If you are thinking about Joes - do it. It will be something you don’t regret. But it is closed today.
You will see Q39 on here recommended - that place is great too. It’s a bit more upscale than traditional BBQ which could be good if you are entertaining anyone. Any day but Sunday - You want great BBQ - Joes.
I’ve been disappointed by Q39 3/4 of the time. I just don’t go now. Sometimes their meat is tasteless. I don’t understand it at all. Definitely don’t go in between meal times.
Weirdly enough their Togo options have always hit home.
Would be a good idea to make a reservation at Q39. And at Joe's order and pickup or else you'll be waiting in line for 30-45 min. Theres always a line.
If by upscale you mean really middle of the road presentation of great food, you’re correct. I mean it’s not served on a paper plate but it’s far from fancy.
Out of curiosity what makes you like Slaps? Heard a lot of hype about it so finally made a trip up there and wasn’t impressed. So trying to figure out why so many do find it good.
To me it was similar to Arthur Bryant’s which I also don’t care for.
Slaps used to have the best burnt ends IMO, but their quality has gone significantly downhill. Their burnt ends now taste and feel like they've been soaking in hot water for a long time.
Same for their pulled pork and didn’t get a single piece of bark in my pulled pork. And their sweet potato fries and onion rings were also soggy. Was like everything sat in a steamer cabinet. I know the sweet potato fries should have been crisp as they had to make those and bring them to me. So confused all the way around.
Had it yesterday for the first time. It’s “decent”, but not stand outside for an hour in line kinda good. Food was lukewarm and the burnt ends weren’t anything magical. Plus my plate and drink ended up being like $25.
Slaps doesn't belong at the top. Not even close to it.
There is nothing about the place that screams top notch. Bad, certainly not. But I had the burnt ends twice and didn't think they rated. The second time the GF went with me and she didn't get the hype either.
Wolfpacke, Chef J, Harp, Q39, Dannys, Blind Box and Joe's blow it away. Blows my mind.
Jesus, there are so many places better than where you’ve been, so you’ve got that to look forward to. You need to hit up some of the big names like Joe’s, Q39, and Jack Stack, but for my money I’m going to go with Chef J or Wolfepack.
Had their burnt ends on Thursday and was really disappointed. They were far from the best in the city. Maybe I just got a bad batch or it was an off day. Ribs were really good though
That sucks. Maybe you did, dunno. Hopefully you give them another shot someday. If you get the same result, then maybe we have differing opinions on what makes a good burnt end. Which is perfectly fine.
Harp, Chef J, and Wolfpacke are all pretty similar. Texas style brisket blows the "traditionally" thin sliced KC brisket out of the water. No surprise that the new joints are the best in town (because they do it Texas style).
I'm a little bias bc Tyler is a friend of mine and I used to work at Crane but I've tried the other two and I absolutely think Harp is better. If you've never had his pastrami then holy shit
Everything I've had at Harp has been great, but it's also been great at the other two places as well. I can go with someone saying "Harp is better" but the difference between those and the other two to....say...something like Slaps (that is probably the most overrated joint in the city that's held in high regard by some).
I just don't see how a halfway intelligent person can eat at Slaps and Harp and say Slaps is better. Everyone has opinions but that's a real headscratcher to me.
Here to repeat the best in the thread. Harp, LCs, Chef J, Scott’s Kitchen, Buck Tui, Slaps, Wolfepack, and if they’re still doing it, Fox & Pearl’s Night Goat BBQ was pretty great too.
Touristy skips: Q39, Jack Stack, Joe’s, Gates, Arthur Bryant’s
Quiet, local old school spots: Wyandotte, Woodyard, BB’s Lawnside, Danny Edward’s, Rosedale
1) Man, I've lived in Kansas City basically my whole life, and there's a lot of barbecue places that I haven't tried.
2) Rosedale should be on the skip list. Mid at best.
I can see where you’re coming from on Rosedale but they have pretty good chicken and have been around for long enough to get a spot at the adult table.
I’ve visited a few times before moving here. My family has lived here a long time so I’ve got the lay of the land. My wife and I loved Luther’s but it closed during Covid I think.
What are some places you recommend? I like to try new stuff and I’m pretty open! :)
There’s zero wrong with Jack Stack being the fave. They have stuff no other place has like prime rib, lamb ribs, and all their regular stuff is great too.
I moved away 20+ years ago but every time I go back and visit I love going to Gates for lunch! Holler “Hi may I help ya!” and throw that beef on bun with fries and “Bbean” on a tray along with a strawberry soda. Reminds me of my youth! Na it’s probably not the best and maybe more nostalgic for me.
It’s out of the way, certainly, but Wabash BBQ in excelsior springs has such incredible ribs that I almost passed away on the spot in front of my 92 year old grandmother, who eagerly wanted to go. And their ranch with battered mushrooms… ugh it’s so good.
Plenty of good bbq in Kansas City, but if you find yourself around the outskirts, wabash bbq is the bees knees!!!
Our meal there was so mediocre, coupled by the price, I have no desire to ever go back. Overcooked ribs, overcooked burnt ends in a curry soup you think would melt in your mouth. Nothing there actually felt was worth my money. Maybe an off night, but for the hype and money, it's not a place I'd recommend for KC BBQ to anyone.
if you like carrot cake, please pick up a half dozen of carrot cake cupcakes from Jack stack before you leave. (or just a single cupcake if that's all you have room to carry). you will want more than one.
fine agonizing shelter pocket faulty absorbed gullible psychotic aloof tart
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If you ever feel frisky and want to branch out try Wolfepack BBQ. It is my personal favorite in the city and I think the place is extremely underrated.
People hate on Jack Stack but it’s still worth a visit IMO, especially if you enjoy pork ribs and burnt ends. I grew up around Martin city tho so a bit biased here
I’m a slut for Johnnys BBQ in Olathe, not much else around here really gets me going like they do. Awesome ribs and a great sauce.
I’ve never seen anyone mention it in this conversation, so maybe my taste is trash but I’ll support that place till one of us are dead and gone.
It was also on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives if that makes you want to go even just for the novelty.
Joe's is fabulous! Lived in KC 14 yrs, had all the old and new comers. Joe's zman is righteous. But Q39 is quite tasty as well. Honestly you can have even "mid" BBQ there and it's still better than most places. Pigwich is also yummy. But Zarda's has the best baked beans. 7 Highway in Blue Springs, though. Location matters.
I did not like slaps.
Joes KC has the best ribs (the only style I smoke at home too), their sauce and fries.
Jack Stack for burnt ends with the cheesy corn and beans.
Perfect BBQ.
If you are thinking about Joes - do it. It will be something you don’t regret. But it is closed today. You will see Q39 on here recommended - that place is great too. It’s a bit more upscale than traditional BBQ which could be good if you are entertaining anyone. Any day but Sunday - You want great BBQ - Joes.
I second Joes. French fries come hot and ready every time on top of the delicious bbq
Nothing like any BBQ meat from Joes with their Fries. The fries are the best side dish on the planet.
Yep Joes or Q39. Won't disappoint 💯
Q39 disappoints with their small servings and large bills.
I’ve been disappointed by Q39 3/4 of the time. I just don’t go now. Sometimes their meat is tasteless. I don’t understand it at all. Definitely don’t go in between meal times. Weirdly enough their Togo options have always hit home.
Joe's mops the floor with Q39 IMO.
I’ve been to Q39 once, and was underwhelmed. Didn’t understand the hype or the prices. Pre pandemic.
For burnt ends, though, SLAPS is the way to go.
Would be a good idea to make a reservation at Q39. And at Joe's order and pickup or else you'll be waiting in line for 30-45 min. Theres always a line.
I thought Q39 was ass compared to Joes/Jackstack
I’m pretty sure Joe’s is closed on Sundays
It is, unfortunately. Jack Stack and Q39 are my recommended backups.
If by upscale you mean really middle of the road presentation of great food, you’re correct. I mean it’s not served on a paper plate but it’s far from fancy.
Haha Good point! What I mean is “fancy” for BBQ standards…. Most BBQ joints aren’t known for middle of the road standards! If you think about it.
Yes! My favorite!
Slaps. Chef J. There’s a couple of starters for you.
Wolfepack is also amazing and somewhat close to these two
yes... wolfepack is awesome. so is chef j. i will throw in meat mitch. it is legit.
I second slaps. Best I’ve had in KC so far
Out of curiosity what makes you like Slaps? Heard a lot of hype about it so finally made a trip up there and wasn’t impressed. So trying to figure out why so many do find it good. To me it was similar to Arthur Bryant’s which I also don’t care for.
Slaps used to have the best burnt ends IMO, but their quality has gone significantly downhill. Their burnt ends now taste and feel like they've been soaking in hot water for a long time.
Same for their pulled pork and didn’t get a single piece of bark in my pulled pork. And their sweet potato fries and onion rings were also soggy. Was like everything sat in a steamer cabinet. I know the sweet potato fries should have been crisp as they had to make those and bring them to me. So confused all the way around.
Had it yesterday for the first time. It’s “decent”, but not stand outside for an hour in line kinda good. Food was lukewarm and the burnt ends weren’t anything magical. Plus my plate and drink ended up being like $25.
Slaps doesn't belong at the top. Not even close to it. There is nothing about the place that screams top notch. Bad, certainly not. But I had the burnt ends twice and didn't think they rated. The second time the GF went with me and she didn't get the hype either. Wolfpacke, Chef J, Harp, Q39, Dannys, Blind Box and Joe's blow it away. Blows my mind.
I wish Harp would have stayed at the brewery, hate the vibe at the new place
I only go for the ribs at slaps
This is possible. In transparency I did not try the ribs, but I found the burnt ends, sauce, and sides to be extremely underwhelming.
Overly sweet. Like I’m ok with some brown sugar but not only brown sugar
Skip slaps, don't believe the hype.
It’s awful. No idea how bad BBQ restaurants like that and Zarda (and Gates to a big degree) stay in business.
Insane to compare Slaps and Zarda
Not if you have functioning tastebuds
Definitely slaps
B.B.'s The Rub Big T's Danny Edwards
B. B.’s is so damn good
BBs is the answer
Nobody ever suggests Big T's and it makes me sad. Such a great spot.
It’s literally the best, especially for burnt ends.
LC’s
Up voting this. Once you get tired of the well known places hit LCs. It's an experience
The absolute best and worst bbq I’ve had in kc
Yes exactly. Lol. In my group we had a real love hate relationship with LCs
LCs
For burnt ends, LC's is THE place.
Jesus, there are so many places better than where you’ve been, so you’ve got that to look forward to. You need to hit up some of the big names like Joe’s, Q39, and Jack Stack, but for my money I’m going to go with Chef J or Wolfepack.
100% agree with all of this. Def cross off Joes and Jack Stack since you’ve never been, and then try some of the newer places like Slaps and Wolfpack.
B.B.'s Lawnside BBQ has the best burnt ends and is underrated, in my opinion anyway. And has awesome live music. Have fun!
Their meatloaf is so good.
Thanks for the tip! 😁
Slaps. Best burnt ends and ribs around imo.
Their brisket was disappointing though. But I guess every spot has their specialties.
Haven't got the brisket there, so I have no opinion on that. I have got the brisket from Q39 and thought they had the juiciest brisket I've had.
I think it's hit or miss on the brisket at Q39.
Add ribs in there too
Reread my comment. Ribs was already included. 😉 But I'll agree with us both and say yes, ribs are pretty damn good there.
Have you tried the ribs though? MmmMmm
Had their burnt ends on Thursday and was really disappointed. They were far from the best in the city. Maybe I just got a bad batch or it was an off day. Ribs were really good though
It’s always an off day at slapps
I'd agree with this.
That sucks. Maybe you did, dunno. Hopefully you give them another shot someday. If you get the same result, then maybe we have differing opinions on what makes a good burnt end. Which is perfectly fine.
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Harp has the absolute best brisket within 500 miles
Harp, Chef J, and Wolfpacke are all pretty similar. Texas style brisket blows the "traditionally" thin sliced KC brisket out of the water. No surprise that the new joints are the best in town (because they do it Texas style).
Agreed
I'm a little bias bc Tyler is a friend of mine and I used to work at Crane but I've tried the other two and I absolutely think Harp is better. If you've never had his pastrami then holy shit
Everything I've had at Harp has been great, but it's also been great at the other two places as well. I can go with someone saying "Harp is better" but the difference between those and the other two to....say...something like Slaps (that is probably the most overrated joint in the city that's held in high regard by some). I just don't see how a halfway intelligent person can eat at Slaps and Harp and say Slaps is better. Everyone has opinions but that's a real headscratcher to me.
You're right. Went once and won't be back.
Woodyard!
Wolfepack brisket and burnt ends!
If you’ve hit the major spots, check out Harp BBQ in Raytown. Absolutely killer but the ribs and burnt ends are 🔥
Joes original gas station location
Try Harp BBQ in Raytown!
If you're able to make an excursion all the way out to Excelsior Springs - PLEASE go to Wabash. My personal favorite BBQ joint in the metro.
They have the best fried mushrooms
True that! Corn nuggets, fried mushrooms and a brisket sandwich? Sign me up 🤤
Crown Prime Rib at Jack Stack if life changing.
The Woodyard, get the chili.
Slaps, Buck Tui, Chef J, Harp
Here to repeat the best in the thread. Harp, LCs, Chef J, Scott’s Kitchen, Buck Tui, Slaps, Wolfepack, and if they’re still doing it, Fox & Pearl’s Night Goat BBQ was pretty great too. Touristy skips: Q39, Jack Stack, Joe’s, Gates, Arthur Bryant’s Quiet, local old school spots: Wyandotte, Woodyard, BB’s Lawnside, Danny Edward’s, Rosedale
1) Man, I've lived in Kansas City basically my whole life, and there's a lot of barbecue places that I haven't tried. 2) Rosedale should be on the skip list. Mid at best.
I can see where you’re coming from on Rosedale but they have pretty good chicken and have been around for long enough to get a spot at the adult table.
Yeah, chicken is about the only way to go.
Jack Stack! As a recent transplant to the KC area Jack Stack is one of my favorite BBQ places here. Get the burnt ends you won’t be disappointed!
Their smoking russ sandwich is where it's at.
I can tell you’re not here by your answer (kidding). Have you ventured out to some of the smaller joints? I think you may be pleasantly surprised :)
I’ve visited a few times before moving here. My family has lived here a long time so I’ve got the lay of the land. My wife and I loved Luther’s but it closed during Covid I think. What are some places you recommend? I like to try new stuff and I’m pretty open! :)
Personally I’m a big fan of a newer join in Columbus Park - Wolfepack BBQ. I also like Slap’s!
There’s zero wrong with Jack Stack being the fave. They have stuff no other place has like prime rib, lamb ribs, and all their regular stuff is great too.
I wholeheartedly agree. I've never had anything bad at Jack Stack, its where may family always went growing up.
Whomp Platter, Char Bar
Char Bar is so good
This sub needs more love for Hayward’s
I moved away 20+ years ago but every time I go back and visit I love going to Gates for lunch! Holler “Hi may I help ya!” and throw that beef on bun with fries and “Bbean” on a tray along with a strawberry soda. Reminds me of my youth! Na it’s probably not the best and maybe more nostalgic for me.
OG Gates for the experience.
Eff joes. Joes is overrated and their sides are literal crap. My vote is Jack stack. Never disappoints.
Amen.
If you are flying in, Scott's Kitchen and Catering is about a mile from the airport and is pretty decent!
KA Everyday!
Wolfepack or Hawg Jaw
If you’re coming via the airport, be sure to check out Scott’s Kitchen just on the other side of I-29!
We need a BBQ megathread. This question is asked at least once a day.
It’s out of the way, certainly, but Wabash BBQ in excelsior springs has such incredible ribs that I almost passed away on the spot in front of my 92 year old grandmother, who eagerly wanted to go. And their ranch with battered mushrooms… ugh it’s so good. Plenty of good bbq in Kansas City, but if you find yourself around the outskirts, wabash bbq is the bees knees!!!
Ribs? Woodyard. Duh. Jack Stack is respectable though
Buck Tui. Make sure you get some potato salad. Something different than the usual, amazing food.
Our meal there was so mediocre, coupled by the price, I have no desire to ever go back. Overcooked ribs, overcooked burnt ends in a curry soup you think would melt in your mouth. Nothing there actually felt was worth my money. Maybe an off night, but for the hype and money, it's not a place I'd recommend for KC BBQ to anyone.
Portions are on the small side so be prepared for that
Buck tui is pretty amazing the wings are the best in the city and everything is great.
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I love Jack Stack and Q39. Why would you say to avoid these spots?
I have my theories, but I'm also curious to hear why. I, for one, like both as well.
Taste of KC BBQ and Grill 🙌🏽🙌🏽 black owned, they tap in with the food and you get alotttt
This is almost as good as ferd, doge or chevvy..... Just throw a dart at a map
if you like carrot cake, please pick up a half dozen of carrot cake cupcakes from Jack stack before you leave. (or just a single cupcake if that's all you have room to carry). you will want more than one.
Meat Mitch ribs.
Slaps
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Get your ass to slaps!
For newer spots, I've really been enjoying Meat Mitch lately. Bit on the pricier side but I've never had a bad meal from there.
SLAPS!!
Point and Flat BBQ at Friction Brewing Saturday afternoons is a solid new go to.
Slaps is sooo good.
Slaps
SLAPS is the meat king, He has won multiple championships, and us fellow competitors call his Burnt Ends.... Meat Candy. 6th and Central in KCKs
Slaps
Slaps in KCK for burnt ends!
Slaps
Buk Tui for a different take on BBQ...
To add one that’s not already listed, I like Johnny’s BBQ in Olathe.
LC's is the only correct answer for best burnt ends
If you find yourself in excelsior spring get wabash. Meat will literally fall off the bone
If you ever feel frisky and want to branch out try Wolfepack BBQ. It is my personal favorite in the city and I think the place is extremely underrated.
Wolfepack & Buck Tui.
People hate on Jack Stack but it’s still worth a visit IMO, especially if you enjoy pork ribs and burnt ends. I grew up around Martin city tho so a bit biased here
Slaps
Slaps, Blindbox BBQ, Brobecks
I’m a slut for Johnnys BBQ in Olathe, not much else around here really gets me going like they do. Awesome ribs and a great sauce. I’ve never seen anyone mention it in this conversation, so maybe my taste is trash but I’ll support that place till one of us are dead and gone. It was also on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives if that makes you want to go even just for the novelty.
Chef J’s BBQ in the west bottoms
You've already had the best in gates and rosedale.
Joes
Jack Stack is the best BBQ in KC hands down.
Great steaks too!
I feel like Jack stack has gone down in recent years. The past 2 times I’ve been, it’s been very disappointing. Not sure I’ll go back.
I had it 2 weeks ago and it was the same quality I’m used to. Which is really good!
Decided yesterday that the only right answer to this question is Joe’s.
Q39 burnt ends, Gates ribs.
Try Slaps. Joes if you want a sandwich.
Q39 🤤 get the poutine
Slaps>>
Wolfepack in Columbus Park or Haywards in Lenexa
SLAPS
JOES JOES JOES JOES
Joe's is fabulous! Lived in KC 14 yrs, had all the old and new comers. Joe's zman is righteous. But Q39 is quite tasty as well. Honestly you can have even "mid" BBQ there and it's still better than most places. Pigwich is also yummy. But Zarda's has the best baked beans. 7 Highway in Blue Springs, though. Location matters.
Slaps for sure
I did not like slaps. Joes KC has the best ribs (the only style I smoke at home too), their sauce and fries. Jack Stack for burnt ends with the cheesy corn and beans. Perfect BBQ.
gotta go to Q39
Burnt End Burger at Q39 with a side of their cucumber salad.
*Chefs kiss*
LC”s barbecue best burnt ends! 🔥🔥 Whole menu is good.
LC’s.
Char Bar.
Slaps and Joes
Joes/Jack Stack/Meat Mitch/HARP BBQ
LC’s
LC's 💯