Finding great BBQ in Southfield, MI is like stumbling onto a neighborhood secret whispered only by those in-the-know. The scent of slow-cooked meats drifts past office buildings and strip malls, drawing you closer to kitchens where spice rubs are guarded like family heirlooms. I still remember the first time I tracked down an unassuming spot near 12 Mile Road; what looked like an ordinary storefront turned out to be a haven for ribs so tender you could cut them with a spoon.
If you’re as serious about barbecue as I am, you know the hunt is half the fun. Southfield doesn’t just serve barbecue—it celebrates it. Spots here range from soulful classics to inventive twists, each with their own local flavor and flair. Whether you want to argue sauce versus dry rub, or you’re just hungry for a few perfectly smoked pieces, you’re about to discover the standout BBQ joints in this city. Stick around. You might just find your new favorite spot.
1. Nikola’s Restaurant
Nikola’s Restaurant sits at the crossroads of comfort and BBQ expertise. Walk through the doors and you’re greeted with the aroma of slow-roasted meats—there’s nothing quite like it after a long day. I remember my first visit, settling into a booth and watching regulars chat up the staff like family.
The smoked chicken and turkey tips steal the show here. You get a gentle, wood-fired flavor with every bite, and the house-made BBQ sauce has just enough heat to keep things interesting. Sides like collard greens and mac and cheese complement the mains without overshadowing them.
If you’re in Southfield and want classic barbecue with a touch of hospitality, Nikola’s delivers every time.
2. Arkins sweet BBQ pit
Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit is where Southfield’s BBQ cravings meet genuine pitmaster flair. Tucked along Southfield Road, it’s a spot I found by following the trail of smoky sweetness wafting from the kitchen. There’s a laid-back vibe, perfect for lingering over lunch or grabbing dinner to go.
The smoked turkey legs here have earned a following. They arrive perfectly charred, with a deep, savory taste that lingers. If you’re after something a bit lighter but just as flavorful, their grilled chicken breast is known for its juicy tenderness and bold seasoning.
Everything is finished with Arkins’ signature sweet BBQ sauce, which brings together the meal without overwhelming it. That balance is what sets this joint apart.
3. Beans & Cornbread
Beans & Cornbread hits you with the warmth of Southern hospitality from the minute you walk in. Jazz and R&B set a comfortable mood, and the scent of smoky barbecue fills the air. My first meal here started with a plate of rib tips—each one glazed to perfection and packed with flavor you can only get from true slow-cooking.
The Baby Sister’s Babybacks and grilled jerk chicken breast are standouts. Both are smoky, tender, and seasoned with a blend that hints at backyard cookouts and secret family recipes. The vegetarian plate and fresh collard greens showcase that even the sides are well thought out.
Beans & Cornbread mixes soul food tradition with modern comfort, making it a hit for groups, families, or anyone on the hunt for memorable barbecue.
4. Parks Old Style Bar-B-Que
Parks Old Style Bar-B-Que is a classic, where tradition rules and smoky flavors never miss. When I stopped by for lunch, the rich aroma led me straight to the counter, where the staff still greet regulars by name. This family-run spot has built decades of trust in Southfield’s barbecue scene.
The turkey ribs here are legendary. Slow-roasted to perfection, they absorb the deep smokiness that gives this place its reputation. The half-slab plate, with its tender meat and just the right char, is ideal when you want something filling without going overboard.
Parks stands out for consistency, flavor, and that old-school BBQ atmosphere. For a taste of pure tradition and reliably good barbecue, this place tops the list.
5. Billy Sims Barbecue
Billy Sims Barbecue feels like a tribute to classic smokehouse tradition, complete with football memorabilia nodding to its namesake. My first meal came on a rainy afternoon—the kind of day when only hot, smoky barbecue hits the spot. The staff brought out plates piled high, each detail from the brisket’s pink smoke ring to the aroma promising flavor ahead.
The smoked turkey sandwich and BBQ chicken are clear picks. The meat is juicy, the smokiness balanced, and the house sauces tie it all together. Pair these with their baked beans or potato salad for a well-rounded plate.
It’s a spot where BBQ is celebrated, not rushed. Grab extra napkins—the meats are so tender and sauce-laden you’ll need them.
6. Pig Out Barbeque
(313) 428-4985Call
Pig Out Barbeque takes the BBQ game seriously, but the atmosphere is anything but formal. It’s the kind of place I stumbled into on a whim, and left thinking about for days after. There’s a local vibe, with regulars joking with the staff and that unmistakable scent of wood smoke hanging in the air.
The standout here is the smoked chicken plate. It’s juicy, full of flavor, and finished with a sauce that treads the perfect line between tangy and sweet. Sides like potato salad and coleslaw add a nice balance to the meal and keep you coming back for more.
If you’re looking for hearty barbecue with generous portions and a no-fuss setting, Pig Out delivers every single time.
7. BACK BEAT BAR
(248) 809-3983Call
BACK BEAT BAR blends smoky barbecue with live entertainment in a way that keeps the place humming all week. I first dropped in during a Friday karaoke night, and found the combination of good music and hearty BBQ hard to beat. The energy here is contagious—perfect for groups and anyone who loves a lively meal.
The smoked turkey sliders and BBQ wings come highly recommended. Both are tender, loaded with flavor, and get a lift from the house-made sauces. If you’re coming with a group, the platter options make sampling a breeze.
What sets BACK BEAT apart is the creative spin on traditional barbecue and the atmosphere that feels like an ongoing celebration. It’s as much a destination for food as it is for fun.
8. Las Cazuelas-Southfield
Las Cazuelas-Southfield combines the heart of Mexican cooking with just the right touch of smoky BBQ, all in a space that buzzes with warmth and hospitality. On my visit, I was struck by how everything, from salsas to sauces, tasted fresh and bold. The staff takes obvious pride in the homemade flavors and welcoming atmosphere.
The grilled chicken tacos and BBQ-style fajitas stand out for their depth of flavor. The chicken is juicy with mild smokiness, while the fajitas arrive sizzling, loaded with well-seasoned vegetables and that unmistakable barbecue finish. Both dishes highlight how this spot goes beyond traditional with inventive barbecue twists.
If you want a refresher from the usual, let Las Cazuelas surprise you with their fusion of Mexican favorites and satisfying BBQ fare.
9. McVee’s
(248) 352-8243Call
McVee’s has mastered the formula for laid-back dining with big flavor, just off Telegraph Road. My first time here, the hum of conversation and the sight of platters heading to tables was all the convincing I needed. There’s a neighborhood appeal—everyone looks like they’re there to unwind and eat well.
The BBQ chicken platter and smoked turkey sandwiches deserve special mention. The chicken hits the sweet spot between tender and charred, while the turkey is sliced thick and topped with a tangy house sauce. Both feel handcrafted, never rushed.
McVee’s shines for its balance between great barbecue and a social, welcoming vibe. Perfect for a casual lunch or a relaxed evening out with friends.
10. Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is more than an Aussie-themed spot; it’s a staple for reliable, hearty meals in Southfield. I once wandered in after a long road trip, and the laid-back setting was exactly what I needed. There’s a friendly rhythm to the service, and plates that look every bit as good as they taste.
The grilled chicken on the barbie and baby back ribs are top picks. The chicken comes off the grill with smokiness and a juicy finish, paired with vibrant, fresh sides. The ribs are tender, well-seasoned, and glazed with a sauce that keeps you reaching for one more bite.
If consistency, flavor, and satisfying portions matter, Outback always fits the bill—no passport required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best BBQ restaurants in Southfield, MI?
Popular spots include Nikola’s Restaurant, Beans & Cornbread, Parks Old Style Bar-B-Que, Pig Out Barbeque, and Billy Sims Barbecue. Each offers a unique spin on barbecue, so it’s worth sampling a few.
Are there any BBQ places in Southfield with vegetarian options?
Yes. Beans & Cornbread stands out for its vegetarian plate and flavorful Southern-style sides, ensuring plant-based eaters have great choices.
Which BBQ restaurant is good for families or groups?
Nikola’s Restaurant and BACK BEAT BAR both offer roomy seating and a welcoming atmosphere, making them fantastic picks for families and larger parties.
What BBQ dishes should I try in Southfield?
Smoked turkey, BBQ chicken, rib tips, and baby back ribs are favorites across many Southfield spots. Side dishes like collard greens and mac and cheese are also top-notch accompaniments.
Can I get halal or non-pork BBQ options in Southfield?
You’ll find plenty of poultry options—like smoked chicken and turkey—at several venues. Always check menus or call ahead for specific dietary needs.