BBQ Restaurants in Virginia

When Guy Fieri’s iconic red Camaro rolled into Virginia, he uncovered a barbecue scene that proves the Old Dominion holds its own against any Southern smoke house. Between 2008 and 2020, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives featured three Virginia barbecue joints, and with an average rating of 4.5 stars, these spots have earned their place in the Triple D hall of fame.

Leading the pack is ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque in Richmond, boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating and serving up authentic Texas-style smoked meats that had Guy reaching for seconds. Over in Norfolk, the legendary Doumar’s—home of the world’s first ice cream cone machine—impressed with its 4.5-star comfort food and old-school charm. Virginia Beach rounds out the trio with Whitner’s Barbeque, a local favorite earning 4.3 stars.

While one of these beloved establishments has since closed its doors, two remain open and ready to deliver the same flavor-packed experience that earned them a spot on Guy’s radar. From Richmond to the coast, Virginia’s barbecue trail is waiting to be explored.