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Tampa's best

Barbecue spots with ribs

Made for those who take their barbecue seriously and want to enjoy their ribs in a space that encourages lingering.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Whigham Family Kitchen image 1
Whigham Family Kitchen image 2
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Food truck with two picnic tables offers a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere. Known for generous portions of tender, flavorful BBQ including ribs and brisket, paired with homemade desserts. Meals are prepared under strict sanitary conditions and served with a special house sauce.

Ribs here are unbelievably tender and fall off the bone with ease. The flavor stands out even without sauce, and the barbecue sauce adds a delicious, moist finish.

Barbecue here features tender ribs with a juicy, flavorful brisket. The house-made barbecue sauce stands out for its rich taste and moderate kick.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best in Tampa."

"The brisket here is so delicious and seasoned very well."

"I found the barbecue here to be awesome and perfected."

Good to know

1

They are open every Saturday from 12 to 7 pm.

2

You should arrive early for the smoked brisket because it sells out quickly.

3

The portion size is well worth the price.

02
Grill & Provisions image 1

Barbecue spot with massive, tender ribs and moist, well-seasoned brisket draws steady crowds and often has a wait to order. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as people come for outstanding BBQ and reasonable prices. It closes on Tuesdays and food sells quickly, highlighting its popularity.

Massive, tender ribs come well seasoned and pair well with sides like coleslaw and mac and cheese. The pork Spanish style offers a distinct, flavorful option alongside the ribs.

Barbecue here stands out for its masterful preparation and artful presentation. The habanero BBQ sauce adds a notable kick that complements the smoked meats well.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be incredibly delicious and fresh."

"I experienced the best Barbecue in Tampa."

"The ribs here are awesome and moist."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait to order during peak hours from Thursday to Saturday.

2

Grill & Provisions is closed on Tuesdays.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

03
Big Mel's Smoke House BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers tender, smoky ribs and homemade-style sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Atmosphere is casual with affordable prices and occasional waits due to popularity. Customers often bring their own buns for pulled pork, as none are sold on site.

Ribs come tender and smoky with a sauce that hits the mark. Properly trimmed ribs fall off the bone and deliver outstanding flavor without greasiness.

Authentic Florida style BBQ shines through with homemade BBQ sauce and finger-lickin' good ribs, chicken, and wings. The BBQ is very flavorful and well-prepared, capturing the real barbecue taste.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken here is smoky, juicy, and flavorful."

"These ribs are tender, smoky, and fall right off the bone."

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

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, but it's worth it for the food.

2

Bring your own buns if you want to make pulled pork sandwiches.

3

Kids meals are available for families dining with children.

04
Southern Luv BBQ image 1

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.

Ribs arrive on a hot platter and often fall off the bone. St. Louis style ribs come smoked just right with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

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

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."

"The ribs here are so tender they fall right off the bone."

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.

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.

Ribs come falling off the bone, large and well-seasoned with a smoky flavor. The BBQ sauce is boss, enhancing the ribs and other dishes like chicken and beans.

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."

"The ribs here are tender and juicy."

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
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.

Ribs come smoked and tender with a rich flavor that stands out. The combo plates include collards and mac and cheese alongside the ribs and sausage.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the ribs and beef to be amazing."

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

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.

07
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.

Smoking ribs come out perfectly tender and packed with smoky goodness. They pair well with sides like macaroni and cheese and stand out alongside chicken, sausage, and pulled pork.

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.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The barbecue here is packed with amazing flavor."

"I found the ribs here really good and generously portioned."

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.

08
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.

Ribs here fall off the bone and are not greasy. They come in combos and pair well with brisket, offering a delicious, well-balanced flavor.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"These ribs just fell off the bone, so tender and juicy."

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.

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.

Short ribs have amazing flavor and stand out among the meat options. The menu includes bulgogi beef and pork belly, but short ribs remain the main highlight.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The short rib here has amazing flavor."

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
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.

Ribs come tender, soft, and juicy with excellent seasoning and good flavor. The BBQ ribs stand out as meaty and well-prepared, often paired with duck or bok choy for a solid combo.

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.

People are saying

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

"The crab Rangoon was the best Chinese food I've ever had."

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

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.

11
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.

Ribs come with meaty tender bones and generous portions. A mustard sauce with a strong yellow mustard taste and sweet tang pairs well with the pork. The chicken and rib combo offers a solid mix of flavors.

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

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"The dirty rice here is really good, especially with the sausage."

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

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.

12
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.

Ribs come meaty and tender with a strong smoked flavor. Plates often include generous portions paired with tasty sides like potato salad, BBQ beans, and spicy macaroni.

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.

People are saying

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

"The pulled pork and spicy mac and cheese are amazing."

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

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.

13
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.

Short ribs come with incredible seasoning and generous portions. Korean pork ribs stand out for their delicious flavor while beef belly and ribs offer large servings.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

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

"The short ribs here were the best I've ever had."

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.

14
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.

Ribs come right off the bone, juicy and tender with a great sauce. The bronto rib stands out as especially delicious, making ribs and brisket the best choices here.

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.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

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

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

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.

15
Meat Mechanico image 1
Meat dish restaurant

Restaurant resembles an American muscle car garage with mechanical-themed decor like license plates and toolboxes on walls. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming with warm, inviting energy. Known for generous portions of expertly grilled, halal meats and standout brisket and shawarma dishes.

Ribs fall off the bone and stay tender. Prime rib has a juicy pink center with a flavorful crust. Brisket and ribs both come out cooked to perfection.

Brisket and ribs stand out on the menu with strong smoked flavors. The entire BBQ selection is halal and offers affordable prices.

People are saying

"The shawarma here is amazing, especially the coal-cooked beef."

"The brisket here is tender, juicy, and smoky."

"The ribs here are so tender, they fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently in soft opening, so expect limited menu options.

2

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good choice for hungry diners.

3

The prices are very reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.

16
Greedy Lee's BBQ image 1
Grill store

Small, run-down grill store with a takeout-only setup and a welcoming, soulful atmosphere. The space fills with good smells and uplifting energy, drawing many first-time customers. Known for fall-off-the-bone ribs and legendary oxtails, it stands out as an authentic BBQ spot despite limited indoor space.

Ribs come with an insane bark and flavor that stands out. They pair well with sides like baked beans, potato salad, and Mac-n-cheese, and the BBQ sauce adds a fantastic touch.

Ribs come with perfect seasoning and a beautiful pink center. The oxtails and Mac-n-cheese pair well with the authentic barbecue sauce.

People are saying

"The ribs here are smoked, tender, and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the oxtail here to be delicious and seasoned perfectly."

"I thought the Barbecue here was the best I’ve had in Florida."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; expect limited spaces near the restaurant.

2

Bring cash as credit card machines may not work consistently.

3

The restaurant often runs out of menu items close to closing time.

17
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.

Ribs come out meaty and tender with a strong smoky flavor. They hold up well without sauce but pair nicely when added.

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.

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."

"I loved the smoky flavor of these ribs."

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.

18
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.

Jerk barbecue ribs come with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. They are spicy and flavorful with an authentic jerk seasoning.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

19
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.

Pork ribs fall off the bone and burst with smoky flavor and robust seasoning. Smoking and grilling create a crispy texture that pairs well with sides like potato salad and collard greens.

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.

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."

"The ribs had a great smoke flavor and a tender crust."

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.

20
Bar-B-Que King image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with a beautiful remodeled building and a friendly atmosphere where people can now dine on a patio area. The place serves tender ribs with a sauce considered a well-kept secret, offering a local gem vibe that draws those seeking quality barbecue.

Ribs come out very tender and delicious, often standing out as a favorite dish. The pork ribs have a great texture and flavor that pairs well with the fresh potato salad.

Barbecue here stands out for its excellent flavor and consistent quality. The mouthwatering BBQ keeps people coming back, making it a longtime favorite.

People are saying

"The ribs here are tender and delicious."

"The food here is so damn good, it's outstanding."

"This barbecue is so damn good, it's outstanding."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is no longer takeout only; dine-in is available on the patio.

2

Expect limited menu items during peak hours; some dishes may be unavailable.

3

Prices at the restaurant may differ from those listed online, often being higher.

21
Martin's BBQ Tampa image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican restaurant with friendly atmosphere and colorful wall art creates a pleasant, homey vibe. DJ Joe's music adds lively energy during busy lunch hours. Known for authentic dishes like rotisserie chicken, arroz con gandules, and plantains, it offers a flavorful island experience.

Ribs come out savory, juicy, and tender, matching the taste of home-cooked meals. They bring a strong sense of nostalgia and satisfy cravings with their beautifully cooked texture.

Rotisserie chicken stands out as most delicious with authentic Puerto Rican and Dominican dishes like pasteles, pernil, and ribs. The menu offers fresh, flavorful island cuisine that surpasses typical fast food options.

People are saying

"The Puerto Rican food here is delicious and reminds me of home."

"The barbecue chicken here is crispy, juicy, and has incredible flavor."

"I wished I'd ordered a dozen of their tasty ribs."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy lunch hours.

2

Prices for meals are generally reasonable, with three meals costing under $35.

3

The restaurant has been reported for sanitation issues in the past.

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