Missouri has a barbecue joint that serves burnt end salad, which is a bold way to sneak brisket into the vegetable category. Those crispy, smoky bits already have a loyal following, so the lettuce is just along for the ride.
Sauces get creative too, with flavors like spicy blueberry and smoked apple. One kitchen smokes its ribs and brisket over apple wood, while a different joint hands out its smoky goods through a drive-through window.
An old-school counter feels like a living barbecue history lesson. A patio spot on a historic main street gives the classics a livelier twist.
Ribs slide off the bone, and burnt ends vanish faster than the napkins can keep up. If anyone asks whether you ate your greens, that burnt end salad has your back.
1. LC’s Bar-B-Q
Fancy decor is not on the menu here, and that’s sort of the point. This Kansas City counter joint keeps its focus where it belongs, on low-and-slow smoked meat.
You walk up, place your order at the counter, and grab a seat. Seating is limited, so a quick lunch or a solo meal works especially well.
The burnt ends get plenty of attention, and for good reason. Beef burnt ends are known for being tender, and the menu also features burnt end pork.
Ribs come in huge portions with that melt-in-your-mouth texture barbecue fans chase. The brisket holds its own too, so ordering a mix makes a lot of sense.
Sides deserve real respect at this spot. The baked beans are thick and rich, and the spicy green beans add a little kick.
Thick-cut fries round things out, along with creamy coleslaw. You can also find homemade sausage if you want one more meat on the tray.
The room has a historic, old-school feel that fits the food. Tourists and groups show up, so expect company around Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Want a calmer visit? Weekday mornings after the 11 AM opening tend to be quieter, which means less waiting and more chewing.
Plan ahead, though, because the doors stay closed on Sundays. They don’t take reservations, and parking can be a little tricky.
Bring patience for the lot and a big appetite for the tray. This is classic Missouri barbecue without any extra fuss.
Address: 5800 Blue Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64129.
2. Pappy’s Smokehouse
Memphis-style barbecue lives on Olive Street in St. Louis, and it draws a line of hungry folks. Pappy’s wood-smokes its meats and serves them in down-home digs.
Ordering happens at the counter, and service moves fast. Still, there’s usually a wait, so a little patience pays off.
The ribs headline the show, tender and full of flavor. Brisket comes dry-rubbed, and the brisket sandwich is a smart pick if you want something handheld.
Burnt ends round out the trio this article cares about most. They’re moist and fork-tender, and they pair nicely with the house sauces.
Speaking of sauce, the Carolina vinegar style deserves a dunk. It works on the bread and the fries, not just the meat.
You can even buy Pappy’s sauce by the bottle. That’s handy if you want a souvenir that actually gets used.
Sides go beyond basics here. Sweet potato fries, baked beans, green beans, and fire and ice pickles all show up.
Hours are unusual, so check before you go. The place closes on Tuesdays and wraps up in the afternoon on several days.
Weekend afternoons get busy, especially Saturday and Sunday. Weekday late mornings tend to be calmer if you hate crowds.
College students, tourists, and groups all mix here. There’s a kids’ menu and outdoor seating, so it fits a family outing.
Address: 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103.
3. Como Smoke and Fire – South
Columbia is a college town, and this spot clearly knows how to feed a crowd. Como Smoke and Fire serves smoked brisket and burnt ends with quick, friendly speed.
Burnt ends are the item people talk about most here. They’re the must-try order, so put them at the top of your list.
Brisket shares the spotlight on the menu. Ribs also earn praise for meat that falls right off the bone.
Sauce lovers will have fun experimenting. The lineup of house sauces gives you room to mix and match on each bite.
Not in the mood for a full platter? Smoked wings and loaded fries are fun alternatives.
You can also add extra Texas toast, which is a wise move for mopping up sauce. A floating salad on the menu even offers a gluten-free option.
The vibe is casual and a bit trendy. Table service makes it easy to relax instead of juggling trays.
Families will find a kids’ menu and high chairs. Dogs are welcome outside, so your pup can enjoy the smells.
Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest stretches. Monday tends to be calmer if you want an easy visit.
Parking is usually plenty, which is always nice. With Columbia sitting in the middle of Missouri, it also makes a good road-trip stop between the big cities.
Address: 3804 Buttonwood Dr, Columbia, MO 65201.
4. Buckingham Smokehouse Bar BQ
Here’s a sentence you don’t read often: try the burnt end salad. At Buckingham in Springfield, it’s a fan favorite with house dressing.
Of course, salad isn’t the only reason to show up. Brisket, burnt ends, and ribs are the true stars of this menu.
The ribs earn praise for falling off the bone. The burnt ends get called some of the best in Springfield.
Smoke flavor runs through the whole lineup. Even the chicken comes out juicy with a nice smoky touch.
Sides matter here too. Pit beans and sweet potato fries are popular, and the horseradish sauce gives brisket a sharp little kick.
Craving something quirky? The Frito pie is on the menu and feels like a fun detour.
The space mixes rustic and modern touches. It’s casual, and it tends to stay on the quieter side.
This location belongs to a local chain. You order at the counter, which keeps things simple.
Short on time? A drive-through is available, so your barbecue can ride shotgun.
Families will find a kids’ menu and high chairs. Outdoor seating is available, and dogs can join you there.
Friday evening and Saturday get busier. Weekday afternoons are usually calmer if you want a relaxed meal.
Address: 2002 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807.
5. Bandana’s Bar-B-Q and Catering
Cowboy decor and smoked meat make a pretty natural pair. Bandana’s in Jefferson City leans into that theme while serving Southern-style barbecue.
This location is part of a regional chain. It sits on Missouri Boulevard, right in the state capital.
Ribs are a strong reason to stop. They come meaty and tender, with a rub that carries a bit of spice.
Burnt ends get high marks for being done just right. Brisket is on the menu too, along with smoked wings.
Sauce gets its own moment here. The selection of Midwest-style sauces offers some interesting flavors to try.
Garlic bread comes along with the smoked meat. A variety of sides lets you build the plate you want.
Looking for a snack? BBQ nachos are a fun option for sharing with friends.
The staff is attentive, and waits are usually short. Service moves fast, which helps when lunchtime is tight.
Families have plenty of support with a kids’ menu and high chairs. There’s free Wi-Fi, and it works well for watching sports.
The restaurant opens every day at 11 AM. Weekday mornings and early afternoons are typically quiet.
Unlike many barbecue spots, Bandana’s accepts reservations. That’s helpful for big groups headed to the capital.
Address: 2336 Missouri Blvd, Jefferson City, MO 65109.
6. Murphy’s Smokin Meats & Catering
Apple wood is the secret handshake at Murphy’s. This St. Joseph spot smokes its meats over it, and the results stand out.
Baby back ribs are part of the lineup. Sliced brisket and burnt ends join them, along with pulled pork.
The brisket and burnt ends get serious love. They’re known for being flavorful and so tender they melt in your mouth.
Sides are homemade, which is always a good sign. Twice baked potatoes and corn are among the favorites.
Then there’s the honey cornbread. Save room, because skipping it would be a real shame.
Portions on the sides are generous. You probably won’t leave hungry, and you may leave with leftovers.
Timing matters here more than most places. Murphy’s is closed Monday through Wednesday and opens Thursday through Sunday.
Friday evening is the busiest time. Thursday afternoons and weekend mornings are calmer windows.
The dining room is casual and quiet. You’ll find both counter and table service.
Families get a kids’ menu, high chairs, and a changing table. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs too.
Need to grab and go? Curbside pickup makes it easy, and reservations are accepted for planned meals.
Address: 1930 Commercial St, St Joseph, MO 64503.
7. Heavy Smoke BBQ
Spicy blueberry sauce on barbecue sounds wild until you try it. Heavy Smoke in St. Peters loves bold flavors like that.
The sauce lineup is a big part of the fun. Spicy pineapple, smoked apple, and white horseradish all sit alongside the blueberry.
Of course, sauce needs something to land on. This award-winning spot slow-smokes brisket, ribs, and pork steak.
The burnt ends come tender and nicely charred. Ribs keep a good char while staying moist inside.
Pork steak is worth a look too. It’s a St. Louis-area classic, and it fits right in here.
Hungry for something different? Brisket egg rolls and the porkwich both get recommended often.
Chicken wings and smoked turkey are also around. Spicy sausage adds a little heat to the tray.
Sides hold their own. Green beans and smoked beans are popular partners for the meat.
You order at the counter, and service is quick. The friendly cashiers keep things moving.
The setting stays casual and easy. A kids’ menu and high chairs help with family meals.
Weekend afternoons get busy, especially Sunday. Weekday mornings are quieter, so plan around that if you can.
Address: 4270 N Service Rd, St Peters, MO 63376.
8. Salt + Smoke
Historic Main Street in St. Charles gets a smoky soundtrack thanks to Salt + Smoke. This Texas-style barbecue joint brings brisket to one of Missouri’s most charming strips.
Brisket is the big draw. It gets praised again and again for quality and tenderness.
Burnt ends are a popular add-on. Many diners pair them with ribs for a full smoky lineup.
The ribs are meaty and served dry. That’s perfect if you like tasting the rub and smoke first.
Sides are where things get playful. The white cheddar cracker mac is a fan favorite.
Creamed corn and potato salad also show up. Fried cauliflower with buffalo sauce adds a fun twist.
Can’t decide? The bestie combo lets you mix meats like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.
Save room for dessert, because servings are generous. Your fork will thank you later.
The patio is a highlight on nice days. Dogs can hang out with you there too.
The mood feels lively and casual, with a historic setting. Families get a kids’ menu and high chairs.
The St. Charles location does not accept regular reservations, but you can join its online waitlist before visiting on busy Friday and Saturday evenings.
Parking can be tricky, so give yourself extra time.
Address: 501 S Main St, St Charles, MO 63301.
9. Lil Miss Smokin Jones BBQ
Lake days burn a lot of energy, and this Osage Beach spot is ready to refuel you. Lil Miss Smokin Jones serves barbecue right along the parkway.
Brisket is a star here. It’s expertly smoked and known for being very tender.
Ribs fall right off the bone. Pair them with brisket, and you’ve got a solid lake-weekend feast.
Burnt ends also earn praise for their melt-in-your-mouth texture. They make a strong case for a third meat.
The barbecue sauce gets called top tier. Give it a taste before you decide how much to pour.
Sides carry their weight too. Cheesy corn and baked beans are among the most popular choices.
Pulled pork rounds out the main lineup. It’s a nice option for anyone in your crew who skips beef.
The setting is casual and relaxed. You order at the counter, then grab a seat.
Kids are welcome, with a kids’ menu and high chairs. Dogs can join you outside.
Timing is key in this lake town. The restaurant is closed Mondays and opens at 11 AM Tuesday through Saturday, but Sunday availability should be confirmed before visiting.
Wednesday and Saturday afternoons get busy. Want an easier visit? Try a Thursday morning right after opening.
Address: 5837 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach, MO 65065.
10. Big Ben’s BBQ Station
Barbecue through a drive-through window feels like a small miracle. Big Ben’s BBQ Station in Carthage makes that dream real.
The menu covers plenty of ground. Burnt ends, chopped brisket, and ribs all make strong cases for your order.
Ribs here fall off the bone. The brisket comes juicy, which is exactly what you want.
Can’t pick just one? The sampler platter is a popular choice for tasting a bit of everything on your list.
Big Ben’s also gets creative. Loaded pulled pork French fries are a fun, messy treat.
A ribeye sandwich and smoked chicken breast are on the menu too. Loaded baked potatoes give you another hearty side.
The space has a rustic feel. It stays casual and fairly quiet, which makes for an easy meal.
You order at the counter, then settle at a table. Kids get their own menu, and high chairs are available.
Tea fans might be pleased. The tea selection gets noticed here.
Plan around the schedule, since Sundays are closed. Friday and Saturday afternoons get busy, and Tuesday afternoons can too.
Reservations are accepted, which is handy for groups. Out in southwest Missouri, this stop makes a tasty excuse for a drive.
Address: 2817 The Loop, Carthage, MO 64836.