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Local picks

American barbecue spots in Indiana

American barbecue that honors the tradition of the craft rather than just serving up mass-produced portions.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ben's BBQ Shack image 1
Ben's BBQ Shack image 2
Ben's BBQ Shack image 3
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Barbecue restaurant

BBQ shack with picnic tables out back offers a takeout-only experience that requires preordering due to quick sellouts. The atmosphere feels welcoming as the owner interacts directly with customers. Known for top-quality smoked meats, especially brisket and ribs, that stand out without heavy sauce.

BBQ perfection shows in every bite with excellent ribs and cole slaw. The pork belly stands out as a top choice at this spot.

Pulled pork and brisket stand out for their perfect juiciness and high quality. Ribs and turkey also come tender and flavorful with a slight kick.

People are saying

"This brisket is perfectly cooked and so moist."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and ribs, is perfectly cooked and smoky."

"I found the Barbecue here to be the best in the Midwest."

Good to know

1

Ben's BBQ Shack is only open from Friday to Sunday, 12 PM to 3 PM.

2

Preordering is essential to avoid missing out on popular items like brisket.

3

Arrive at least 30 minutes before opening if you don't preorder.

02
Shelbell's Sugarshack image 1
Lunch restaurant

Lunch spot offers unique menu with keto-friendly options and affordable prices. Atmosphere feels clean and charming, attracting those seeking comforting American fare. Regularly updates menu with new dishes alongside favorites like pulled pork and tenderloin.

Pulled pork stands out with its BBQ flavor and pairs well with Cole Slaw. Sides like Mac and cheese and green beans complement the meal.

Pulled pork stands out with its flavorful and tender texture and generous portions. The mac and cheese is creamy and cheesy, often paired with dishes like cheeseburgers or BBQ sandwiches.

People are saying

"The Tenderloin sandwich and mushrooms were both fantastic."

"The pulled pork here is flavorful and tender."

"The Barbecue here is top-notch and brings the heat."

Good to know

1

The prices are very affordable for the quality of food offered.

2

The menu features unique items not found elsewhere.

3

They offer low carb (keto friendly) adult lunches.

03
Smok-N-Crew BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic southern wooden furniture and handcrafted decor create a charming smokehouse vibe with old school country music setting a relaxed tone. The atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, drawing people who appreciate authentic Texas-style BBQ in a spacious, well-decorated setting.

Texas style BBQ shines with perfect ribs and brisket that stand out in the region. The place consistently delivers award-winning barbecue that rivals top spots in Chicago, Kansas City, and Memphis.

Brisket and ribs come out tender with a delicious sauce. Pulled pork is perfectly cooked and pairs well with mayo slaw. Coleslaw, fries, and green beans round out the meal nicely.

People are saying

"This American food, especially the brisket and ribs, is the best I've ever had."

"The pulled pork here is amazing and not filled with fat."

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

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, there's a buy one get one free deal on pulled chicken or pulled pork sandwiches.

2

Wednesdays feature the Magnificent 7 promotion for a special BBQ experience.

3

The seven meat platter costs $36 and serves 3-4 people.

04
313 Taproom image 1

Small pub with self-pour beer taps and a wide beer selection creates a casual, lively vibe. Indoor space feels packed and noisy, while outdoor patio offers a quieter, relaxed atmosphere. Frequent live music and an upstairs room for events add variety to the experience.

Smoked on site, the barbecue served on weekends features pulled BBQ beef sandwiches and lamb with a more assertive flavor that hits barbecue perfection.

Brisket and nachos stand out with rich flavors and good portions. Wings, ribs, and sandwiches like the pulled lamb and Cuban add variety to the American menu.

People are saying

"I found the selection of beers on tap to be outstanding."

"The American Food here is delicious, especially the brisket and ribs."

"The pulled lamb barbecue sandwich with tzatziki slaw is amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on tacos every week.

2

Expect $1 wing nights that are popular among visitors.

3

Trivia night happens every Thursday with fun questions and prizes.

05
Richieโ€™s Corner Deli image 1

Old school deli with a warm, Brooklyn-Bronx vibe offers high quality sandwiches and BBQ ribs on Saturdays. Food is made with care, creating a relaxed pace and loyal following. Limited daily availability of some items adds a sense of exclusivity to the experience.

Ribs, pulled pork, and pork belly come carved fresh, juicy, and fairly priced. Sauces and flavors show top-notch quality and careful preparation. BBQ ribs are available only on Saturday.

Brisket, pork belly, and pulled pork come carved on the spot, juicy, and fairly priced. The chicken wings stand out as some of the best in the area, and the Philly cheesesteak and meatball sub deliver strong flavors.

People are saying

"I tried their cheesesteak sandwiches and they were amazing."

"I loved the pulled pork fries and the American Food wings."

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

Good to know

1

The BBQ Ribs are only available on Saturday.

2

Prices are high, but the food is substantial.

3

They display what is and isn't available on their site.

06
His Place Eatery - Chicken & Waffles, Ribs & Soul Food (86th & Ditch Rd) image 1

Soul food restaurant offers a clean, bright interior with crowded seating that feels lively and homey. Music and a quirky photo booth add to the welcoming vibe despite some noise from guests. The space balances an upscale design with a casual, packed atmosphere.

Ribs come out tender with a good BBQ sauce. The BBQ pork sandwich and catfish pair well with amazing sides.

Fried chicken and fried catfish come hot and fresh, paired well with sides like mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. Meatloaf, brisket, and chicken pot pie offer hearty, classic American flavors with touches like smoked brisket and extra cornbread.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, is amazing."

"I took the banana pudding to go, it was excellent."

"I tasted some of the most delicious Barbecue I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 5 minutes during peak dinner hours.

2

The kitchen may close 15-20 minutes before the posted closing time.

3

Desserts often sell out by 7pm on Fridays, so arrive early.

07
Don't Eat The Bone Bbq image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue spot with a casual setup featuring picnic tables near the smoker and a small waiting area. Atmosphere stays friendly and laid-back, attracting those who appreciate extremely smoky barbecue and hearty sandwiches. Limited open days create a sense of exclusivity around the experience.

Turkey tips stand out as a favorite, paired with tasty BBQ sauces sold in bottles. The BBQ features homemade sides and offers great service, making it a local hidden gem for barbecue lovers.

Pulled pork stands out with its flavorful meat packed on a sub-sized bun. Mac and cheese, especially the 5 cheese macaroni, scores perfectly alongside green beans, baked beans, and rib tips.

People are saying

"The BBQ turkey tips and rib tips were so tender."

"The American food, especially the rib tips, is smokey, moist, and well-seasoned."

"I thought their Barbecue was the best in Indianapolis."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open about three days a week.

2

Expect a wait but it is worth it.

3

They were out of chicken wings by 1 PM for the day.

08
Twisted Wings LLC image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Chicken wing spot offers over 30 sauce flavors and freshly made wings with a crispy texture and generous sauce. Outdoor seating includes picnic tables for casual dining. The place maintains a clean, welcoming atmosphere with a small waiting area and focuses on takeout and pickup orders.

Wings come in a variety of saucy flavors like honey BBQ, Buffalo, and garlic parmesan. Options include bone-in wings with choices such as sriracha honey and spicy Asian-inspired sauces.

Crispy, juicy chicken wings come tossed in buffalo garlic, Cajun hot, honey sriracha, and sweet n spicy sauces. Loaded fries arrive topped with melted cheese and green onions, offering a satisfying, cheesy comfort food experience.

People are saying

"The chicken wings are crispy, juicy, and tossed in a variety of delicious sauces."

"You have to try the American food; the wings are crispy and juicy."

"The barbecue wings here are saucy with great flavors."

Good to know

1

Twisted Wings is an order-only wing place with takeout and outdoor seating.

2

Parking could be better, so plan accordingly.

3

Order ahead for pickup to avoid waiting in the small area.

09
texas boys BBQ LLC image 1

Food truck setup offers Texas-style barbecue with juicy ribs and perfectly cooked brisket. Outdoor picnic tables create a casual, open-air vibe. Operates limited days, attracting barbecue enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors.

Barbecue here stands out for its exceptional quality and flavorful mustard sauce served on the side. The ribs come perfectly cooked, and the person running the truck shows clear expertise in BBQ craft.

Brisket stands out with its perfect cooking, tender texture, and flavorful taste. Pulled pork sandwiches and sides like mac and cheese and baked beans come in large pans, offering hearty portions.

People are saying

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

"The brisket and ribs here are tender, flavorful, and fall-apart good."

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

Good to know

1

The BBQ truck operates only from Thursday to Sunday.

2

This is a food truck without indoor seating, but picnic tables are available outside.

3

Most dinners cost 15 dollars and were filling.

10
Hank's Smoked Briskets image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue takeout spot with a homely look and no dine-in seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively, with people often leaving laughing. Known for exceptional smoked brisket and Texas-style barbecue.

Smoked briskets stand out with authentic fire BBQ flavor and a sweet BBQ sauce. The barbecue ranks as some of the city's finest and is highly recommended for a quick, satisfying meal.

Smoked brisket stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. The brisket sandwich pairs well with coleslaw that leans slightly sweet but is well made.

People are saying

"This American food's smoked brisket is the best I ever had."

"The Mac and Cheese here is cheesy and will blow your taste buds."

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

Good to know

1

Hank's Smoked Briskets is carryout only, so customers need to eat the food elsewhere.

2

There are no tables for dining in at Hank's Smoked Briskets.

3

Hank's Smoked Briskets is conveniently located off the highway.

11
MJ's Backyard BBQ & Catering image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers generous portions with exceptional ribs and well-seasoned greens. Atmosphere stays relaxed with no long wait times and a focus on accommodating last-minute catering. Food quality varies, but many find it among the best barbecue options available.

Offers authentic BBQ style with generous portions that provide good value. Includes sides like baked cheesy macaroni and sweet seasoned greens that complement the main dishes well.

Brisket stands out as exceptional and delicious. Pulled pork barbecue and chicken wings also impress, while beans and mac and cheese appeal even to picky eaters.

People are saying

"The food here is so well-seasoned, it's incredible."

"The barbecue here is seasoned to perfection, falling off the bone."

"The brisket and pulled pork barbecue here is outstanding."

Good to know

1

MJ's Backyard BBQ & Catering offers generous portion sizes for the price.

2

Individual sides cost around $3 each, making it affordable to add extras.

3

Expect no long wait times during visits, ensuring quick service.

12
Smokin Barrel Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant inside a former community hall offers a casual, no-frills setting with a lively staff energy. The atmosphere carries a strong smoke aroma and draws people seeking some of the best brisket and rib tips around. Portions are generous, and the vibe is straightforward and unpretentious.

Brisket, mac and cheese, and barbecue sauce stand out as exceptional. The BBQ chicken, cole slaw, and beans offer a solid classic combo. Rib tips here compare strongly against other well-known spots.

Brisket and pulled pork stand out with exceptional flavor and hold up well without sauce. The menu also features ribs, smoked chicken wings, and banana pudding, all prepared with care and rich taste.

People are saying

"I had the best BBQ I've ever experienced here."

"You have to try their banana pudding; it's excellent!"

"I thought the barbecue here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Brisket is sold out by 5pm on Fridays, so arrive early.

2

Expect large portions; a 2-meat dinner can feed 3-4 meals.

3

They often run out of popular items like chicken and ribs.

13
City Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Dining space offers roomy seating with both indoor and outdoor options, creating a comfortable, clean environment. Atmosphere blends blues music with a country barbecue vibe, evoking classic barbecue joints. Condiment bar and nearby ice cream add casual touches to the experience.

Sweet city sauce stands out as a signature flavor. The barbecue features great food with a fantastic playlist enhancing the atmosphere.

Brisket stands out with its amazing flavor. The three meat platter combines brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. Fries and mac and cheese come top shelf.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and really tasty."

"The pulled pork and brisket here are so juicy and tender."

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

Good to know

1

Rib Tuesdays offer special pricing on ribs every week.

2

City Barbeque provides free cake giveaways on select days.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes than average for the price.

14
Kanoon Smoked Meat & Steakhouse image 1

Halal steakhouse offers a small, cozy space with traditional decor and a welcoming atmosphere. The dining area often fills with smoke, creating a unique but intense environment. Live music and a fire show add exciting flair to the experience.

Barbecue here blends Southern BBQ with Palestinian flavors offering halal American barbecue. The brisket is tender and tasty, while the smoked lamb neck stands out as especially flavorful.

Brisket stands out with its incredible tenderness and rich flavor. Short ribs and chicken platters also come cooked to perfection, paired well with crispy fries.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the mixed grill."

"The American Food brisket here is so tender and delicious."

"I loved the halal American barbecue with a great twist."

Good to know

1

Everything served is halal, making it a great option for halal meat lovers.

2

The restaurant automatically adds a 20% gratuity to the bill for all tables.

3

There is a $3 charge for non-cash payments.

15
His Place Eatery - Chicken & Waffles, Ribs & Soul food (30th & Shadeland) image 1

Cozy space with a Grandma's kitchen feel and southern soul food style creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere like a family reunion. Bright and clean but with a slightly dated, early 90s look. Busy and lively, it offers a genuine, homey vibe without any frills.

Pulled pork comes on a soft bun with a brown sugar sweetness that blends well with the BBQ sauce. Baked beans serve as a perfect compliment to the BBQ, creating a solid meal combination.

Crispy, fried chicken stands out with a delicious crunch. Catfish, green beans, stuffing, coleslaw, and a steak burger round out the classic American menu.

People are saying

"The American Food here is delicious, with tons of flavor."

"The fried chicken here is amazing, so juicy and flavorful."

"The barbecue chicken and waffles were amazing."

Good to know

1

Meals cost at least $20, making it a pricier lunch option.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check for mobile payment options.

16
Kelly's Soul Kitchen image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small, worn-down building hosts a takeout-only soul food spot with a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Food is cooked fresh, often with tender pot roast and well-prepared greens, attracting down-to-earth people. Menu offers many sides and dishes reminiscent of down south homecooked meals.

Rib tips come with a good barbecue sauce that tastes like tomato juice. Sides are decent but the ribs stand out the most.

Pot roast comes with a large portion, rice, and two sides. Meatloaf is tender and well cooked, offered in a $6 lunch deal with mashed potatoes. Wings come in several styles like fried and jerk, and sides include cabbage, yams, and cornbread.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and seasoned well."

"The American Food rib tips were juicy, tender, and generously sauced."

"The rib tips here are juicy, tender, and generously sauced."

Good to know

1

Kelly's Soul Kitchen operates as a takeout-only establishment.

2

Online ordering is available with a text notification system.

3

The $6 lunch with meatloaf and mashed potatoes is a great deal.

17
Pig Pen BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smoky aroma from a woodfire smoker fills a lively garage-style food hall. The vibe is casual with generous portions and affordable prices attracting meat lovers. Signature dishes include pulled pork and mac and cheese, noted for their standout flavors.

Barbecue here features tender brisket with great flavor and a sweet BBQ sauce that stands out. Plates often include mac and cheese, cole slaw, and pulled pork sandwiches that deliver solid, satisfying sides.

Pulled pork stands out with unbelievable flavor and tenderness. Brisket offers great flavor and is tender, while ribs come with a tasty Cajun sauce that balances medium spice and sweetness. Mac and cheese and hand-cut potato wedges complement the meats well.

People are saying

"The pulled pork sandwich is some of the best American food I've ever had."

"The brisket here is so tender and flavorful."

"The Barbecue brisket here is excellent, earning an A+ grade."

Good to know

1

The $10 lunch special includes a generous portion of food with one meat, one side, sauce, coleslaw, and pickles.

2

Prices are affordable, averaging about $20 per person.

3

The portions are large and filling.

18
King Ribs BBQ image 1
American restaurant

Smoke fills the air, creating an authentic BBQ atmosphere with a lively and welcoming vibe. Friendly people gather inside and outside, enjoying a clean, unpretentious setting that feels like home. The place offers a drive-thru experience that lets the smoky aroma roll through the windows.

Smoked ribs and chicken come out falling off the bone and packed with flavor. The drive-thru lets you catch the smoke aroma while ordering quick, fresh barbecue for takeout.

Barbecue ribs come with mild sauce and pair well with mac and cheese. Cornbread is served free, and sides like baked beans and coleslaw have strong flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the ribs and chicken."

"The American Food rib tips here are tender and delicious."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Drive-thru service is available, but expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Pre-ordering does not guarantee food availability; check before arriving.

3

Online ordering is available for quick pickup, but drive-thru can be slow.

19
Fat Man's BBQ image 1
Restaurant

Hickory smoke fills the air, creating a classic BBQ aroma that welcomes guests. Warm, family-centered decorations and great music set a friendly, inviting atmosphere. An old-style Pac-Man arcade game adds a nostalgic touch to the space.

Tender meat and good flavor define the barbecue here. The smell inside matches the typical BBQ joint vibe, and the food consistently delivers amazing quality.

Turkey tips, pulled pork, and brisket come well-seasoned and cooked just right. Sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread stand out with rich flavors.

People are saying

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

"The American Food brisket here is tender, moist, and delicious."

"The Barbecue brisket here is tender, moist, and smoky."

Good to know

1

Fat Man's BBQ offers a variety of options including chicken, lamb, brisket, turkey, ribs, and pork.

2

Prices are generally under $20 for BBQ meals.

3

Delivery is not available from Fat Man's BBQ.

20
Harmony Tea Shoppe image 1
Bubble tea store

Bright, clean space with cozy seating and tasteful decor creates a serene atmosphere. Self-service ordering booths and free Wi-Fi add convenience. Families enjoy board games, making it a relaxing spot for casual visits.

BBQ bowls focus on rice with overseasoned, fatty meat like chicken, beef, and shrimp. The Hawaiian BBQ chicken and beef offer decent flavor, but the meat can feel heavy and cause an uneasy stomach later.

Fried chicken stands out with expert preparation and solid flavor. Chicken wings come in a 9-piece combo but vary in quality, ranging from average to just okay.

People are saying

"I loved the strawberry jasmine green milk tea with matcha foam."

"The fried chicken here is expertly prepared and an exceptional value."

"The Hawaiian Barbecue chicken was really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited on Sunday mornings due to nearby church services.

2

The shop has its own parking lot for customers.

3

Expect wait times of over 30 minutes for ramen orders during busy hours.

21
Divine Bar B Cue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, unpretentious barbecue spot with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a hole-in-the-wall feel. The dining room feels dated but welcoming, attracting those who appreciate authentic, flavorful smoked meats and classic sides. It closes on Sundays and keeps a local, homemade food vibe.

Tasty ribs and other BBQ items stand out with heat and flavor that many find unmatched. Portions are generous enough for leftovers, and the sauces rank among the best in the area.

Pulled pork and pulled chicken stand out as main dishes. Sides like mac and cheese and cheesy mashed potatoes complement the meals well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made from scratch."

"You have to try the pulled pork; it's the best American Food around."

"I thought the barbecue here was great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes on Sundays, which may affect weekend plans.

2

Prices are reasonable, with sandwiches averaging around $12.

3

Portions are large, often providing leftovers for the next day.

22
Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with themed decor and multiple room sizes offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a fireplace adding a homey touch. The space includes a sports area and TVs, creating a lively vibe that varies from quiet to loud depending on the day. Tables come stocked with hand wipes for convenience after eating ribs.

Barbecue features delicious ribs and tasty tips that stay consistently good. Fresh food and on point flavors make it stand out.

Barbecue ribs stand out with both Baby Back and St. Louis styles praised for their flavor. The Texas Brisket pairs well in a two meat combo, and the cornbread is good though a bit pricey.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the brisket and sausage, was amazing."

"The cornbread muffins were moist and delicious."

"The brisket and sausage barbecue here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended during busy weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a special BBQ cook-off event once a year.

23
Indy Porkopolis BBQ image 1

Restaurant inside a gas station offers a cozy atmosphere with decorated tables. The vibe suits those looking for a working manโ€™s meal with excellent smoked wings and standout mac and cheese. Portions lean small but prices stay reasonable.

Barbecue here features perfectly cooked pork with a hot BBQ sauce that complements the beef well. The pork bowl stands out as a simple, delicious option with perfect seasoning and respectful service.

Brisket stands out with perfect seasoning and ideal tenderness. The wagyu burger comes topped with pulled pork or mac and cheese, paired with fries and baked beans or brisket. Cornbread is soft and flavorful, served in large portions. Rib tip dinner and tenderloin with mac and cheese also feature prominently.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is delicious, especially the tender meat."

"I found the brisket and burnt ends to be perfect."

"I thought the Barbecue here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Porkopolis caters events for up to 65 people.

2

The restaurant is located inside a gas station.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes for the price paid.

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