Stories > 10 Barbecue Bets Around Connecticut
10 Barbecue Bets Around Connecticut Last Updated 3/19
These days, the mouthwatering aroma of barbecuing is in the air from one end of Connecticut to the other - and we're not talking the backyard variety. For some reason (It tastes really good? It's usually a bargain?), barbecue joints are popping up all over the state, becoming a staple of the local diet that's right up there with pizza and hot dogs. Enjoy. And don't forget the napkins.
Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ
Try what some say is the best authentic wood-smoked Kansas City style barbeque in Connecticut at Bear’s Smokehouse. With locations in Hartford, Windsor and South Windsor, Bear’s is also the Official BBQ of the UConn Huskies!
Chester's Barbecue, Groton
Everyone seems to love Chester's in Groton, where the chili is a favorite and the brisket sandwich is a must-try.
Hilltop BBQ Steakhouse, Moodus
The ribs lead the hit parade here. You can get 'em Memphis or St. Louis style, or go for the brisket dinner. Back it all up with mac 'n' cheese.
When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ, Sharon
Here you'll find pulled pork and brisket sandwiches and smoker specials. Honey butter cornbread as a side. Peach blueberry pie for dessert.
Walrus & Carpenter, Bridgeport
Pick the right night to go here and you'll get live music along with your maple-bourbon baby back ribs and house-made Andouille sausage at this popular Bridgeport spot.
Hoo Doo Brown Barbeque, Ridgefield
Owner and pitmaster Cody Sperry opened this “outlaw barbecue” joint after being inspired on a series of road trips to experience the country’s best barbecue. Enjoy ribs and brisket with Mason jars of house-made moonshine.
The Stand, Branford
Discover authentic, mouth-watering barbecue, fresh local produce and good conversation at this former full-service gas station in Branford.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Located in the historic Harbor Point area of Stamford, the restaurant occupies a beautifully refurbished factory that was part of the Yale Lock Co.
Little Mark’s BBQ, Vernon
This longtime Vernon favorite smokes ribs and meats daily, makes sauces and deserts from scratch and remains one of Connecticut’s best spots for “mouth waterin’, butt kickin’” BBQ.
The Cookhouse, New Milford
Voted the best barbecue in Connecticut for 17 yeaars, and named one of the best restaurants in Connecticut 2016 by readers of Connecticut Magazine, the Cookhouse offers delicious southern style barbecue.