15 Hidden Ohio BBQ Spots That Rival the Best in the South
Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of mouthwatering barbecue, but this state is hiding some serious smoky treasures.
From Cincinnati to Columbus and everywhere in between, talented pitmasters are serving up ribs, brisket, and pulled pork that can stand toe-to-toe with anything you’d find in Texas or Tennessee.
These hidden gems prove that great barbecue knows no borders, and the Buckeye State deserves a seat at the table with the best of them.
1. Pig Candy BBQ – Cincinnati
Nestled on Kellogg Avenue in Cincinnati, this barbecue spot earned its sweet name for good reason.
The pitmasters here understand that proper smoking transforms ordinary meat into something magical. Their ribs practically fall off the bone, and the brisket shows off that perfect pink smoke ring that serious barbecue lovers look for.
What sets this place apart is their attention to detail in every dish they serve. The sides complement the meat perfectly, from creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw that provides just the right contrast.
Locals know this spot as their go-to for authentic barbecue that doesn’t cut corners. The friendly staff treats everyone like family, making sure your plate is piled high before you leave.
Address: 5901 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45230
2. Smoked On High BBQ – Columbus
Right in the heart of Columbus on South High Street, this barbecue joint brings serious flavor to the city.
Walking through the door, you’re immediately greeted by that unmistakable aroma of hickory smoke that’s been working its magic for hours. The brisket here rivals anything you’d find in Kansas City, with a bark so flavorful you’ll want to savor every bite.
Their sauce selection offers something for everyone, whether you prefer tangy vinegar-based or sweet and sticky. The pulled chicken is often overlooked at barbecue places, but not here—it’s tender, juicy, and packed with smoky goodness.
Weekend crowds prove this spot’s popularity, so arriving early means shorter waits and fresher batches. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Address: 755 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206
3. Uncle Beth’s BBQ – North Lewisburg
Sometimes the best barbecue hides in the most unexpected places, and Uncle Beth’s proves that point perfectly.
Located along Route 245 in North Lewisburg, this family-run operation serves up authentic smoked meats that keep people driving from miles around. The ribs here are legendary among locals, coated in a house-made rub that creates an incredible crust during the smoking process.
Their pit beans are slow-cooked with bits of brisket, creating a side dish that could easily be a main course. The homestyle atmosphere feels like visiting a relative’s backyard cookout, except the food is restaurant-quality perfection.
Don’t skip their cornbread—it’s slightly sweet and pairs beautifully with the savory meats. The portions are generous, so come hungry or plan to take home leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
Address: 6262 OH-245, North Lewisburg, OH 43060
4. B&K Smoke House – Columbus
East Main Street in Columbus holds a barbecue secret that serious meat lovers have discovered.
B&K Smoke House operates with a simple philosophy: low and slow produces the best results every single time. Their turkey ribs are surprisingly tender and smoky, offering a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor.
When they have burnt ends on offer, they’re cut perfectly—crispy on the outside while maintaining that tender, juicy interior that makes them so addictive. Each meat is seasoned with care, allowing the natural flavors to shine through the smoke.
Their sandwich options are stacked high, requiring both hands and plenty of napkins to enjoy properly. The no-frills environment keeps the focus exactly where it belongs—on outstanding barbecue prepared with skill and passion.
Regular customers rave about the consistency, knowing they’ll get the same excellent quality every single visit.
Address: 1114 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43205
5. Hoggy’s BBQ and Catering – Columbus
Bethel Road hosts this barbecue powerhouse that’s earned its reputation through years of consistent excellence.
Hoggy’s understands that great barbecue starts with quality ingredients and proper smoking techniques. Their St. Louis-style ribs showcase a perfect balance between meat and seasoning, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
The pulled pork sandwich comes piled high on a soft bun, with just enough sauce to enhance without overwhelming the meat’s natural taste. Their catering business thrives because they bring the same attention to detail to large events as they do to individual plates.
The mac and cheese here deserves special mention—creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. Families appreciate the kid-friendly menu options that introduce younger diners to quality barbecue.
Service is quick and friendly, making this spot perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Address: 830 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43214
6. Pickles & Bones Barbecue and Catering – Milford
The quirky name alone makes this Milford spot memorable, but the barbecue keeps people coming back for more.
Pickles & Bones has mastered the art of balancing traditional techniques with creative twists that surprise and delight. Their smoked wings are absolute fire—crispy skin protecting juicy meat infused with hours of smoke flavor.
The brisket here is sliced thick, showing off that beautiful smoke ring and tender texture that only proper smoking can achieve. Their pickle game is strong too, with house-made varieties that add a tangy crunch to every plate.
The outdoor seating area provides a relaxed setting during warmer months, perfect for enjoying messy barbecue without worry. Their catering menu has made them the go-to choice for local events and celebrations.
Don’t leave without trying their potato salad—it’s loaded with flavor and perfectly creamy.
Address: 877A Business 28, Milford, OH 45150
7. JT Smoke BBQ – New Philadelphia
New Philadelphia’s barbecue scene got a major upgrade when JT Smoke BBQ opened its doors on East High Avenue.
This place takes pride in doing things the old-fashioned way, with wood-fired smokers working around the clock to produce tender, flavorful meats. Their baby back ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender while still maintaining enough structure to pick up and enjoy properly.
The sauce selection ranges from mild and sweet to spicy and bold, letting each diner customize their experience. Their smoked sausage links are house-made, offering a snappy casing that gives way to juicy, seasoned meat.
The collard greens here are cooked Southern-style, with just the right amount of seasoning to complement the rich meats. Local residents consider this spot a community gathering place where good food brings people together.
The value for the portion sizes makes this an easy choice for feeding hungry families.
Address: 1706 E High Ave, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
8. Smokin’ J’s BBQ – Winchester
Way down in Winchester, this roadside gem serves up barbecue that’s worth the scenic drive through Ohio’s countryside.
Smokin’ J’s operates with a passion for authentic barbecue that shines through in every dish they prepare. Their pulled pork is smoked to perfection, with a beautiful bark on the outside and tender, juicy meat throughout.
The homemade sides taste like they came straight from grandma’s kitchen, with recipes passed down through generations. Their cornbread muffins are slightly sweet and incredibly moist, perfect for soaking up extra sauce or enjoying on their own.
The rural location means you’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings while digging into your meal. Word-of-mouth recommendations have turned this small operation into a destination worth seeking out.
Their commitment to quality over quantity ensures every plate meets high standards before leaving the kitchen.
Address: 19261 OH-136, Winchester, OH 45697
9. Bee’s Barbecue – Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s Chandler Street holds a barbecue treasure that locals have been enjoying for years.
Bee’s Barbecue brings Southern hospitality to the Buckeye State, with recipes rooted in traditional techniques and family secrets. Their rib tips are incredibly flavorful and budget-friendly, offering a taste of authentic barbecue without breaking the bank.
The hot links here pack serious flavor, with just enough spice to make things interesting without overwhelming your taste buds. Each order comes with generous portions that ensure you’ll leave satisfied and probably planning your next visit.
The sauce is tangy with a hint of sweetness, complementing rather than masking the natural meat flavors. Their beans are slow-cooked with chunks of smoked meat, creating a hearty side that could easily stand alone.
The neighborhood vibe makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular customer.
Address: 5910 Chandler St, Cincinnati, OH 45227
10. Joe’s Barbecue – Kent
Kent’s barbecue scene gets a major boost from this Tallmadge Road favorite that serves from a food trailer.
Joe’s Barbecue understands that college towns need hearty, affordable food, and they deliver on both counts without compromising quality. Their smoked chicken is juicy and flavorful, proving that poultry deserves just as much attention as beef and pork.
The brisket sandwich is piled impossibly high, requiring strategic eating techniques to avoid making a complete mess. Their fries are hand-cut and seasoned perfectly, providing a crispy contrast to the tender meats.
Students and locals alike line up here during lunch and dinner rushes, creating a steady buzz as orders go out hot and fast. The menu offers plenty of variety, ensuring everyone in your group will find something to love.
Their commitment to fresh ingredients and proper smoking techniques keeps quality consistently high across all menu items.
Address: 1293 Tallmadge Rd, Kent, OH 44272
11. Hank’s Texas BBQ – Columbus
North High Street in Columbus brings a taste of Texas to Ohio with this authentic barbecue destination.
Hank’s Texas BBQ stays true to Lone Star State traditions, using traditional rubs and a serious smoke program to create genuine Texas-style barbecue. Their beef ribs are massive, meaty, and incredibly tender after hours in the smoker.
The brisket here is sliced to order, ensuring you get the perfect ratio of lean to fatty meat in every serving. Their jalapeño cheese grits add a Southwestern kick to the plate, offering creamy comfort with a spicy twist.
The no-sauce-needed philosophy lets the quality of the meat and smoke speak for themselves, though sauce is available for those who want it. The casual, cafeteria-style ordering keeps things moving quickly even during busy periods.
Texas transplants swear this place reminds them of home, which is the highest compliment a barbecue joint can receive.
Address: 2941 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
12. Cockeye BBQ – Warren
Warren’s Parkman Road hosts this barbecue spot that’s become a regional favorite for serious meat lovers.
Cockeye BBQ earned its reputation by focusing on quality ingredients and refusing to rush the smoking process. Their burnt ends are rich, flavorful, and absolutely addictive—many customers order extra portions to take home.
The smoked turkey breast stays incredibly moist thanks to careful temperature control and proper brining techniques. Their loaded baked potato topped with chopped brisket and fixings creates a complete meal in itself.
The coleslaw here provides the perfect cool, crunchy contrast to rich, smoky meats, with a tangy dressing that brightens every bite. Families appreciate the welcoming environment and kid-friendly options that make dining out easy and enjoyable.
The consistent quality has built a loyal following that spreads the word about this hidden gem.
Address: 1805 Parkman Rd NW, Warren, OH 44485
13. Ol’chefskis BBQ – Aurora
Aurora’s Trails End address hints at the adventure that awaits at this unique barbecue destination.
Ol’chefskis BBQ combines traditional smoking methods with creative menu items that surprise and delight adventurous eaters. Their smoked salmon is a standout, showing that barbecue techniques work beautifully with fish when done properly.
The pulled pork nachos are loaded with toppings, creating a shareable appetizer that often becomes the main event. Their house-made pickles add bright, acidic notes that cut through the richness of smoked meats perfectly.
The intimate setting makes you feel like you’re dining at a friend’s house rather than a restaurant. Their rotating specials keep the menu fresh and give regulars new items to try with each visit.
The attention to detail extends to presentation, with plates arranged thoughtfully rather than just piled with food.
Address: 15 Trails End, Aurora, OH 44202
14. Smokin Bros BBQ Voted # 1 – Mansfield
Mansfield’s Park Avenue West is home to this barbecue spot that’s earned a strong local reputation among serious BBQ fans.
Smokin Bros BBQ takes competition seriously, with trophy cases displaying their victories at barbecue contests across the region. Smokin Bros BBQ takes barbecue seriously, turning out ribs that showcase everything that makes great barbecue great—tender meat, flavorful bark, and perfect smoke penetration.
The brisket here is sliced with care, with each slice revealing the pink smoke ring and tender texture that brisket lovers look for. Their sauce recipes have been refined through countless batches, creating flavors that enhance rather than hide the meat.
The sides are prepared with the same care as the main dishes, from creamy coleslaw to perfectly seasoned baked beans. Their success hasn’t changed the friendly, down-to-earth service that makes every customer feel valued.
The accolades are well-deserved, making this spot a must-visit for serious barbecue enthusiasts.
Address: 1041 Park Ave W, Mansfield, OH 44906
15. Old Canal Smoke House – Chillicothe
Chillicothe’s East Water Street location adds historic charm to this exceptional barbecue experience.
Old Canal Smoke House honors the area’s history while serving up thoroughly modern, expertly prepared smoked meats. Their pulled pork is hickory-smoked to perfection, with meat so tender it practically dissolves on your tongue.
The smoked wings here are brined before smoking, resulting in incredibly juicy meat beneath crispy, flavorful skin. Their cornbread is baked fresh throughout the day, served warm with honey butter that melts into every bite.
The downtown location makes this perfect for combining barbecue with exploring Chillicothe’s historic attractions and shops. Their commitment to local sourcing means fresher ingredients and support for Ohio farmers and producers.
The downtown setting adds ambiance to already outstanding food, creating a complete dining experience worth remembering and repeating.
Address: 94 E Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601