St. Louis BBQ: What Sets It Apart and Where to Find the Best in the City
ST. LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) — When it comes to barbecue, cities like Memphis, Kansas City, and Austin often steal the spotlight. However, St. Louis, Missouri, has quietly carved out its own flavorful legacy in the world of smoked meats. With its distinct cuts, unique cooking techniques, and cultural traditions, St. Louis-style BBQ offers a culinary experience unlike any other. As the popularity of BBQ continues to grow nationwide, more food lovers are turning their attention to what makes St. Louis barbecue so different, and where to find the best in the city.
What Makes St. Louis BBQ Unique?
St. Louis barbecue isn’t defined by a single method or meat but rather a combination of flavors, textures, and traditions. At the core of its identity are two standout items: St. Louis-style ribs and pork steaks.
St. Louis-Style Ribs
These ribs are a special cut of spare ribs, trimmed into a rectangular shape by removing the sternum bone, cartilage, and rib tips. The result is a meatier and more uniform rack of ribs, perfect for even cooking and saucing. This cut was standardized by meatpackers in St. Louis in the mid-20th century and has since become a hallmark of the region’s barbecue.
Pork Steaks
Perhaps even more iconic in local backyards and barbecue joints, pork steaks are cut from the pork shoulder—also known as the Boston butt—and are typically grilled over an open flame. Once seared, they’re often simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato-based barbecue sauce until tender. This affordable, flavorful dish is a favorite at family gatherings, church picnics, and holiday cookouts across St. Louis.
A Sauce of Its Own
The sauce is another defining feature. St. Louis barbecue sauce is thinner and tangier than the thick molasses-heavy sauces found in Kansas City. It typically includes ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and various spices to create a balanced flavor that complements both pork and beef. One of the most famous examples is Maull’s Barbecue Sauce, which has been a local staple since 1926.
Cooking Techniques
Unlike Texas-style barbecue, which often focuses on slow smoking, or Carolina-style barbecue that emphasizes pulled pork, St. Louis-style barbecue usually starts with grilling. Meats are cooked over high heat to achieve a charred exterior, then finished in sauce to allow it to caramelize. This grill-then-sauce method delivers a smoky, savory-sweet profile that is unmistakably St. Louis.
Cultural Roots
St. Louis barbecue also draws from a diverse cultural background. African American communities that migrated to the region from the South brought many of the traditional cooking techniques still used today. This influence is reflected in lesser-known but equally beloved dishes like snoots (crispy pig snouts) and turkey ribs. These offerings celebrate a tradition of whole-animal cooking and waste-free cuisine.
Top-Rated BBQ Restaurants in St. Louis
For those who want to explore the local BBQ scene, here are the top-rated barbecue spots in St. Louis, according to recent online reviews and dining guides.
1. Pappy’s Smokehouse
Why It Stands Out: Pappy’s is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. Known nationally, it consistently ranks among America’s top BBQ joints. Expect a line—but also expect it to be worth the wait.
2. Bogart’s Smokehouse
Why It Stands Out: Located in the historic Soulard neighborhood, Bogart’s has gained national attention and landed on Yelp’s Top 100 BBQ Restaurants in the U.S. Known for bold flavors and exceptional tenderness.
3. Sugarfire Smoke House
- Address: Multiple locations around St. Louis
- Famous For: Brisket, creative daily specials, and fusion flavors
Why It Stands Out: Sugarfire blends traditional barbecue with modern culinary creativity. From smoked portobello sandwiches to brisket cheesesteaks, there’s something for everyone here.
4. Salt + Smoke
- Address: Locations in Delmar Loop, Central West End, and Ballpark Village
- Famous For: Brisket, ribs, and bourbon selection
Why It Stands Out: Salt + Smoke offers a more refined dining experience without sacrificing flavor. Their sides—like white cheddar cracker mac and smoked chicken wings—are just as crave-worthy as their meats.
5. The Shaved Duck
Why It Stands Out: This gem is tucked away in the Tower Grove neighborhood and offers a gourmet twist on classic BBQ. Think duck confit and pulled rib sandwiches, all served in a cozy, music-filled atmosphere.
A Growing BBQ Destination
As the national appetite for barbecue continues to grow, St. Louis is stepping into the spotlight. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the unique cuts, or the rich and tangy sauces, the city offers a wide range of experiences for both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.
What makes St. Louis BBQ truly special is its sense of community. From small mom-and-pop smokehouses to more extensive, nationally acclaimed operations, there’s a genuine love for the craft that permeates every bite. It’s more than just food—it’s a culture, a tradition, and a celebration of the city’s identity.
