Digging into BBQ in Franklin Square, NY feels a bit like opening a treasure chest. You don’t just find smoky ribs or saucy chicken; you find the soul of a community. Once, I found myself standing in a line trailing out Bell’s Kitchen and Smokehouse, thinking, “Is this much anticipation ever justified?” Ten minutes and one glorious brisket sandwich later, I stopped doubting. The locals around me swapped stories about secret menu items and best sauce pairings. It was clear I’d stumbled onto something special.
What makes BBQ in Franklin Square stand out is the sheer range of flavors and personalities packed into one neighborhood. Whether you crave a no-frills, smoky half-chicken or an Instagram-worthy plate stacked with burnt ends, Franklin Square has a grill with your name on it. This guide will spare you the guesswork, serving up the essential spots where the locals actually eat. If you’re hungry for BBQ you’ll remember, keep reading—you’re in for a satisfying adventure.
Where to find the best bbq in Franklin Square, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Franklin Square, NY:
- Bell’s Kitchen and Smokehouse
- Shackletons Bar & Grill
- Lucky Bar 13
- Sempre Fame Gourmet Grill & BBQ Catering
- Community Tavern
- McCarthys
- El Tucanoso Bar Restaurant
- Hats Off Restaurant & Bar
- Cross Island Party Catering
- Atl Wings Inc
1. Bell’s Kitchen and Smokehouse
(516) 492-3557Call
Bell’s Kitchen and Smokehouse sits on Hempstead Turnpike and is tough to miss once you catch a whiff of their signature slow-smoked aroma. The vibe is unfussy, focused on what matters most—a solid BBQ experience. On my first visit, there was no fancy presentation, just a platter of honest smoked chicken that spoke for itself.
What sets Bell’s apart is their dedication to fresh spices and a perfect smoke ring. The brisket arrives juicy, with a bark that shatters between your teeth, while the pulled chicken carries enough flavor to win over any BBQ purist.
Don’t leave without trying the brisket or the smoked wings. The wings in particular strike a satisfying balance between smoke and subtle heat, a true house specialty. This spot is a smoky gem in Franklin Square’s BBQ scene.
2. Shackletons Bar & Grill
Shackletons Bar & Grill blends classic BBQ sensibility with a comfortable pub atmosphere. It’s the spot where I first warmed up with friends after a chilly autumn walk, lured by the promise of slow-cooked BBQ and a cozy vibe. The menu is approachable, the prices gentle, and the staff greet you like they’ve seen you last week.
This place stands out for its relaxed energy and no-nonsense BBQ. The smoke on the meats is distinct without overpowering, giving each dish a subtle touch of expertise. Their kitchen takes pride in balance and simplicity.
The BBQ chicken platter is a smart pick—tender, juicy, and always carries a hint of sweetness from the house-made sauce. Pair it with the classic fries for a straightforward, satisfying meal in Franklin Square.
3. Lucky Bar 13
(516) 280-7613Call
Lucky Bar 13 carries the kind of local charm only a true neighborhood spot can. The first time I stopped in, the shapely aroma of barbecue lingered even outside. It’s casual, spirited, and somewhere you can walk in with friends and feel part of a routine.
What sets Lucky Bar 13 apart is its focus on bold, consistent flavors. The BBQ here isn’t fussy—think smoky, hearty, and built for comfort. The bartenders know both their drinks and their menu, and the kitchen delivers steady, well-executed plates.
The BBQ beef sliders are a standout—rich, satisfying, and never dry. If you’re in the mood for a small plate packed with big flavor, these should be your first pick at this Franklin Square fixture.
4. Sempre Fame Gourmet Grill & BBQ Catering
Stepping into Sempre Fame Gourmet Grill & BBQ Catering is like being invited to a friend’s backyard party—if your friend happened to be a BBQ master. The place is low-key but confident, with a menu that goes well beyond the basics. My first taste was at a catered event, where their smoky aroma snuck around every table and had everyone reaching for seconds.
The skill here is evident in the precise, even char and the juicy tenderness of their grilled meats. Sempre Fame is not about shortcuts—they smoke and grill everything in-house, giving each dish a genuine BBQ identity.
The BBQ chicken platter highlights their style: moist, flavorful, and kissed with just enough smoke to keep you coming back. It’s the perfect pick for BBQ in Franklin Square, NY if you crave both quality and a touch of gourmet flair.
5. Community Tavern
(516) 486-9551Call
Community Tavern brings old-school bar energy with a hearty shot of BBQ tradition. The first night I stopped by, the laughter from a corner booth made it obvious that this is where people gather to enjoy both conversation and a good plate of food. There’s no rush here—just a steady flow of friendly faces and smoky flavors.
What makes Community Tavern stand out is its commitment to generous portions and honest seasoning. You won’t find tricky plating or overworked recipes. Instead, expect BBQ that’s straightforward and satisfying, bringing a true local flavor to West Hempstead, right next to Franklin Square.
The smoked chicken wings earn top marks—savory, tender, and crafted to perfection. Pair them with a classic side, and you’ll see why Community Tavern is a reliable BBQ choice in this part of town.
6. McCarthys
McCarthys is the kind of place where regulars always seem to know each other, and newcomers are simply friends waiting to happen. On my first visit, a rainstorm had everyone ducking in, and the smell of grilled meats instantly made the weather irrelevant. The energy is laid-back, with a menu built for comfort.
Their BBQ sets itself apart by taking classic recipes and giving them a dependable, homestyle touch. There are no pretenses—just straight-up smoky goodness paired with real-deal sides.
Order the grilled chicken sandwich if you want a dish that’s consistently moist, flavorful, and satisfying. With each bite, you get a taste of McCarthys’ dedication to simple, honest barbecue in the heart of Floral Park, near Franklin Square.
7. El Tucanoso Bar Restaurant
(516) 538-1116Call
El Tucanoso Bar Restaurant brings a lively spirit to Hempstead, offering barbecue in a family-style setting just a short drive from Franklin Square. The first time I visited, the energy was upbeat—the sounds of families and friends sharing grilled platters filling the room. It’s the kind of place where everyone at the table finds something to love.
What sets El Tucanoso apart is the way they blend classic BBQ techniques with Latin flavors. The menu has a unique twist, but the commitment to smoky, tender meats is clear in every bite. Service is quick and always paired with a smile.
The grilled chicken platter is highly recommended—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly charred. Pair it with their signature sides for a well-rounded, satisfying BBQ experience in the area.
8. Hats Off Restaurant & Bar
(516) 307-9891Call
Hats Off Restaurant & Bar, newly renovated and with a fresh approach, brings Peruvian BBQ flavors to West Hempstead. My first meal here surprised me—a burst of fresh spices set against a friendly, bustling dining room. It felt like a cooking lesson in comfort food, with every dish carrying a distinct personality.
This spot stands out for weaving together tradition and creativity. The menu goes beyond ordinary, focusing on marinated and fire-grilled meats that stay juicy and vibrant. You’ll feel the care in every bite, whether you’re a BBQ purist or curious for something different.
Order the pollo a la brasa for a taste of smoke and spice that honors both Peruvian heritage and BBQ technique, making it a standout pick for your next Franklin Square BBQ hunt.
9. Cross Island Party Catering
(516) 489-5855Call
Cross Island Party Catering is the seasoned veteran of barbecue parties in the Franklin Square area. I first discovered them at an outdoor event where the smell of grilled chicken had guests gathered long before the food line opened. Their team works smoothly, bringing not just food but the entire BBQ experience to whatever venue you pick.
Where they truly shine is in the details—everything from equipment to setup feels seamless, letting you focus on your event. You don’t just get a meal; you get a polished production. The menu is broad, tailored to fit gatherings big or small.
The grilled chicken and classic BBQ sides are favorites for good reason. They’re flavorful and consistent, setting a high bar for catering in the Franklin Square area. For stress-free, memorable BBQ, Cross Island delivers.
10. Atl Wings Inc
(516) 775-9464Call
Atl Wings Inc is a Franklin Square favorite that does wings right: bold, saucy, and always piping hot. My first visit was a spur-of-the-moment craving fix, and I left with a new standard for how flavorful wings can be. The place gives off a relaxed, come-as-you-are feel, perfect for quick bites or lingering hangs with friends.
Atl Wings Inc has carved out its niche by prioritizing variety and flavor. There’s a wing for every mood, from sweet and smoky to straight-up spicy, all prepared fresh and with care. You won’t find any shortcuts here.
Order the BBQ wings for a taste of their signature blend—smoky, a little sweet, and totally satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that sums up their approach to BBQ in Franklin Square.
More Things to Try in Franklin Square, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular BBQ spots in Franklin Square, NY?
Top picks include Bell’s Kitchen and Smokehouse, Shackletons Bar & Grill, and Atl Wings Inc. Each brings something unique to the table, from slow-smoked meats to sizzling wings and lively atmospheres.
Do local BBQ restaurants offer catering or takeout?
Yes, many BBQ restaurants in the area, like Sempre Fame Gourmet Grill & BBQ Catering and Cross Island Party Catering, specialize in catering. Most spots, including Bell’s Kitchen and McCarthys, also offer convenient takeout options.
Which BBQ places are best for families or groups?
Community Tavern and El Tucanoso Bar Restaurant both offer family-friendly settings with large portions. Their menus are crowd-pleasers, ideal for sharing with friends or family.
What should I order for classic BBQ flavors?
Brisket, BBQ chicken platters, and smoked wings are consistently praised across Franklin Square. These dishes represent each restaurant’s BBQ style and guarantee a satisfying meal.
Are there any BBQ spots with unique or international flavors?
Hats Off Restaurant & Bar puts a Peruvian spin on BBQ with dishes like pollo a la brasa, while El Tucanoso blends Latin seasonings into its grilled meats. If you’re looking to try something different, both stand out.