Philadelphia's barbecue scene is a mouthwatering blend of flavors and traditions, bringing together influences from across the country. From tender, smoky brisket to tangy ribs and pulled pork, the city is home to a variety of BBQ joints that cater to every palate. In this list, we’ll share the best BBQ spots in Philly, each promising a unique and satisfying experience.
Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse is a rustic BBQ joint offering hickory-smoked ribs and chicken, plus traditional sides. The menu is extensive with offerings for children, combo platters and Sweet Lucy’s specialties.
Location: 7500 State Road, Philadelphia
Phone: 215-333-9663
What to get: Chopped beef brisket
Deke’s started as a passion project in a garage in Manayunk. A decade later, there are two locations: Deke’s Bar-B-Que for takeout on Ridge Avenue and Deke’s Garage Roadhouse Bar-B-Que in Germantown. Both locations serve slow-cooked St. Louis ribs, Carolina pulled pork and Texas brisket. They also offer sandwiches, cornbread, collard greens and desserts. The Germantown spot even features a full bar.
Location: 37 Berkley St., Suite B, Philadelphia/3300 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-588-7427
What to get: St. Louis Style Spares
Sandwiches, sides and extras, oh my! Zig Zag BBQ has a little something for everyone. Grab a half-pound of smoked meat and a couple of sides, or a sandwich, like the Beefheart of the Rodeo, made with pulled pork, sliced brisket, Carolina sauce and pickles.
Location: 2111 E York St., Philadelphia
Phone: 267-951-2596
What to get: Turkey Teaser sandwich and cornbread with miso maple sumac butter
German for “fat pig,” Fette Sau focuses on high-quality, locally sourced meats that are dry-rubbed and smoked on-site, offering a unique take on American barbecue sold by the pound. A collaboration between Stephen Starr and New York restaurateur Joe Carroll, this establishment has its own distinctive Philadelphia flavor. Options include brisket, pork ribs, organic chicken, and hot Italian sausage, all paired with simple sides and an impressive selection of beer, cider and bourbon.
Location: 1208 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-391-4888
What to get: Sweet & Sour Five Spice Wings
At Long Shot BBQ, you can enjoy barbecue brisket, chicken thighs, ribs and pulled pork by the pound, on a platter or in sandwich form. They also offer rolls, wraps and sliders with traditional sides like macaroni and cheese, collard greens and cornbread.
Location: 2900 Grays Ferry Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-925-8520
What to get: Brisket sliders
