Louisiana's Top-Notch Barbecue

Louisiana may be famous for gumbo, jambalaya and crawfish boils, but there’s another smoky tradition locals know deserves a seat at the table: barbecue. Across the state, pitmasters are blending Southern smokehouse techniques with Cajun and Creole flavors to create something unmistakably Louisiana. Think brisket alongside boudin, ribs with a spicy kick and sides packed with down-home comfort. From roadside joints to award-winning smokehouses, these barbecue spots prove Louisiana’s culinary story goes far beyond the bayou.

At a Glance

Louisiana barbecue blends Cajun, Creole and Southern smokehouse flavors for delicious ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausage, boudin, grilled chicken, tasso ham and other regional specialties.
Top cities to experience Louisiana barbecue spots, restaurants and eateries include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport and Houma.

Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole cuisine is world-renowned — and given our position in the Deep South, so is our barbecue. Down here, you’ll find culinary masterpieces both in the gumbo pot and on the grill.

North Louisiana Barbecue Restaurants

Up in North Louisiana, hot spots include Shreveport’s Hickory Stick and Magnolia Pit.

Locals love Ruston’s Hot Rod’s Bar-B-Que and Bad Wolf BBQ food truck, while West Monroe's JAC's Craft Smokehouse is a fan favorite. All serve delicious ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken and sausage, sandwiches and classic sides like coleslaw and potato salad.

Central Louisiana Barbecue Spots

In Central Louisiana, Clarence’s Grayson’s Barbeque 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 baked potatoes, loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives and bacon topped with brisket, pork, chicken, sausage or shrimp.

Where to Get Barbecue in South Louisiana

In South Louisiana, check out The Joint, Pig Out NOLA and Walker's Southern Style BBQ in New Orleans. While the barbecue is great at Blue Oak BBQ, don’t miss out on the popular spicy fried chicken sandwich.

In Baton Rouge, locals love Hannah Q Smokehouse and City Pork, the latter offering barbecue with an upscale twist. At Johnson’s Boucanière in Lafayette, enjoy traditional barbecue plus local Cajun fare like tasso and boudin. Covington’s Sweet Daddy’s serves up mac and cheese as divine as the barbecue itself.

Other Louisiana Barbecue Restaurants

Plenty of barbecue joints boast local or national awards and accolades, including Central City BBQ in New Orleans, 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 extensive beer menus.

Learn more about Louisiana’s storied cuisine and fascinating libations history.

A table filled with Louisiana barbecue, including ribs, sliced sausage, beans, coleslaw and a stuffed baked potato at Cou-Yon's Cajun Bar-B-Q.

Enjoy tender smoked meats, stuffed potatoes and more at Cou-Yon's Cajun Bar-B-Q.

A sign reading “Hot Boudin To-Day” in red paint at Johnson's Boucanière in Lafayette, Louisiana

Johnson’s Boucanière offers not only barbecue but also signature smoked Louisiana sausages and meats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana Barbecue

What makes Louisiana barbecue unique?

Louisiana barbecue combines traditional Southern smoking techniques with Cajun and Creole flavors.

What foods are popular at Louisiana barbecue spots?

Popular Louisiana barbecue dishes include smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, grilled chicken, tasso ham and burnt ends. Many restaurants also offer Cajun-inspired sides such as dirty rice, baked beans, potato salad, mac and cheese, and boudin.

Where can I find the best barbecue in Louisiana?

Great barbecue can be found throughout Louisiana, including in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria and smaller rural communities known for local smokehouses and family-owned barbecue restaurants.

Are there vegetarian options at Louisiana's barbecue restaurants?

Many Louisiana barbecue restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly side dishes such as baked beans, coleslaw, mac and cheese, potato salad, cornbread and salads. Some barbecue spots also serve smoked vegetables, vegetarian sandwiches or plant-based menu items.

Are there award-winning barbecue spots in Louisiana?

Louisiana is home to several award-winning barbecue restaurants and pitmasters recognized for regional recipes.