Top BBQ Restaurants in Denver, Colorado - June 2026

USA / Colorado / Denver
Discover the most authentic and mouth-watering BBQ spots in Denver, Colorado. From slow-smoked brisket to savory ribs, explore our curated list of the city's top-rated smokehouses.
1

Post Oak Barbecue

USA, Denver
4.9

Authentic Central Texas-style smoked meats.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2017
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-303-466-1123
  • Email: info@postoakbbqdenver.com

About the Company

Post Oak Barbecue brings the soul of Texas to Denver. Known for their perfectly rendered brisket and house-made sausages, they use traditional offset smokers to achieve an incredible smoke profile that meat lovers crave.

Pros

  • Authentic wood-smoked flavor
  • Exceptional brisket quality

Cons

  • Often sells out early
  • Limited indoor seating
2

Owlbear Barbecue

USA, Denver
4.8

Craft barbecue focused on technique and quality.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2016
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-720-316-2580
  • Email: hello@owlbearbbq.com

About the Company

Owlbear is a local favorite for those who appreciate the science of smoking. Their attention to detail in seasoning and wood selection results in a brisket that melts in your mouth every single time.

Pros

  • Technique-driven menu
  • Great side dishes

Cons

  • Small venue space
  • Weekend lines
3

AJ's Pit Bar-B-Q

USA, Denver
4.7

Family-run smokehouse using traditional oak wood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2019
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-720-842-9464
  • Email: contact@ajspitbbq.com

About the Company

AJ's provides a classic Texas barbecue experience in the heart of Denver. Their meats are smoked slowly over real oak, delivering an authentic deep smoke ring and rich, savory bark that defines great BBQ.

Pros

  • Friendly staff
  • Traditional methods

Cons

  • Parking can be tricky
  • Busy on weekends
4

Smokin' Dave's BBQ

USA, Denver
4.6

Award-winning smoked meats and comfort food.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2004
  • Employees: 50-200
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-303-651-7427
  • Email: info@smokindavesbbq.com

About the Company

With multiple accolades under their belt, Smokin' Dave's delivers consistent and bold flavors. Their diverse menu offers everything from classic pulled pork to spicy wings, satisfying all types of barbecue fans.

Pros

  • Extensive menu variety
  • Consistently good quality

Cons

  • Casual atmosphere
  • Crowded during lunch
5

GQue BBQ

USA, Denver
4.5

Competition-style BBQ served in a modern space.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2015
  • Employees: 50-200
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-303-469-0205
  • Email: catering@gquebbq.com

About the Company

GQue BBQ brings championship-winning flavors to the casual dining scene. Known for their innovative approach to rubs and sauces, this spot is perfect for those who like their BBQ with a modern twist.

Pros

  • Modern dining experience
  • Unique house sauces

Cons

  • Slightly higher price point
  • Fast-casual service style
6

Roaming Buffalo Bar-B-Que

USA, Denver
4.8

Unique locally sourced smoked meats.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2015
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-303-728-9444
  • Email: info@roamingbuffalobbq.com

About the Company

Roaming Buffalo prides itself on using local ingredients, including bison. Their artisanal approach makes every meal a unique exploration of Colorado flavors smoked to perfection in a cozy setting.

Pros

  • Unique bison options
  • Locally sourced products

Cons

  • Smaller portions
  • Limited menu items
7

Boney's BBQ

USA, Denver
4.6

Southern-style BBQ with a neighborhood feel.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2006
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-303-296-2627
  • Email: contact@boneysbbq.com

About the Company

Boney's offers a down-to-earth, soulful BBQ experience. Their ribs are legendary in the area, falling off the bone and dripping with a signature sauce that captures the essence of Southern comfort.

Pros

  • Excellent rib quality
  • Comfortable atmosphere

Cons

  • Simple decor
  • Limited parking
8

Wayne's Smoke Shack

USA, Superior
5.0

Hardcore Texas BBQ in Colorado.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2015
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-720-328-8686
  • Email: bbq@waynessmokeshack.com

About the Company

Wayne's Smoke Shack is widely considered the most authentic Texas-style BBQ in the region. If you want brisket that is pure, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, and smoked perfectly, look no further.

Pros

  • Unmatched authenticity
  • Top-tier meat quality

Cons

  • Long waiting times
  • High demand
9

Q House

USA, Denver
4.5

Modern American BBQ with creative flair.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2020
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-720-771-4606
  • Email: hello@qhouse.com

About the Company

Q House offers a modern take on smokehouse classics. By blending traditional techniques with creative culinary touches, they provide a refined dining experience for those who want more than standard BBQ.

Pros

  • Creative menu options
  • Modern interior design

Cons

  • Prices are higher
  • Not traditional BBQ style
10

Jabo's Bar-Be

USA, Denver
4.6

Family recipes served with heart.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2004
  • Employees: 1-10
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-303-766-3333
  • Email: info@jabosbbq.com

About the Company

Jabo's Bar-Be is all about secret family recipes and generous portions. The warm environment makes it a great spot for families looking for reliable, delicious, and hearty smoked meat plates.

Pros

  • Hearty portions
  • Family-friendly

Cons

  • Basic facilities
  • Limited dessert options
11

Piggin' Out Smokehouse

USA, Denver
4.5

Traditional hickory-smoked flavor.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2005
  • Employees: 11-50
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-303-979-3733
  • Email: contact@pigginout.com

About the Company

A local favorite known for hickory-smoked meats that provide a deep, authentic flavor. Their pulled pork sandwiches and sides make for a perfect casual lunch in a welcoming neighborhood environment.

Pros

  • Classic hickory flavor
  • Great sandwich menu

Cons

  • Limited seating area
  • Occasional supply shortages
12

Serious Texas Bar-B-Q

USA, Denver
4.4

Fast and reliable Texas-style BBQ.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1995
  • Employees: 50-200
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-970-247-4977
  • Email: info@serioustexasbbq.com

About the Company

Serious Texas Bar-B-Q provides a great balance of speed and quality. They are a go-to spot for locals needing a quick, satisfying plate of smoked meats without the long waits seen elsewhere.

Pros

  • Quick service
  • Consistent flavor profiles

Cons

  • Chain-like atmosphere
  • Less personalized service
13

Famous Dave's

USA, Denver
4.4

Wide variety of BBQ styles and sauces.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1994
  • Employees: 200-500
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-303-457-3283
  • Email: support@famousdaves.com

About the Company

Known for their massive sampler platters and a wide selection of signature sauces, this national staple provides a reliable option for group dining and those who enjoy a variety of different BBQ styles.

Pros

  • Diverse sauce selection
  • Good for large groups

Cons

  • Corporate feel
  • Standardized quality
14

Dickey's Barbecue Pit

USA, Denver
4.3

Classic fast-casual BBQ pit.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1941
  • Employees: 500+
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-303-770-3333
  • Email: feedback@dickeys.com

About the Company

A reliable choice for classic hickory-smoked meats. Dickey's is known for its convenient locations and straightforward menu, making it easy to grab a quick plate of brisket or pulled pork anytime.

Pros

  • Very convenient
  • Multiple locations

Cons

  • Lacks 'mom-and-pop' charm
  • Mass-produced taste
15

Brother's BBQ

USA, Denver
4.5

Local chain serving classic BBQ plates.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1997
  • Employees: 50-200
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-303-733-0300
  • Email: contact@brothersbbq.com

About the Company

Brother's BBQ is a Denver staple offering traditional comfort food. Their plates are hearty and the atmosphere is welcoming, providing a standard, solid barbecue experience for the local community.

Pros

  • Good comfort food
  • Local favorite

Cons

  • Consistent but not exceptional
  • Limited innovation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best BBQ style in Denver?
Denver offers a diverse range of BBQ styles, including Texas-style brisket, Kansas City burnt ends, and Carolina-style pulled pork.
Do I need a reservation for top Denver BBQ spots?
Most popular BBQ restaurants in Denver operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but larger groups should check individual restaurant policies.
Are there gluten-free options at Denver BBQ joints?
Many smokehouses offer gluten-free meats; however, always verify ingredients in sauces and sides with the staff.
What is the best time to visit Denver BBQ restaurants?
To avoid long lines, it is recommended to visit during weekdays or arrive before the traditional lunch and dinner rush hours.
Do these restaurants offer catering services?
Yes, most top-rated BBQ establishments in Denver provide full-service catering for events and private gatherings.
Are there vegetarian options available?
While BBQ is meat-centric, most top restaurants offer high-quality vegetarian side dishes like coleslaw, beans, and cornbread.