6 Saint Paul, Minnesota Barbecue Spots You Shouldn’t Miss
In Saint Paul, I’ve chased barbecue like someone following a trail of incense, letting the smoke pull me through backstreets and corner lots.
These places aren’t polished temples; they’re lived-in shrines where meat sizzles, sides comfort, and sauce drips with unapologetic tang. I’ve leaned on counters, traded nods with strangers, and licked brisket from my fingers, all to understand why these joints matter.
They’re more than menus; they’re conversations between fire, patience, and Midwestern grit. What follows isn’t a full map of barbecue here, it’s the six spots that made me stay longer, eat slower, and savor Minnesota’s smoky heartbeat.
1. Rooster’s BBQ Deli, West 7th/Randolph
In the heart of West 7th, Rooster’s BBQ Deli stands as a beacon for BBQ enthusiasts. This retro-style eatery offers a nostalgic vibe with its vintage decor and bustling counter.
Known for their succulent smoked ribs, every bite promises a flavor explosion. Patrons rave about their brisket, tender and expertly smoked to perfection.
The welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both solo diners and families alike. With generous portions, it’s a great stop for those craving a hearty meal.
2. Hickory Hut Barbeque, Rondo/Frogtown
This place slings ribs, wings, pulled pork, fried fish, shrimp and catfish with sizeable sides.
It has been a neighborhood stalwart, known for those rib tips and generous combo deals.
Come around special nights: Monday football, buckets of rib tips plus wings. The folks ordering have a ritual: big orders, family style, laughter passing over trays of mac and Texas toast.
3. FireBox Deli, Merriam Park
On Marshall Avenue, FireBox runs dinner hours, open Tuesday through Thursday evenings, and midday to evening on weekends.
firebox
The interior is cozy, counter service, menu in hand. You pick smoked meats and sides, maybe a brisket or ribs.
Newcomers sometimes pause, studying the sauce lineup. The regulars nod knowingly: this is comfort in smoke and wood, in every juicy bite.
4. Smoke Session BBQ, East Side (White Bear Ave)
At 1590 White Bear Avenue the smell of smoke greets you blocks away. Their pork belly burnt ends and smoked wings draw crowds.
This isn’t large dining rooms. It’s local barbecue hustle: limited hours, often selling out.
You’ll see people arrive, glance at “sold out” signs, then call in orders. The vibe: chase the smoke early, come hungry, hope the meat’s still flowing.
5. Black Market StP, Friday Preorder Pop-Up
Down by the river in the West Side, Black Market StP runs Friday pickups only with preorder required.
They smoke meats year-round using locally harvested black cherry wood for flavor.
You reserve a rack, brisket, or pack ahead of time. On Friday you swing by, pick it up, marvel at that smoke ring and tender bite. Locals call it a weekly feast.
6. Alary’s Bar & Barbeque, Downtown
Downtown, Alary’s Bar & Barbeque combines the excitement of a lively bar with the comfort of classic BBQ. Neon lights and sports memorabilia create an energetic setting where BBQ wings are the star.
You walk into a place where drinks and smoke reside side by side. The smell leans toward brisket and stout.
Patrons often pair a pulled pork sandwich with a beer. Business people drop in after work. It feels like old‑town meeting place where BBQ meets lounge.