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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Michigan

Chill barbecue joints

Barbecue that you can enjoy at your own pace without the frantic, eat-and-leave rush of most smokehouses.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Biercamp image 1
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Restaurant

Rustic outdoor venue with campfire seating and a self-serve topping bar creates a casual, inviting vibe. Atmosphere feels like a friendly barbecue, welcoming to families and pets. Known for on-site brewed beer and smoked meats, it blends relaxed social energy with quality food and drink.

A casual, friendly setting makes it easy to chill and recharge. The spot works well for relaxing with a drink after activities nearby.

Top-notch BBQ sandwiches feature 12HR Smoked Brisket served on a soft, buttery brioche bun. A self-served topping bar offers mustard, onions, sauerkraut, and other condiments to customize each sandwich.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection and good brats at the outdoor seating."

"The Barbecue brisket sandwich here is incredible."

"The brisket here is so juicy, tender, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Biercamp operates on counter service only, so be prepared to order at the counter.

2

Parking can be challenging for first-time visitors, so plan accordingly.

3

The outdoor area is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for families.

02
Brothers Smokehouse Bar and BBQ image 1

Mega smoker fires up early outside a dark, old-school bar with 1950's vibe and wood smoke aroma. Warm, friendly atmosphere feels like dining in a backyard with family, paired with dope old school music and TVs showing sports. Crowd enjoys smoky, tender barbecue and cocktails in a low-key, welcoming setting.

Music and atmosphere create a very chill vibe. The spot feels casual and family-friendly.

Real smoked BBQ stands out with a great BBQ sauce that many want to take home. The menu includes wings and Mac n Cheese that complement the barbecue well.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and flavorful."

"The brisket barbecue here is so tender and flavorful."

"This brisket is tender, juicy, and has the best smoke flavor."

Good to know

1

Corned beef sandwiches are served every Thursday.

2

Expect a $10 lunch special available during weekdays.

3

Parking is ample and convenient for visitors.

03
Cornbread Restaurant & Bar image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small space with tight seating and historical decor creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Light and live music add a festive vibe without overwhelming noise. The place feels warm and welcoming, making it easy to relax and enjoy.

Upscale-casual vibe feels clean and vibrant. Great spot to chill at the bar or catch up with friends over southern cooking.

Barbecue here features tender rib tips with flavorful sauce and perfect seasoning. Options include barbecue turkey chops and ribs, all served with classic sides like fried green tomatoes and collards.

People are saying

"The American food here is seasoned to perfection and cooked perfectly."

"The soul food here hits all the right notes."

"The barbecue rib tips are tender and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-7pm with small portions available.

2

Brunch is served until 3pm on Sundays.

3

Weekly drink specials include $5 drinks.

04
Eastern Palace Club image 1

Indoor tiki huts with thatched roofs and couch loungers create a retro island vibe. Games like giant Jenga, skee ball, and pool tables add lively entertainment. The atmosphere stays fun and eclectic, blending tropical decor with upbeat music and karaoke.

Welcoming and chill vibe sets the tone here. Multiple seating options include outdoor spots and varied indoor spaces. Staff are consistently friendly and relaxed.

Smoked Lotus offers full-time food-truck-style BBQ with tasty brisket and pulled pork. The smoked BBQ stands out as one of the best in the city, served alongside a full bar.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is fun and a great hang out spot."

"The barbecue here is fun and laid back."

"It feels like an island escape with gorgeous, colorful vibes."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

DJs perform live every weekend, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

3

Lions games are shown on a large projection screen during every game.

05
The Canteen at Midtown image 1

Food court with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated tent creates a spacious, comfortable setting. Atmosphere is lively and welcoming with a friendly upbeat vibe. Ordering happens via QR codes at tables, allowing easy access to multiple vendors.

Casual and welcoming atmosphere creates a chill vibe. It works well for hanging out and relaxing with friends.

Brisket stands out with rich flavor from the BBQ truck and Big Red's BBQ Pit. Beef ribs and offerings from AMU SAMI, Redwoods BBQ, Chicken Coup, and Parma deliver solid, tasty barbecue options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"The brisket here is amazing, truly fire Barbecue."

"It's a really chill spot to hang out with friends."

Good to know

1

The Canteen offers a variety of food vendors, including Halal options.

2

You can order from different food trucks through their website.

3

Expect higher prices for food and drinks compared to other venues.

06
The Eagle Detroit image 1

Bright space with a front wall of windows creates an open, modern feel. Atmosphere stays laid back and relaxed with chill vibes and TVs everywhere for watching games. Cocktails stand out, especially Rio's Old Fashioned, alongside southern-style food like fried chicken and shrimp and grits.

Warm atmosphere and calm vibes create a great spot to unwind. Staff are laid back and contribute to the overall chill ambiance.

Carolina barbecue stands out with braised BBQ sandwich and BBQ Pork Burnt Ends delivering rich flavors. Pork and chicken sandwiches offer a unique and tasty experience.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is super crispy and not greasy."

"The atmosphere here is so chill and relaxing."

"I thought the Barbecue sandwiches were the bomb!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 chicken legs and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are required for dinner service.

3

Street parking is available but can be challenging during events.

07
DOX Grillhouse image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop patio offers live music and outdoor dining with a view and vibrant energy. Interior features neon lights, art, and a spacious bar with plenty of seating. TVs are abundant, making it a lively spot for watching games.

The atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, fitting for a casual hangout or a date night. Food options include a variety of casual dishes that pair well with catching a game.

BBQ brisket tacos come with grilled flour tortillas, cilantro, onion, cheese, and a flavorful glaze but carry a bit too much sauce. BBQ wings are well done and often described as incredible. The BBQ brisket sandwich also stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and well-seasoned."

"It's a chill spot with a vibrant, stylish atmosphere perfect for date night."

"The Barbecue Brisket Tacos are spot on."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; plan to arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events.

3

Seating may be limited, especially during large gatherings.

08
Avenue American Bistro image 1
American restaurant

Retro-modern decor creates an elegant atmosphere with high-intensity lighting and crowded table layout that leads to a very loud environment. Craft cocktails feature house-made syrups and infusions, offering unique drink options. The space combines stylish design with a lively, energetic vibe.

The space blends modern style with relaxed comfort, creating a casual and fun atmosphere. It offers a laid-back vibe with creative, scratch-made dishes in an upscale-casual setting.

BBQ Sliders come with a rich, smoky flavor and pair well with the house BBQ sauce, which is great for dipping Cajun fries. The menu also features Korean BBQ beef tacos and smoked chicken wings, offering a variety of BBQ styles.

People are saying

"The American food here is amazing and the portions are huge."

"It's a chill atmosphere, perfect for a nice dinner with friends."

"I loved the delicious Barbecue sliders."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Monthly specials are available, check the website for details.

3

The restaurant is open until 10 pm on weekends.

09
bb.q Chicken Ann Arbor image 1

Bright dining area features K-pop music and videos, creating an authentic Korean atmosphere. Space feels clean and cozy with a casual fast-casual vibe and table service. Energy stays relaxed and welcoming despite occasional busy periods.

Casual vibe matches a fast-casual spot but with table service. Atmosphere stays relaxed and suits quick bites or meetups. Good for takeout or casual meals.

Chicken BBQ stands out with tasty flavor and solid quality. Korean barbecue offers decent flavor but lacks memorable impact.

People are saying

"This fried chicken is the best I've ever had."

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

"The Korean barbecue chicken here is amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 60-90 minutes during peak hours.

2

Wheelchair access requires going around to the back of the building.

3

Online ordering is only available through Door Dash and Caviar.

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