BBQ Restaurants in Missouri

When Guy Fieri rolled his red Camaro through the Show-Me State, he discovered what barbecue enthusiasts have known for generations: Missouri is sacred ground for smoked meat lovers. Between 2010 and 2015, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives featured 8 remarkable BBQ joints across the state, with 7 still firing up their smokers today. Kansas City dominates the scene with 5 featured restaurants, cementing its reputation as one of America’s premier barbecue capitals.

These Missouri gems have earned an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from devoted fans. Leading the pack are standouts like Cupini’s and Danny Edward’s BBQ, both boasting 4.6-star ratings in Kansas City, along with the beloved Succotash at 4.5 stars. From tender burnt ends to perfectly charred ribs slathered in tangy Kansas City-style sauce, these Triple D-approved establishments represent the pinnacle of Midwestern barbecue tradition. Whether you’re a local or making a pilgrimage, these smokehouses deliver the authentic, flavor-packed experience that earned Guy’s famous seal of approval.