14 Hidden Virginia BBQ Joints That Locals Swear By And Always Sell Out
In Virginia, barbecue isn’t just food; it’s a passion, and some of the state’s most devoted fans know the hidden spots where flavor comes first.
These tucked-away joints skip the flashy signs and long menus to focus on smoky meats, tender ribs, and sauces that hit just right.
Locals line up early, knowing that once the trays are empty, the day is done.
From quiet backroads to unassuming town corners, these barbecue spots serve up plates worth planning your day around.
In Virginia, the secret to unforgettable barbecue is simple: master the pit, respect the meat, and never skimp on flavor.
1. ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque — Richmond, Virginia
Smoke billows from the custom-built pits here every morning before the sun comes up, filling the air with that unmistakable scent of oak and mesquite.
ZZQ started as a competition team that racked up trophies before opening a brick-and-mortar spot at 3201 Moore Street in Richmond.
The building features industrial chic design with exposed brick, metal beams, and communal picnic tables that encourage strangers to become friends over fatty brisket.
Their Texas-style brisket is the star, with a peppery bark that snaps when you bite into it and meat so tender it practically falls apart.
Locals also rave about the smoked turkey and house-made sausages.
Fun fact: the owners traveled to Texas multiple times to study under legendary pit masters before perfecting their craft. Arrive early because once the meat is gone, the doors close.
2. Alamo BBQ — Richmond, Virginia
Walking into this spot feels like stepping into a backyard cookout where everyone is welcome and the portions are generous.
Alamo BBQ sits at 2911 W Broad Street in Richmond, housed in a modest building with bright red trim and a no-frills interior that puts all the focus on the food.
The pulled pork here gets piled high on sandwiches and comes with a vinegar-based sauce that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Their ribs have a sweet glaze that caramelizes during the smoking process, creating a sticky, finger-licking experience.
Sides like mac and cheese and collard greens are made from scratch daily.
Interestingly, the owner learned to smoke meat from his grandfather, who ran a pit in Texas for decades.
Lines form quickly during lunch, so plan accordingly if you want to taste what keeps this neighborhood staple packed.
3. Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue — Richmond, Virginia
Authenticity runs deep at this family-owned joint that has been serving Richmond since the 1990s.
Located at 8205 W Broad Street, Buz and Ned’s occupies a rustic building with wooden siding and a covered patio where diners can enjoy their meals outdoors.
The menu features North Carolina-style chopped pork that gets dressed with a tangy vinegar sauce, plus hickory-smoked ribs that have a loyal following.
Their brisket sandwich is another crowd favorite, served on a soft bun with pickles and onions.
The interior has a casual, roadhouse vibe with checkered tablecloths and vintage barbecue signs on the walls.
A fun detail: the owners named the restaurant after their childhood nicknames.
The banana pudding here is legendary and often sells out before dinner service ends.
Locals know to call ahead if they want to reserve a rack of ribs for the weekend.
4. Deep Run Roadhouse — Henrico, Virginia
Tucked away on a quiet stretch of road, this place looks like a converted country store, and that is exactly what it used to be.
Deep Run Roadhouse at 4901 Deep Run Road in Henrico serves barbecue with a Southern twist, including smoked chicken that stays juicy under a crispy skin and fall-off-the-bone spare ribs.
The building has weathered wood paneling and a front porch with rocking chairs, giving it that authentic roadhouse feel.
Inside, string lights and mason jar chandeliers add a cozy touch.
Their burnt ends are a must-try, with crispy edges and a smoky sweetness that keeps people coming back.
Sides like baked beans and coleslaw are made fresh every day.
Interestingly, the smoker out back is a custom rig built by a local welder.
Regulars know to arrive before 6 PM on Fridays because the brisket always sells out fast.
5. The Original Ronnie’s BBQ — Henrico, Virginia
Ronnie himself still tends the smoker most days, a tradition he started over twenty years ago when he turned his passion into a business.
Located at 4065 Nine Mile Road in Henrico, this spot operates out of a small building with a bright blue exterior and a hand-painted sign that has become a local landmark.
The pulled pork here is smoked for hours until it shreds with a fork, and the house sauce has a perfect balance of sweet and heat.
Ronnie’s ribs are meaty and tender, with a dry rub that packs a flavorful punch.
The interior is simple, with a few tables and a counter where you order.
Fun fact: Ronnie competed in barbecue contests for years before opening his own place.
The potato salad and cornbread are homemade daily.
Locals often place orders the day before because weekends see everything sell out by mid-afternoon.
6. Smoked Kitchen and Tap — Crozet, Virginia
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this barbecue spot combines stunning views with seriously good smoked meat.
Smoked Kitchen and Tap at 5794 Three Notched Road in Crozet features a modern farmhouse design with large windows, reclaimed wood accents, and a spacious outdoor patio.
The brisket here is Texas-inspired, with a thick smoke ring and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Their smoked wings are a hidden gem, tossed in a variety of sauces from mild to fiery.
The tap selection includes local craft beers that pair perfectly with the smoky flavors.
Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with communal seating and a bar area.
A cool detail: the restaurant sources much of its wood from local farms.
The mac and cheese gets topped with smoked gouda and breadcrumbs.
Arrive early on weekends because the patio fills up fast and the brisket often runs out.
7. Vision BBQ — Charlottesville, Virginia
Creativity meets tradition at this Charlottesville spot where the pit master experiments with flavors while honoring classic techniques.
Vision BBQ at 200 Garrett Street operates out of a sleek, contemporary space with polished concrete floors and minimalist decor that lets the food take center stage.
The smoked pork belly here is a standout, with layers of fat and meat that melt together into pure richness.
Their brisket gets a coffee rub that adds depth without overpowering the smoke.
The building also features an open kitchen where you can watch the team at work. Sides include inventive options like smoked cauliflower and jalapeño cornbread.
Fun fact: the owner spent years working in fine dining before switching to barbecue.
The burnt end tacos are a fusion favorite that locals request constantly.
Weekend service sees lines forming well before opening, so plan ahead if you want to sample everything.
8. The Barbeque Exchange — Gordonsville, Virginia
History oozes from every corner of this joint, which has been serving barbecue since the 1940s in a building that once housed a general store.
The Barbeque Exchange at 102 Martinsburg Avenue in Gordonsville features vintage tin ceilings, wooden floors that creak with character, and walls covered in old photos and memorabilia.
The chopped pork here is legendary, smoked over hickory and served with a tangy vinegar sauce that has been passed down through generations.
Their ribs are meaty and fall right off the bone.
The interior feels like stepping back in time, with red-and-white checkered tablecloths and a counter where regulars chat with the staff.
A fun tidbit: the smoker out back is over fifty years old and still going strong.
The Brunswick stew is a must-try side.
Locals know to arrive before noon on Saturdays because everything sells out fast.
9. Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que — Williamsburg, Virginia
Generations of families have made pilgrimages to this iconic spot, where the smell of smoking pork greets you from the parking lot.
Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que at 447 East Rochambeau Drive in Williamsburg operates out of a sprawling building with a rustic exterior and a massive dining area that can seat hundreds.
The pulled pork here is the main attraction, slow-smoked until it is tender and juicy, then piled high on sandwiches or served by the pound.
Their ribs are equally impressive, with a dry rub that forms a flavorful crust.
The interior has a casual, cafeteria-style setup where you order at the counter and grab your sides.
Fun fact: Pierce’s has been family-owned since 1971 and uses the same recipes from day one.
The hush puppies and sweet tea are legendary accompaniments.
Weekends see tour buses pulling in, so locals know to visit during weekday lunches.
10. Monk’s BBQ — Purcellville, Virginia
Small-town charm and big-time flavor come together at this hidden gem where the owner smokes everything on-site daily.
Monk’s BBQ at 203 North 21st Street in Purcellville sits in a cozy building with a red brick facade and a covered front porch that welcomes diners.
The brisket here is Texas-style, with a peppery bark and a tender, juicy interior that has won over countless fans.
Their pulled chicken is another favorite, smoked until it is fall-apart tender and tossed in a mild sauce.
Inside, the decor is simple and homey, with wooden tables and local artwork on the walls. A fun detail: the owner named the restaurant after his childhood dog.
The loaded baked beans and cornbread muffins are made from scratch.
Locals often call ahead to reserve brisket because it sells out by early afternoon most days, especially on weekends when word spreads fast.
11. Hammerdown BBQ — Aldie, Virginia
Passion for barbecue drives every plate at this spot, where the pit master treats smoking meat like an art form.
Hammerdown BBQ at 24610 Millstream Drive in Aldie operates out of a modern building with a sleek black exterior and a spacious dining area with high ceilings and industrial lighting.
The beef ribs here are massive, smoked for hours until the meat pulls away from the bone with ease.
Their pork belly burnt ends are sticky, sweet, and incredibly addictive.
The interior features a mix of booth seating and communal tables, creating a social atmosphere.
Fun fact: the owner competed on a popular barbecue television show before opening this restaurant.
The smoked mac and cheese gets topped with crispy bacon bits.
Sides like collard greens and coleslaw are prepared fresh daily.
Locals know to arrive early on Fridays because the beef ribs sell out quickly and are not always available during the week.
12. The Pit Stop BBQ — Sterling, Virginia
Convenience meets quality at this neighborhood spot where locals swing by to grab barbecue that tastes like it came from a backyard smoker.
The Pit Stop BBQ at 46950 Community Plaza in Sterling occupies a modest storefront in a shopping center, with a simple interior that focuses on the food rather than fancy decor.
The pulled pork here is smoked low and slow, then dressed with a house sauce that has a hint of sweetness and a tangy finish.
Their baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, with a glaze that caramelizes perfectly.
Inside, a few tables and a counter offer quick service for dine-in or takeout.
A fun detail: the owner started smoking meat in his backyard and turned it into a business after friends kept asking for more.
The baked beans and potato salad are homemade daily. Regulars know to order ahead during dinner rush because the ribs often sell out fast.
13. County Smoak — Lynchburg, Virginia
Southern hospitality and wood-fired barbecue define this Lynchburg favorite where the smoke never stops and the flavors always deliver.
County Smoak at 3236 Old Forest Road operates out of a charming building with a rustic exterior, wooden accents, and a welcoming front porch.
The brisket here is smoked for up to fourteen hours, resulting in a tender, flavorful cut with a perfect smoke ring.
Their pulled pork is equally impressive, piled high on sandwiches and topped with tangy slaw.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and vintage barbecue signs.
Fun fact: the restaurant uses only locally sourced wood for smoking, giving the meat a unique regional flavor.
The jalapeño cheddar grits are a standout side.
Locals often stop by on Thursdays for the smoked turkey special.
Weekends see the place packed, so arriving early is key if you want to snag their famous brisket before it runs out.
14. Redwood Smoke Shack — Norfolk, Virginia
Coastal vibes meet smoky goodness at this Norfolk spot where the barbecue is as laid-back as the beachy atmosphere.
Redwood Smoke Shack at 316 Granby Street sits in a vibrant downtown area, housed in a building with a relaxed, surf-shack aesthetic featuring bright colors, nautical decor, and a casual outdoor seating area.
The smoked chicken here is brined and smoked to juicy perfection, with crispy skin that snaps with every bite.
Their brisket tacos are a fusion hit, combining tender meat with fresh toppings and a zesty sauce.
Inside, the vibe is fun and energetic, with surfboards on the walls and a menu that includes craft beers and cocktails.
A fun tidbit: the owner grew up surfing and smoking meat on the weekends, eventually combining both passions into this restaurant.
The smoked corn on the cob and sweet potato fries are popular sides.
Locals know to visit during happy hour for deals and to beat the evening crowds.