Philadelphia, PA - Whether you call it BBQ, Barbeque, or Barbecue, New Jersey BBQ joints are putting out award-winning ribs, mouth-watering Bar-B-Q chicken, and much more. New Jersey is known for many things - casinos, beautiful beaches, and lively boardwalks - but its cuisine should not be overlooked! Especially for anyone interested in BBQ, this state has its fair share of pithouses and BBQ joints.
Savor the Smoke: A Guide to New Jersey's Best BBQ Joints
New Jersey might be known for its diners and boardwalk treats, but the Garden State also boasts a surprisingly vibrant and growing barbecue scene. From authentic Texas-style brisket to smoky ribs and regional specialties, pitmasters across the state are bringing their A-game to satisfy every craving for slow-cooked perfection. If you're on the hunt for top-tier BBQ, look no further than these nine standout establishments where the smoke is rich and the flavors run deep.
1. Smoke BBQ (Audubon)
- Inspiration: Drawing inspiration from the beloved roadside shacks of the Southeast and Texas, Smoke BBQ focuses on fresh, daily smoked meats.
- The Scoop: They're so committed to freshness that they frequently sell out, sometimes multiple times a day! Expect genuine, unpretentious barbecue that speaks for itself.
- Location: 34 W Merchant St, Audubon, NJ 08106
2. Pulled Fork BBQ (Long Valley)
- Origin Story: Owner Mike Meredith, a Texas transplant, brought his passion for BBQ to New Jersey, meticulously experimenting to recreate the Central-East Texas smoking style he missed. Officially born in Fall 2014, Pulled Fork BBQ is a labor of love.
- The Scoop: A taste of authentic Texas in the heart of New Jersey, perfected through dedication and a yearning for home-state flavors.
- Location: 38 E Mill Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853
3. Bill's Barbeque (Vineland)
- Family Tradition: Bill's BBQ is a proud family-owned and operated establishment dedicated to delicious food and exceptional service.
- The Scoop: Their commitment to quality starts early, with cooking beginning at 5 AM to ensure meats are fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with smoky goodness. Paired with mouth-watering sides, it’s a complete BBQ experience.
- Location: 364 Harding Hwy, Vineland, NJ 08360
4. Whole Hog Cafe (Medford)
- Southern Roots: An outpost of a celebrated Southern BBQ chain, Whole Hog Cafe serves up classic ribs, brisket, and other standards in a laid-back atmosphere.
- The Scoop: What started as "a hobby that got out of hand" for founders Mike "Sarge" Davis, Ron Blasingame, and Steve Lucchi, became a World Championship contender at the 2000 Memphis-in-May contest, proving their rib recipe was indeed special.
- Location: 67 N Main St, Medford, NJ 08055
5. Blowin' Smoque (Camden)
- From Truck to Table: R’lay Wilkerson, who initially built a reputation with his popular food truck, has now opened a brick-and-mortar location, earning accolades like "Best BBQ spot, hands down."
- The Scoop: Expect everything fresh, flavorful, and served with exceptional service. Blowin' Smoque is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit for top-tier barbecue in the state.
- Location: 1222 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103
6. The Surfing Pig (North Wildwood)
- Waterfront Delight: Combining the best of waterfront dining with real wood-smoked BBQ and seafood, The Surfing Pig offers a unique experience.
- The Scoop: Enjoy BBQ plates, juicy burgers, fresh seafood, and refreshing cocktails in a casual, nautical-themed setting, all with captivating water views.
- Location: 231 W 10th Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260
7. Daddy Matty’s BBQ (Madison)
- Southwestern Flair: This Southwestern-inspired restaurant offers a diverse range of BBQ delights.
- The Scoop: The menu boasts dry-rubbed beef, pulled chicken or pork, baby back ribs, and sausage sandwiches, alongside Texas-style brisket chili, tacos, and pulled pork enchiladas. Daddy Matty's also demonstrates a passion for giving back, partnering with the Food Pantry of Morris County.
- Location: 6 Elmer St, Madison, NJ 07940
8. More Than Q (Lambertville)
- East Coast Destination: Founded in 2014 by pitmaster Matt Martin, More Than Q BBQ Company has become one of the East Coast's premier barbecue destinations.
- The Scoop: They're known for serving up delicious, perfectly smoked meats—from brisket to smoked sausage and ribs—complemented by seasonal Southern sides like burnt-end baked beans, collard greens, and cheesy grits.
- Location: 13 Klines Ct, Lambertville, NJ 08530
9. Red White & Que Smokehouse (Kearny)
- Rebellious Tradition: Red White & Que BBQ is more than just fantastic food; it embodies a rebellious spirit while holding fast to old-school American traditions.
- The Scoop: This is the kind of food that brings friends and neighbors together for celebrations, offering a taste of authentic, community-focused barbecue.
- Location: 266 Davis Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032
New Jersey's BBQ scene is a testament to passion, tradition, and innovation. From the dedicated pitmasters crafting slow-smoked masterpieces to restaurants blending regional influences, these establishments offer an incredible journey through the world of barbecue. Grab your napkins and prepare for a flavorful adventure across the Garden State!
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Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff
Philadelphia Best Of Series is a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in Philly.
