Nothing gets people talking quite like the search for unforgettable BBQ in Woodbury, MN. Whether you curl up with classic smoked ribs in a cozy booth or crave slow-cooked brisket melting into buttery buns, this town has more to offer than meets the eye. On my last trip through Woodbury, I decided to dive deep into the local BBQ scene. With sauce-stained napkins as proof, I discovered everything from hidden gems to southern-style smokestacks right on Hudson Road.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect barbecue spot, rest assured: you’re not alone. Sifting through menus, scoping out smoker setups, and sampling the best rubs in town has become a kind of hobby. With this guide, you’ll get the inside scoop—no marketing fluff, just clear details and honest notes—on where to find that elusive, savory perfection. Ready to taste the best? Let’s dig in.
1. Famous Dave’s
Famous Dave’s in Woodbury feels like a BBQ rite of passage. My last visit involved a table piled high with smoky ribs and enough napkins to build a fort. There’s a comfort in how the scent of slow-smoked meat greets you at the door, promising a meal worth savoring.
What makes this spot stand out is its consistency. You get not just heat and smoke but layers of flavor. The St. Louis-style ribs are what I return for—tender, fall-off-the-bone, and never dry. The brisket’s deep bark deserves some space on your plate too.
Don’t skip the Wilbur beans and corn bread. They round out the meal and remind you that BBQ is as much about the sides as the main event.
2. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse in Woodbury feels like a slice of southern flavor with a side of hospitality. The energy is contagious—the kind of place where the servers line dance and the crowd almost always looks ready for seconds. My last stop involved napkin battles over the last rib, and the house-baked bread vanished before the mains even landed.
What sets it apart is the attention to detail. Every rib is slow-cooked and glazed to a sticky shine. The fall-off-the-bone ribs are what you’ll want to try first; smoky and sweet, they tell you exactly what the kitchen’s about. Their hand-cut steaks come seasoned and juicy, making a strong case for second helpings.
Don’t overlook the made-from-scratch sides—the mashed potatoes and seasoned green beans steal the spotlight as much as the meat.
3. Jj’s Ribs
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Jj’s Ribs brings a low-key, true neighborhood feel to Woodbury’s BBQ scene. It’s easy to miss if you don’t know where to look, but the scent drifting from their smokers is a clear sign you’re close. On my first visit, I watched regulars greet staff by name, a sign this spot has serious local loyalty.
The main attraction? Their house ribs, which come slathered in a sweet, smoky sauce that caramelizes beautifully. Each bite strikes that perfect balance between smokiness and tenderness. If you’re feeling daring, ask about the off-menu sauces—they’re rumored to be a hidden gem.
Pair your ribs with a side of their cole slaw. It’s crisp, tangy, and works as the perfect palate cleanser between bites.
4. Warners’ Stellian Appliance
Warners’ Stellian Appliance may not serve up saucy ribs or brisket plates, but it’s where many of Woodbury’s backyard BBQ legends get their start. Walking through their showroom is an adventure, packed with the latest smokers and grills from brands that live and breathe quality. I once got sidetracked debating the finer points of charcoal with a staff member who could rival any pitmaster for enthusiasm.
What makes Warners’ Stellian a key BBQ stop is their commitment to finding the right fit—whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a weekend burger flipper. Their wide grill selection includes everything from Traegers to traditional charcoal kettles. Pick up a quality grill here, and you’ll have the backbone for BBQs all summer long.
5. Twin City Fireplace & Stone Co.
Twin City Fireplace & Stone Co. is less about smoked meats and more about setting the stage for standout cooks. Walking inside, you’re surrounded by displays of top-notch grills and stonework that would make any backyard look magazine-worthy. I once spent an entire afternoon there, drawn in by a demo grill that turned ordinary burgers into something memorable.
What sets this place apart is their knowledgeable staff who truly understand the science behind barbecue. They can pair you with the perfect grill or smoker, whether you want something high-tech or beautifully simple. Their accessories selection means you can find everything from sturdy tools to the toughest grill brushes.
If you’re looking to elevate your BBQ setup, this is the next stop before slow-roasting anything at home.
6. Go BBQ
Go BBQ brings the food truck spirit to the heart of Oakdale, just minutes from Woodbury. There’s a laid-back vibe here, the kind that makes you want to grab your food and dig in curbside. My last visit meant smoky fingers and a satisfied grin—everything’s served up fresh and fast.
The secret of Go BBQ is in the flavors. Their pulled chicken is juicy with a pepper kick, while the smoked sausage has a deep, subtle spice. Generous portions let you try a bit of everything without regret. It’s BBQ done with just enough attitude.
Their classic baked beans and slaw are the kind of sides you’ll remember after the meal fades. Don’t miss out on the sweet corn if it’s in season.
7. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has a comfort-food atmosphere that draws a steady lunch crowd and plenty of repeat visitors. Each time I pop in, the aroma of slow-cooked meats settles any lunch debate. There’s a laid-back tone that keeps things moving—your order lands quick, but never feels rushed.
What sets Dickey’s apart is the classic approach. Their smoked chicken is always tender and the beef brisket hits that smoky-sweet balance, sliced to order. Every plate comes with the option of traditional sides, making customization easy.
If you want a clear representation of their style, the two-meat plate lets you sample the range, while the creamed spinach is the sleeper side no one should skip.
8. Clover Leaf Bar & Grill
Clover Leaf Bar & Grill brings the classic bar-and-grill energy to Newport, but their barbecue is worthy of a detour. Every visit feels like catching up at a neighbor’s cookout—relaxed, inviting, and never pretentious. I once stopped by for a quick bite and ended up staying to watch a local game, drawn in by the crowd and the scent of the smoker working overtime out back.
The highlight here is their BBQ pulled chicken sandwich, stacked high and dripping with a tangy house sauce. The wings, too, have a loyal following; they’re crisp, smoky, and meant for sharing (though you won’t want to).
Order a side of their seasoned fries and coleslaw. The mix of salty, smoky, and sweet rounds out a meal that’s hard to forget.
9. D-spot
D-spot is the kind of place where flavor experiments meet barbecue comfort. Every visit feels like spinning a wheel of bold sauces, all crafted in-house. I once tried three different sauces on a single visit, and still left plotting my next flavor combo.
What sets D-spot apart is the range. Sure, they offer BBQ classics, but the twist is in the bold glazes and spice blends. Their smoked wings have a cult following—order them naked and try a few different sauces on the side to get the full experience.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the BBQ sliders bring together tender meat and creative toppings on pillowy buns. The fries are reliably crisp and worth adding to any plate.
10. Great Scrape
Great Scrape isn’t a restaurant—it’s where many Woodbury grill masters start their prep. This local company crafts durable wooden grill scrapers that have become a staple at backyard cookouts across the city. Testing one at home, I was surprised by how well it cleaned the grates while picking up the grill’s shape for that custom fit.
The focus at Great Scrape is all about the tools. These natural wood grill scrapers make it easy to keep your equipment in perfect shape without wire bristles or harsh chemicals. Their products feel solid in your hand and last through grill session after session.
If you take BBQ seriously, picking up a Great Scrape tool keeps the flavor pure and your grilled meats tasting just right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top BBQ restaurants in Woodbury, MN?
Some favorites include Famous Dave’s, Texas Roadhouse, Jj’s Ribs, and Go BBQ. Each spot offers a unique style, from classic smoked meats to creative twists.
Where can I find authentic southern BBQ near Woodbury?
Texas Roadhouse and Famous Dave’s both serve up southern-inspired fare, focusing on slow-cooked brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Are there any local BBQ hidden gems?
Jj’s Ribs is known for its neighborhood feel and loyal following. Go BBQ is a favorite for quick bites packed with flavor.
What should I order for a true BBQ experience?
Opt for the St. Louis-style ribs at Famous Dave’s, brisket at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, or pulled chicken sandwiches at Clover Leaf Bar & Grill.
Can I get BBQ catering in Woodbury?
Yes. Many spots like Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and Famous Dave’s offer catering options for events and gatherings.
Where can I buy BBQ grills and supplies?
Warners’ Stellian Appliance, Twin City Fireplace & Stone Co., and Great Scrape carry everything needed to start grilling at home.
Do Woodbury BBQ restaurants offer vegetarian options?
Many offer classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and seasoned fries, but for main course choices, options will be limited.
What sides go well with BBQ in Woodbury?
Corn bread, Wilbur beans, coleslaw, baked beans, and seasoned fries are crowd-pleasers alongside any BBQ main.
