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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Indianapolis

Barbecue and mac and cheese

Barbecue paired with a side of creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort meal.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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.

Baked and cheesy with a next level cheesiness, the mac and cheese pairs well with brisket or beans. It offers a flavorful and rich experience that even picky eaters enjoy.

People are saying

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

"I'd say their barbecue is the best I've had in Indianapolis."

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

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.

02
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.

Super cheesy and delicious, the mac and cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture. It consistently earns high marks alongside other dishes like pulled pork and rib tips.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be awesome and satisfying."

"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.

03
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.

Cheesy and rich, the mac and cheese stands out as a boldly flavorful side. It pairs well with green beans and corned beef, making it a hearty meal on its own.

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.

04
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.

Creamy and cheesy textures define the Mac and Cheese here. Variations include chili and bacon additions and a homemade style served as a side.

People are saying

"The Tenderloin sandwich and mushrooms were both fantastic."

"The Lunch Spot staff were such nice people."

"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.

05
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.

Mac and cheese has a Velveeta flavor with a hint of condensed milk. It looks like KFC's version but tastes great and pairs well with fried catfish or chicken pot pie.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the mac and cheese; it's amazing."

"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.

06
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.

Spicy and delicious mac and cheese stands out here. It pairs well with other dishes like pork and corn casserole.

People are saying

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

"I thought the barbecue here was amazing."

"The mac and cheese here is very good."

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.

07
City Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers a casual, comfortable atmosphere with blues music and local sports memorabilia decorating the spacious dining area. Seating includes patio options and various table styles, creating a welcoming environment. The vibe is calm and cool inside, contrasting with a lively outdoor setting.

Smoked turkey, chicken, and brisket stand out with consistent quality across visits. Multiple BBQ sauces like Carolina mustard and swine wine add variety beyond the usual options.

Offers outstanding mac and cheese with a creamy texture. The dish pairs well with baked beans, enhancing the meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The mac and cheese here was outstanding."

Good to know

1

Parking can be chaotic, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for some vendors.

3

The cornbread portion is smaller than what online pictures suggest.

08
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.

Smoky white cheddar gives the mac & cheese a rich, distinctive flavor. It pairs well as a topping on wagyu burgers or as a side with brisket and baked beans.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Barbecue here was delicious."

"I found the mac and cheese to be really good."

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.

09
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.

Hot mac and cheese pairs well with pulled pork sandwiches. It also works as a cheesy side alongside green beans and rib tips.

People are saying

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

"I thought the BBQ here was great, especially the sauce."

"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.

10
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.

Rich mac and cheese pairs well with fried corn and bourbon cream corn sides, creating a creamy and flavorful combo.

People are saying

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

"The Mac and Cheese here is delicious and rated 10 out of 10."

"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.

11
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.

Brisket mixed into the Mac and Cheese adds a rich, smoky flavor. The dish stands out as creamy and comforting, often praised alongside other sides like collard greens and baked beans.

People are saying

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

"I thought the mac and cheese might be the best I've ever had."

"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.

12
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.

Mac and cheese comes old school style and pairs well with sides like potato salad and baked beans. It holds up as a top tier comfort dish alongside ribs and pies.

People are saying

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

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

"The Mac and Cheese is made the old school way and it's top tier."

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.

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