Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Portland is home to some truly outstanding barbecue restaurants, each with its own unique take on this beloved cuisine. From the classic Texas-style brisket at Podnah’s Pit BBQ to the Southern-style sides at Reverend’s BBQ, there’s something for every barbecue enthusiast in this city. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a bite with friends or a more upscale restaurant for a special occasion, Portland’s barbecue scene has it all.
1. Podnah’s Pit BBQ – This restaurant, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is located in NE Portland and is famous for its slow-smoked Texas-style barbecue. Customers rave about the delicious brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, as well as the excellent sides and desserts. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff also add to its appeal.
2. Russell Street Bar-B-Que – Another NE Portland favorite, Russell Street Bar-B-Que, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Portland, offers a wide selection of meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, as well as tasty sides like mac and cheese and baked beans. Customers appreciate the generous portions, affordable prices, and friendly service.
3. Smokehouse Tavern – Located in SE Portland, Smokehouse Tavern, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, offers a more upscale take on barbecue, with creative dishes like smoked trout dip and roasted beet salad alongside classic meats like brisket and ribs. The cocktail program is also highly regarded, with a variety of tasty drinks to choose from.
4. Matt’s BBQ – This food cart, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, that is located in SE Portland is a hidden gem, offering some of the best barbecue in the city. Customers love the flavorful brisket, tender pork ribs, and tasty sides like jalapeno mac and cheese. The friendly staff and casual atmosphere also make it a popular spot.
5. Reverend’s BBQ – This popular spot, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is located in Sellwood and offers a variety of meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. The rustic decor and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, and the extensive bourbon selection is also a draw for many customers.
Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Portland
Podnah’s Pit BBQ
Address: 1625 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
Hours: Monday – Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Phone Number: (503) 281-3700
Podnah’s Pit BBQ, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is a renowned restaurant located in Northeast Portland, specializing in slow-smoked Texas-style barbecue. The interior of the restaurant is rustic and cozy, with wooden tables and chairs, and a large bar area. The open kitchen is visible from the dining area, adding to the lively and inviting atmosphere.
One of the signature dishes at Podnah’s Pit BBQ is the brisket, which is slow-smoked for up to 14 hours until it’s tender and flavorful. Other popular menu items include the ribs, pulled pork, and sausage. Customers can also choose from a variety of delicious sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and collard greens.
Podnah’s Pit BBQ uses only the highest quality ingredients and makes everything from scratch, including their rubs, sauces, and sides. They also offer a wide selection of whiskey and bourbon, making it a great spot for a drink and some tasty barbecue.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket – One of the signature dishes at Podnah’s Pit BBQ, the brisket is slow-smoked for up to 14 hours until it’s tender and juicy. The meat is rubbed with a blend of spices, giving it a delicious flavor, and it’s served sliced thin with a side of pickles and onions.
▣ Pork Ribs – The pork ribs at Podnah’s Pit BBQ are dry-rubbed with a mixture of spices and slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They come with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles, and customers can choose between baby back ribs or spare ribs.
▣ Sausage – Podnah’s Pit BBQ makes their own sausage in-house, using a blend of pork and beef, and smoking it until it’s crispy and flavorful. The sausage is served sliced with a side of pickles and onions, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for something a little different than the usual barbecue fare.
▣ Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Podnah’s Pit BBQ is slow-smoked until it’s tender and flavorful, then pulled apart and served with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles. The meat is juicy and delicious, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for something a little less heavy than brisket or ribs.
▣ Mac and Cheese – While it’s not a meat dish, the mac and cheese at Podnah’s Pit BBQ is so delicious that it’s worth mentioning. The macaroni is cooked to perfection, and the cheese sauce is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of tanginess. It’s the perfect side dish to balance out the smoky, savory flavors of the barbecue.
The service at Podnah’s Pit BBQ is friendly and attentive, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is always busy, but the staff works efficiently to make sure that customers are seated quickly and their orders are taken promptly.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the brisket and it was some of the best I’ve ever had. The flavor was amazing, and the meat was so tender it practically melted in my mouth. The mac and cheese was also fantastic. Overall, a great experience at Podnah’s Pit BBQ.”
“I’m a big fan of barbecue, and Podnah’s Pit BBQ did not disappoint. The sausage was particularly delicious, with just the right amount of smokiness. The sides were also really tasty, especially the collard greens. I’ll definitely be back!”
“The brisket and ribs were both amazing, but what really stood out to me was the service. Our server was friendly, helpful, and made us feel welcome. I also loved the atmosphere of the restaurant – it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some delicious barbecue.”
Podnah’s Pit BBQ is a top-notch barbecue restaurant in Portland, known for its slow-smoked Texas-style meats, delicious sides, and friendly service. The rustic interior and extensive whiskey selection make it a unique and inviting spot to grab some tasty barbecue with friends or family. Customers rave about the brisket, ribs, and sausage, as well as the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Overall, Podnah’s Pit BBQ is a must-visit for any barbecue enthusiast in Portland. They rank amid the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Portland for good reasons.
Russell Street Bar-B-Que
Address: 325 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212
Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Phone Number: (503) 528-8224
Russell Street Bar-B-Que, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Portland, that specializes in classic barbecue dishes. The interior of the restaurant is casual and inviting, with wooden tables and chairs, a large bar area, and vintage decor. The open kitchen is visible from the dining area, allowing customers to see their food being prepared.
One of the signature dishes at Russell Street Bar-B-Que is the brisket, which is smoked for up to 14 hours until it’s tender and flavorful. Other popular menu items include the pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. Customers can also choose from a variety of tasty sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and collard greens.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket – One of the standout dishes at Russell Street Bar-B-Que, the brisket is smoked for up to 14 hours until it’s tender and flavorful. The meat is sliced thin and served with a side of pickles and onions. Customers can choose between lean or fatty brisket, depending on their preference.
▣ Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Russell Street Bar-B-Que is slow-smoked until it’s tender and juicy, then pulled apart and served with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles. The meat is full of flavor, with a smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.
▣ Baby Back Ribs – The baby back ribs at Russell Street Bar-B-Que are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They come with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles, and customers can choose between a half or full rack.
▣ Smoked Chicken – The smoked chicken at Russell Street Bar-B-Que is juicy and flavorful, with a crispy skin and a smoky taste. It’s served with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for a lighter barbecue dish.
▣ Mac and Cheese – Russell Street Bar-B-Que’s mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, made with elbow macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s the perfect side dish to balance out the smoky, savory flavors of the barbecue.
Russell Street Bar-B-Que is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a great spot for a hearty meal without breaking the bank. They also offer catering services, perfect for events or parties.
Service: The service at Russell Street Bar-B-Que is friendly and efficient, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff works hard to make sure that customers are seated quickly and their orders are taken promptly.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the brisket and it was absolutely delicious – so tender and flavorful. The mac and cheese was also amazing. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was casual and fun. I can’t wait to come back!”
“Russell Street Bar-B-Que is my go-to spot for barbecue in Portland. The pulled pork is my favorite, and the sides are always tasty. The portions are huge, so it’s a great value for the price. Highly recommend!”
“I tried the ribs for the first time at Russell Street Bar-B-Que, and they did not disappoint. The meat was so tender and juicy, and the sauce had just the right amount of sweetness. The staff was also really friendly and welcoming. I’ll definitely be back!”
Russell Street Bar-B-Que is a top-rated barbecue restaurant in Portland, known for its classic dishes, generous portions, and affordable prices. The casual, inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Customers rave about the brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, as well as the delicious sides. Overall, Russell Street Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbecue in Portland. They stand out among the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland.
Smokehouse Tavern
Address: 1401 SE Morrison St, Portland, OR 97214
Hours: Monday – Thursday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday – Saturday 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm, Sunday 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Phone Number: (971) 279-4850
Smokehouse Tavern, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is a popular restaurant located in Southeast Portland that specializes in smoked meats and creative, seasonal dishes. The interior of the restaurant is sleek and modern, with a bar area, a spacious dining room, and an open kitchen. The decor is minimalist, with warm wood accents and industrial-style lighting.
One of the signature dishes at Smokehouse Tavern is the smoked trout dip, made with smoked trout, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s served with crackers and pickled vegetables, and it’s a delicious and unique appetizer. Other popular menu items include the smoked brisket, ribs, and chicken, as well as creative dishes like the roasted beet salad.
Smokehouse Tavern offers a more upscale take on barbecue, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The cocktail program is also highly regarded, with a variety of tasty drinks to choose from.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Smoked Trout Dip – One of the standout dishes at Smokehouse Tavern, the smoked trout dip is a creamy blend of smoked trout, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s served with crackers and pickled vegetables, and it’s a unique and delicious appetizer.
▣ Smoked Brisket – The smoked brisket at Smokehouse Tavern is slow-smoked until it’s tender and juicy, then served with a side of barbecue sauce and pickled onions. The meat is full of flavor, with a nice smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.
▣ Baby Back Ribs – The baby back ribs at Smokehouse Tavern are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They come with a side of barbecue sauce and pickled onions, and customers can choose between a half or full rack.
▣ Smoked Chicken – The smoked chicken at Smokehouse Tavern is juicy and flavorful, with a crispy skin and a smoky taste. It’s served with a side of barbecue sauce and pickled onions, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for a lighter barbecue dish.
▣ Roasted Beet Salad – A creative and flavorful salad option, the roasted beet salad at Smokehouse Tavern features roasted beets, goat cheese, arugula, and hazelnuts, all tossed in a citrus vinaigrette. It’s a great dish for anyone looking for something a little lighter or more vegetarian-friendly.
The service at Smokehouse Tavern is friendly and attentive, with knowledgeable staff members who are happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff works hard to make sure that customers are seated quickly and their orders are taken promptly.
Customer Reviews:
“The smoked brisket at Smokehouse Tavern was some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was tender and flavorful, with a nice smoky taste. The cocktails were also excellent – I had the bourbon-based drink and it was delicious. Highly recommend!”
“I loved the smoked trout dip – it was a unique and delicious appetizer that I’ve never seen anywhere else. The ribs were also fantastic – juicy and flavorful. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was modern and inviting. Will definitely be back!”
“Smokehouse Tavern exceeded my expectations – the food was incredible, and the cocktails were amazing. I tried the roasted beet salad and was blown away by the flavors – it had a great balance of sweet and savory. The staff was also really friendly and welcoming. Definitely recommend!”
Smokehouse Tavern is a highly-rated restaurant in Portland, known for its creative, upscale take on barbecue and smoked meats. The modern, inviting atmosphere and excellent cocktails make it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends. Customers rave about the smoked trout dip, brisket, and ribs, as well as the friendly and knowledgeable service. Overall, Smokehouse Tavern is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience in Portland. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Portland.
Matt’s BBQ
Address: 4709 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 11:00 am – 4:00 pm (or until sold out)
Phone Number: (503) 288-1111
Matt’s BBQ is a popular barbecue restaurant located in Northeast Portland, known for its Texas-style smoked meats and casual, no-frills atmosphere. The interior of the restaurant is small and unassuming, with a few picnic tables and a counter where customers can place their orders.
One of the signature dishes at Matt’s BBQ is the beef brisket, which is smoked low and slow until it’s tender and flavorful. Other popular menu items include the pulled pork, ribs, and sausage. Customers can also choose from a variety of tasty sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, and collard greens.
Matt’s BBQ, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is a true hole-in-the-wall restaurant, with no frills or fancy decor, but its food speaks for itself. The meats are smoked over oak wood, giving them a delicious, smoky taste that customers rave about.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Beef Brisket – One of the standout dishes at Matt’s BBQ, the beef brisket is smoked low and slow over oak wood until it’s tender and full of flavor. It’s sliced thin and served with a side of pickles and onions, and it’s a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast.
▣ Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Matt’s BBQ is juicy and flavorful, with a smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the tangy barbecue sauce. It’s served on a bun with a side of coleslaw, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for a classic barbecue sandwich.
▣ Baby Back Ribs – The baby back ribs at Matt’s BBQ are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They come with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles, and customers can choose between a half or full rack.
▣ Sausage – Matt’s BBQ makes their own sausage in-house, using a blend of pork and spices. It’s smoked until it’s crispy and flavorful, and it’s served sliced with a side of pickles and onions.
▣ Mac and Cheese – Matt’s BBQ’s mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, made with elbow macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s the perfect side dish to balance out the smoky, savory flavors of the barbecue.
The service at Matt’s BBQ is friendly and efficient, with staff members who are happy to make recommendations and chat with customers about their favorite menu items. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff works hard to make sure that everyone is taken care of.
Customer Reviews:
“Matt’s BBQ is the real deal – the brisket was some of the best I’ve ever had, with a great smoky flavor. The ribs were also fantastic. The sides were tasty, too – I especially liked the mac and cheese. Can’t wait to come back!”
“If you’re looking for great barbecue in Portland, look no further than Matt’s BBQ. The pulled pork was juicy and flavorful, and the sausage was delicious. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was casual and laid-back. Highly recommend!”
“I tried the beef brisket and it did not disappoint – it was tender and full of flavor. The potato salad was also really tasty. I appreciated the friendly service and casual vibe of the restaurant. Will definitely be back!”
Matt’s BBQ is a beloved hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Portland, known for its delicious, Texas-style smoked meats and casual atmosphere. The brisket, pulled pork, and ribs are all standout dishes, as are the tasty sides. Despite its unassuming appearance, Matt’s BBQ is a must-visit for any barbecue enthusiast in Portland. They have earned the rank of the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Portland.
Reverend’s BBQ
Address: 7712 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 11:30 am – 8:00 pm (or until sold out)
Phone Number: (503) 327-8755
Reverend’s BBQ, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in Southeast Portland, known for its classic smoked meats and Southern-style sides. The interior of the restaurant is casual and inviting, with wooden tables and chairs, a bar area, and a rustic decor.
One of the signature dishes at Reverend’s BBQ is the brisket, which is slow-smoked until it’s tender and juicy. Other popular menu items include the pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, as well as tasty sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and hush puppies.
Reverend’s BBQ offers a unique, Southern-style take on barbecue, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and classic, flavorful dishes. They also offer a great selection of local beers on tap, perfect for pairing with your meal.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket – One of the standout dishes at Reverend’s BBQ, the brisket is slow-smoked until it’s tender and juicy, then sliced thin and served with a side of pickles and onions. The meat is full of flavor, with a smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the tangy barbecue sauce.
▣ Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Reverend’s BBQ is juicy and flavorful, with a great balance of smoky and tangy flavors. It’s served on a bun with a side of coleslaw, and it’s a classic barbecue dish that’s always a hit.
▣ Baby Back Ribs – The baby back ribs at Reverend’s BBQ are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They come with a side of barbecue sauce and pickles, and customers can choose between a half or full rack.
▣ Fried Chicken – Reverend’s BBQ’s fried chicken is crispy and delicious, with a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the honey butter that it’s served with. It’s a great option for anyone looking for something a little different than traditional barbecue.
▣ Collard Greens – Reverend’s BBQ’s collard greens are a classic Southern-style side dish, cooked until they’re tender and full of flavor. They’re seasoned with bacon and spices, giving them a savory taste that pairs perfectly with the smoky meats.
The service at Reverend’s BBQ is friendly and efficient, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff works hard to make sure that customers are seated quickly and their orders are taken promptly.
Customer Reviews:
“The brisket at Reverend’s BBQ was some of the best I’ve ever had – it was so tender and flavorful. The sides were also amazing – the collard greens were a standout. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was casual and welcoming. Highly recommend!”
“Reverend’s BBQ is my go-to spot for barbecue in Portland. The pulled pork is my favorite, and the hush puppies are always delicious. The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and the beer selection is great. Highly recommend for anyone looking for classic Southern-style barbecue!”
“I had the ribs and they were amazing – tender and full of flavor. The mac and cheese was also delicious. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was laid-back and inviting. I’ll definitely be back!”
Reverend’s BBQ is a top-rated barbecue restaurant in Portland, known for its classic smoked meats, tasty sides, and Southern-style flavor. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Customers rave about the brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, as well as the delicious sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. Overall, Reverend’s BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbecue in Portland. They can definitely be counted among the top Barbecue restaurants in Portland.
By considering customer reviews, ratings, and popularity, we’ve identified the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Portland, each offering delicious food, great service, and a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top-rated spots for a taste of some of the best barbecue in the Pacific Northwest.
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