Let’s be real: the scent of slow-smoked brisket calls out across Columbus. From cozy shacks with picnic tables to lively spots filled with the steady rhythm of friends and clinking glasses, the BBQ scene here is an adventure all on its own. Finding the best spot isn’t just about tender ribs or tangy sauce—it’s about discovering which backyard-style pit or bustling joint hits the right note for you.
After years of taste-testing across the city (yes, literal years—my shirt collection has paid the price), I’ve learned where the burnt ends melt and the pulled chicken wins hearts. Whether you’re all about smoky classics, curious about Korean BBQ, or just ready to unravel what makes local favorites stand out, this guide will steer you in the right direction. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to satisfy that next smoky craving.
Where to find the best bbq in Columbus, OH
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Columbus, OH:
- City Barbeque
- Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
- B&k smokehouse
- City Barbeque
- Smoked on High BBQ
- Iron Grill Barbecue and Brew
- City Barbeque
- Pecan Penny’s
- Bristol Republic
- Legacy Smokehouse
1. City Barbeque
City Barbeque is tough to miss if you love authentic smoked meats in Columbus. The moment you step inside, there’s a whisper of hardwood smoke and warm hospitality. The brisket catches you first—tender, deeply smoked, and sliced just right. Watching the team pile it high on sandwiches is a show in itself.
If you’re not sure where to begin, order the pulled chicken or St. Louis–cut ribs. Both illustrate the careful craft that sets City Barbeque apart. Sides like green beans and cornbread come fresh each day, never an afterthought.
What keeps me returning is the consistency. Every visit delivers the same honest flavors and effortless comfort that make City Barbeque a local favorite.
2. Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
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Ray Ray’s Hog Pit is where Columbus barbecue gets serious, no frills attached. The first time I visited, I realized the smoke drifting through Clintonville isn’t just for show—it’s their secret handshake. The beef brisket is a revelation, smoked for hours until it melts at first bite.
Ray Ray’s specialty is depth of flavor. Their pitmaster crafts each plate with a smoky backbone and just the right touch of spice. The jerk chicken is a must for those who crave a little heat; it’s different from anything else in town and proof of Ray Ray’s creative edge.
It’s a lineup that draws lines for a reason: everything here tastes slow-cooked, lively, and distinctly Columbus.
3. B&k smokehouse
B&k Smokehouse keeps things simple and genuine, which is why it’s earned a loyal crowd on the Near East Side. On my last visit, the smell of hardwood smoke drifted across the parking lot, hinting at what’s waiting inside. The turkey tips stand out—tender, juicy, and kissed with just enough smoky flavor to keep you reaching for more.
This spot is about unfussy food done right. Their pulled chicken is moist, full of flavor, and an easy favorite. The homemade sides, from tangy greens to seasoned fries, round out every plate with fresh, soulful touches.
Every meal at B&k Smokehouse feels personal: straight-forward BBQ, done with heart and skill, letting the recipes do the talking.
4. City Barbeque
This City Barbeque location on Gemini Place delivers all the signature warmth and approachability you’d expect. Step inside and the menu reads like a highlight reel: smoked brisket, pulled turkey, and St. Louis–cut ribs done the slow, old-fashioned way.
What I find most inviting here is the attention to detail. Meats go straight from the smoker to your tray. Every side, from creamy mac and cheese to crisp slaw, is made fresh and pairs perfectly with the main event.
If you can’t decide, go for the sliced turkey or beef brisket. Each bite carries a balance of smoke and tenderness that showcases City Barbeque’s consistency across Columbus.
5. Smoked on High BBQ
Smoked on High BBQ brings life to the Brewery District with a flare for southern tradition. My first visit had me savoring bites out on their patio, where the scent of oak smoke lingers like a promise. You can taste the time and care in every dish.
Their brisket stands out—not only for its tenderness, but for the bold, peppery bark that seals in every ounce of flavor. Fans of poultry should try the smoked turkey; it’s moist and pleasingly smoky, great alone or tucked into a sandwich.
Smoked on High BBQ is for those who chase genuine flavor—classic southern methods, deeply rooted in local pride.
6. Iron Grill Barbecue and Brew
At Iron Grill Barbecue and Brew, patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s built into the menu. On my last trip, the aroma of hickory smoke greeted me at the door, hinting at the slow-cooking going on behind the scenes. Their secret? Seasoned dry rubs that lock in every drop of flavor, needing little help from sauce.
The standout here is the smoked turkey breast, which emerges from the pit juicy and subtly spiced. The chicken is just as good, fall-off-the-bone tender from hours of careful attention.
Iron Grill holds its own with purists: if you believe smoke and skill should do the talking, this spot is a rewarding stop every time.
7. City Barbeque
The City Barbeque on E Main Street delivers comfort food that keeps regulars loyal. I’ve stopped in countless times, and the smoked brisket and turkey never disappoint—tender, flavorful, and carved to order. Even on busy days, quality stays at the forefront.
It’s more than the meats. Each meal pairs well with their fresh-baked cornbread and side salads, rounding out the experience with scratch-made attention. The kitchen energy spreads right into the dining area, making it as welcoming as it is delicious.
For BBQ fans who want consistency and a laid-back vibe, this spot serves up big flavor, time after time, without fuss or shortcuts.
8. Pecan Penny’s
Pecan Penny’s stands out right in the heart of downtown, balancing old-school charm with a relaxed, modern feel. On my last visit, the upbeat energy matched the aroma of hickory smoke wafting from the kitchen. The smoked chicken is a hit—juicy, deeply seasoned, and served up with craveable sides that stay true to barbecue roots.
The barbecue here knows no shortcuts. Every cut sees hours in the smoker, and you can taste that commitment in every bite. Try the turkey or go for one of their impressive BBQ platters to get a broader sense of style.
Pecan Penny’s delivers a comforting, smoky bite that stands out in Columbus’s crowded barbecue lineup.
9. Bristol Republic
Bristol Republic mixes Southern hospitality with a lively Short North location. My first night there, live country music filled the air and set the tone before a single bite. Their smoked chicken is unforgettable—moist, full of smoke, and perfect for both BBQ plates and sandwiches.
It’s the experience as much as the food that sets Bristol Republic apart. They serve barbecue with flair, and the extensive menu means there’s always something new to try. Sides like baked beans and collard greens round out the meal, blending classic comfort with a creative twist.
For those who want barbecue that delivers on flavor and fun, Bristol Republic is never a dull choice in Columbus.
10. Legacy Smokehouse
Legacy Smokehouse brings a taste of Central Texas right to Hilliard’s main drag. My most memorable visit included watching pitmasters tend massive smokers out back—a hint that this place means business. The brisket is the showstopper, juicy with a peppery bark and a tenderness that holds true to tradition.
Every cut is crafted with patience, using top-quality beef and hardwood smoke. The turkey is exceptional too, always moist and packed with flavor—evidence of careful technique. Pair your plate with their house-made sides for a full southern-style spread.
Legacy Smokehouse stands out for authentic Texas barbecue that never tries too hard but wins you over with every bite.
More Things to Try in Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of BBQ can I find in Columbus, OH?
Columbus offers a mix of styles—central Texas brisket, classic southern smoked turkey and chicken, creative sauces, and even Korean BBQ for something different. Many local spots blend regional techniques, so you’re likely to find everything from dry rubs to tangy, house-made sauces.
Where can I get authentic smoked brisket in Columbus?
For brisket lovers, visit Legacy Smokehouse, Ray Ray’s Hog Pit, or City Barbeque. These places smoke brisket slow and low, serving thick, juicy slices that celebrate the art of barbecue.
Are there any BBQ spots with good vegetarian sides?
Yes, many barbecue joints serve top-notch sides. Look for mac and cheese, seasoned fries, baked beans, collard greens, and cornbread at places like Pecan Penny’s and City Barbeque.
Can I find halal-friendly BBQ options in Columbus?
A few BBQ restaurants offer halal-friendly or vegetarian options. It’s best to call ahead and ask about current menu options and preparation methods.
Which BBQ spots are great for groups or families?
City Barbeque, Smoked on High BBQ, and Bristol Republic all have family-friendly spaces and platters designed for sharing, making them popular choices for groups.
Is BBQ in Columbus mostly dine-in, or are there good takeout options?
Both! Most local barbecue spots offer quick takeout and catering, so whether you’re planning a picnic or dinner at home, you’ll find plenty of flexible options.