Discovering the Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Indianapolis while in a vibrant barbecue scene, was daunting because there are many excellent restaurants to choose from. The top 5 barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, as listed earlier, are all unique and offer a range of delicious dishes.
Smokehouse on Shelby is a must-visit for those looking for classic barbecue and homemade sides, while City Barbeque is a great option for those looking for modern takes on traditional dishes. Hank’s Smoked Briskets is a hidden gem that offers top-notch smoked meats and a cozy atmosphere, and Barbecue and Bourbon is a must-visit for those looking for craft bourbon cocktails to accompany their barbecue. Finally, King Ribs Bar-B-Q is a great option for those looking for affordable and tasty barbecue in a no-frills setting.
1. Smokehouse on Shelby: Smokehouse on Shelby, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a top-rated barbecue restaurant in Indianapolis, known for its mouth-watering meats and house-made sauces. The restaurant has an extensive menu of smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, all of which are smoked to perfection. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like mac and cheese, cornbread, and coleslaw, which are all made from scratch. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to its appeal.
2. City Barbeque: City Barbeque, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a popular chain of barbecue restaurants with multiple locations in Indianapolis. The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, quality meats that are smoked on-site every day. The menu features a variety of barbecue favorites, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, as well as unique items like smoked turkey and burnt ends. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like hush puppies, green beans, and corn pudding.
3. Hank’s Smoked Briskets: Hank’s Smoked Briskets, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a family-owned barbecue joint that serves up some of the best brisket in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s brisket is cooked low and slow over hickory wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat. The menu also includes pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, as well as classic sides like baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw. The restaurant’s friendly staff and casual atmosphere make it a top spot for barbecue lovers in the city.
4. Barbecue and Bourbon: Barbecue and Bourbon, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a popular restaurant that combines two of the South’s favorite things: barbecue and bourbon. The restaurant serves up a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, as well as unique items like smoked bologna and smoked wings. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like collard greens, mac and cheese, and baked beans. The restaurant’s extensive bourbon selection is another draw for customers.
5. King Ribs Bar-B-Q: King Ribs Bar-B-Q, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a classic barbecue joint that has been serving up delicious smoked meats since 1983. The restaurant’s ribs are a fan favorite, cooked to perfection and slathered in a tangy barbecue sauce. The menu also includes pulled pork, chicken, and brisket, as well as classic sides like potato salad and baked beans. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a top spot for barbecue lovers in the city.
Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Indianapolis
Smokehouse on Shelby
Address: 919 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-8pm, Sunday: Closed
Phone Number: (317) 986-4546
Smokehouse on Shelby, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis. The restaurant’s exterior has a rustic charm with its red brick facade and black awnings, and the interior is cozy with wooden tables and a bar made from reclaimed wood.
The restaurant specializes in smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. Their signature dish is the “Brisket Burnt Ends,” which are made from the point of the brisket and cooked low and slow until they are tender and caramelized.
The restaurant also offers a variety of house-made sauces, including a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce and a tangy Carolina-style sauce. Vegetarian options are available as well, such as the smoked portobello sandwich.
One unique aspect of Smokehouse on Shelby is their commitment to sustainability. The restaurant uses locally sourced wood and meats, and their to-go containers and utensils are eco-friendly.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket Burnt Ends – This is the signature dish of Smokehouse on Shelby. The burnt ends are made from the point of the brisket, which is cooked low and slow until it is tender and caramelized. The dish is served with a side of pickles and bread.
▣ St. Louis Style Ribs – These are pork spare ribs that are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and juicy. The ribs are served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked pulled pork and served on a brioche bun with coleslaw and a side of barbecue sauce. The pork is tender and flavorful, and the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
▣ Smoked Turkey Breast – This is a healthier option on the menu, made with turkey breast that is smoked until it is tender and juicy. The turkey is served with a side of pickles and a choice of two sides.
▣ Brisket Tacos – These tacos are filled with slices of smoked brisket, pickled onions, queso fresco, and a chipotle aioli. The tacos are served on soft flour tortillas and are a delicious and unique take on traditional barbecue.
The restaurant’s service is friendly and attentive, with staff members happy to make recommendations and answer any questions. The menu is clearly laid out and easy to navigate, and orders are served quickly and efficiently.
Customer Reviews:
“I ordered the brisket and burnt ends, and it was amazing. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the burnt ends were the perfect mix of sweet and smoky. The sides were also great – I especially liked the mac and cheese. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
“I’m not usually a big fan of barbecue, but Smokehouse on Shelby changed my mind. I tried the smoked portobello sandwich and it was delicious – the mushrooms were perfectly cooked and the sauce was tangy and flavorful. The service was also great – the staff was friendly and helpful.”
“I ordered the ribs and they were some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and the barbecue sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The sides were also tasty – I especially liked the cornbread. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and the service was excellent.”
In summary, Smokehouse on Shelby is a must-visit for barbecue lovers in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and use of locally sourced ingredients add to its appeal, and the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make for a memorable dining experience. The signature dish of brisket burnt ends is a standout, but all the menu options are worth trying. They rank amid the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis for good reasons.
City Barbeque
Address: Multiple locations in Indianapolis, including 7863 US 31 South, Indianapolis, IN 46227
Hours: Daily, 10:30am-10pm
Phone Number: (317) 534-0320
City Barbeque, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a chain of barbecue restaurants with multiple locations in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s interior has a casual and cozy atmosphere with wooden tables, black and white photos of the city, and a large smoker in the center of the dining room.
The restaurant specializes in smoked meats, which are all smoked on-site daily. Their signature dish is the “Brisket Sandwich,” which is made with slow-smoked beef brisket, sliced thin and served on a soft bun with pickles and a choice of sauce.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other smoked meats, including pulled pork, ribs, turkey, and chicken. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like hush puppies, green beans, and corn pudding.
One unique aspect of City Barbeque is their commitment to giving back to the community. The restaurant donates a portion of their profits to local charities and organizations, and they offer fundraising opportunities for schools and non-profits.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked beef brisket that is sliced thin and served on a soft bun with pickles and a choice of sauce. The brisket is tender and flavorful, and the sandwich is a customer favorite.
▣ St. Louis Cut Ribs – These are pork spare ribs that are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and juicy. The ribs are served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ Pulled Pork Platter – This platter is loaded with slow-smoked pulled pork and comes with a choice of two sides. The pork is juicy and flavorful, and the platter is a generous portion.
▣ Turkey Breast Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked turkey breast and served on a soft bun with pickles and a choice of sauce. The turkey is tender and juicy, and the sandwich is a great option for those looking for a lighter meat.
▣ Brisket Chili – This is a unique twist on classic chili, made with slow-smoked beef brisket and a blend of spices. The chili is hearty and flavorful, and is served with a side of cornbread.
The restaurant’s service is friendly and efficient, with staff members happy to answer any questions and make recommendations. The menu is clearly labeled and easy to navigate, and orders are served quickly and accurately.
Customer Reviews:
“I ordered the Brisket Sandwich and it was amazing – the brisket was tender and flavorful, and the bun was soft and fresh. The sides were also great – I especially liked the mac and cheese. The service was friendly and attentive, and the restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere.”
“I tried the ribs and they were some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was juicy and falling off the bone, and the sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The sides were also tasty – I loved the corn pudding. The staff was helpful and efficient, and the restaurant was clean and well-maintained.”
“I’m a vegetarian, but City Barbeque had a great selection of vegetarian sides and even a smoked portobello sandwich. The sides were all delicious, especially the green beans and the cornbread. The staff was accommodating and made sure my order was correct. Overall, a great experience.”
In summary, City Barbeque is a great option for barbecue lovers in Indianapolis, with a variety of smoked meats and tasty sides. The restaurant’s commitment to giving back to the community and friendly service add to its appeal, and the Brisket Sandwich is a featured dish. They stand out among the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis.
Hank’s Smoked Briskets
Address: 3736 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-7pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm; Monday-Tuesday, Closed
Phone Number: (317) 925-1689
Hank’s Smoked Briskets, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a family-owned barbecue joint located in the Mapleton-Fall Creek neighborhood of Indianapolis. The restaurant’s interior is cozy and welcoming, with wooden tables and chairs and a chalkboard menu.
The restaurant specializes in smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. Their signature dish is the “Smoked Brisket Sandwich,” which is made with slow-smoked beef brisket that is sliced thin and piled high on a soft bun. The sandwich is served with a side of pickles and a choice of sauce. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including baked beans, mac and cheese, and coleslaw.
One unique aspect of Hank’s Smoked Briskets is the focus on quality over quantity. The restaurant only serves a limited amount of food each day, ensuring that everything is fresh and cooked to perfection. They also offer catering services for events and parties.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Smoked Brisket Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked beef brisket that is sliced thin and piled high on a soft bun. The brisket is tender and flavorful, and the sandwich is served with a side of pickles and a choice of sauce.
▣ Pork Spare Ribs – These are pork spare ribs that are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and juicy. The ribs are served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ Smoked Chicken – This is a half chicken that is smoked until it is juicy and flavorful. The chicken is served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ Pulled Pork Platter – This platter is loaded with slow-smoked pulled pork and comes with a choice of two sides. The pork is juicy and flavorful, and the platter is a generous portion.
▣ Smoked Brisket Tacos – These tacos are filled with slices of smoked brisket, pickled onions, cilantro, and a chipotle sauce. The tacos are served on soft flour tortillas and are a delicious and unique take on traditional barbecue.
The restaurant’s service is friendly and attentive, with the owners often greeting customers and making recommendations. The menu is easy to navigate, and orders are served quickly and efficiently.
Customer Reviews:
“I tried the Smoked Brisket Sandwich and it was amazing. The brisket was tender and flavorful, and the bun was soft and fresh. The sides were also great – I especially liked the mac and cheese. The service was friendly and welcoming, and the restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere.”
“The ribs were the highlight of my meal – they were fall-off-the-bone tender and had a great smoky flavor. The baked beans and coleslaw were also delicious. The staff was helpful and attentive, and the restaurant had a great vibe.”
“I ordered the pulled pork and it was some of the best I’ve had in Indianapolis. The pork was juicy and flavorful, and the sauce was the perfect complement. The sides were also great – I loved the cornbread. The owners were friendly and made us feel right at home.”
In summary, Hank’s Smoked Briskets is a hidden gem in Indianapolis, with top-notch smoked meats and tasty sides. The focus on quality and limited daily supply adds to its appeal, and the Smoked Brisket Sandwich is a standout dish. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis.
Barbecue and Bourbon
Address: 1414 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm; Sunday, 11am-8pm
Phone Number: (317) 337-1005
Barbecue and Bourbon, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a restaurant located in the Nora neighborhood of Indianapolis that specializes in Southern-style barbecue and craft bourbon cocktails. The restaurant’s interior has a rustic and industrial feel, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables and chairs, and a large bar.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Brisket Burnt Ends,” which are made from the point of the brisket and cooked low and slow until they are tender and caramelized. The dish is served with a side of pickles and a choice of sauce. The restaurant also offers a variety of other smoked meats, including pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, as well as a selection of sandwiches and burgers. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
One unique aspect of Barbecue and Bourbon is the emphasis on craft bourbon cocktails. The restaurant has an extensive bourbon list, and their bartenders are skilled at creating unique and flavorful cocktails using high-quality spirits.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket Burnt Ends – This is the signature dish of the restaurant. The burnt ends are made from the point of the brisket, which is cooked low and slow until it is tender and caramelized. The dish is served with a side of pickles and a choice of sauce.
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked pulled pork and served on a brioche bun with coleslaw and a side of barbecue sauce. The pork is tender and flavorful, and the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
▣ Smoked Chicken – This is a half chicken that is smoked until it is juicy and flavorful. The chicken is served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ St. Louis Style Ribs – These are pork spare ribs that are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and juicy. The ribs are served with a side of barbecue sauce and a choice of two sides.
▣ BBQ Bacon Burger – This burger is topped with smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, and crispy onion straws. It is served on a brioche bun with a side of fries. The burger is juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
The restaurant’s service is friendly and attentive, with staff members happy to make recommendations and answer any questions. The menu is clearly labeled and easy to navigate, and orders are served quickly and efficiently.
Customer Reviews:
“The Brisket Burnt Ends were some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was tender and caramelized, and the sauce was the perfect complement. The sides were also great – I loved the mac and cheese. The bartenders were skilled at making craft bourbon cocktails, and the service was attentive and friendly.”
“I tried the pulled pork and it was juicy and flavorful, with a great smoky flavor. The sides were also tasty, especially the collard greens. The restaurant had a great vibe, and the bartenders were knowledgeable about bourbon and made great cocktails. Overall, a great experience.”
“The ribs were the highlight of my meal – they were tender and had a great balance of flavors. The cornbread and mac and cheese were also delicious. The service was friendly and efficient, and the restaurant had a cool and modern feel.”
In summary, Barbecue and Bourbon is a must-visit for barbecue and bourbon lovers in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s signature dish of Brisket Burnt Ends is a standout, but all the menu options are worth trying. The emphasis on craft bourbon cocktails adds to its appeal, and the friendly service and cool atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience. They have earned the rank of the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis.
King Ribs Bar-B-Q
Address: 4112 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-8pm; Sunday, Closed
Phone Number: (317) 283-4557
King Ribs Bar-B-Q, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis, is a casual and no-frills barbecue restaurant located in the Mapleton-Fall Creek neighborhood of Indianapolis. The restaurant’s interior is basic and functional, with wooden booths and tables, and a large smoker in the back.
The restaurant specializes in smoked meats, including ribs, chicken, and brisket. Their signature dish is the “King Ribs Dinner,” which includes a half slab of ribs, a side of coleslaw, and a choice of fries, onion rings, or baked beans. The ribs are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and flavorful.
One unique aspect of King Ribs Bar-B-Q is the focus on affordability. The restaurant offers generous portions of food at very reasonable prices, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Main Menu Items:
▣ King Ribs Dinner – This is the signature dish of the restaurant. It includes a half slab of ribs, a side of coleslaw, and a choice of fries, onion rings, or baked beans. The ribs are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and flavorful.
▣ Brisket Sandwich – This sandwich is made with slow-smoked beef brisket and served on a soft bun with a side of barbecue sauce. The brisket is tender and flavorful, and the sandwich is a great option for those looking for a lighter meat.
▣ Chicken Dinner – This is a quarter chicken that is dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until it is juicy and flavorful. The dinner includes a side of coleslaw and a choice of fries, onion rings, or baked beans.
▣ Rib Tips Dinner – This dinner includes a generous portion of rib tips, which are the meaty ends of spare ribs. The rib tips are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until they are tender and flavorful. The dinner also includes a side of coleslaw and a choice of fries, onion rings, or baked beans.
▣ Pork Chop Dinner – This dinner includes a bone-in pork chop that is dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked until it is juicy and flavorful. The dinner includes a side of coleslaw and a choice of fries, onion rings, or baked beans.
The restaurant’s service is friendly and efficient, with staff members happy to answer any questions and make recommendations. The menu is simple and straightforward, and orders are served quickly and accurately.
Customer Reviews:
“The King Ribs Dinner was a great deal – the ribs were meaty and flavorful, and the coleslaw was a great complement. The baked beans were also tasty. The service was friendly and efficient, and the restaurant had a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere.”
“The brisket was the highlight of my meal – it was tender and had a great smoky flavor. The potato salad was also delicious. The restaurant had a no-frills vibe, but the food was top-notch and the prices were very reasonable.”
“The chicken was juicy and well-seasoned, and the mac and cheese was creamy and delicious. The staff was helpful and accommodating, and the restaurant had a down-to-earth feel.”
In summary, King Ribs Bar-B-Q is a great option for those looking for affordable and tasty barbecue in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s focus on simplicity and quality adds to its appeal, and the King Ribs Dinner is a standout dish. The friendly service and no-frills atmosphere make for a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience. They can definitely be counted among the top Barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis.
Overall, each of these top barbecue restaurants in Indianapolis offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience, and they all showcase the rich and diverse barbecue culture of Indianapolis.
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