Louisiana's Not-So-Hidden Culinary Gems: Barbecue

Louisiana has a world-renowned reputation for its indigenous Cajun and Creole cuisine. But as you may expect given our geographic position in the Deep South, we have a similar flair for traditional southern cuisine, and barbecue is no exception. Louisiana’s local supply of cattle, poultry and pork is as bountiful as our coastal and Gulf of Mexico fisheries – making us a prime destination for cuisines of all kinds that appeal to any taste.

Delve into our saucy, smoky side.

Up in North Louisiana, hot spots include Sterlington’s BBQ Pit, Shreveport’s Hickory Stick and Real BBQ and More. Locals love Ruston’s Hot Rod Bar-B-Que and Brister’s Smokehouse BBQ, while West Monroe's JAC's Craft Smokehouse is fan-favorite. All serve delicious ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken and sausage, sandwiches and all the classic sides. 

In Central Louisiana Grayson’s Bar-B-Q in Clarence, near Natchitoches, has been operating since 1967 – so you know it’s good. This barbecue stand is famous for its homemade rolls and whole smoked hams. In Alexandria, visit Outlaw’s BBQ for their specialty, the Chop Baker, a giant baked potato loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, and bacon topped with brisket, pork, chicken, sausage or shrimp!

In South Louisiana, check out The Joint and Frey Smoked Meat Co. in New Orleans. And while the barbecue is great at Blue Oak BBQ, don’t miss out on their popular spicy fried chicken sandwich. In Baton Rouge, locals love Hannah Q Smokehouse, Pimanyoli’s (try their tamales filled with smoked pork and beef), and City Pork which offers barbecue with an upscale twist. At Johnson’s Boucanière in Lafayette, enjoy traditional barbecue plus local Cajun fare like tasso and boudin. And at Sweet Daddy’s in Covington, the barbecue is delicious and the mac and cheese is a must.

Plenty of barbecue joints boast local or national awards and accolades, including Central City BBQ in New Orleans, BBQ West in Lake Charles, Cou-Yon's in Port Allen, and BRQ Seafood and Barbeque in Baton Rouge.

Looking to wash down your barbecue meal with a libation? New Orleans’ Cochon Butcher and Big Mike’s BBQ & Smokehouse’s locations in Houma and Thibodaux offer massive beer menus.

Find more inspiration along our Culinary Trails and Libations Trail.