The Twin Cities Gateway area has some fantastic options to satisfy your barbecue desires. We’re talking about the communities of Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey, and Shoreview.
While “best” is always a matter of personal taste—are you team Texas brisket, Carolina pulled pork, Kansas City ribs, or maybe even Korean bulgogi?—we’ve rounded up some highly-rated spots that are dishing out delicious barbecue.
Anoka
- Serum’s Good Time Emporium: More than just a lively spot, Serum’s offers up classic barbecue items like their Baby Back Ribs and Pulled Pork Sandwiches, making it a solid choice for your barbecue cravings in Anoka.
Coon Rapids
- Famous Dave’s (Quick ‘Cue): A national favorite, Famous Dave’s in Coon Rapids offers up their classic, award-winning barbecue, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Jelly Bean & Julia’s: This local gem in Coon Rapids is known for its delicious offerings, including barbecue options that are highly regarded by the community, with a focus on scratch-made sauces and pickles.
Arden Hills
- Old Southern BBQ Smokehouse: This spot consistently earns high marks for its expertly smoked meats and savory sides. A local favorite you won’t want to miss.
- The Tavern Grill (Arden Hills): A popular local eatery that features tasty BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders on their menu, among other great options.
- Dong Hae II Korean Grill & Sushi: Located conveniently in Arden Hills, Dong Hae offers authentic Korean cuisine, including Korean barbecue options (though typically not the cook-at-your-table style found at some dedicated KBBQ spots, they excel at grilled meats like Bulgogi and Galbi).
Blaine
- Rocky’s Asian Bistro & BBQ: For a unique twist on barbecue, check out Rocky’s! They offer delicious smoked pork belly and flavorful Hmong sausage, providing a different, but equally satisfying, “BBQ” experience.
- The Roadside: This popular spot in Blaine features barbecue prominently on its menu, with options like their BBQ Ribs or the Roadhouse BBQ Burger. It’s a great choice for a casual meal with a smoky kick.
- The Tavern Grill (Blaine): Another location for this popular local chain, The Tavern Grill in Blaine also offers a great Bacon BBQ Sliders appetizer and a Smoked Brisket sandwich, alongside their build-your-own options.
- bb.q Chicken: While specializing in Korean Fried Chicken (which is its own fantastic style of barbecue), this Blaine location offers delicious, crispy, double-fried chicken with a variety of Korean sauces. It’s a must-try for a different kind of barbecue experience.
Fridley
- King’s Fine Korean Cuisine: This Fridley establishment offers a wide selection of authentic Korean dishes, including Galbi (marinated short beef ribs) and Bulgogi (roasted beef with traditional Korean sauce), which are staples of Korean barbecue. While not a cook-at-your-table style, they offer the delicious flavors.
Mounds View
- Moe’s American Grill: Moe’s offers a broad American menu, but don’t overlook their barbecue offerings! They feature BBQ or Jim Beam Bourbon BBQ wings and a BBQ Chicken Bowl that hits the spot.
Shoreview
- The Winkin’ Rooster: Known for their sandwiches, The Winkin’ Rooster features a standout BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich. What’s more, they use products from Riff’s Smoke House, a local family-owned barbecue business in Arden Hills, ensuring quality and great taste.
