Talking barbecue in Kansas City is a dangerous game. Mention your favorite barbecue joint, and someone will fire back at why it’s inferior to their favorite place. It can sometimes be fun and games, or sometimes it can get serious.
We’re not about to leave out anyone’s favorite spot, and hon- estly, is there much bad barbecue in Kansas City? We covered some pitmasters doing notable stuff in the Northland in our “All Fired Up” barbecue story, but we’re not about to leave anyone out. Heck, we challenge you to try every barbecue joint mentioned in this issue and then give us your own verdict (and then report back on your cholesterol levels).
509 Main St, Weston
Just like most Weston businesses, Tin Kitchen is in a historic build- ing on Main Street — an old hardware store built in 1842. Owner Sean O’Malley smokes their barbecue with pecan wood, and it washes down nicely with their great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
8451 NW Prairie View Rd, Kansas City and 6304 North Oak, Gladstone
Smokehouse is one of the oldest barbecue joints in the Northland, and they’ve got three locations — two in the Northland and one in Independence. They hickory smoke their brisket and are the go-to spot for many Northlanders.
109 E Main St, Smithville
A reliable hometown barbecue spot, Chops has delectable ribs and even offers fried pork tenderloin, in addition to all the bar- becue standbys. We also like their wrap options and loaded fries.
10020 N Ambassador Dr, Kansas City
If you manage to get to your main course without filling up on appetizers such as wings, corn nuggets and fried ravioli, you can treat yourself to all the barbecue classics. They also have some made-from scratch Italian-style sandwiches, such as meatball and Italian steak.
160 State Rte 92, Kearney
A takeout joint named after the goal “to eat full” in Filipino, Chibog 2 Go serves Filipino-style barbecue, as well as Filipino classics such as lumpia and chicken adobo.
103 S Jefferson St, Kearney
If their social media is any indication, the folks behind Diddy’s have a sense of humor. In addition to their simple menu, they also have their own brewery and often feature live music and events.
Wolfepack BBQ
1340 Burlington St, North Kansas City
Though it’s currently a pop-up inside Callsign Brewing, this new barbecue joint has plans to make a permanent spot inside the Brewery this summer. The owner has experience working with Scott’s Kitchen, Fox & Fire and Jousting Pigs, and in addition to all the ol’ standbys, they have unique menu options like Thai peanut potato salad and Mahi Mahi tacos.