There’s something magnetic about a waft of smoky, slow-cooked goodness cutting through Manhattan’s steady background of taxi horns and sidewalk chatter. BBQ in this city is an evolving tale—equal parts messy, mouthwatering, and unmistakably diverse. You’ll find brisket that could bring a Texan to tears, ribs that convince Kansas City natives to come back for seconds, and global grill spots reimagining what barbecue means. Manhattan squeezes every drop of flavor and heritage into its barbecue joints, offering options from wood-fired Argentine asados to sizzling Korean tableside grills.
I still remember ducking into a dimly lit spot after a rainstorm, only to ditch my umbrella at the first bite of fall-off-the-bone beef short rib—the tangy, smoky bark made me forget about the gray outside. Whether your taste buds are seeking the comfort of classic Southern-style smoke or craving a more international spin, this borough’s BBQ scene serves up serious contenders. Prepare for marbled cuts, secret sauce recipes, and a search that just might redefine how you feel about grilled meat. Hungry for the best? Let’s dig in.
Where to find the best bbq in Manhattan, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Manhattan, NY:
- Buenos Aires
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
- Tomino – Taberna Gallega
- Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque
- Cuba
- Guantanamera
- Jongro BBQ
- Victor’s Cafe
- Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- Ipanema Restaurant
1. Buenos Aires
Tucked away on East 6th Street, Buenos Aires brings the magic of an Argentine grill to Manhattan’s lively barbecue map. The relaxed vibe and aroma of real wood smoke pull you in before you even find your seat. That first time I dined there, the sound of crackling from the open kitchen promised something special.
Steak is king here, and the parrillada (mixed grill) reminds you why: juicy cuts, short ribs, and housemade chorizo arrive perfectly charred and deeply flavorful. Try the entraña—the skirt steak that captures the heart of Argentine BBQ and is always cooked to pink perfection.
With over 100 Argentine wines to pair and friendly, effortless service, Buenos Aires manages to make every meal feel like a celebration.
2. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que holds a legendary status in Harlem’s smoky meat scene, tucked beneath the Riverside Drive Viaduct. The relaxed, bluesy vibe makes it feel like barbecue with a side of soul. I remember squeezing in on a rainy night, my coat still dripping, only to be met with the warmth of slow-cooked brisket and live guitar riffs not far behind.
The signature beef brisket stands out for its deep flavor and perfect bark. Don’t miss their pulled chicken—succulent, heavy on the smoke, and tucked neatly into a soft sandwich bun. Pair any of these with the Syracuse-style salt potatoes or fresh, crunchy slaw.
Dinosaur’s house sauces are worth a dip: sweet, tangy, or fiery, depending on what the plate (or mood) requires.
3. Tomino – Taberna Gallega
Tomino – Taberna Gallega sets itself apart with a taste of Galicia in the heart of Manhattan. The tiled interior and lively energy evoke evenings in northern Spain, where friends gather around platters meant for sharing. My first visit started with a swirl of Spanish guitar and ended with a hands-on feast worth remembering.
The Chuleton de Vaca Vieja, a robust, aged beef ribeye cooked expertly in a Josper charcoal oven, shows off the house’s passion for grilling. Each slice is smoky, juicy, and rich in flavor—simple but unforgettable. For more variety, try a selection of their vegetable-forward tapas, each seasoned to coax out maximum flavor from seasonal produce.
An all-Spanish wine list rounds out the meal, making this spot as much about the experience as the food on your plate.
4. Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque
Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque nails the art of slow-smoked comfort, bringing a no-frills, cozy spirit to Manhattan’s barbecue lineup. With wood-paneled walls and the aroma of seasoned oak in the air, you feel at home before you even order. The first time I dropped by, the welcoming counter team guided me right to the star lineup of the menu.
The brisket is a must—sliced thick, edges kissed with smoke, and meltingly tender at the center. If you’re feeling indecisive, try the spare ribs: they balance smokiness with a delicate, just-right char. Their chef-driven sides round out the meal, but the BBQ is always the highlight.
Pair with a glass of sweet tea and settle in for a meal that delivers on both quality and heart.
5. Cuba
Cuba embodies the spirit of Havana without ever leaving Manhattan. The blend of live music, patterned tiles, and flickering candles creates an atmosphere brimming with energy and charm. My first meal here lasted into the late evening—dancing between bites felt completely natural in their Little Havana setting.
The Pollo Asado stands out as a tribute to smoky, fire-grilled perfection. Marinated in citrus and spices, this chicken emerges from the grill both juicy and crisp, shining alongside a pile of roasted vegetables. For a real taste of Cuban barbecue traditions, order the Lechon Asado—but only if you’re able to request it without pork.
Pair your meal with one of their fresh, tropical mocktails, and you’ll taste why this spot stays full night after night.
6. Guantanamera
+1 212-262-5354
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Guantanamera delivers a slice of classic Cuban hospitality right off 8th Avenue. Walk inside and you’ll catch the intoxicating smell of spices mingling with upbeat Latin tunes—making it easy to shed the city stress. I visited on a bustling Friday, and soon found myself swaying to the rhythms, fork in hand.
The Pollo a la Plancha steals the show for barbecue lovers. Char-grilled and citrus-marinated, the chicken is both moist and packed with flavor. Each bite echoes Cuban grill traditions while keeping things fresh and vibrant.
Complement your meal with a plate of yuca fries and a fruity mocktail, and suddenly Midtown feels a lot less hurried. Guantanamera combines top-notch grilling with soulful surroundings.
7. Jongro BBQ
Jongro BBQ captures the lively, communal spirit of Korean barbecue right in the center of Manhattan. From the first sizzle on the grill, you know you’re in for something memorable. My group of friends left with the scent of charred brisket on our sleeves and zero regrets.
The thin-sliced beef brisket (chadolbaegi) and marinated short ribs (galbi) are the heavy hitters. The staff handles the grilling with finesse, ensuring everything lands perfectly tender and caramelized. Loads of classic side dishes round out each bite, making every plate a DIY flavor adventure.
If you crave interactive dining and meat cooked to your liking at the table, Jongro BBQ is an easy favorite for group dinners and late-night cravings.
8. Victor’s Cafe
Victor’s Cafe has been a Midtown haven for Cuban flavors since 1963, blending a lush, vibrant atmosphere with genuine hospitality. Each visit feels like a retreat—Latin jazz, soaring ceilings, and bursts of color set the mood. My last dinner here involved swapping stories with locals over plates of smoky, marinated classics.
The Pollo Asado is a standout: flame-grilled chicken, citrusy and crisp-skinned, channeling Havana’s open-air grills. If you’re torn, try the famed black bean soup as a starter—it’s comfort in a bowl, with layers of garlicky depth. Their vegetarian dishes, loaded with ripe plantains and peppers, never feel like an afterthought.
Victor’s manages to balance tradition with innovation, consistently serving BBQ that’s both refined and robust. Everyone leaves with full bellies and lifted spirits.
9. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ transforms dinner into a lively, hands-on event right in Times Square. At each table, a charcoal grill waits for your next move—and the aroma of caramelizing marinades quickly gets your attention. My favorite nights here always involve friendly grilling competitions over who can get a perfect steak sear.
The Harami Skirt Steak is a must, marinated in miso for a sweet and savory depth. Try the Kalbi Short Rib too, silky and rich with every bite. For lighter fare, toss some vegetables or chicken on the grill and pour yourself a cup of green tea for the full experience.
Gyu-Kaku combines premium ingredients and an interactive format, making it a favorite for group outings and celebrations.
10. Ipanema Restaurant
Ipanema Restaurant brings a fresh twist to Brazilian and Portuguese classics in a sleek, welcoming space near Bryant Park. The bright décor and Latin-inspired energy are contagious—perfect for a group dinner or a lively weeknight treat. My last meal here started with an open kitchen view and ended with a new respect for simple, smoky techniques.
The Frango Grelhado (grilled chicken) showcases their approach: beautifully charred and served with crisp vegetables, the flavors are straightforward but refined. For something more festive, grab a sharable side of farofa and drizzle the house chimichurri over anything grilled.
Ipanema excels by blending tradition with technique, making every barbecue dish shine without overcomplicating the plate.
More Things to Try in Manhattan, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of BBQ can I find in Manhattan?
Manhattan’s BBQ scene is diverse. You’ll find everything from classic American smokehouses with brisket and ribs, to Argentine asado, Korean BBQ, and even Japanese yakiniku. There’s a taste for every craving.
Do BBQ restaurants in Manhattan have options for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, many spots now offer vegetarian and vegan barbecue options. Expect grilled vegetables, plant-based proteins, and meat-free twists on classic sides, so everyone finds something to enjoy.
Is it easy to find BBQ spots with gluten-free options?
Absolutely. Most barbecue restaurants highlight gluten-free dishes on their menus, including smoked meats without sauce, grilled veggies, and rice-based sides.
Can I find halal-friendly BBQ in Manhattan?
While some restaurants offer halal-friendly options, it’s always smart to call ahead or check the menu online to be sure.
What is the best BBQ dish to try in Manhattan?
Don’t miss the smoked brisket at places like Mighty Quinn’s or Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. For something different, Korean and Japanese grills serve standout marinated short ribs and skirt steak.
Do BBQ joints in Manhattan take reservations?
Many popular spots do, especially for large groups or weekends. OpenTable and Resy are good for easy booking, but some classic joints stick to walk-ins. Calling ahead always helps.
Can I get takeout or delivery from most BBQ restaurants?
Yes, nearly all BBQ spots in Manhattan offer takeout and delivery, making it easy to enjoy smoky flavors at home or in the park.