9 Missouri BBQ Houses With Reservations So Tough, Locals Book Weeks Ahead
Missouri takes its barbecue seriously, and if you want a seat at the best spots, you better plan ahead.
Some of the state’s most legendary BBQ joints have lines out the door and reservation lists that fill up faster than you can say “burnt ends.”
I learned this the hard way when I showed up at one famous spot on a Saturday afternoon, only to be told they’d been fully booked for three weeks—locals know the drill and snag their tables early.
1. Jack Stack BBQ – Multiple Locations Across Kansas City And Lee’s Summit
Walking into Jack Stack feels like entering BBQ royalty territory. This place has perfected the art of making customers feel special while serving up some of the finest smoked meats in Missouri. Their online reservation system makes booking a breeze, but don’t wait until the last minute—weekends fill up faster than their famous beans disappear from your plate.
The burnt ends here are legendary, and their cheesy corn bake has converted countless vegetable skeptics. Jack Stack’s multiple locations mean you have options, but popularity is consistent across all spots. Smart diners book at least two weeks ahead for prime dinner slots.
Their hickory-smoked ribs fall off the bone with barely a touch, and the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between casual and upscale.
2. Q39 – 1000 W 39th St, Kansas City
Championship pedigree runs through every plate at Q39. This award-winning spot explicitly welcomes reservations for parties up to eight people, which is fantastic news for BBQ-loving groups. Their competition-style barbecue has earned national recognition, and one bite explains why the reservation calendar stays packed.
I once tried walking in on a Thursday evening, thinking weeknights would be easier—nope! The hostess kindly informed me that Thursdays are just as crazy as Fridays. Their brisket has a smoke ring that looks like edible art, and the pulled pork practically melts on your tongue.
The modern, industrial vibe creates an energetic atmosphere without feeling pretentious. Book online at least ten days ahead, especially if you’re eyeing weekend brunch slots when their BBQ benedicts become available.
3. Char Bar – Westport District, Kansas City
Garden vibes meet serious smokehouse skills at this Westport favorite. Char Bar’s outdoor space transforms warm evenings into BBQ paradise, complete with picnic tables, string lights, and enough smoked meat to feed an army. Their online reservation system is your golden ticket to securing a spot in this perpetually buzzing destination.
The menu goes beyond traditional BBQ with creative touches that keep regulars coming back for surprises. Their smoked wings have developed a cult following, and the drink selection pairs perfectly with every meat option. Weekends here feel like a neighborhood block party where everyone’s invited—if they remembered to book ahead.
Locals recommend reserving at least two weeks out for Friday or Saturday evenings. The combination of great food, outdoor space, and lively atmosphere makes this worth every bit of advance planning.
4. Smokehouse Barbecue – Locations In Gladstone, Independence, And Kansas City
That prominent “MAKE RESERVATIONS” button on their website isn’t just for show—it’s a lifeline. Smokehouse Barbecue has built a reputation across three locations for consistently excellent food and service that keeps families returning generation after generation. Their pit masters know exactly how long to smoke each cut for maximum tenderness and flavor.
The pulled chicken here doesn’t get enough credit—it’s juicy, perfectly seasoned, and often overlooked by brisket fanatics. Their sauce selection ranges from tangy vinegar-based options to thick, sweet molasses varieties that complement different meats beautifully. Each location maintains the same high standards, so you can’t go wrong with any choice.
Weekend reservations disappear three weeks ahead, especially for larger parties. Weeknight availability is slightly better but still requires advance planning for guaranteed seating.
5. Salt + Smoke – Multiple St. Louis Locations
St. Louis BBQ gets its moment to shine at Salt + Smoke, where both waitlist and reservation options show how seriously they take customer convenience. Their Texas-meets-St. Louis style creates a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from Kansas City competitors. The brisket here boasts a peppery bark that snaps before revealing tender, smoky meat underneath.
I appreciate that they offer both reservation and waitlist systems—it shows flexibility while acknowledging their popularity. Their turkey might be the most underrated item on the menu, smoked to perfection with crispy skin and juicy meat. The sides hold their own too, especially the jalapeño cheddar grits that add a spicy kick.
Reserve at least twelve days ahead for dinner service, particularly at their original Delmar Loop location where space fills quickest.
6. Pappy’s Smokehouse – St. Louis
No reservations? No problem—just prepare for a wait that tests your dedication to incredible BBQ. Pappy’s has achieved legendary status by refusing to compromise quality for convenience, and locals respect that enough to arrive before opening. I watched the line form at 10:30 AM for an 11:00 opening, with seasoned veterans bringing folding chairs and coffee.
Their ribs have won countless awards, and the Memphis-style dry rub creates a flavor explosion that needs no sauce—though their homemade options are excellent. Selling out by mid-afternoon is standard operating procedure here, especially on weekends. The meat pulls away from the bone effortlessly, and each bite delivers perfectly balanced smoke and seasoning.
Arrive at least thirty minutes before they open, or accept that you might leave empty-handed after a long wait.
7. LC’s Bar-B-Q – 5800 Blue Pkwy, Kansas City
Hidden gem status doesn’t begin to describe LC’s, where old-school barbecue traditions meet modern demand. This family-run operation has been smoking meats the same way for decades, and their loyal following knows that arriving late means missing out. While they don’t take traditional reservations, calling ahead for large orders is strongly recommended.
The burnt ends here compete with anyone’s in Kansas City, featuring crispy edges and tender centers drenched in flavor. Their no-frills approach focuses entirely on meat quality rather than fancy atmosphere, and customers wouldn’t have it any other way. The sauce strikes that perfect Kansas City balance—thick, sweet, and tangy with a subtle heat.
Weekend warriors should arrive by noon or risk disappointment when the “sold out” sign appears. Their portions are generous, making the wait worthwhile for those patient enough.
8. Sugarfire Smoke House – Multiple St. Louis Area Locations
Creative BBQ takes center stage at Sugarfire, where traditional smoking techniques meet innovative menu combinations. Their reservation system handles the constant flow of customers seeking both classic plates and adventurous options like BBQ nachos and smoked wings with wild sauces. The energy inside feels electric, with open kitchens showcasing the smoking process.
I’m obsessed with their “Pork Steak Fries”—a St. Louis specialty that combines crispy fries with tender pork steak pieces and cheese sauce. Their commitment to quality extends beyond meat to creative sides and desserts that surprise first-time visitors. The staff maintains impressive efficiency despite constant crowds, and the multiple locations provide flexibility for reservation planning.
Book two weeks ahead for weekend dinner slots, though weekday lunch sees slightly better availability. Their popularity continues growing, making advance planning increasingly important.
9. BB’s Lawnside BBQ – 1205 E 85th St, Kansas City
Live blues music and championship barbecue create magic at BB’s Lawnside, where reservations are essential for weekend shows. This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience combining Kansas City’s two greatest cultural contributions: barbecue and jazz. The atmosphere transports you to a different era while the food keeps you firmly planted in delicious reality.
Their ribs have won numerous awards, and the burnt ends disappear faster than the opening act can finish their first song. Weekend shows book out three to four weeks in advance, with music lovers and BBQ fanatics competing for limited tables. The combination of incredible food and live entertainment justifies every bit of advance planning required.
Call ahead for show nights, and consider weeknight visits for easier reservation availability. The music schedule posts online monthly, allowing strategic planning for your BBQ-and-blues experience.