Locals Claim These Ohio BBQ Houses Put Chains To Shame
Ohio has a quiet barbecue tradition that runs deep in both cities and small towns. Family-owned joints focus on slow cooking, careful seasoning, and letting the smoke do the talking.
Ribs come out with just the right bark, brisket stays tender and rich, and pulled pork gets piled high and served with house-made sauce that’s been tweaked over the years.
These spots aren’t chasing trends, they’re sticking to what works, earning steady crowds and loyal regulars. It’s barbecue built on patience, pride, and a whole lot of time around the pit.
1. Eli’s BBQ, Cincinnati
Perched along the scenic riverfront, this place has been making carnivores happy since opening its doors. Locals flock here for the pulled pork that practically melts on your tongue and the brisket that’s smoked low and slow for hours.
The Alabama white sauce is a regional twist that surprises first-timers in the best way possible. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the Ohio River views while devouring tender ribs.
Everything here tastes like someone’s grandpa spent all day perfecting it. Portions are generous enough to share, though you probably won’t want to.
2. Ray Ray’s Hog Pit, Columbus
What started as a humble food truck has grown into a Columbus legend that draws crowds daily. The pitmaster here takes his smoking seriously, using hardwood and patience to create flavors that stick with you long after lunch.
Pulled pork sandwiches come piled high with meat that’s been kissed by smoke for hours. Their homemade sauces range from tangy to sweet, each one complementing the meat perfectly.
Lines can get long during peak hours, but regulars will tell you it’s absolutely worth the wait every single time.
3. Mabel’s BBQ, Cleveland
Celebrity chef Michael Symon brought his A-game to Cleveland with this spot that honors traditional barbecue techniques. Brisket here gets a beautiful bark from hours in the smoker, creating that perfect texture contrast everyone craves.
The menu changes seasonally, but the commitment to quality never wavers. Sides like smoked baked beans and tangy coleslaw round out every plate beautifully.
I remember my first visit here, walking in hungry and leaving so stuffed I needed a nap. That’s the Mabel’s effect in action.
4. Velvet Smoke BBQ, Cincinnati
This neighborhood gem proves that great barbecue doesn’t need fancy surroundings, just serious skill. Ribs come off the smoker with meat so tender it slides right off the bone without any wrestling required.
The burnt ends here are like little nuggets of smoky heaven that disappear faster than you can say seconds. Sauce options let you customize your experience, whether you prefer vinegar-based tang or molasses sweetness.
Regulars know to arrive early because once they sell out, that’s it for the day.
5. B&K Smokehouse, Columbus
Tucked into a Columbus neighborhood, this family-run operation treats barbecue like the art form it truly is. Their turkey might surprise you since poultry doesn’t always get the spotlight, but here it’s brined and smoked to juicy perfection.
Pork ribs get rubbed with secret spices before spending quality time in the smoker. The mac and cheese side dish could honestly be a meal on its own.
Friendly staff make you feel like family from the moment you walk through the door, which keeps people coming back weekly.
6. Old Canal Smoke House, Chillicothe
Small-town charm meets serious smoking skills at this Chillicothe favorite that locals guard like a precious secret. Brisket gets sliced thick here, showing off that perfect pink smoke ring that barbecue enthusiasts obsess over.
Pulled chicken offers a lighter option without sacrificing any of that deep smoky flavor. Their cornbread comes out warm and slightly sweet, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
The casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy your meal without any pretension or fuss whatsoever.
7. Company 7 BBQ, Englewood
Housed in a converted firehouse, this spot brings history and flavor together under one roof. The theme fits perfectly since the barbecue here is genuinely fire, as the kids would say.
Smoked sausage links snap with each bite, releasing juices that make your taste buds do a happy dance. Pork shoulder gets the royal treatment with a dry rub that creates an incredible crust.
Weekend crowds pack the place, but the efficient service keeps things moving smoothly. Every plate leaves the kitchen looking picture-perfect and tasting even better.
8. Hickory Bar-B-Q, Dayton
Operating for decades, this Dayton institution has been feeding families longer than most chain restaurants have existed. The recipe hasn’t changed because when you’ve got something this good, why mess with success?
Their sauce strikes that magical balance between sweet and tangy that makes you want to lick the plate clean. Ribs come glazed and glistening, with meat that’s been loved by hickory smoke for hours.
First-timers often become regulars after just one visit, joining the ranks of devoted fans who’ve been coming here since childhood.
9. Pickles & Bones Barbecue, Milford
The playful name hints at the fun atmosphere waiting inside this Milford spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Smoked wings here pack serious flavor, proving that barbecue goes way beyond just ribs and brisket.
Their pickle bar lets you customize your plate with various pickled vegetables that cut through the richness beautifully. Pulled pork nachos combine two beloved foods into one glorious mess worth making.
My cousin dragged me here last summer, and I’ve been grateful ever since because I found my new favorite BBQ spot.
10. The Scioto Ribber, Portsmouth
Right along the river, this Portsmouth treasure combines beautiful views with beautiful barbecue that satisfies every craving. Baby back ribs are the star attraction, cooked until they achieve that perfect tenderness without falling apart completely.
The dry rub option lets you taste the meat and smoke without sauce overpowering everything. Baked potato salad provides a comforting side that reminds you of summer picnics.
Sunset dining on the patio turns a regular meal into a memorable experience worth repeating as often as possible.
11. The Proper Pig Smokehouse, Lakewood
Cleveland’s Lakewood neighborhood houses this relative newcomer that’s already earned a devoted following among barbecue fans. Brisket sandwiches come loaded with meat that’s been treated with respect and plenty of smoke time.
Their rotating specials keep the menu exciting, so regulars always have something new to try. Collard greens get smoked too, adding depth to a side dish that often plays second fiddle.
The modern space feels welcoming without being stuffy, perfect for casual dinners or quick lunches that leave you completely satisfied.
12. Legacy Smokehouse, Hilliard
This Hilliard establishment lives up to its name by creating barbecue worthy of being passed down through generations. Beef ribs here are massive, meaty masterpieces that require both hands and serious appetite to tackle properly.
The pitmaster’s dedication shows in every perfectly smoked piece that leaves the kitchen. Smoked mac and cheese takes comfort food to another level entirely.
Families gather here for celebrations, knowing the food will please everyone from picky kids to barbecue snobs. That’s the mark of truly exceptional cooking right there.