Barbecue is not just another food option in Kansas City. It is part of the city’s identity, and visitors quickly discover that asking for the “best” barbecue can start a very long conversation.
What defines Kansas City barbecue?
Kansas City barbecue is known for variety. Beef, pork, chicken, ribs, sausage and other meats all have a place, usually cooked slowly with smoke and served with sauces and traditional sides.
Unlike barbecue traditions strongly centered on one particular meat, Kansas City has historically embraced a broad pit menu.
Burnt ends
These intensely flavored pieces of smoked beef are closely associated with Kansas City and deserve their own place on your eating list.
Try more than one restaurant
I would never tell a visitor there is only one correct Kansas City barbecue stop. Famous institutions, newer smokehouses and neighborhood favorites each have supporters.
Order smaller amounts or share if you want to compare several places during the trip.
Do not ignore the sides
Beans, slaw, fries and other accompaniments are part of the meal, and different restaurants put their own stamp on them.
Come hungry, accept that your clothes may smell faintly of smoke afterward and enjoy the argument over which place was best. That debate is part of Kansas City barbecue culture too.