Few culinary pursuits rival the allure of a perfectly smoked barbecue. Having explored Lansing’s vibrant food scene extensively, I can confidently say that the city holds a treasure trove of exceptional BBQ spots. Whether it’s tender pulled pork, juicy ribs, or flavorful brisket, Lansing’s barbecue joints deliver with consistent quality and a true passion for the craft.
If you’re a barbecue enthusiast or just eager to discover what makes Lansing’s BBQ scene stand out, you’re in for a treat. This guide highlights the best spots in town, each offering a unique approach to smoking and seasoning. Rest assured, these selections are handpicked to satisfy every craving for authentic, flavorful, and satisfying barbecue.
Where to find the best bbq in Lansing, MI
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Lansing, MI:
- Meat BBQ
- Saddleback BBQ
- Smokey Bones Lansing
- Capital City BBQ
- The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ
- Gump’s BBQ
- VEG-N
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Ellison Brewing Co. – Reo Town
- Choupli Wood-Fired Kabob
1. Meat BBQ
Located at 1224 Turner Road, Meat BBQ has earned a reputation as Lansing’s go-to spot for top-tier barbecue. From the moment I walked in, the inviting aroma of smoked meats promised a memorable meal. The staff’s friendly service complements the restaurant’s warm atmosphere, making every visit feel special.
What makes Meat BBQ stand out is their unwavering commitment to quality. Their menu features mouthwatering smoked chicken wings, succulent brisket, and tender pulled pork — all made with care and seasoned to perfection. For a truly satisfying experience, I recommend trying their smoked meat plate paired with a craft beer. It’s a flavor combination that captures the essence of authentic barbecue in Lansing.
2. Saddleback BBQ
Situated at 1147 S Washington Ave, Saddleback BBQ is a hidden gem in Lansing known for its hearty, flavorful barbecue. During my visit, I was greeted with the inviting scent of smoked meats and a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The outdoor seating option adds to its charm, perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal.
What sets Saddleback BBQ apart is their dedication to classic smoking techniques and generous portions. Their signature dishes include slow-smoked ribs and tender brisket, both celebrated for their rich, smoky flavor. For a satisfying meal, I recommend the smoked meat platter. It captures the essence of authentic BBQ in Lansing and reflects Saddleback’s commitment to quality.
3. Smokey Bones Lansing
Located at 2401 Lake Lansing Road, Smokey Bones Lansing strikes the right balance between casual dining and bold BBQ flavors. I stopped in for a late lunch and found the atmosphere relaxed, with attentive service and a clean layout that made settling in easy. Whether dining in or opting for carry-out, the experience is consistently smooth and accommodating.
Smokey Bones earns its place on this list with its wide menu and attention to detail. Their fire-grilled ribs and hand-pulled pork are standout items, offering rich taste without overpowering smoke. For a full taste of their craft, go for the create-your-own BBQ combo. It’s the kind of meal that lets you appreciate the diversity of flavors without missing out on the classics.
4. Capital City BBQ
Located at 1026 W Saginaw St, Capital City BBQ offers a unique blend of American barbecue and Vietnamese cuisine. I discovered this spot during a lunchtime visit, and the vibrant flavors immediately impressed me. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff made for a comfortable dining experience, whether you dine in or order takeout.
What makes Capital City BBQ stand out is their creative fusion approach and consistency. Their smoked brisket and Vietnamese-inspired BBQ dishes showcase the best of both worlds. For a true flavor adventure, the BBQ banh mi is a must-try—combining smoky meat with fresh, crisp bread and condiments, embodying their distinctive style.
5. The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ
Located at 908 Elmwood Rd, The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ is a cornerstone of Lansing’s barbecue scene. During my visit, I was greeted with the aroma of slow-smoked meats that promised quality from the first bite. With a straightforward, inviting setting, it feels like a true local favorite for barbecue lovers.
What makes The Smoke N’ Pig stand out is their dedication to traditional smoking techniques and hearty portions. Their pulled pork and smoked ribs are consistently flavorful and tender. For the best experience, try their combo platter, which offers a variety of smoked meats, showcasing their skill and commitment to quality in every dish.
6. Gump’s BBQ
Tucked into a quiet stretch of River Street, Gump’s BBQ is a no-frills spot that delivers big on flavor. The vibe is casual, the service is warm, and the food? It’s the kind that makes you pause mid-bite to appreciate what just happened.
What sets Gump’s apart is its brisket breakfast burrito—a local favorite that blends smoky, tender brisket with fluffy eggs and just the right amount of sauce. It’s not just breakfast; it’s a reason to get out of bed. Their pulled pork sandwich is another standout, stacked high and served with a side of crispy, golden fries.
Gump’s BBQ doesn’t try to be flashy. It focuses on solid, slow-smoked barbecue with a breakfast twist that’s rare in Lansing. If you’re looking for comfort food with character, this is your place.
7. VEG-N
VEG-N flips the script on Lansing’s BBQ scene with a plant-based twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Tucked near Old Town, this drive-thru gem serves up American classics reimagined for the vegan crowd—and curious carnivores alike.
On my last visit, I tried the Impossible Chili-Cheezy Fries. The housemade chili had depth, the cheezy sauce was rich, and the fries were crisp. It was comfort food without compromise. Their Jala-Jala Chick-N Sandwich also hits the mark with a crispy soy patty and jalapeño ranch that packs a punch.
What makes VEG-N stand out is its commitment to bold flavors and quality ingredients. The menu is playful but thoughtful, with BBQ-inspired options that feel familiar yet fresh. If you’re looking for Lansing BBQ without the meat, this is your spot.
8. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in Lansing blends casual comfort with brewhouse energy. Inside, it’s spacious and warm, the kind of place where groups gather and weekday dinners feel easy. There’s polish in their presentation, without losing the laid-back vibe.
What makes BJ’s stand out is their fusion of flavors. Their slow-roasted tri-tip with BJ’s Peppered BBQ sauce is the star for barbecue seekers. It’s tender, balanced, and distinctly their own—not overly smoky, not overdone. The BJ’s Brewhouse BBQ Burger, stacked with onion strings and BBQ sauce, is a solid pick for those who like their BBQ handheld and hearty.
BJ’s doesn’t aim to imitate Southern smokehouses. Instead, it offers California-inspired BBQ with clean flavors and carefully composed plates. A reliable spot for BBQ in Lansing that’s not trying to be rustic—just really good.
9. Ellison Brewing Co. – Reo Town
+1 517-657-3896
Situated at 1314 S Washington Ave, Ellison Brewing Co. – Reo Town combines a lively brewpub atmosphere with a diverse menu that features barbecue favorites. During my visit, I was impressed by the welcoming ambiance and the crisp, fresh beers crafted on-site. It’s a perfect spot for a casual night out or a weekend gathering.
Their BBQ pork sandwich stands out with its smoky, tender meat and flavorful sauces. For an added treat, try the barbecue pizza, which features a crispy crust topped with smoky sauce and generous bites of smoked meat. It reflects their inventive approach to traditional barbecue combined with pub fare quality.
Ellison Brewing Co. offers a unique blend of craft beer and barbecue, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking something different in Lansing’s food scene.
10. Choupli Wood-Fired Kabob
+1 517-708-0404
Located at 4411 W Saginaw Hwy, Choupli Wood-Fired Kabob offers a distinctive take on Mediterranean cuisine. My visit revealed a warm, inviting atmosphere where the aroma of grilled meats filled the air, promising an authentic experience. They provide flexible options with plates or wraps, perfect for any craving.
Choupli stands out for its wood-fired kabobs and fresh ingredients. The haloumi cheese kabob is a must-try, delivering a rich, smoky flavor that exemplifies their commitment to quality. Their Mediterranean salads and vegetarian options add variety and freshness to the menu.
This spot reflects a passion for authentic flavors with inclusive choices, making it a top destination for healthy, flavorful barbecue-inspired dishes in Lansing.
More Things to Try in Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best places for BBQ in Lansing, MI?
A: Some top options include Meat BBQ, Saddleback BBQ, and Gump’s BBQ. Each offers unique flavors and a strong local following.
Q: Do Lansing BBQ spots offer vegetarian or vegan options?
A: Yes, places like VEG-N focus on plant-based American classics and provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including burgers, salads, and more.
Q: Are there BBQ restaurants in Lansing with outdoor seating?
A: Yes, several, including Saddleback BBQ and others, offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying meals in the Michigan weather.
Q: Do Lansing BBQ joints accept takeout or delivery?
A: Most do. Places like Meat BBQ and Smokey Bones Lansing offer takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery options for convenience.
Q: Are there family-friendly BBQ restaurants in Lansing?
A: Many, including BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, accommodate families with kids and have highchairs and spacious seating.