Arkansas may not be the first place you think of for barbecue, but the state has a surprisingly rich and diverse BBQ scene.
From whole hog cooking and smoked brisket to regional specialties, Arkansas offers something for every BBQ lover.
Here’s a guide to eight of the best BBQ spots in the state, each with its unique style and flavors.
1. Whole Hog Cafe (Multiple Locations) – Whole Hog Expertise
Whole Hog Cafe is a well-known name in Arkansas BBQ, with multiple locations across the state.
Their specialty is whole hog cooking, where the entire pig is slow-smoked to perfection, creating tender and flavorful meat.
It’s no surprise that Whole Hog Cafe is consistently rated as one of the best BBQ joints in Arkansas.
- Locations: Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Bentonville, Fayetteville
- Highlights: Whole hog BBQ, tender and flavorful meat, multiple locations, top-rated BBQ
2. Sims Bar-B-Que (Little Rock) – A Little Rock BBQ Institution
Sims Bar-B-Que is a long-standing favorite in Little Rock, known for its classic Arkansas-style BBQ.
Their smoked meats and flavorful sauces have made it a go-to spot for BBQ lovers. Their ribs are especially popular and keep customers coming back for more.
- Location: Little Rock, AR
- Highlights: Classic Arkansas-style BBQ, smoked meats, flavorful sauces, long-standing reputation, famous ribs
3. Wright’s Barbecue (Johnson & Bentonville) – Open Flame and Pecan Wood Flavor
Wright’s Barbecue uses an open flame and local pecan wood to create a distinct smoky flavor.
With locations in Johnson and Bentonville, they’ve built a strong reputation for their brisket and other smoked meats. The unique cooking method sets them apart in Arkansas’s BBQ scene.
- Locations: Johnson, AR & Bentonville, AR
- Highlights: Open flame cooking, wood-fired, local pecan wood, smoky flavor, brisket
4. McClard’s Bar-B-Q (Hot Springs) – A Hot Springs Tradition
McClard’s Bar-B-Q is a historic spot in Hot Springs with a loyal following. Known for its classic BBQ dishes and laid-back atmosphere, McClard’s has been serving up delicious BBQ for generations.
- Location: Hot Springs, AR
- Highlights: Classic BBQ dishes, long history, loyal following, casual atmosphere
5. Jones Bar-B-Q Diner (Marianna) – Historic Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna is a James Beard Award-winning spot with a rich history. Their simple yet delicious pulled pork sandwiches have made them a landmark in Arkansas BBQ culture.
- Location: Marianna, AR
- Highlights: Historic restaurant, pulled pork sandwiches, James Beard Award-winning, Arkansas culinary history
6. Craig’s Bar-B-Q (De Valls Bluff) – A Stop on the Arkansas BBQ Trail
Craig’s Bar-B-Q in De Valls Bluff is a key stop on the Arkansas BBQ Trail. They specialize in classic Arkansas-style BBQ with a focus on smoked meats and traditional sides.
- Location: De Valls Bluff, AR
- Highlights: Arkansas BBQ Trail, smoked meats, traditional sides, classic flavors
7. Ridgewood Brothers BBQ (Russellville) – A Russellville Favorite
Ridgewood Brothers BBQ is highly recommended in Russellville for its variety of BBQ options and focuses on quality. It’s a must-visit for BBQ lovers looking for rich flavors and satisfying dishes.
- Location: Russellville, AR
- Highlights: Variety of BBQ favorites, quality and flavor, great for BBQ lovers
8. Hoots BBQ & Grill (McGehee) – Creative BBQ Specialties
Hoots BBQ & Grill in McGehee offers a unique twist on Arkansas BBQ. Their “pig pie” (a savory dish with pulled pork) and loaded potatoes are standout items on the menu. This spot blends traditional flavors with creative touches.
- Location: McGehee, AR
- Highlights: BBQ specialties, loaded potatoes, “pig pie” (savory), creative twists
Arkansas’s BBQ scene combines tradition and creativity, offering a range of flavors and cooking styles.
Whether you’re craving whole hog, smoked brisket, or inventive dishes, these eight BBQ joints represent the best Arkansas has to offer. Get ready for a delicious BBQ adventure!
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