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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Tampa

BBQ joints

Made for those who appreciate the slow-cooked labor and smoke-infused depth of a traditional barbecue spread.

Based on 653 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.

Food features generous amounts of meat on sandwiches and offers both entrées and desserts at the same spot. Portions serve four adults and stay consistently fresh and juicy.

Barbecue here features tender ribs and juicy brisket with a flavorful kick. The house-made BBQ sauce stands out as rich and tasty enough to eat by the spoonful.

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 BBQ ribs here to be the best in Tampa."

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
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.

Delicious Thai food stands out with flavorful dishes and excellent service creating a cozy dining experience.

Barbecue grilled pork stands out with amazing flavor and pairs well with sticky rice. Roast pork BBQ offers sweet, melt-in-your-mouth textures balanced by citrus sauces.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Thai food here was excellent and authentic."

"I found the BBQ here to be the most authentic tasting."

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.

03
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.

Food comes out quickly and is incredibly fresh with beautiful presentation. Dishes pack unique flavors and avoid seed oils.

Smoked BBQ brisket shines with tangy, spicy, beefy flavors and a crunchy texture in the tacos. The brisket sandwich pairs well with fries and sometimes includes creamy hummus for added richness.

People are saying

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

"The breakfast service with Ana was so sweet and accommodating."

"The BBQ brisket is tender and packed with 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.

04
Tampa House of Wings NYC image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food spot with New York style halal wings and bold artwork on the walls. Atmosphere feels warm and family-friendly, casual and lively enough for quick meals or game nights. Known for crispy buffalo wings and a welcoming vibe that makes it feel like home.

Food here is damn delicious and made with love. The menu offers amazing flavors that consistently impress.

Sauces stand out with options like classic Buffalo, sweet and tangy BBQ, and signature spicy blends. The honey BBQ sauce pairs well with barbecue boneless wings and the Mac smashburger.

People are saying

"These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor."

"I thought the BBQ sauce was the best I've ever had."

"The food here is amazing and damn delicious."

Good to know

1

Everything on the menu is halal, including the beef bacon.

2

The prices are reasonable, with generous portions for $11.

3

The wings are larger than most places serve.

05
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.

Food comes out hot and fresh with a home-cooked feel in a small dining area. The Mac and cheese stands out as phenomenal among consistently great dishes.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the food to be amazing and fresh."

"I found the BBQ here to be different and enjoyable."

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.

06
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.

Food features generous portions and consistently excellent barbecue flavors. The service includes unexpected extras, with staff often adding more food without accepting tips.

Authentic Florida style BBQ shines through with homemade sauce and flavorful, well-prepared ribs, chicken, and wings. The BBQ is consistently finger-lickin' good and captures 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."

"The food here is incredible and awesome."

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.

07
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.

Food features outstanding barbecue with ribs served hot right at the start. The kitchen shows pride in every dish and pairs it with attentive service.

Barbecue here stands out with phenomenal flavor and excellent sides. It earns consistent praise as the best barbecue in the area, making it a reliable go-to spot for authentic BBQ.

People are saying

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

"The food, especially the mac and cheese, was so wonderful."

"This BBQ burger was juicy and flavorful."

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.

08
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.

Food stands out for its amazing quality and excellent taste. Meals consistently deliver delicious flavors that surpass typical chain restaurant offerings.

Offers an all-you-can-eat BBQ option with a wide variety of fresh meats like lamb skewer, pork belly, and peppered beef. Includes a house sauce bar with garlic and cilantro that enhances the BBQ experience.

People are saying

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

"The buffet has fresh seafood, meats, and desserts."

"The food here is delicious with so many fresh options."

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.

09
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.

Food features freshness and high quality with standout items like brisket and ribs. Preparation shows care and the dishes often draw a wait worth it.

Barbecue here treats meat like art, with flavors that rival Texas styles. The habanero BBQ sauce adds a spicy kick to the outstanding smoked dishes.

People are saying

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

"Danny's guidance made my brisket smoking experience a success."

"I experienced the best BBQ in Florida, moist and well-seasoned."

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.

10
The Outside Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with intimate seating and vibrant R&B music sets a chill, welcoming vibe. Live DJ energizes the space while the decor adds a cozy touch. The atmosphere feels spotless and inviting, creating a relaxed dining experience.

Food here is flavorful and fresh with an incredible taste. Service complements the cozy atmosphere for a complete dining experience.

Barbecue lamb chops stand out with rich flavor. Wings come with a sticky BBQ sauce that can be quite messy. The menu also pairs BBQ wings with Teriyaki Honey Salmon and Shrimp alongside garlic mash.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and cooked fresh."

"The lemonade here is so well balanced and delicious."

"I thought the BBQ here was out of this world."

Good to know

1

They have weekly food specials that change regularly.

2

The restaurant primarily focuses on takeout orders.

3

Expect a line for takeout orders during peak hours.

11
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.

Tender and flavorful pork and beef stand out with generous portions and fantastic prices. The menu focuses on comfort food with consistently great taste and service.

Tangy vinegar sauce with a hint of sweetness highlights the smoke flavor in the barbecue. The BBQ consistently delivers excellent quality and is considered among the best in the area.

People are saying

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

"This family-owned spot has the best, most flavorful BBQ I've ever had."

"The food here is amazing, especially the ribs and beef."

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.

12
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 tastes like home-cooked meals with a focus on beef kebab and chicken skewers. Meals come out fresh and fast, often with a complimentary salad.

Food cooks right in front of you on the barbecue, including chicken BBQ and shawarmas. The menu features a chicken platter and half chicken options.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The food here tastes like home-cooked, authentic Middle Eastern flavors."

"I'm definitely returning for the BBQ."

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.

13
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.

Food stands out as the most important aspect here with an outstanding quality that surpasses other places in Tampa.

Barbecue here stands out for its rich flavor and tender texture. The menu includes a unique Pineapple sweet tea that complements the smoky meats well.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The mac and cheese here is wonderfully seasoned and very good."

"The food here was so good and fresh."

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.

14
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.

Food features generous portions like the XL Platter that serves 10 or more. The menu offers fantastic barbecue with consistently amazing flavor and quality.

Barbecue quality stands out with consistently accurate orders and a variety of BBQ sauces. The flavor ranks among the best experienced, often compared favorably to Texas BBQ.

People are saying

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

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"I thought the BBQ here was fantastic and simply amazing."

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.

15
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.

Food here is flavorful and properly cooked. The dishes consistently deliver great taste and quality.

Tender and juicy wings stand out with immaculate flavor. The barbecue overall offers down home style with consistently awesome service.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"I thought the food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the brisket and ribs were fantastic."

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.

16
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 and soul food here taste fresh and delicious with a homestyle vibe that feels welcoming. The dining area is surprisingly uncrowded and service is warm and attentive.

Smoked on site and served fresh, the Barbecue Ribs and pulled pork come with amazing BBQ sauce. The BBQ feels like a community feast with heaping portions and soul food vibes.

People are saying

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

"I thought the American food, especially the fried chicken, was the best I ever had."

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

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.

17
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.

An amazing buffet offers fresh ingredients like lamb, beef, chicken, seafood, tofu, and veggies. Cooked foods include crayfish, sushi, and chicken wings, all served with attentive staff and excellent service.

Buffet offers a huge selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables for BBQ. Seafood stands out as some of the freshest found at Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I loved the huge variety of fresh seafood and meats available."

"The BBQ service was amazing, they always refilled my drinks."

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.

18
Crossroad Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small space with four tables and a giant mural creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere stays chill and clean with friendly staff and consistent music. Lines form regularly, reflecting popularity for freshly made hot chicken sandwiches with notable heat levels.

Food here is consistently delicious and fresh with flavorful dishes that stand out. Service complements the meals well, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

White BBQ sauce stands out with its creamy tang and rich flavor. Corn ribs come with three sauces: Back Down, Hot Cross, and White BBQ, offering a variety of bold tastes to try.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, really, really good."

"I've never had Mac and Cheese this good before."

"The BBQ chicken here is perfectly cooked and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

Portions are generous, with large chicken servings for the price.

3

The restaurant offers a 'pay it forward' board for those in need.

19
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.

Food comes out quickly, often within two minutes, and is cooked perfectly. Dishes offer excellent quality, delicious and original flavors, and reasonable prices compared to nearby spots.

Wings come with a variety of sauces beyond the usual Buffalo and BBQ. The Carolina BBQ sauce stands out as a favorite, especially on jumbo wings.

People are saying

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

"This chicken sandwich is the best I've ever eaten."

"The BBQ sauces here are fantastic and varied."

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.

20
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.

Food here is consistently amazing and phenomenal with a reputation for being incredibly delicious. Service complements the food well, making every visit satisfying.

Old-school BBQ done right shines through with consistently excellent brisket and flavorful rice bowls. This spot delivers authentic, legit barbecue that stands out in the Tampa Bay Area.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

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

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

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.

21
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.

Food shows amazing taste and clear passion and care in preparation. The Tomahawk steak stands out as especially fantastic.

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

People are saying

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

"I thought the BBQ here was great and worth the drive."

"The food here is so juicy and flavorful."

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.

22
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.

Food offers excellent quality with large portions that provide good value. The kitchen maintains a clean environment and handles food with care.

Barbecue features generous portions of ribs, potato salad, and BBQ beans with unique flavor that stands out. The spicy macaroni salad adds a distinct kick to the meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is delicious and the portions are very good."

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.

23
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.

Food comes out quickly and is made fresh to order with big flavor and incredible freshness. Service is attentive, helping with food choices, and the place stays clean.

BC sauce and Chipotle BBQ add strong flavor to the dishes. The jalapeno slaw pairs well with the Shaq Attack sandwich, and the gold BBQ sauce enhances the Big Chicken as you eat it.

People are saying

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

"The chicken food here is so juicy and tender."

"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.

24
The Twisted Vegan image 1
Vegan restaurant

Upstairs takeout spot offers 100% plant-based food with exceptional vegan burgers and soulful flavors. The vibe is chill and convenient, suited for quick meals rather than dining in. Location is discreet with minimal signage, attracting both vegans and non-vegans seeking tasty, thoughtful meals.

Vegan food stands out with amazing flavor and excellent presentation. The dishes travel well and maintain their taste, paired with friendly service.

Wings come in BBQ and lemon flavors with spicy ranch and BBQ sauces available. The BBQ wings pair with fries and have a decent taste.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian burger here is a 10/10."

"I enjoyed the BBQ wings with fries."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only, with no option for dining in.

2

Online or call-ahead orders are required; no walk-in orders accepted.

3

The entrance is hard to find, located upstairs with no signage.

25
Naz's Halal Food - Tampa image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers a clean and spacious interior with bright lighting and beautiful wall art. Atmosphere feels relaxed and lively, creating a welcoming vibe that feels like home. Seating is plentiful, supporting a comfortable dining experience.

Food here is consistently fresh and amazing, with strong halal flavors. The dishes deliver great taste and quality every time.

Spicy BBQ wings come breaded and coated in a sauce that balances sweet and heat. The menu also features a cheeseburger and a combo platter with various BBQ options.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and flavorful."

"Their cheeseburgers and Philly cheesesteaks are out of this world."

"The spicy BBQ wings are breaded with a perfect balance of sweet and heat."

Good to know

1

The portions are super generous, making it a good deal.

2

They charge $2.60 for a water bottle.

3

The restaurant is very clean.

26
bb.q Chicken Northdale Tampa image 1

Korean fried chicken restaurant with private karaoke rooms and a stylish Soju bar creates a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with K-pop music and clean, cozy spaces. The vibe balances fun and comfort, attracting groups for food and drinks in a setting that feels both nostalgic and modern.

Food arrives hot and fresh, seasoned to perfection. Quality matches Korean standards, with a pricey but fantastic menu.

BBQ chicken comes out hot and crispy with a honey BBQ flavor that includes a crunchy fried coating. Korean BBQ chicken here is consistently delicious and a go-to choice for many.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, crispy, and full of flavor."

"The Korean fried chicken here is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor."

"I thought the BBQ chicken here was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations for karaoke rooms are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Karaoke costs $90 for 2 hours, with extra charges for additional time.

3

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks, making it a great time to visit.

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