Everyone knows the Twin Cities compete for top BBQ honors, but Minneapolis has what it takes to boast many of the best BBQ spots. If smoky goodness is what’s wanted on the menu, these barbecue joints ranging from seating dining to food trucks and carryout-only spots deserve a taste test.

Butcher & The Boar

Those who love juicy, prime cuts of meats in a non-traditional dining atmosphere flock to the Butcher & The Boar in Hennepin County. Guests partake in fine steaks, pork and other crafted meats, which are cut and aged in-house while dining on the patio or at one of the communal-style tables. They specialize in meats and homemade side dishes sourced locally when possible.

Favorites that keep ‘em coming back include the pork chops, sausage sampler, bison ribs and fried green tomatoes. Butcher & The Boar also has a fine bourbon list and an exquisite craft beer selection. The rub is not only the best part of the meats, but the fact that Butcher & The Boar in Minneapolis caters to patrons on a budget makes it a top choice for BBQ fanatics.

• Address: 1121 Hennepin Avenue
• Phone: (612) 238-8888
• Hours of Operation: Sunday—Thursday: Dining 5 – 10 p.m., Bar 5 p.m. – Close; Friday—Saturday: Dining 5 -11 p.m., Bar 5 p.m. – Close; Beer Garden Open Daily: 4 p.m. – Close

Animales Barbecue

By far one of the best food trucks in town, Animales Barbecue is known for offering traditional Minneapolis BBQ and unique side dishes. The creation of author and former fine dining chef JonWipfli, Animales doles out the best chopped pork, spare ribs, hot guts and Texas chili in town. Street tacos with handmade tortillas are served with fun sides like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Don’t miss this barbecue-lover’s treat parked right outside Able Seedhouse + Brewing.

• Address: 1121 Quincy Street NE (Behind Able Brewery)
• Phone: (612) 400-2153
• Hours of Operation: Thursday 4 – 9 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 4 – 9 p.m., Saturday— Sunday 12 – 9 p.m.

Ted Cook’s 19th Hole Barbecue

This take-out BBQ spot was founded by Ted Cook back in 1968, and over five decades, it has only had two other owners. Ted Cook’s 19th Hole Barbecue features hickory- and cherry-smoked meats and in-house side dishes. The neighborhood stays hungry as the pit smokes throughout the day. Guests are always super impressed by the friendly, fast service with a smile. Stop by for a traditional barbecue plate with greens, sweet slaw and jo-jo’s.

• Address: 2814 E 38th Street
• Phone: (612) 721-2023
• Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 1 – 10 p.m.

Minnesota Barbecue Company

The Minnesota Barbecue Company is a takeout-only place to get some fall-off-the-bone meats, smoked sausages and flavorful sides. Headed by Travail Collective’s chef, Kale Thome, all meats are slowly smoked with locally sourced oak and served up in fully compostable packaging. Call ahead to order your grub, and take it home or around the corner to a nearby brewery such as Fair State Brewing or Bauhaus Brew Labs to dig in. Delivery is available through Uber Eats as well.

• Address: 816 NE Lowry Avenue
• Phone: (612) 315-4967
• Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday 12 – 9 p.m., Sunday 12 – 8 p.m.

If the craving for BBQ comes calling, the best barbecue in Minneapolis can be found at any of these fine locations throughout the city. Whether you want take out, delivery or a place to sit down with friends and family, you won’t be disappointed with the vast number of choices for great Minnesota BBQ.