Discovering the best barbecue spots in Long Island, NY, feels like a treasure hunt for meat lovers. Over the years, I’ve sampled from cozy neighborhood joints to bustling grills that serve up smoky, tender excellence. Each bite has told a story—rich, flavorful, and crafted with a perfect balance of spice and woodsmoke. Long Island’s diverse culinary scene ensures you’ll find places that respect tradition while adding their own twist to the classic BBQ experience.
Trust me, finding a spot that hits all the right notes can be a challenge. But I’ve done the legwork—sifting through reviews, visiting countless venues, and tasting myriad dishes—to bring you a selection of top-tier BBQ destinations. Whether you crave brisket that melts in your mouth or ribs with a smoky bark, this guide is designed to steer you toward some of the best pulled pork and smoky delights Long Island has to offer. Your next great BBQ meal is just a few bites away.
Where to find the best bbq in Long Island, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Long Island, NY:
- Jean Frantz Menard
- The BBQ King Inc
- Road House of Li
- Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill
- Rolling Smoke Grill Food Truck
- Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Thristy Scholar
- Blackbirds Grille
- BBQ Stews Inc
- Karvers Grille
1. Jean Frantz Menard
(631) 615-6401Call
Located at 33 Comac Loop in Ronkonkoma, Jean Frantz Menard offers a warm, casual atmosphere perfect for BBQ enthusiasts. From my visits, I’ve discovered their dedication to authentic, flavorful barbecue that keeps customers coming back. Their menu blends traditional grill favorites with a touch of local flair, making each visit feel like a special occasion.
What sets Jean Frantz Menard apart is their attention to quality and consistency. Their smoked ribs are a standout—tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned. The brisket is another must-try, showcasing slow-cooked excellence that melts in your mouth. Combined with their friendly service, these dishes highlight a commitment to true barbecue craftsmanship that resonates with Long Island’s diverse culinary palate.
For an all-around satisfying experience, I recommend trying their house-made BBQ sauces, which add an extra layer of flavor to every bite. Whether dining in or taking out, Jean Frantz Menard delivers a taste of authentic barbecue in Long Island that’s hard to beat.
2. The BBQ King Inc
(631) 218-4604Call
Situated at 87 Carlough Rd in Bohemia, The BBQ King Inc is a go-to spot for authentic barbecue lovers. My visits reveal a place that takes pride in delivering rich, smoky flavors in every dish. The inviting atmosphere and welcoming staff make it a perfect stop for a satisfying meal with family or friends.
What makes The BBQ King Inc stand out is their dedication to quality and variety. Their pulled pork sandwiches are a highlight—juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The smoked brisket is equally impressive, showcasing slow-cooked perfection that truly reflects their mastery of BBQ techniques. Paired with their house-made sauces, these dishes offer a memorable Long Island BBQ experience.
If you’re seeking a hearty, authentic taste of barbecue, try their signature platters. They capture the essence of traditional BBQ with a touch of local flavor, solidifying their reputation as a top Long Island barbecue destination.
3. Road House of Li
(631) 468-8150Call
Tucked away at 3328 Veterans Memorial Hwy in Bohemia, Road House of Li offers a vibrant atmosphere for those craving quality barbecue. From my experience, it’s a spot where the smoky aroma beckons you in and promises a satisfying meal. Their welcoming vibe makes it a favorite among locals seeking hearty, flavorful dishes.
What sets Road House of Li apart is their skillful blend of traditional BBQ with a modern twist. Their ribs are especially notable—tender, fall-off-the-bone, and coated in savory, rich sauce. The BBQ chicken is also a standout, packed with smoky flavor and balanced seasoning, reflecting their commitment to quality. Paired with their homemade sides, these dishes exemplify Long Island’s dynamic barbecue scene.
For a memorable experience, I recommend trying their combo platters to sample the best of what they offer. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for authentic, well-crafted barbecue in a lively setting.
4. Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill
Located at 5012 Express Dr S in Ronkonkoma, Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill offers a lively setting for those craving hearty, smoky barbecue. My visits have shown it’s a place where the aroma of grilled meats draws you in, complemented by the warm, inviting atmosphere. Their extensive menu caters to both casual diners and those seeking a satisfying meal.
What makes Smokey Bones stand out is their focus on authentic, flavorful barbecue and friendly service. The ribs are exceptionally tender, coated in a tangy, smoky sauce. The wood-fired chicken also impresses, balancing smoky richness with perfect seasoning, reflecting their commitment to quality. Their wide selection of sides and sauces adds to the authentic experience.
If you want to enjoy true American barbecue with a modern twist, try their BBQ platter. It captures the essence of Long Island’s barbecue scene with a satisfying, flavorful bite every time.
5. Rolling Smoke Grill Food Truck
Rolling Smoke Grill Food Truck, based in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, brings top-tier barbecue directly to your location. My experience with their mobile catering is always impressive, thanks to their flavorful, smoky dishes served fresh and hot. Their convenient drive-up catering makes it easy to enjoy excellent BBQ at events or gatherings.
What makes Rolling Smoke stand out is their commitment to quality and flexibility. Their BBQ ribs are juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender, while the cornbread is perfectly moist with just the right sweet touch. Their smoked meats and sandwiches reflect authentic Long Island BBQ craftsmanship.
If you’re planning an event, I recommend their drive-up catering. It offers flavorful, satisfying BBQ that keeps guests talking long after the last bite.
6. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Located at 812 Wheeler Rd in Hauppauge, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is a go-to for authentic Texas-style barbecue. My visits reveal a commitment to quality, with signature meats smoked overnight to ensure maximum flavor. The inviting, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual meal or catering special events.
What makes Dickey’s stand out is their focus on tradition and responsible sourcing. Their brisket is a highlight—tender and smoky with a perfect bark. The ribs are also exceptional, slow-cooked and flavorful. Pair these with their house-made sides, which are recipes passed down through generations, embodying true Southern barbecue.
If you seek hearty, flavorful BBQ with an authentic touch, ordering their combo plates delivers the best of Dickey’s craftsmanship and style.
7. Thristy Scholar
(631) 648-9454Call
Located at 236 Union Ave in Holbrook, Thristy Scholar offers a relaxed atmosphere where great barbecue and drinks come together. My visits reveal a spot that balances quality food with a friendly vibe, making it ideal for casual gatherings or after-work drinks.
What makes Thristy Scholar stand out is their dedication to authentic flavors and local ingredients. Their smoked ribs are exceptionally tender, coated in a flavorful BBQ sauce. The pulled pork sandwich is another favorite—juicy, smoky, and satisfying. Their craft beers perfectly complement these hearty dishes, reflecting their laid-back yet quality-driven style.
If you’re craving genuine Long Island BBQ, I recommend their BBQ platter—a hearty, flavorful choice that captures the essence of their craft.
8. Blackbirds Grille
Located at 553 Old Montauk Hwy in Sayville, Blackbirds Grille blends Southern-Cajun flavors with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. My visits have shown it as a perfect spot for those craving bold, flavorful cuisine in a relaxed setting. The weekend music and active bar add a festive touch to every meal.
What makes Blackbirds Grille stand out is their commitment to authentic Southern and Cajun dishes. Their smoked BBQ ribs are tender and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. The pulled pork sandwich is smoky and juicy, exemplifying their dedication to quality. Paired with their spicy Cajun sides, these dishes deliver a unique twist on traditional barbecue.
If you want robust flavors and a spirited dining experience, their BBQ platter is an excellent choice that reflects their bold, authentic style.
9. BBQ Stews Inc
Located at 1069 Main St Suite 116 in Holbrook, BBQ Stews Inc specializes in off-premise catering that brings authentic barbecue flavors directly to your event. My experience with their catering service highlights their ability to serve mouthwatering dishes with consistency and excellence, making every gathering memorable.
What makes BBQ Stews Inc stand out is their focus on quality ingredients and classic recipes. Their slow-cooked brisket is rich and tender, while the smoked ribs are a highlight—succulent and perfectly seasoned. Their hearty sides and flavorful sauces embody genuine Long Island barbecue traditions.
If you’re planning a celebration, I recommend their catering packages featuring a variety of smoked meats. These dishes showcase their dedication to delivering authentic, high-quality barbecue every time.
10. Karvers Grille
Located at 480 Patchogue Holbrook Rd in Holbrook, Karvers Grille offers a modern, casual take on American favorites, including a satisfying range of barbecue dishes. My visits show a place that combines hearty comfort food with a lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends or family.
What makes Karvers Grille stand out is their dedication to quality and flavor. Their smoked BBQ chicken is tender and flavorful, with a smoky taste that reflects their commitment to authentic recipes. The burgers and hot dogs are also popular, showcasing their versatility and focus on satisfying, high-quality ingredients.
If you want a combination of classic barbecue and American comfort food, trying their BBQ platter is a good choice—rich, smoky, and crafted with care to reflect their style.
More Things to Try in Long Island, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some top-rated BBQ places in Long Island, NY?
A: Popular options include Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Road House of Li, and Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill. These spots are known for their authentic flavors, tender meats, and friendly atmospheres.
Q: What type of BBQ is most common in Long Island?
A: Long Island offers a variety of styles, but most places serve Texas-style smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, emphasizing slow-smoking and rich flavors.
Q: Do Long Island BBQ restaurants offer catering?
A: Yes, many do. BBQ Stews Inc and Rolling Smoke Grill are known for their catering services, perfect for parties, events, or weddings with delicious smoked meats and sides.
Q: Are there vegetarian options at Long Island BBQ joints?
A: While BBQ is meat-focused, many restaurants offer vegetarian sides like baked beans, cole slaw, and cornbread. Some places may have veggie sandwiches or grilled vegetables.
Q: Can I find family-friendly BBQ restaurants in Long Island?
A: Absolutely. Several establishments, including Blackbirds Grille and Karvers Grille, cater to families with a casual setting and kid-friendly menu options.