re craving brisket, pulled pork, ribs, or just a huge tray of sides.

Deep Run Roadhouse, 12379 Gayton Rd.
Chopped pork, pulled chicken, brisket, rope sausage, smoked portabello, and fried catfish are all on the menu at this Henrico establishment.

Frontier by Alamo, 412 N. 25th St.
Church Hill is home to this Texas-style barbecue spot that also offers rotisserie and grilled dishes.

McCormack’s Big Whisky Grill, 204 N. Robinson St.
Try the smoked duck breast, house brisket, or smoked tofu at this Fan restaurant.

Oak & Apple, 1814 E. Main St.
This Shockoe spot uses an Ole Hickory smoker first introduced in 1974.

Pig & Brew, 1313 Hull St.
This restaurant opened in 2018 and brings pitmaster Lamont Hawkins’s 20+ years of experience to Manchester.

Redemption BBQ, 3420 Lauderdale Dr.
Pitmaster John Vest — also known as Rev. Dr. Porkchop — prides his business on working with local farmers to ensure high quality meats.

RICtoday_OriginalRonnies_BBQCompChicago

The Original Ronnie’s BBQ was awarded “Best Chef” at the Six in the City Southern BBQ Experience Event in June 2024.

Photo via Richmond Region Tourism

The Original Ronnie’s BBQ, 2097 New Market Rd.
Drive up to this classic country roadside joint near Varina.

Smohk RVA BBQ, 3112 W. Leigh St.
Dig into a whole platter at this Scott’s Addition spot and take some sauce to go — most flavors are available by the bottle.

The Smoky Mug, 15 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
This Northside restaurant is also part coffeeshop and part Tex Mex Kitchen — look for the barbecue Wednesdays-Sundays.

ZZQ, 3201 W. Moore St.
Get out early for this Texas craft barbecue, served out of Scott’s Addition Wednesdays-Sundays until sold out.

Find the joint closest to you with this map.

More from RICtoday
From star-studded stages to steadfast dives, explore the concert venues that keep Richmond’s music scene thriving.
There’s a lot to look forward to in Richmond over the next few years. See what new developments are in store and when construction is expected to wrap up.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that the River City has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
Become a development terminology expert fast than you can say “Special use permit for a mixed-use zone.”
New to the city or just looking to meet some new people? Our guide can help you find folks who with similar interests.
Where were you when the blizzard hit?
This prismatic phenomenon has captivated curiosity in Virginia Beach, but you might be able to find the mystical occurrence closer to home.
Whether you’re sober, trying out Dry January, or just want more options for delicious drinks, here are several local menus with robust NA options.
Bookmark this page to your favorites tab so you can quickly return and find the top events happening each month in Richmond.