Finding truly delicious BBQ takes more than sniffing out smoke on the breeze—it’s a quest for tender brisket, soulful sides, and that sense of reward you get when the last bite tastes just as good as the first. Mt Vernon, OH has its own signature approach to barbecue. Here, family-run joints and friendly pubs serve up plates that keep locals loyal and turn first-timers into regulars before dessert even hits the table.
After eating my way across the county, I’ve realized that BBQ in Mt Vernon is about more than just food—it’s about character, warmth, and that slow-cooked magic. Whether you’re hunting for smoky ribs or loaded sandwiches, this town doesn’t mess around. Below, I’ll take you through the top spots for BBQ in Mt Vernon, OH. Each one has a flavor of its own, and each one is worth pulling up a chair for.
1. Road Hog Willy’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q
Road Hog Willy’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q is the smoke-scented heart of Mount Vernon. They commit to competition-level meats, smoked with local Ohio wood for up to 20 hours, and those long hours pay off the moment you lift the lid on a hot platter.
It’s impossible to forget my first bite of their slow-cooked brisket. The bark cracks, the inside melts, and the homemade sauces actually taste homemade. Every side—think creamy mac or zesty slaw—comes from their own kitchen, and it shows.
For a true taste of what makes Road Hog Willy’s stand apart, order the ribs or brisket platter. The flavor lingers, rich and smoky, with a hit of their signature sweet-spicy sauce. No shortcuts, just real BBQ as Mount Vernon intended.
2. The Bad Apple Pub
The Bad Apple Pub puts a local spin on classic comfort, and it’s more than just a burger joint. Cold drinks and live music set the mood, but I keep coming back for the BBQ selections tucked into their menu.
I vividly recall tackling their pulled pork sandwich—it’s piled high, smoky, and finished with a tangy house-made sauce that keeps things interesting. Around you, the tap lines stretch long and the regulars fill the air with friendly chatter.
Barbecue fans should try the BBQ platter or the Applewood smoked chicken. Both pair well with the house fries and fit the Pub’s laid-back but flavor-driven style. Nothing fancy, but the quality and warmth shine through every bite.
3. Buckeye Stoves
Buckeye Stoves isn’t your usual spot for a quick plate of barbecue, but it’s the place where backyard BBQ dreams take shape. This local store is the backbone of quality grilling in the Mt Vernon area. My own start in slow smoking came from the expert advice and stellar equipment I found here.
They stock everything from Big Green Egg smokers to specialty grilling tools, each one picked for peak performance. The staff knows grilling inside and out, and they’ll set you up with the right gear, whatever your BBQ ambitions.
If you’re ready to take your home barbecue to the next level, ask about their range of smokers and wood-fired grills. True flavor starts with the right setup, and Buckeye Stoves knows how to deliver it.
4. Grillers Barbeque
(740) 599-6767Call
Grillers Barbeque is the kind of roadside spot where the scent of smoked meat greets you before the menu does. This no-frills, cash-only joint keeps things simple: good food first, everything else second. My drive out to Howard was rewarded with some of the best BBQ around—without any pretentious extras.
The ribs at Grillers are known to locals for their depth of flavor and bite. You’ll get smoky, tender meat that pulls clean from the bone. The brisket is another standout, sliced thick and juicy with just the right hit of pepper and wood smoke.
Order the ribs or brisket sandwich and grab a side of the house slaw. The straightforward approach gives their BBQ real personality, making Grillers Barbeque a destination worth seeking out.
5. Build A Brew BBQ
(740) 955-1944Call
Build A Brew BBQ proves that golf courses can hide some of the county’s best eats. Located at Table Rock Golf Club, this hidden BBQ stop rewards both golfers and hungry visitors. My first swing through ended up being less about the round and more about the brisket platter waiting at the finish.
There’s a laid-back vibe here, the kind that invites you to linger over pulled chicken or ribs. The pitmasters focus on flavor and consistency, making every dish feel like a BBQ classic revamped for a family gathering.
Definitely order the pulled chicken or brisket sliders—each bite is juicy, smoky, and finished with a light char. This spot brings real BBQ to the greens and does it with style.
6. Porky’s Barbeque
(740) 599-7675Call
Porky’s Barbeque in Danville is one of those local spots where the smoker always seems to be rolling. There’s an easygoing feeling here, with regulars chatting and the kitchen turning out hearty barbecue plates the old-fashioned way. My first meal here felt like settling in at a friend’s backyard cookout.
What sets Porky’s apart is the care in every plate. Their pulled beef is a must-try—tender, juicy, and paired with a tangy barbecue sauce that brings everything together. Classic sides like baked beans or potato salad round things out.
If you want the essence of down-home barbecue, order the pulled beef sandwich and add a side or two. The flavors stick with you, long after the meal ends.
7. Kc’s Steak & Rib House
(419) 886-2159Call
Kc’s Steak & Rib House feels like the kind of place where big flavor rules. Known for its generous portions and relaxed charm, it’s the spot locals suggest when someone wants more than just a steak. I remember a meal here that started as dinner and lingered into long conversation, because the food begs you to slow down and enjoy.
The ribs are the undisputed star. They come glazed, smoky, and rich with every bite pulling clean from the bone. Their classic BBQ plates, matched with steakhouse style sides, make for a satisfying meal that doesn’t hold back.
For the full Kc’s experience, order a half rack of ribs or their smoked chicken. It’s hearty, unpretentious, and full of flavor—just how BBQ ought to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best BBQ restaurants in Mt Vernon, OH?
Top choices include Road Hog Willy’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q, The Bad Apple Pub, Grillers Barbeque, Build A Brew BBQ, Porky’s Barbeque, and Kc’s Steak & Rib House. Each has its own strengths, from classic smoked meats to creative sides.
Are there any barbecue spots in Mt Vernon, OH with outdoor seating?
Many local spots, like Build A Brew BBQ at Table Rock Golf Club, offer outdoor seating so you can enjoy your meal with a view of the greens. It’s best to check ahead with each place as patio options can change with the season.
Which BBQ restaurant is great for families?
Road Hog Willy’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q and The Bad Apple Pub are both family-friendly and feature casual, welcoming vibes. Portions are generous enough for sharing and there are plenty of sides for varied tastes.
Can I find takeout BBQ in Mt Vernon, OH?
You can. Most of the top BBQ restaurants, such as Porky’s Barbeque and Grillers Barbeque, offer takeout. Calling ahead makes pickup fast and easy, especially during busy hours.
Do any restaurants cater or host events?
Road Hog Willy’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q is known for catering events and can bring their signature BBQ right to your function. Just call and chat with their team about custom options.
