I Took A Day Trip Through Central Missouri To Visit 5 BBQ Smokehouses And 4 Were Worth Every Mile
Nothing says adventure like a full tank of gas, an empty stomach, and a mission to find the best barbecue Central Missouri has to offer.
I spent an entire Saturday driving from smokehouse to smokehouse, chasing that perfect bite of tender brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Spoiler alert: not every stop was a home run, but the winners made the journey absolutely unforgettable.
Here’s my honest take on the smoky trail I blazed through the heartland.
1. Sweet Smoke BBQ – Jefferson City, MO
Right off the bat, Sweet Smoke BBQ had me hooked with their motto: “Always fresh. Never reheated.” That’s basically the barbecue equivalent of a wedding vow, and they keep it sacred. My pulled pork sandwich arrived steaming hot, piled high with meat so tender it practically dissolved on my tongue.
The smoky brisket was equally impressive, with a pink smoke ring that could make a pitmaster weep tears of joy. They’ve got two locations in Jefferson City, and both are packed with locals who know good barbecue when they taste it. Honestly, this place set the bar ridiculously high for the rest of my trip, and I wasn’t mad about it one bit.
2. Crosstown Barbecue – Springfield, MO
When a place has been smoking meat for three generations, you know they’re doing something right. Crosstown Barbecue uses a unique blend of hot and cold smoke with hickory wood, which sounds fancy but really just means the flavors go deep. Walking in felt like stepping into someone’s well-loved backyard cookout, except the food was way better than Uncle Jerry’s burnt hot dogs.
Their ribs had this incredible bark on the outside and meat that slid off the bone with zero effort. The sauce? Tangy with just enough sweetness to balance the smoke. Springfield locals treat this spot like a sacred temple, and after one bite, I totally understood why.
3. Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que – Cuba, MO
Cruising down Historic Route 66, I spotted Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que and knew I had to stop. The rustic vibe screamed “authentic roadside barbecue,” and the portions were absolutely massive—like, “skip breakfast and lunch” massive. The wood-smoked atmosphere wrapped around me like a cozy blanket made of hickory.
My brisket plate could’ve fed a small family, and the meat had that perfect smoky crust. The beans and coleslaw were solid sidekicks, nothing fancy but exactly what you want alongside great barbecue. This place nailed the whole “middle-of-nowhere gem” aesthetic, and I left feeling like I’d discovered a delicious secret that only road-trippers get to enjoy.
4. Buckingham’s BBQ – Springfield, MO
Buckingham’s BBQ is the kind of sit-down spot where time seems to slow down and ribs become the center of the universe. Their signature sauces lineup looked like a flavor rainbow, and I may have tried all of them (no regrets). The ribs were meaty, tender, and seasoned so well they didn’t even need sauce—but I added it anyway because why not?
This place has stood the test of time in Springfield, which tells you everything about consistency and quality. The atmosphere felt comfortable and lived-in, like your favorite pair of jeans. Service was friendly without being pushy, letting me savor every bite at my own pace while contemplating life’s important questions, like “Can I fit more ribs in my stomach?”
5. Whole Hog Café – Springfield, MO
Award-winning Memphis-style barbecue isn’t something you stumble upon every day, but Whole Hog Café delivers it with style. The brisket here is legendary—moist, flavorful, and stacked high enough to make you question your life choices (in the best way). They offer multiple sauces to sample, turning your meal into a delicious science experiment.
I went with the sweet and spicy combo, and my taste buds threw a little celebration. The sides held their own too, especially the mac and cheese that was creamy perfection. This was definitely one of the stops worth every single mile, and I’d drive back tomorrow if my pants would forgive me. Springfield really knows how to do barbecue right.
6. Pappy’s Smokehouse – St. Louis, MO
With its warm, inviting atmosphere, Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis offers a taste of true Southern barbecue. The richness of the ribs and the tenderness of the brisket make every bite memorable.
Legend has it that each slab is smoked for over 16 hours, infusing a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Patrons often line up, eager to savor the smoky aroma that fills the air.
Did you know? Pappy’s has been a staple since 2008, capturing the hearts of BBQ lovers nationwide. This place truly embodies the essence of Missouri BBQ.
7. Bogart’s Smokehouse – St. Louis, MO
Nestled in the vibrant streets of St. Louis, Bogart’s Smokehouse serves BBQ with a twist. Known for its apricot glaze ribs, this spot captures the essence of flavor innovation. As you step inside, the aroma of smoked meats envelops you, inviting you to try their signature brisket, which is both savory and tender.
The atmosphere is lively, with locals and tourists mingling, sharing stories over hearty plates. The secret to their smoky perfection lies in a carefully guarded family recipe, passed down through generations. Each bite tells a story of tradition mixed with modern flair.
Did you know? Bogart’s uses a unique smoking process that involves cherrywood, adding a subtle sweetness to their dishes. This method sets them apart, making them a must-visit for any BBQ enthusiast.
8. Red Door Smokehouse – Richland, MO
Nestled in the charming town of Richland, Red Door Smokehouse delivers BBQ with heart and history. The moment you step through the rustic wooden door, the inviting aroma of smoked meats sets the stage.
Famed for their tender brisket, each bite tells a story of dedication to tradition and flavor. The cozy interior, decked with vintage BBQ memorabilia, adds to the allure.
Did you know? This smokehouse started in a small backyard, growing into a beloved local staple. It’s a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.
9. Smokin’ Butts BBQ – Camdenton, MO
Nestled in the heart of Camdenton, Smokin’ Butts BBQ serves up more than just mouthwatering ribs. The tantalizing aroma of smoked brisket greets you at the door. Inside, the warm, rustic decor invites diners to relax and indulge. Their signature dish, the pulled pork sandwich, is a crowd favorite. The meat is tender and flavorful, capturing the essence of true Missouri BBQ. Paired with their homemade coleslaw, it creates a perfect harmony of textures.
A family-operated gem, Smokin’ Butts prides themselves on quality and hospitality. The owners, passionate about BBQ, ensure every dish tells a story.