Hey there! Welcome to the best BBQ guide in Cincinnati, OH. As a BBQ lover, you’re in for a treat.

When you’re searching for top BBQ in Cincinnati, OH, you’re in luck. The city has plenty of great spots. You’ll find smoky meats, tasty sauces, and friendly vibes. The best BBQ places in Cincinnati mix old-school charm with modern flavors. Each spot has something special to offer.
Keep reading! You’ll discover the best BBQ joints in Cincinnati. From classic smokehouses to trendy BBQ spots. Your taste buds are about to go on a fantastic journey. Enjoy!
Top 10 BBQ in Cincinnati, OH
- Just Q’in BBQ – Walnut Hills
- Pig Candy BBQ
- Eli’s BBQ – Riverside
- Lucius Q
- Bee’s Barbecue OTR
- Bee’s Barbecue
- Montgomery Inn The Boathouse
- Just Cookin BBQ
- City Barbeque
- Eli’s BBQ - Findlay
1. Just Q’in BBQ – Walnut Hills
Phone: (513) 477-6322
Menu: justqin.com
Directions: Open on Map
Just Q’in BBQ in Walnut Hills is a real treasure. I love how cozy it feels. You can choose to sit outside when the weather is nice. Inside, it’s just as inviting. Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible, which is great!
When I went, the smell of BBQ hit me right away. I was so excited! The staff was super friendly, and they made me feel right at home. It felt like visiting old friends.
What really makes Just Q’in BBQ shine is their mouth-watering flavors. You have to try the smoked brisket. It’s super tender and so flavorful. I can still taste it! And the mac and cheese? Wow! It’s creamy and delicious. This place truly knows how to serve up great BBQ!
2. Pig Candy BBQ
Phone: (513) 231-0378
Menu: www.eatpigcandy.com
Directions: Open on Map
Pig Candy BBQ is a must-visit for BBQ fans. The vibe is super chill, and it feels welcoming. You can eat inside or enjoy outdoor seating. And yes, it’s wheelchair accessible too!
When I stepped in, I was hit by the smoky BBQ aroma. It made my mouth water instantly! The staff was super nice and made sure I felt comfortable. It felt like a spot where locals love to hang out.
The food? Absolutely amazing! Their pulled pork sandwich stole the show. It was so juicy and packed with flavor. The sweet and spicy BBQ sauce is a game-changer. You’ve got to try it! Pig Candy BBQ is all about bold flavors and great BBQ moments.
3. Eli’s BBQ – Riverside
Phone: (513) 533-1957 ext. 1
Menu: elisbarbeque.com
Directions: Open on Map
Eli’s BBQ – Riverside is a hidden gem. You can find it on Riverside Drive. They have a laid-back vibe. And there’s a nice backyard seating area. Perfect for enjoying pulled pork, ribs, and other classics.
I had a blast at Eli’s BBQ. The smell of smoked meats was irresistible. The casual setup made me feel relaxed and at home. The staff was super friendly and helpful.
What makes Eli’s BBQ stand out is its simple, mouth-watering menu. I highly recommend their pulled pork. It’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The ribs are also a must-try; they’re cooked to perfection. Eli’s BBQ is all about quality and comfort. A true BBQ delight!
4. Lucius Q
Phone: (513) 421-4227
Menu: www.luciusq.com
Directions: Open on Map
Lucius Q is a fantastic BBQ place in Cincinnati. The vibe is really fun and cool. You can sit inside or enjoy the patio. Sometimes, they even have local bands playing. It’s a great spot to relax! Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible, which is awesome.
When I went to Lucius Q, the smell of BBQ hit me right away. The place looked amazing and felt lively. The staff was friendly and made me feel welcome.
What really stands out at Lucius Q is the smoked meats. I totally recommend the brisket. It’s smoky, tender, and absolutely delicious! And don’t miss their mac and cheese; it’s creamy and pairs perfectly. Lucius Q is all about great food and good vibes!
5. Bee’s Barbecue OTR
Phone: (513) 721-2337
Menu: www.beesbarbecue.com
Directions: Open on Map
Bee’s Barbecue OTR is a real find in Cincinnati. It’s located right on Vine Street. The place has a cozy feel with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s perfect for an easygoing meal, and they even do takeout! Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible.
When I walked into Bee’s Barbecue, the smoky aroma hit me. It was so inviting! The staff was super friendly and made me feel right at home. I decided to sit outside and soak up the sun.
What makes Bee’s Barbecue special? Their flavors are incredible! You have to try the brisket. It’s so tender and full of smoky goodness. The mac and cheese is also a winner. It’s creamy and pairs perfectly. Bee’s Barbecue OTR is a must-visit for great BBQ!
6. Bee’s Barbecue
Phone: (513) 561-2337
Menu: beesbarbecue.com
Directions: Open on Map
Bee’s Barbecue on Chandler Street is such a cool spot! It’s got both indoor and outdoor seating. I loved the cozy feel. Plus, it’s perfect for any gathering. And they’ve got takeout and wheelchair access, too.
When I dropped by, the smell of smoky goodness was everywhere. The staff? Super friendly! I grabbed a seat outside. It was chill and relaxing.
What makes Bee’s Barbecue special is their food. The pork ribs are a must-try. They’re juicy and full of flavor. And don’t skip the coleslaw. It’s crunchy and pairs well with the meat. Bee’s is all about tasty, comfort food!
7. Montgomery Inn The Boathouse
Phone: (513) 721-7427
Menu: www.montgomeryinn.com
Directions: Open on Map
Montgomery Inn The Boathouse? Oh, it’s fantastic! Right by the river, which is a total win. Indoor and outdoor seating? You bet! Perfect for any weather. And, they’re wheelchair-friendly.
The barbecue? Oh my, it’s heaven. That sauce—tangy, sweet, smoky. The ribs? Melt in your mouth. Really, they’re famous for a reason.
If you’re into seafood, go for the grilled salmon. Super fresh and tasty. Pair it with a salad. You’re golden. For a hearty meal, try the pork chops. So good.
The whole vibe? Just awesome. Friendly staff, great food, and those views. It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience. Enjoy!
8. Just Cookin BBQ
Phone: (513) 641-3663
Menu: justcookinbbq.com
Directions: Open on Map
Just Cookin BBQ is a real gem in Cincinnati. It’s located on California Ave. The vibe is super cozy. You can hang out inside or sit outside. They offer delivery and takeout, which is great for a quick meal.
When I visited, I was instantly welcomed by the friendly staff. The menu was full of tempting options, making it hard to choose! I went for the ribs, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. They were smoky and so tender, just perfect.
Don’t skip the mac ‘n’ cheese! It’s creamy and comforting. I also loved the pulled pork sandwich. It was packed with flavor and topped with the best sauce. Just Cookin BBQ is a must-try for any BBQ lover!
9. City Barbeque
Phone: (513) 257-0362
Menu: www.citybbq.com
Directions: Open on Map
City Barbeque is a fantastic spot in Blue Ash. It’s located on Kenwood Rd. Right when you walk in, the smoky smell hits you. It feels warm and welcoming. You can choose to sit inside or outside, which is nice. They even have curbside pickup and delivery options!
When I went, I was greeted right away. The staff was super friendly and helpful. I loved the relaxed vibe. It made me feel right at home.
I highly recommend trying the pulled pork. It’s so tender and flavorful! The ribs are also a highlight—fall-off-the-bone good. And don’t forget the mac ‘n’ cheese. It’s creamy and absolutely delicious. City Barbeque is really a must-visit for BBQ lovers!
10. Eli’s BBQ - Findlay
Phone: (513) 533-1957 ext. 2
Menu: www.elisbarbeque.com
Directions: Open on Map
Eli’s BBQ – Findlay is a must-try spot in Cincinnati. It’s located at 133 W Elder St. You can choose to eat indoors or outdoors. They also offer delivery and takeout, which is super convenient. Plus, it’s wheelchair-accessible!
When I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff. The smell of BBQ was mouthwatering right away. It made me excited to eat! The atmosphere felt relaxed and welcoming.
What really stands out at Eli’s BBQ – Findlay is the pulled pork. It’s tender and full of flavor. The ribs are amazing too—smoky and juicy. Don’t forget to grab some mac ‘n’ cheese as a side. It’s creamy and pairs perfectly. Eli’s BBQ is all about delicious BBQ and good vibes!
Map of BBQ in Cincinnati, OH


























Choosing the Right Restaurant for You
With 10 excellent places, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Restaurant | Price | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Just Q’in BBQ – Walnut Hills | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Pig Candy BBQ | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Eli’s BBQ – Riverside | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | No |
Lucius Q | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Bee’s Barbecue OTR | Moderate | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | No |
Bee’s Barbecue | Moderate | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | No |
Montgomery Inn The Boathouse | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Just Cookin BBQ | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | No |
City Barbeque | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Eli’s BBQ - Findlay | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
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What’s the best BBQ spot in Cincinnati?
I’ve got a few faves! Try Eli’s BBQ, Just Q’in BBQ, or Montgomery Inn. They’re all amazing. -
Is there vegetarian BBQ in Cincinnati?
You bet! Lots of places have yummy veggie options. Think smoked veggies, beans, and tasty sauces. -
What makes Cincinnati BBQ special?
Oh, the flavor! It’s a mix of Southern and local touches. Sweet, tomato-based sauces are a thing here. -
Are there BBQ food trucks in Cincinnati?
Yes, and they’re awesome! BBQ trucks pop up at events and popular spots. Look out for them! -
Can I order BBQ for catering in Cincinnati?
Totally! Many places offer catering. It’s perfect for parties. Check menus in advance. -
Do I need a reservation for BBQ joints?
Sometimes. Busy spots, especially on weekends, might need a call ahead. Always a good idea to check!