Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Barbecue lunch spots in Tampa

A barbecue lunch that is fast enough for a workday but still feels like a proper meal.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Southern Luv BBQ image 1
Southern Luv BBQ image 2
Southern Luv BBQ image 3
View all

Smoked meats fill the air in a clean, modern space with bench seating and 90’s music playing. A warm, family-friendly vibe welcomes guests, with personal touches like the owner offering tastes while waiting. The atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, setting it apart from typical BBQ spots.

Barbecue here stands out with phenomenal flavor and excellent quality. The dishes consistently deliver what many consider the best barbecue in the area.

Lunch features Southern Luv BBQ with dishes like fried okra and the summer luv. Staff greet warmly and handle large orders well, making it reliable for group lunches.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is so creamy and wonderful."

"I couldn't put down this juicy, flavorful Barbecue."

"This lunch spot's brisket is flavorful and perfectly smoked."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they smoke ribs.

2

Everything is made homemade on the same day.

3

The menu is routinely tweaked to include new and unique items.

02
Dip and Happy image 1
Fusion restaurant

Fusion restaurant offers a modern, stylish decor with cozy indoor seating and pet-friendly outdoor tables under umbrellas. The atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly with an eclectic playlist featuring 80's rock and Latin music at a comfortable volume. Small but inviting space balances fresh vibes with a peaceful, welcoming mood.

Smoked BBQ brisket shows up in tacos, sandwiches, and with fries, delivering a tangy, spicy, beefy punch. The combination of crunchy textures and rich flavors stands out in every dish.

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day lets you pick any meal without time limits. The menu covers everything needed for a solid lunch spot experience.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and even better than I expected."

"You can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner all day here."

"The BBQ brisket is tender and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

They do not use seed oils in their dishes.

2

Pets are welcome at Dip and Happy.

3

Downtown parking is limited, so arrive early or consider walking.

03
BJ’s Alabama BBQ! image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old gas station style with an old school mobile wood pit smoker out front creates a small town feel and signals authentic barbecue methods. Atmosphere stays family friendly and welcoming, with a relaxed, positive energy. Walls decorated with college banners add local character to the cozy interior.

Barbecue features a tangy vinegar sauce with a smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness. The food has a strong reputation for being excellent and is considered among the best BBQ in Tampa.

Pulled pork sandwiches come with Cole slaw and sweet iced tea. Lunch specials include chicken, ribs, and two sides like green beans and mac & cheese. Meals offer great value with generous portions and reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be damn good."

"I found the barbecue here to be damn good."

"This Lunch Spot's pulled pork is amazing and moist."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday only, with a break from 3 to 4 pm.

2

They are closed on Sunday through Tuesday.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular items like chicken and ribs.

04
Hamada kabob حمادة مشاوي image 1

Halal restaurant offers charcoal-grilled kabobs with food prepared fresh to order near the dining area. Atmosphere stays chill and family friendly with natural wood tables and a cozy, welcoming vibe reflecting Mediterranean culture.

Food cooks right in front of you on the barbecue grill. Options include shawarmas, half chicken BBQ, and chicken platters.

Offers fresh kabob dishes that make for a satisfying lunch. The spot is easy to find when searching for lunch near me options.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The kofta at this Lunch Spot is the best I've had in Florida."

"I found the barbecue here to be the best in Tampa."

Good to know

1

Food is prepared fresh upon order, so expect a wait of 20-30 minutes.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes provided.

3

All food served is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

05
Al's Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que and Soul Food image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall barbecue spot with old-fashioned charm and walls adorned with musical legends. Atmosphere feels like a warm family gathering, relaxed and inviting with friendly staff. Outdoor area hosts roosters and chickens, adding to the homey vibe.

Barbecue here is smoked on site and served fresh with a heaping pile of pulled pork drenched in amazing BBQ sauce. Ribs and sides like potato salad and baked beans complement the excellent, soul food style barbecue.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is the best I've ever had."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I ever had."

"This lunch spot's BBQ is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for patrons in the lot behind the restaurant.

2

A huge meat plate with two sides and a drink costs $20.

3

The restaurant often runs out of several side dishes.

06
Konan BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with hole-in-the-wall vibes and a friendly, home-like atmosphere. Blues music and the rich aroma of wood smoke create a warm, inviting mood. Offers indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of space and parking.

Barbecue here stands out with its rich flavor and authentic taste that many find unmatched in the region. The menu includes a unique Pineapple sweet tea that complements the smoky dishes well.

Lunch features a BBQ lunch special that draws families regularly. Meals can be filling enough to affect your stomach, but many find the experience worth it.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The barbecue here is packed with amazing flavor."

"This Lunch Spot has tender ribs with amazing sauce."

Good to know

1

Backpacks are given out the day before school starts.

2

Expect a long line at opening for lunch.

3

Get there early as they often run out of food.

07
Sugar Wing image 1
Chicken restaurant

Bright, clean dining room with colorful murals and a modern design creates a welcoming, chill atmosphere. Music plays at a comfortable volume, blending genres to enhance the relaxed vibe. Self-serve ordering and spacious seating support a casual, inviting experience.

Jumbo wings come with a variety of sauces beyond the usual Buffalo and BBQ. The Carolina BBQ sauce stands out as a distinctive flavor among the options.

Lunch offers fresh flavors and great deals especially on Wednesdays. The strips stand out and often come in generous portions to take home.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always made fresh."

"I thought the BBQ wings were pretty good and amazing."

"The chicken strips here are tender, juicy, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Monday night is kids night with games and activities.

2

The restaurant offers a $5 Grand Opening Special on select items.

3

Parking is available in the Publix plaza lot.

08
Royal Thai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining space offers a quiet, calming atmosphere with a charming piano in the corner and a unique runway view of planes landing. The setting feels warm and inviting, blending comfort with tasteful, simple decor. It suits both casual meals and special occasions, accommodating groups up to ten.

Barbecue here features grilled pork with jim jaew sauce and roast pork BBQ that melts in your mouth with sweet and citrus flavors. Sticky rice pairs well with the BBQ crispy pork for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"I thought this Thai food was the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's Thai food is outstanding and authentic."

"I wanted something authentic and wasn't disappointed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 30 minutes or more during peak hours on weekends.

3

It's best to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights to avoid wait times.

09
Hot Pot World (锅天下) image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious dining area features hot pots and grills at each table with remote heat control for cooking. Atmosphere stays relaxed and warm with pop music setting a chill vibe. Guests enjoy all-you-can-eat buffet style with a sauce bar and Korean beer options.

Offers a mix of hot pot and Korean BBQ with an impressive variety of fresh vegetables, meats, and seafood. The lamb skewer, pork belly, and peppered beef stand out for BBQ, paired well with a house sauce mixed with garlic and cilantro from the sauce bar.

Lunch offers great food quality with a $19.95 price that lets you eat all the hotpot you want. The spot opens early, letting you avoid the lunch crowd and enjoy very good prices during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The marinated meats and shrimp for the BBQ were extremely good."

"The all-you-can-eat barbecue options were amazing."

"This Lunch Spot has so many options, I loved the variety."

Good to know

1

Hot Pot World offers all-you-can-eat options for $19.99.

2

A 15% discount is available for birthday celebrations.

3

The restaurant provides snow crab upon request at no extra charge.

10
BBQ Time image 1
Restaurant

Large, rustic space feels cozy and welcoming with bright, refreshing air conditioning. Atmosphere stays clean and presentable, inviting diners to relax and enjoy hearty meals. Known for smoky, tender barbecue and distinctive sides, it offers a satisfying experience without high prices.

Generous portions of ribs, potato salad, and BBQ beans come with bold, unique flavors. The spicy macaroni salad stands out alongside barbecue that rivals top spots nationwide.

A remodeled, clean building sets a welcoming scene for lunch. The owner thanks diners personally, inviting them to come back again.

People are saying

"I thought their BBQ was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the barbecue here was delicious and amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially for large portions of food.

11
Wicked Oak BarbeQue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Oak smoke fills the air around a clean, well-decorated space with local graffiti art and a vibrant rock music soundtrack. Seating is limited inside but extends to an outdoor patio that could benefit from added shade and lighting. The atmosphere blends a teenage arcade hangout vibe with a welcoming, lively energy.

Barbecue sauces come perfectly matched with every order. The BBQ flavor stands out as rich and memorable. This spot serves consistently correct and satisfying BBQ for events and daily meals.

Lunch orders come out 100% correct with all requested sauces included. Food tastes delicious and satisfies groups, making it a solid choice for a quick, reliable lunch.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is perfectly seasoned and tender."

"I thought the barbecue here was fantastic and amazing."

"I had the best barbecue I ever had at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Order at the counter and take it to go or sit at the tables in the cold AC.

2

They only serve whole brisket on Sundays.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

12
Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Indoor smoke room and drive-thru option stand out in this barbecue restaurant. Atmosphere feels cozy yet modern, with plenty of space between tables for easy conversation. Regulars enjoy top-notch ribs and brisket, making it a favored spot for casual dining and catering.

Old-school BBQ shines here with extra BBQ brisket featured in rice bowls. The barbecue offers an excellent, authentic experience that stands out in the Tampa Bay area.

Lunch specials run every day of the week with varied options. The food often impresses with rich flavors and generous portions.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and delicious."

"I thought the Barbecue here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

They offer lunch specials every day of the week.

2

Mighty Quinn's has a drive-through for convenient takeout.

3

Catering services are available for events and private parties.

13
OUTSIDE BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and clean, warm environment. Seating near the smoker grill offers an authentic experience while pop music plays at a comfortable volume. The vibe reflects Black culture and flavor, creating a joyful and welcoming space.

Tender and juicy wings stand out with immaculate flavor. The barbecue offers a down home taste that many find unmatched in the city.

Easy to pop in and out for quick lunch to go with no crowd. The owner offers a friendly touch by sometimes buying lunch.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The pulled pork sandwich at this Lunch Spot is tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portion sizes for a satisfying meal.

2

The menu may not always reflect available items; check before ordering.

3

Family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for gatherings.

14
Big Chicken image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers juicy, well-seasoned chicken with fresh, flavorful sides like fries and onion rings. Atmosphere feels cool, open, and vibrant with some noise and warmth inside. Guests often enjoy basketball playing during dining, adding to the lively vibe.

Chipotle BBQ and Memphis BBQ sauces stand out with rich flavors. The gold BBQ sauce adds needed zest to the Big Chicken, while buffalo sauce pairs well with Dunks and fries.

Lunch offers amazing food that leaves a lasting impression. Friendly service adds to the experience, making it a memorable midday stop.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwiches here have really tasty toppings and dipping sauces."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is amazing, thanks to Amir."

"The fries here are basic and not seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during the grand opening events.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meals costing around $25.

3

Not all menu items listed online are available in-store.

15
Jimbo's Pit Bar B-Q image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic barbecue restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with wooden booths and old school Florida BBQ charm. The space feels small and inviting, drawing a mix of casual diners and local industry figures. Music plays in the background, enhancing the casual, welcoming vibe.

True southern barbecue shines through with delicious pork BBQ, ribs, and BBQ ham. Their special BBQ sauce complements the meat but the ribs stand well on their own without it.

Lunch offers satisfying meals with a focus on pit bar-b-q flavors. Options come quickly, making it suitable for those in a rush.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ ham was the best I ever ate."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I ever ate."

"The ribs here are meaty and have a great smoky flavor."

Good to know

1

Jimbo's Pit Bar B-Q offers catering services for large events.

2

The restaurant is known for its generous portion sizes.

3

Expect a casual dining atmosphere suitable for families and groups.

16
LaMeiZi Hot Pot & BBQ 辣妹子火锅烧烤 image 1

Asian restaurant offers sunken hot pot tables and an island buffet for self-selection of ingredients. Spacious layout includes private rooms and a smoke machine to remove BBQ odors. Atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing with clean, welcoming decor and koi fish wall art.

Offers a huge selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables for barbecue. Features some of the freshest seafood found at Korean BBQ spots. Combines barbecue with hot pot in a buffet style.

Lunch offers a good amount of options with a weekday special at $22 for hot pot featuring all-you-can-eat seafood and sliced meats. The special includes drinks and provides a cheap, convenient meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The service for the Barbecue was amazing and always attentive."

"The lunch prices here are amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 9pm on weekends, perfect for a fun night out.

2

Birthday meals are free, making it a great spot for celebrations.

3

Hotpot costs $35 per person during lunch, including a drink.

17
LUV QUE BBQ image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small dining area creates a family-style atmosphere with a super clean environment. Food features pecan smoked BBQ and fresh brioche buns, offering a wide variety including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Everything is brought in and warmed up, emphasizing convenience and affordable portions.

Pecan smoked BBQ stands out here, a style rare in Florida. The Pulled Pork Sandwich delivers with on point BBQ sauce and clear care in preparation.

They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a friendly vibe. Lunch options come alongside the same menu as other meals.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket sandwich, is amazing."

"The pecan smoked barbecue here is really hard to find."

"This lunch spot's pecan smoked BBQ is homemade and hard to find."

Good to know

1

The grand opening is Thursday.

2

They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3

They will be opening a drive-through window soon.

18
El Churrascaso Grill Tampa image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Brazilian restaurant offers an elegant and clean space with modern decor and a captivating bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and pleasant with good music enhancing the vibe. Cocktails like traditional caipirinhas and coconut mojitos stand out alongside delicious churrasco and flan.

Brazilian-style barbecue features meat, salt, and embers cooked traditionally. The barbecue delivers a sensational taste that reflects authentic Brazilian cuisine.

Lunch features family-style meals prepared with care. The atmosphere suits groups enjoying shared dishes and relaxed dining.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's gaucho tostones with pork loin were 10/10."

"I found the Brazilian barbecue here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

An 18% service charge is added automatically to all bills.

3

Expect higher prices for smaller portion sizes.

19
Jubao Palace Noodle Bar (in Seminole Hard Rock Tampa) image 1

Small, crowded Asian restaurant with shared tables and a lively, relaxed vibe. Lines form consistently due to popular, authentic Chinese-style BBQ and noodle soup. Drinks like espresso martinis and passion fruit margaritas add to the energetic atmosphere.

Combination plates feature spare ribs, duck, and barbecue pork with good flavor. The BBQ ribs are tender and well-seasoned, matching the quality of the barbecue pork and roasted duck.

A community table of six offers a casual spot to eat lunch. Regulars gather here, making it a familiar lunch spot inside the casino.

People are saying

"The noodle soup here has such a rich, flavorful broth."

"The Barbecue ribs here are tender and perfectly seasoned."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious Asian noodle dishes with rich broths."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait to get seated during peak hours.

2

Bottled water costs $5, so consider bringing your own.

3

The restaurant is located in a smoking area, leading to a strong smoke smell.

20
K-chicken & Grill Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers self-grill and full-service options with small grills and tables suited for intimate groups. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming with lively K-pop music enhancing a chill vibe. Many enjoy the authentic Korean fried chicken and a variety of soju flavors in a casual, comfortable setting.

All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ offers a great family dinner experience with excellent service and prompt seating even when busy. The spot works well for first-timers and groups celebrating special occasions.

Offers a self-cooked lunch option for those who want to eat without cooking. Suitable for a workday lunch with a chance to come back again.

People are saying

"The servers here are so attentive and sweet with Korean food."

"The Lunch Spot's bulgogi and Korean fried chicken were delicious."

"Gina kept bringing us plenty of Barbecue meat and sides to try."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option requires the entire table to participate.

2

An automatic 18% tip is added for using the Korean Grill.

3

There is a 2-hour time limit for the all-you-can-eat option.

21
Jazzy's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open kitchen and stacks of oak wood create a smoky, rustic vibe with 90s wood accents and airbrushed jazz murals. Atmosphere feels cozy and family-friendly, with a relaxed pace and warm hospitality. Outdoor seating adds a comfortable, peaceful option.

Barbecue here features large pork sandwiches with delicious BBQ sauce. Service includes a friendly host who checks in regularly.

Catering lunch for over 50 people works well here. The turnip greens stand out, especially with the lunch beef sandwich. It serves as a solid spot to meet for lunch.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the BBQ here every time I visited."

"This Lunch Spot's barbecue is amazing, especially the ribs."

"The barbecue here is amazing, especially the sausage and mac & cheese."

Good to know

1

A 15% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

22
Big John's Alabama BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smokey aroma of oak wood fills a cozy space with rustic décor and local sports memorabilia. Friendly, family-like atmosphere with sounds of meat being chopped behind the counter. Focus on authentic southern BBQ with strong smoky flavors and excellent sauces.

Authentic Alabama-style barbecue features tender pulled chicken with a signature BBQ sauce. Generous portions come with a clean and friendly environment and a notably good BBQ sauce and Tea Punch.

Quick visits focus on sausage with options to order extra for later. Lunches serve as a spot for fast, casual meals and brief dates.

People are saying

"I considered this the best BBQ spot I've ever had."

"I considered this the best Barbecue spot I've ever had."

"I loved the food at this Lunch Spot; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait for chicken during peak hours.

2

Arrive early to avoid running out of high-demand items.

3

Parking is limited during lunch and dinner times.

23
Jerk Pit image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean atmosphere fills the space with reggae music and colorful decor creating a warm and welcoming vibe. The energy stays lively and authentic, making it feel like home. The dining area is small but clean, hosting a crowd that appreciates genuine Jamaican culture.

Spicy and flavorful jerk BBQ ribs come with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The BBQ jerk chicken pairs well with rice and peas, cabbage, and sides like Mac and cheese and various patties.

Lunch specials focus on Jerk Chicken with consistent, flavorful taste. Prices vary, with some dishes like oxtails costing around $30, and occasional issues like running out of roti happen.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and above expectations."

"The jerk barbecue ribs are seasoned perfectly spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Sundays have dinner pricing, which is considered worth it.

2

The weekday lunch specials offer great value.

3

There are many vegan options available.

24
Skipper's Smokehouse image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Outdoor space combines separate buildings with funky decor and old Florida shanty style. Live music fills the venue with an eclectic casual atmosphere that draws a lively crowd. Stingray petting area adds a unique touch to the chill vibe.

Pulled pork stands out with its tender texture and rich flavor. The menu features a mix of seafood, barbecue, and comfort foods, offering solid options for barbecue lovers.

Lunch features a live acoustic band creating a relaxed vibe. It suits family gatherings and special occasions like Mother's Day. Redeeming prizes during lunch is also an option.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and hot."

"I enjoyed the Barbecue here; the pulled pork was delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Thursdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

On Thursdays, enjoy $1 raw oysters during happy hour.

3

Live music happens on Sundays from 1 to 4 PM.

25
Flaming Mountain Chinese Grill & Skewer Bar 火焰山烧烤&烤鱼 image 1

Casual Chinese restaurant with authentic Sichuan flavors and street-side barbecue style. Atmosphere is noisy and crowded with close seating that encourages sharing. Decor is simple with bright walls and a kitchen visible from the front, creating a lively but unpretentious vibe.

Authentic Northeastern Chinese barbecue flavors come through clearly with traditional grilling methods. The BBQ oyster stands out as a delicious highlight among the offerings.

Open for lunch with a quick service vibe. Broths stand out enough to take home for noodle cooking later.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be truly authentic and not Americanized."

"I found the Chinese barbecue here to be really authentic."

"I loved the sour fish soup made of fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is available for those who are brave enough to participate.

2

All noodles are 20% off from January 4th to January 7th.

3

Expect long wait times for takeout orders, sometimes up to an hour.

Discover more

Tampa, Florida

Area guide
Loading Map...