Observations on BBQ Joints Across the South-Central U.S. 🍖

In December, I visited several cities across Texas, Kansas, and Missouri to sample the local barbecue. Here’s what stood out: Pinkerton (San Antonio, TX): The meat was incredibly tender — some of the most melt-in-your-mouth BBQ I've tried. Even around 8 PM, there was a line out the door! Their signature beef ribs sell out around 3 PM daily, so go early if you want them. 🕒 Pecan Lodge (Dallas, TX): Recommended by a local friend over Terry Black’s. The BBQ had a distinct pecan flavor. Surprisingly, it tasted even better reheated the next day! The fried okra wasn’t very fresh when I went (late in the day), but they had a great drink selection including Mexican Coke. Beef ribs here also sell out about three hours before closing. 🌰🥤 Bigg’s BBQ (Lawrence, KS): True to its name — huge portions! The burnt ends were delicious, rich with smoky fat. However, the brisket was served in thin, deli-style slices (not the thicker, juicy Texas style) and was quite dry. Sides are made to order, but the broccoli salad was overly dressed, and the fried okra was fresh but bland. Their root beer is home-brewed (with a diet option). Bigg’s offers four homemade sauces — locals seem to judge BBQ more by the sauce than the rub! 🍖🍯 Jack Stack BBQ (Kansas City, MO): As a historic transport hub, KC offers a wider variety of meats. As someone who doesn’t eat much pork, I loved the options: two types of beef ribs, lamb chops, and salmon. This finally satisfied my beef rib craving! The waiter was the most attentive I’ve encountered in the U.S. — he noticed from my order that I avoid pork and kindly warned me about a pork-containing side dish. 👏🐑 Salt & Smoke (St. Louis, MO): Since the famous Pappy’s was closed during my visit, I tried this newer chain instead. The bread served with meals was interesting, and they offered a wider BBQ sauce selection (finally including mustard!). Their pork ribs were more delicate and trimmed, with no cartilage. 🥖🍖 If I hadn’t been traveling solo and short on time, I would have loved to try every top-rated BBQ spot in each city! 🍗✨ #BBQ #USBBQTour #TexasBBQ #KansasCityBBQ #FoodTravel