Finding the best BBQ in Reno, NV is a bit like hunting for gold, except you get a saucy payoff every time you strike the right spot. This city may be known for its casinos and bright lights, but it’s the smoky scents drifting from tucked-away grills and well-loved local joints that catch your attention when you’re hungry. Whether you crave slow-cooked brisket, tender ribs, or barbeque with a creative twist, Reno’s BBQ scene is a treasure trove waiting for discovery.
If you’ve ever spent a weekend chasing down the perfect plate of smoky goodness, you know it’s not about luck—it’s about knowing where to look. After exploring Reno’s BBQ spots, both hidden gems and big names, I can say the city has a range of flavors for every kind of BBQ fan. Get ready to meet places that deliver big on taste and character. When it comes to BBQ in Reno, the only gamble should be how spicy you want your sauce.
Where to find the best bbq in Reno, NV
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Reno, NV:
- Butchers Kitchen Char-B-Que
- Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que
- Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Texas Roadhouse
- Sparks And Smoke Bbq Takeout
- Zephyr Bar
- Buffalo’s Silver Cue
- Texas Soul BBQ
- Hookava
- Brother’s
1. Butchers Kitchen Char-B-Que
Butchers Kitchen Char-B-Que brings a smokehouse experience to Reno with a focus on real wood-fired flavor and a chef-driven menu. The atmosphere feels friendly, easygoing, and a little bit rustic—like barbecue should. Among the options, the tri-tip is a standout. Tender, smoky, and sliced thick, it’s a true test of their smoking technique.
My first bite here was the smoked chicken, juicy but never heavy, and paired perfectly with their house-made sauces. If you want sides, the coleslaw and baked beans round out the meal without stealing the show. The menu has plenty of gluten-free choices and takeout is quick if you’re on the go.
Order the brisket platter for a meaty taste of why this spot deserves its reputation. The balance of smoke, seasoning, and real grill character makes it a favorite for both regulars and newcomers.
2. Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que
Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que brings time-tested barbecue craft to Reno with its hickory-smoked meats and a menu built on tradition. The unmistakable aroma hits as soon as you walk in and sets the perfect mood for digging in. The pitmasters here aren’t shy with the spice rubs, which gives every plate a signature depth.
My go-to is a platter of the St. Louis-style ribs. They’re fall-off-the-bone tender with a smoky bark that shows they’ve been smoked with care. If you’re dining with friends, their BBQ combo platters make for an ideal spread. Sides like their creamy coleslaw and famous cornbread help balance out the richness of the meat.
Don’t overlook the burnt ends when you visit. The rich, caramelized edges and deep flavor are a highlight of what this spot does best—classic, crave-worthy barbecue made right.
3. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit brings Texas-style BBQ to Reno, focusing on slow-smoked meats done the right way. The kitchen works through the night to get their signature brisket ready, and you taste that patience in every bite. This is where you go if you want unpretentious barbecue with consistent quality.
Every visit here takes me back to backyard barbecue gatherings—someone is always smiling behind the counter. Their pulled chicken stands out; it’s juicy with just enough smoky flavor to need nothing more than a splash of their tangy sauce.
Order the two-meat plate if you can’t decide; the brisket and turkey are a memorable pair. Dickey’s sides, like the barbecue beans and buttery rolls, round out the experience with comforting flavors from family recipes.
4. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse delivers a full-sensory barbecue experience with classic Southern charm, lively staff, and generous portions. The moment you walk in, there’s the aroma of barbecue and the comforting hum of good times in the background. Meals here feel festive, with servers breaking into line dances and a playlist of country hits keeping things upbeat.
What stands out is their hand-cut steaks, but the real gem for BBQ lovers is the fall-off-the-bone ribs. They arrive glazed and tender, balancing smoky flavor with just the right hit of sweetness. The homemade sides and warm, fresh-baked bread don’t hurt either.
When you want a filling plate that feels like a celebration, try the rib combo with mashed potatoes and their classic house salad. It’s the right move every time.
5. Sparks And Smoke Bbq Takeout
Sparks And Smoke Bbq Takeout is blunt, unfussy, and unapologetically all about the food. There’s no polished décor or fancy menu. Instead, you get brisket and pulled beef prepared by an expert who believes in BBQ basics. Every slab of meat is trimmed by hand and smoked with precision, so every serving tastes like a small-batch victory.
What left an impression on me was the unmistakable aroma that greets you before you even reach the door. The brisket comes sliced thick, with a bark that cracks gently under your fork. Sides like iron pot beans and coleslaw are made in-house—simple and solid.
Order the Angus beef brisket if you want the truest taste of Sparks and Smoke’s style. This is barbecue for people who couldn’t care less about frills and only want meat that holds its own.
6. Zephyr Bar
Zephyr Bar offers a low-key, welcoming atmosphere where you can catch up with friends over surprising BBQ options. The vibe is all about relaxed comfort, and it’s hard not to be drawn in by the laid-back crowd and staff who know their regulars by name.
What sets Zephyr Bar apart is how their menu combines classic bar favorites with house-smoked BBQ plates. On my last visit, a plate of smoked chicken stole the show—tender, with a subtle smoke that doesn’t overwhelm. This isn’t your typical sports bar food.
Try the smoked brisket sandwich if you’re after flavor and value. It captures what Zephyr does best: a no-fuss spin on BBQ that’s as unpretentious as it is satisfying.
7. Buffalo’s Silver Cue
Buffalo’s Silver Cue blends the casual fun of billiards with solid barbecue and a lively bar scene. Here, it’s just as easy to catch a game as it is to dig into a hearty plate after a long day. The setting feels familiar—like that friend’s basement where everyone gathers, but with better food.
What grabs attention is how the kitchen elevates BBQ staples. On my last stop, their smoked turkey was impossibly moist and paired well with a side of seasoned fries. There’s a comfort-food bent to everything, and it’s clear they don’t cut corners on flavor or portions.
Order the brisket platter for the BBQ experience this place is known for. It’s a crowd pleaser—simple, flavorful, and always satisfies after a few rounds at the table.
8. Texas Soul BBQ
Texas Soul BBQ channels true Southern hospitality into their food, giving Reno a taste of down-home barbecue with a distinctive Texan flair. The no-frills dining room keeps the focus where it belongs—on plates piled high with smoky, rich meats and soulful sides.
Every visit feels a bit like stepping into a family gathering. The staff make you feel welcome, and the kitchen’s attention to detail shows in every serving. The ribs here are deeply flavored and never dry, a clear sign of long, slow smoking.
Order the beef links and brisket for a sampling of what Texas Soul does best. These dishes bring together smoke, spice, and tradition, offering bold flavors true to Texas BBQ roots.
9. Hookava
Hookava infuses downtown Reno with a modern twist on laid-back barbecue and bar culture. The venue is cozy with a social buzz, making it a great choice for both group outings and casual solo visits. There’s a blend of comfort and vibrancy that sets it apart from much of the downtown scene.
The menu sidesteps the usual routine, offering BBQ plates and snacks that pair well with the lively atmosphere. Last time I dropped in, I had the smoked chicken—moist, gently spiced, and finished to perfection. It’s clear Hookava’s kitchen puts real time into the smoker.
Try their brisket tacos. They combine classic BBQ technique with a creative spin, making each bite flavorful without overpowering the basics. This is a spot for BBQ fans looking for something unique.
10. Brother’s
(775) 384-3547Call
Brother’s is a Reno favorite for barbecue that feels like it comes out of a home kitchen rather than a commercial spot. The atmosphere is relaxed, almost like you’ve stumbled into a friend’s cookout. There’s a strong sense of community, and that warmth carries into every plate they serve.
What makes Brother’s stand out is the attention given to even the classics. Their ribs always have a perfect smoke ring and their sides are made fresh daily. On my last visit, the brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, carrying deep flavor but never greasy.
Don’t miss the tri-tip sandwich. It’s a customer favorite for a reason—smoky, sliced thick, and piled high, capturing the straightforward, satisfying style that Brother’s is known for.
More Things to Try in Reno, NV
Frequently Asked Questions
What styles of BBQ can I find in Reno?
Reno offers a mix of BBQ, including Texas-style brisket, traditional Southern smoked meats, and fusion plates with a local twist. You’ll find everything from slow-cooked ribs to smoked chicken and creative sides.
Are there BBQ spots in Reno with gluten-free options?
Yes, several places like Butchers Kitchen Char-B-Que and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offer gluten-free items. Always check with the restaurant to confirm what’s available.
Which BBQ restaurants in Reno have takeout or delivery?
Most BBQ spots in Reno, including Sparks And Smoke Bbq Takeout and Famous Dave’s, offer takeout. Some, like Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, provide delivery and catering options.
What BBQ dishes are local favorites?
Brisket, smoked turkey, and St. Louis-style ribs consistently top the list. Sides like baked beans and coleslaw are also much loved in Reno’s BBQ scene.
Is it necessary to make reservations for BBQ restaurants in Reno?
It depends on the spot and the time. For popular places or large groups, it’s wise to call ahead, especially during weekends or special events.
Which places are best for a casual BBQ meal with friends?
Try Zephyr Bar for a relaxed vibe, or Buffalo’s Silver Cue if you want to pair barbecue with a game of pool. Both offer comfort food in a friendly setting.