Finding the best BBQ in Tallahassee, FL, is more than just a food quest—it’s a journey through rich flavors, smoky aromas, and time-honored recipes. Having explored the local BBQ scene extensively, I can attest that Tallahassee offers a variety of spots where slow-cooked meats and savory sides come together in perfect harmony. Each restaurant boasts its own unique twist, ensuring there’s something for every BBQ fan.
Whether you crave tender ribs or smoky pulled pork, this guide will lead you to some of the most notable joints in town. I’ve sifted through countless menus and talked to passionate pitmasters to bring you a curated list. Rest assured, these places are dedicated to delivering quality, authenticity, and a memorable dining experience. Dive in to discover Tallahassee’s best BBQ—where flavor truly reigns supreme.
Where to find the best bbq in Tallahassee, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Tallahassee, FL:
- MIssion BBQ
- 4 Rivers Smokehouse
- Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q
- Sonny’s BBQ
- Summers Smokehouse
- The Red Shed
- Sonny’s BBQ
- Dreamland BBQ
- Sonny’s BBQ
- Mindify Smoke BBQ Joint
1. MIssion BBQ
Located at 216 S Magnolia Drive, Mission BBQ offers a solid approach to classic smoked meats. From my visits, what stands out is their commitment to authentic flavors and generous portions, making it a go-to spot for BBQ lovers. The lively atmosphere and friendly service add to the appeal, whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout.
What sets Mission BBQ apart is its dedication to quality and consistency. The brisket and ribs are particularly noteworthy—tender, smoky, and flavorful without overwhelming seasonings. I recommend trying their brisket sandwich for a satisfying lunch or the pulled pork platter for a taste of slow-cooked perfection. Each dish reflects a genuine passion for BBQ, making Mission BBQ a trustworthy choice in Tallahassee’s vibrant food scene.
2. 4 Rivers Smokehouse
Located just minutes from the FSU campus at 1817 Thomasville Road, 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a favorite among students and locals alike. From my visits, I’ve noticed their commitment to slow-smoking meats to achieve rich, tender flavors that resonate with true BBQ enthusiasts. The lively, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for gatherings or casual bites.
What makes 4 Rivers stand out is their diverse menu, featuring dishes like Signature Angus Brisket and Southern-Style Pulled Pork. The Burnt Ends and Prime Rib are also excellent choices, showcasing their expertise in slow-cooked, smoky goodness. For a hearty, satisfying meal that captures the essence of authentic BBQ, the Pitmaster Combo is hard to beat, reflecting their passion for quality and flavor.
3. Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q
Located at 5442 Thomasville Road, Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q offers a taste of Southern hospitality with a twist of nostalgia. From my experience, their soulful flavors and quick service create a comforting yet lively atmosphere that feels both genuine and inviting. It’s the kind of place where tradition is celebrated in every dish.
What sets Willie Jewell’s apart is its dedication to the “Old-School” way—smoked for hours and served in minutes. The brisket and pulled pork are particularly memorable—tender, flavorful, and slow-smoked to perfection. The Ribs and Turkey Sandwich are also excellent choices that showcase their commitment to quality, making it a standout option for authentic BBQ in Tallahassee.
4. Sonny’s BBQ
Sonny’s BBQ on Monroe Street is a staple of Southern-style barbecue in Tallahassee. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of slow-smoked meats sets the tone. The space is casual but welcoming, perfect for a laid-back meal with friends or family.
What sets Sonny’s apart is its commitment to craft. Their pulled pork and sliced brisket are smoked low and slow, giving each bite a deep, rich flavor. The drive-thru option makes grabbing a hearty meal on the go surprisingly easy without sacrificing quality.
Order the St. Louis-style ribs or the classic smoked turkey. They showcase Sonny’s signature rub and technique, striking the right balance of tenderness and smoky depth. Pair it with cornbread and baked beans to round out the Tallahassee BBQ experience.
5. Summers Smokehouse
Situated at 9330 W Tennessee Street, Summers Smokehouse offers a relaxed setting to enjoy authentic barbecue in Tallahassee. During my visits, I appreciated their welcoming atmosphere and the chance to unwind with good food and drinks. The combination of indoor seating and a bar makes it popular for both lunch and evening gatherings.
Summers Smokehouse truly stands out through its focus on quality smoked meats and a laid-back pub vibe. The ribs and brisket are consistently flavorful, tender, and cooked just right. The menu’s diversity means there’s something for everyone, from traditional BBQ to house specials.
I recommend trying their smoked ribs or their signature BBQ platter. These dishes reflect Summers Smokehouse’s commitment to smoky, hearty flavors. Pair them with a cold drink for a complete, satisfying experience.
6. The Red Shed
Tucked just outside the city bustle, The Red Shed offers a low-key spot that’s all about bold flavors and Southern hospitality. With meats smoked onsite daily and sides made in-house, it’s clear that quality here isn’t negotiable—it’s the standard.
What makes The Red Shed a Tallahassee favorite is its straightforward approach to BBQ. No frills, just well-seasoned chicken, pork, and ribs that taste like they’ve been crafted with intention. When I dropped in last spring, the ribs were tender enough to silence conversation—just nods of approval around the table.
If you’re new here, go for the smoked chicken. It’s smoky, juicy, and nicely balanced by their tangy homemade sauce. Pair it with collard greens or baked beans for a meal that reflects The Red Shed’s classic BBQ style.
7. Sonny’s BBQ
Located at 3101 Dick Wilson Boulevard, Sonny’s BBQ is a longstanding favorite for authentic Southern BBQ in Tallahassee. From my visits, I’ve always appreciated the consistent quality and inviting atmosphere that makes every meal feel special. It’s a place where the tradition of slow-smoking meats is clear in each bite.
What makes Sonny’s stand out is their dedication to the craft since 1968, offering classics like pulled pork, ribs, and brisket that are tender and flavorful. The service is friendly, and the options for lunch or dinner, including drive-thru and takeout, make it convenient for any occasion.
For the best experience, I recommend trying the St. Louis-style Ribs or the Smokehouse Combo. These dishes highlight their smoky, seasoned perfection and showcase what true Southern BBQ is all about.
8. Dreamland BBQ
Located at 2415 N Monroe Street, Dreamland BBQ offers a classic dining experience with a focus on hearty, smoky flavors. During my visit, I appreciated their relaxed atmosphere and the convenience of curbside or carryout options, making it easy to enjoy quality BBQ at home or on the go.
What makes Dreamland stand out is its rich history of serving up tender ribs and flavorful pork that reflect their signature style. The sauce, thick and tangy, complements each dish perfectly and has that authentic Southern charm that keeps diners coming back.
For a satisfying meal, I recommend ordering their legendary ribs or the smoked pulled pork sandwich. These dishes exemplify Dreamland’s commitment to quality and their dedication to delivering the true taste of Southern BBQ.
9. Sonny’s BBQ
Situated at 1460 Timberlane Road, Sonny’s BBQ is a reliable choice for classic Southern barbecue in Tallahassee. During my visits, I’ve enjoyed their friendly service and authentic flavors that evoke a sense of tradition. The inviting atmosphere makes it ideal for casual dinners or family outings.
What sets Sonny’s apart is its long history of slow-smoking meats to perfection since 1968. Their tender pulled pork and ribs are consistently flavorful and well-seasoned. The menu’s straightforward approach ensures that every bite is a taste of authentic BBQ craftsmanship.
I recommend trying their signature ribs or the smoked chicken platter. Both dishes reflect Sonny’s dedication to quality and their distinctive Southern style, making for a satisfying and authentic BBQ experience.
10. Mindify Smoke BBQ Joint
Located at 3510 N Monroe Street, Mindify Smoke BBQ Joint impresses with its on-site smoked meats and inviting casual vibe. During my visit, I appreciated the authentic aroma of smoked meats and the friendly service that made settling in easy. Their outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying Tallahassee’s weather while savoring quality BBQ.
What makes Mindify stand out is their dedication to traditional smoking methods and a diverse menu. The pulled pork and Angus beef smoked sausage are flavorful and perfectly tender, showcasing their expertise. The side dishes, like smoky beans and mac and cheese, complement the meats beautifully.
If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, try the Double-smoked ham or the smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip. These dishes reflect Mindify’s commitment to flavor and quality, delivering a true taste of Southern BBQ.
More Things to Try in Tallahassee, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best barbecue joints in Tallahassee?
A: Some top choices include Mission BBQ, 4 Rivers Smokehouse, Sonny’s BBQ, and Dreamland BBQ. Each offers authentic smoked meats and unique flavors that showcase Tallahassee’s BBQ scene.
Q: Do Tallahassee BBQ restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
A: Yes, most places like The Red Shed, Victory BBQ, and Mindify Smoke BBQ Joint provide takeout and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy quality BBQ at home.
Q: Are there family-friendly BBQ spots in Tallahassee?
A: Absolutely. Many BBQ joints such as Sonny’s and Willie Jewell’s feature highchairs and seating suitable for families, along with relaxed atmospheres.
Q: What local BBQ dishes should I try in Tallahassee?
A: Popular choices include smoked ribs, brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and sausage platters, which highlight the city’s rich BBQ traditions.