Craving good barbecue in Ithaca is almost a rite of passage. The city may be famous for its waterfalls and campus views, but its smoke-shrouded secrets aren’t far behind. Whether you’re searching for tender brisket that pulls apart with a glance, saucy ribs, or chicken grilled to perfection, Ithaca’s BBQ scene quietly delivers. I’ve spent my fair share of afternoons trailing the scent of oak and hickory through downtown, and each stop brings something new to the plate—sometimes it’s an unexpected spice rub, sometimes it’s a side of cornbread that almost steals the show.
Selecting the best BBQ in Ithaca isn’t as simple as pointing at a menu. You want smoky, slow-cooked dishes that make you stop and savor. You want friendly, no-fuss spots that feel like a neighborhood secret—places that know a great barbecue doesn’t need a spotlight to shine. Let’s get into the list of places that nail it, one bite at a time. If you’re ready for perfectly charred, halal-friendly eats, you’re exactly where you need to be.
Where to find the best bbq in Ithaca, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Ithaca, NY:
- Fittnell Barbeque
- Fat Jack’s BBQ
- Texas Roadhouse
- Bookers Backyard
- Plantation Bar & Grill
- Maxie’s Supper Club and Oyster Bar
- Level B
- Uncle Joe’s Grill
- Gateway BBQ Kitchen
- Hearth & Home
1. Fittnell Barbeque
See Menu
Fittnell Barbeque feels like that hidden spot you stumble upon and can’t stop talking about. Tucked along Old Taughannock Boulevard, this place earns loyal fans for its no-nonsense, wood-fired approach to barbecue. The focus is squarely on deep flavor and slow-cooked satisfaction, without any extra fuss.
The smell alone—smoke and spices mingling outside—pulls you in. I remember my first plate here: succulent beef brisket, edges beautifully crisp, paired with classic sides that actually hold their own. Everything here gets the same patient, gentle time over the fire, which really shows in the taste.
If you love a true Ithaca barbecue experience, try the beef brisket, smoked chicken, or barbecue turkey. Each dish captures Fittnell’s signature style: pure, honest barbecue with every bite.
2. Fat Jack’s BBQ
Fat Jack’s BBQ keeps things unfussy on Elmira Road, but don’t let the simplicity fool you. The menu is packed with bold, smoky flavors, all at a price that makes indulging easy. My last visit left me sold on their commitment to generous portions and top-notch service—there’s comfort here, both in the food and the atmosphere.
Each order comes out hot and hearty. The smoked wings were a stand-out; crisp outside, tender inside, and every bite full of rich, layered smoke. Their barbecue plates celebrate the classics but are never boring, with careful seasoning that goes beyond the basics.
Reach for the smoked chicken platter or the barbecue beef sandwich; both capture the heart of Fat Jack’s best offerings. For a side, the homemade coleslaw is the sleeper hit you didn’t know you needed.
3. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse in Ithaca is as robust and lively as you’d expect. Picture line dancing, country tunes, and staff who genuinely seem to enjoy serving up hearty plates. The energy never feels forced; it’s just part of the experience.
I’ve stopped in for dinner with friends and was pleasantly surprised by how well they manage the classics. Their fall-off-the-bone ribs stand out, slow-cooked to perfection and brushed with a sweet, tangy sauce. The made-from-scratch sides actually taste fresh, and the signature fresh-baked bread is dangerously good.
If BBQ is on your mind, go for the smoked chicken or those famous ribs. Both are a true showcase of what makes Texas Roadhouse a casual favorite for barbecue in Ithaca.
4. Bookers Backyard
(607) 319-0351Call
Bookers Backyard gives you those laid-back, easy-going backyard vibes—except with much better food. Nestled along East Shore Drive, it’s the kind of spot where you can dig into smoky barbecue surrounded by friends, open space, and plenty of fresh air. My first time here, I ended up lingering well past dinner, drawn in by the casual mood and satisfying plates.
The star at Bookers is the barbecue chicken—juicy, with just the right touch of smoke and char. Sides like their baked beans and fresh salad keep the meal feeling balanced, not heavy. Each bite tastes like real summer cookout food, with just enough attention to detail to make it special.
For a classic, get the barbecue chicken platter, and pair it with their hand-cut fries. Bookers is all about simple pleasures, done right.
5. Plantation Bar & Grill
Plantation Bar & Grill blends classic barbecue comforts with a friendly, rustic flair. Set just outside town, it has a local charm that makes newcomers feel like regulars. My own visit started with good conversation and ended with a table of content diners, the smoky scent lingering long after.
What puts Plantation in its own category is consistency—generously portioned plates, and barbecue cooked low and slow, always rich with flavor. The staff is down-to-earth, keeping the place warm and inviting year-round. You get the sense that tradition really matters here.
Choose the smoked turkey sandwich or BBQ chicken. Both are house favorites and deliver that unmistakable, slow-cooked taste that brings you back for more.
6. Maxie’s Supper Club and Oyster Bar
Maxie’s Supper Club and Oyster Bar stands out by merging southern comfort food with laid-back Ithaca spirit. The vibe is festive but unfussy, and there’s plenty to love even if you’ve never set foot in New Orleans. My fondest memory here is splitting barbecue plates with friends while jazz played in the background—a little slice of the bayou, right off State Street.
Maxie’s approach to barbecue is slow and steady, with the smoked chicken and barbecue turkey showing off the kitchen’s commitment to deep flavor. Their house-made sauces are reason alone to visit, each adding just enough zip to every forkful. Don’t overlook the cornbread, which is more than just a side—it’s a soft, golden necessity.
Order the smoked chicken with collard greens. It’s where Maxie’s shines brightest, tying the entire southern-inspired experience together.
7. Level B
Level B brings a modern, upscale flair to Ithaca’s nightlife, while still offering satisfying barbecue plates amid its signature cocktails and dancing crowd. Located in the heart of Collegetown, this spot is just as lively in the early evening as it is after midnight. My favorite trips here start with friends around a table of barbecue and end with music pulsing from the dance floor upstairs.
What makes Level B unique is how they balance comfort food with chic ambiance. Their barbecue chicken sliders are a top pick—bite-sized, smoky, and surprisingly memorable. The kitchen pays real attention to flavor, turning out dishes that keep pace with the bustling lounge energy.
If you need a quick BBQ fix, order the smoked chicken sliders. They’re easy to share and perfect for fueling up before a night out on Eddy Street.
8. Uncle Joe’s Grill
Uncle Joe’s Grill brings a casual, classic vibe to Ithaca BBQ, serving up comfort food in a space that doubles as a go-to sports bar. This is the place to catch a game with friends while enjoying plates that feel home-cooked. I landed here after a long day, and the easy-going atmosphere made it oddly hard to leave.
The menu is broad but their BBQ stands out. The smoked turkey sandwich was my win—tender, with a smoky edge, tucked into a soft bun. Sides like their seasoned fries round things off, generous and always cooked just right.
If you’re set on finding a true sports bar with real BBQ flavor, order the smoked turkey or barbecue chicken platter. The attention to the basics is what truly sets Uncle Joe’s apart.
9. Gateway BBQ Kitchen
(607) 319-4446Call
Gateway BBQ Kitchen, tucked inside Gateway Plaza on State Street, lives up to its motto: “Low and Slow.” Whether you show up at lunch or dinner, the aroma of hardwood smoke says you’re in for real deal barbecue. My visit here proved that no-frills setups often hide the richest flavors in town.
The staff takes pride in their craft, and it comes through in every slice of beef brisket and smoked chicken. You get the sense that nothing leaves the kitchen until it’s perfectly tender. Sides are chosen with care, making every plate feel balanced and satisfying.
Start with the smoked chicken platter or brisket sandwich. Each captures Gateway’s friendly, straightforward approach—making this spot a favorite for barbecue fans who want substance over flash.
10. Hearth & Home
(607) 273-3012Call
Hearth & Home isn’t your typical BBQ joint, but it still has a spot in Ithaca’s smoky food culture. This is where grilling enthusiasts and seasoned pitmasters come to gear up, swap tips, and talk big flavors. My first visit was about picking up a new grill, but I left with more advice on smoking techniques than I expected.
What sets Hearth & Home apart is its expertise—not just with grills and supplies, but with grilling wisdom passed between regulars. Their staff seems to know every trick for cooking over flame, sharing guidance that can elevate your backyard barbecue game.
If you’re looking to create your own standout BBQ at home, check out their selection of smokers, wood chips, and grill accessories. It’s the behind-the-scenes spot every local pitmaster knows.
More Things to Try in Ithaca, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best BBQ restaurants in Ithaca for halal options?
Several top BBQ spots, like Fittnell Barbeque and Maxie’s Supper Club, focus on classic, slow-cooked meats and often highlight their ingredient sourcing. Call ahead to ask about halal choices, as selections can change.
Where can I find the most authentic smoked meats in Ithaca?
For genuine, wood-smoked flavor, Fittnell Barbeque and Gateway BBQ Kitchen stand out. Their brisket, smoked chicken, and turkey get daily attention from pitmasters and are local favorites for a reason.
Do any BBQ restaurants in Ithaca offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Several BBQ places offer vegetarian sides like baked beans, salads, or cornbread. Always ask the staff about vegan or vegetarian mains—many are happy to recommend their best meatless picks.
Which BBQ spot in Ithaca is best for groups or parties?
Texas Roadhouse and Uncle Joe’s Grill both offer space, group-friendly menus, and lively atmospheres. Book ahead if you’re bringing a crowd—these spots get busy on weekends.
Are there any local BBQ spots with outdoor seating?
Bookers Backyard is known for its outdoor dining and easy backyard feel. It’s the go-to for laid-back barbecue al fresco during warm weather.