Craving barbecue in Asheville feels less like a simple hunger than a calling. This city wears its smoky badge with pride: you’ll find barbecue joints tucked into every corner, from riverside shacks perfumed with hickory to urban haunts with menus as thick as a pitmaster’s apron. As someone who’s spent more than a few afternoons following the trail of sweet smoke through these neighborhoods, I can assure you, Asheville’s BBQ scene takes its craft seriously—but never itself too seriously.
Choosing the best barbecue here isn’t just about ribs or pulled pork. It’s about atmosphere, the way a sauce clings to your fingers, and that moment of quiet as you weigh brisket against burnt ends. Whether you’re a seasoned smoke-seeker or simply looking for your next great meal, each spot on this list offers something special. Ready to see who fires up the most memorable bites in town? Let’s dig in.
Where to find the best bbq in Asheville, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Asheville, NC:
- Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Luella’s Bar-B-Que
- Little Pigs BBQ
- Moe’s Original BBQ
- The Biltmore Block Off
- Bonfire Barbecue
- Foothills Food Truck
- Black Bear BBQ
- New Earth Inc
- Buxton Hall Barbecue
1. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit rolls out classic Texas-style BBQ in Asheville, offering a familiar lineup with a smoky Southern accent. The brisket here arrives tender, sliced to order and still puffing steam. There’s always plenty of sauce, but it’s the slow-smoking and crispy edges that win the day.
The smoked turkey and pulled chicken are surprisingly juicy—ideal for anyone who prefers their smoke on the lighter side. I’ve found the pit beans and tangy slaw hit the spot beside any platter. If you land here on a cool day, the aroma alone will have you ordering more than you planned.
Try the two-meat plate and don’t miss the classic sides. Dickey’s doesn’t mess with tradition; it earns its keep with honest BBQ and a cozy vibe, every visit.
2. Luella’s Bar-B-Que
At Luella’s Bar-B-Que, the aroma of smoked meats and homemade sides sweeps you in as soon as you hit the door. The vibe is laid-back, yet every detail—from deep booths to sauces at the ready—shows a real dedication to Southern hospitality. I’ve lingered over meals here, savoring every forkful of their house specialties.
The pulled chicken and hickory-smoked turkey are tender and full of character. What really sets Luella’s apart, though, is its balance of comfort and craft. The mac and cheese, creamy and golden, is a must on the side. If you’re sharing, the family platters let you sample more without any serious food debates.
Order the chopped chicken BBQ plate and add a side of slaw. It’s pure Asheville flavor, rooted in tradition and delivered with a smile.
3. Little Pigs BBQ
Little Pigs BBQ has earned its stripes as a true Asheville institution since 1963. Stepping inside feels like a nostalgic nod to classic barbecue joints, where friendly faces know your order and the aroma of smoke never really leaves your clothes. There’s a real sense of community here, and every meal feels like home.
The chopped chicken plate is a standout, slow-cooked and piled high with their tangy house sauce. The hush puppies, golden and crispy, hover somewhere between bread and treat. I always find myself coming back for the generous portions and laid-back pace—this isn’t a place you rush through.
If you’re craving comfort and old-school flavor, order the chopped chicken or turkey BBQ plate with classic sides like slaw or baked beans. It’s simplicity, done exceptionally well.
4. Moe’s Original BBQ
Moe’s Original BBQ sets the bar for a lively, Southern barbecue experience in Asheville. From my first visit, I noticed the pace: slow enough to savor both the food and the company. The team here brings classic recipes and coastal personality to every plate, making guests feel like old friends.
The smoked chicken platter is a gem, with tender meat that pulls apart at the touch of a fork. They nail the soulful sides too—think creamy potato salad and tangy collards, just like you wish every family picnic could serve. When I’m after a true taste of Southern comfort, Moe’s is top of mind.
Order the smoked chicken with two sides and you’ll understand why Moe’s keeps its fans coming back.
5. The Biltmore Block Off
The Biltmore Block Off blends downtown charm with barbecue staples in a space that feels both laid-back and a little refined. It’s the kind of spot where the evening sun filters through big windows and live music often carries from the back room. I dropped in once after a stroll through downtown, only to stay much longer than planned.
The smoked turkey sandwich stands out, thanks to juicy slices stacked on fresh bread and paired with classic Southern sides. There’s a careful balance between comfort and flair here, giving you the best of both worlds for a casual meal or a lively gathering.
Try the turkey or chicken BBQ plates for a taste of the kitchen’s best, all smoked to bring out their fullest flavors.
6. Bonfire Barbecue
Bonfire Barbecue pulls you in with a welcoming mood and the warm glow of smoke drifting from the open kitchen. It’s one of those local haunts where regulars actually nod to newcomers. My afternoon here lasted longer than expected—every plate needed its moment.
The smoked chicken and turkey plates are the stars, intense with hickory flavor and generously portioned. Sides like their vinegar slaw or smoky baked beans make just the right sidekick. There’s no fuss, just honest eats that let the smoke and spices do the talking.
For a real taste of Asheville BBQ simplicity, order the smoked turkey platter with slaw and baked beans. Bonfire Barbecue manages to keep things straightforward, delicious, and genuinely friendly.
7. Foothills Food Truck
Foothills Food Truck brings local flavor and fresh ingredients straight to the Asheville streets. Parked by Hi-Wire Brewing’s Big Top, it’s the perfect spot for barbecue cravings with a side of fresh air. I grabbed a picnic table on my last visit, soaking in the buzz, and couldn’t help but notice how quick the line moves—everyone knows what they want.
The smoked turkey sandwich is a true standout: juicy, loaded with house slaw, and packed on a hearty bun. Every bite speaks to their commitment to pasture-raised meats and scratch-made sides. Don’t miss out on the seasonal salads and crispy fries, either.
If you’re chasing genuine, local barbecue flavor, order the smoked turkey or chicken sandwich and enjoy the sunshine—Foothills keeps things lively and real.
8. Black Bear BBQ
Black Bear BBQ dishes out soulful, traditional barbecue with a homey touch that’s become a local favorite. Stepping inside, I was struck by the relaxed buzz and menu full of house-made classics. It’s the kind of place where you meet neighbors and leave satisfied, always looking forward to your next visit.
The smoked turkey plate is beautifully done: juicy, carved thick, and paired with creative sides like tangy collard greens or classic potato salad. Chef specials keep things interesting if you like a surprise on your tray. Even the vegetarian options manage to impress, which isn’t always the case at a barbecue spot.
For the true Black Bear BBQ flavor, order the smoked turkey or BBQ chicken plate with two sides. There’s tradition in every bite—served up with plenty of Southern hospitality.
9. New Earth Inc
(828) 785-1701Call
New Earth Inc sits just off North French Broad, offering Asheville a hidden take on barbecue with a modern twist. The space feels friendly and unfussy, drawing in folks looking for something both comforting and creative. I remember my first visit: sunlight pouring in, the smell of spice and smoke, and plates passing by that made me want to order everything.
The grilled chicken plate makes a perfect choice here. It’s served juicy every time and paired with inventive sides—think roasted vegetables or crisp garden slaw. The kitchen clearly enjoys mixing tradition with a bit of fresh thinking.
For a reliable meal in a relaxed setting, try the grilled chicken with house-made sides. New Earth Inc keeps barbecue bright, approachable, and always satisfying.
10. Buxton Hall Barbecue
Buxton Hall Barbecue is one of those Asheville spots where the sense of history hangs as thick as the smoke. The vibe is bright, quirky, and buzzing—casual enough for a quick lunch, but captivating enough to draw you in for hours. On my last visit, the open kitchen let me watch the pitmasters at work, turning simple poultry into something memorable.
The barbecue chicken plate is a standout, served with a tangy vinegar sauce that gives each bite a lively kick. Sides rotate with the seasons, but the vinegar-based slaw and slow-simmered beans are always worth your attention. There’s real skill in the way Buxton Hall transforms old-school recipes into something modern and deeply satisfying.
Order the chicken BBQ plate with two rotating sides. It’s Asheville barbecue at its most soulful and inventive.
More Things to Try in Asheville, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of BBQ is Asheville known for?
Asheville BBQ draws influence from classic North Carolina traditions, with plenty of slow-smoked meats and tangy, vinegar-based sauces. You’ll also find touches of Southern and Texas-style barbecue, plus creative twists unique to the city’s food scene.
Are there good options for chicken or turkey BBQ in Asheville?
Absolutely. Many spots, such as Buxton Hall Barbecue, Black Bear BBQ, and Foothills Food Truck, serve juicy smoked chicken and turkey plates alongside classic sides.
Is it easy to find BBQ restaurants downtown?
Yes. Many of Asheville’s top barbecue restaurants, including Buxton Hall and The Biltmore Block Off, are located downtown or within a short drive. You’ll find both classic joints and newer, creative spots all near the city center.
Do Asheville BBQ restaurants offer vegetarian options?
Several barbecue spots, like Black Bear BBQ, cater to all kinds of eaters by offering vegetarian sides and chef-crafted specials. It’s smart to check menus or ask about today’s options when you arrive.
Is Asheville BBQ family-friendly?
Definitely. Most Asheville BBQ spots are casual, welcoming, and kid-friendly, with plenty of hearty sides and relaxed indoor or patio seating.