Pit 14 Barbecue — Restaurant in Spearfish

Although it is home to more cattle than people, my home state of South Dakota, and the northern-Midwest region in general, is not well-known for barbecue. That has not stopped me from trying to track down something respectable, but too often what I have found in the area is something only slightly better than the boiled ribs slathered with ketchup that I was once served in an establishment in neighboring Iowa.

Still, I retained hope. So when I read a few glowing reviews about Pit 14 prior to passing through the Black Hills on a summer road trip, I made sure our plans allowed for at least a quick stop.

Parking in an empty lot just off the main street, where the bright red restaurant holds down a corner spot, we were first welcomed by the scent of wood smoke wafting from an offset smoker that sits behind the restaurant. From my research, I knew that it, like the owner had made the trip here all the way from Texas. That, and a pile of freshly chopped wood were hopeful signs.

Entering through the front, we were greeted by the owner himself, who explained that he was working alone, so we should expect a little bit of a wait as well as a limited menu. We had time, and brisket was on the menu, so we ordered a couple sandwiches and sides. Although the entry room is small and was crowded with patrons waiting to place or pick up their orders, there was a comfortable-looking dining room off to one side. The pleasant breeze and sunshine outside were too nice to pass up though, so we retreated to the large patio area in front to enjoy the afternoon air while we waited.

We waited maybe fifteen minutes, not bad considering the situation. We were soon admiring thick chunks of smoky, barky beef piled high on fresh sandwich rolls, and knew the wait had been worthwhile.

There was more than enough meat on the sandwich to pull some prime pieces off to enjoy on their own. The brisket flavor was as good as it looked. Beef, wood smoke, and spices all combined for a taste that could have convinced me we were in Texas instead of about to head into Wyoming.

Combined with generous servings of potato salad and creamed corn, we had more than a full meal. Both side dishes were expertly crafted as well. The only letdown was that we were not able to try more...

Stopped in last week while vacationing in the area and we read good reviews so we were pretty excited. I’m originally from California and my boyfriend from Texas, and we’re often left disappointed with bbq places here in SD, HOWEVER, this was NOT one of the places that disappointed us. The brisket was THEE BEST that I’ve had since being in the Midwest. It just melted in your mouth! The beans and cream corn were absolutely delicious, even the pickles were so good! I had to make sure to go back and tell the staff how absolutely wonderful our meal was before leaving. If we’re in the area again we will 100% eat here again! Best/closest bbq I’ve found that...

Run, don't walk! Was some of the best, if not the best BBQ we have ever had. Just amazing. Flavor was absolutely mouthwatering. Tried the pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. Sides were creamed corn, beans, and coleslaw. Brisket basically melts in your mouth. This is what proper BBQ tastes like. We are hard to impress when it comes to food, but this place...