Milwaukee's Best BBQ [Updated 2025]

Each smoky bite tells a story, and after diving into the mouthwatering world of Milwaukee’s barbecue scene, I’ve uncovered the hidden gems that are a must-try. I’ve scoured the city, sampling everything from fall-off-the-bone ribs to tangy pulled pork, and let me tell you—there’s some serious culinary magic happening here.

With a taste test of 12 top locations under my belt, I can confidently say I've found the best of the best. Whether you're a lifelong local or just passing through, my insights will help you navigate the smoky trails of Milwaukee’s BBQ offerings. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a wild ride!

Double B's MKE-Style BBQ

Highlights
Tender, flavorful brisket
Moist, delicious cornbread
Atmospheric dining experience
Mouthwatering pulled pork
Creamy, perfect mac & cheese

When I stepped into Double B's MKE-Style BBQ, I was immediately enveloped by a warm, inviting atmosphere that whispers, “Stay a while.” As a devoted BBQ enthusiast, my excitement peaked as I delved into their offerings, starting with the tender, flavorful brisket that was so perfectly smoked it practically melted in my mouth. I couldn’t resist pairing it with their mouthwatering pulled pork, which burst with rich, smoky goodness.

But let’s not forget the sides! The creamy, perfect mac & cheese was a delightful companion to my meats, with a gooey, cheesy texture that left me reaching for more. And oh, the moist, delicious cornbread—it was a sweet revelation that danced on my palate, adding a delightful contrast to the BBQ trio I was enjoying.

Double B's isn’t just about the food; it's an experience. The rustic, inviting decor transports you to a friendly backyard gathering. Each bite was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of BBQ craftsmanship. If you're in Milwaukee and seeking BBQ bliss, I wholeheartedly recommend making Double B's your next stop. You won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in Milwaukee.

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue of Milwaukee

Highlights
Exceptional service
Must-try corn bread
Cozy atmosphere
Perfectly cooked steaks
Memorable dining experiences

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue of Milwaukee is nothing short of a culinary treasure. As soon as I stepped inside, the cozy atmosphere enveloped me, blending the charm of a classic steakhouse with the warm familiarity of Southern BBQ. The staff delivered exceptional service, attending to every detail without being overbearing, which only added to the overall enjoyment.

Now, onto the food! The must-try corn bread is a standout—sweet, moist, and perfectly crumbly—it's practically a meal on its own. But the true stars here are the perfectly cooked steaks that make my taste buds dance with joy. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, tender and succulent, simply irresistible. The barbecue dishes themselves, while splendid, playfully carry the heritage that Carson's prides itself on.

Overall, my visit to Carson's was a delightful experience, leaving me with a full belly and a heart wanting to return. If you find yourself in Milwaukee, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Carson's a try. Trust me; it’s a journey worth embarking on for any BBQ lover!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in West Allis.

Sweet Smoke BBQ Food Truck

Highlights
Flavorful brisket
Delicious burnt ends
Delectable pork ribs
Refreshing coleslaw
Friendly and quick service

Sweet Smoke BBQ Food Truck is a delightful gem that will tantalize your taste buds in Milwaukee! As I approached the vibrant food truck, the heavenly aroma of smoked meat wafted through the air, setting the stage for a mouthwatering experience.

I dove straight into their flavorful brisket, and let me tell you, it was a revelation! The tenderness and smoky depth truly made my heart sing. Then came the delectable pork ribs, which practically fell off the bone, dripping with flavorful juices that had me savoring every bite. The delicious burnt ends were a standout too, boasting a caramelized exterior that contrasted beautifully with the rich, tender meat inside.

To balance out the heaviness, I opted for the refreshing coleslaw. This cool and crunchy side provided a perfect counterpoint to the robust flavors of the BBQ. To top it off, the service was as friendly as it gets; the staff was quick, making my visit all the more enjoyable.

If you're on the hunt for some seriously tasty BBQ, look no further than Sweet Smoke BBQ Food Truck. Whether it's a casual lunch or a weekend treat, this food truck delivers smoky satisfaction that you won't want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best coffee shops in Milwaukee.

Smokin’ Jack's BBQ (3rd St. Market Hall)

Highlights
Super Informative Staff
Amazing Pulled Pork & Brisket
Delicious Sweet Cornbread
Refreshing Blueberry Lemonade
Excellent Service

Stepping into Smokin’ Jack's BBQ at the bustling 3rd St. Market Hall is like finding a hidden BBQ gem in the heart of Milwaukee. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff that was not only welcoming but also super informative about the menu. Their enthusiasm for the barbecue offerings made my decision-making a breeze!

I dove into their amazing pulled pork, which was tender and bursting with flavor, and the brisket just melted in my mouth. Each bite resonated with smoky goodness that has clearly been perfected over time. Complementing the meats was their delicious sweet cornbread, a delightful touch that left my taste buds wanting more.

To wash it all down, I couldn’t resist trying the refreshing blueberry lemonade—a perfect blend of tart and sweet that provided a delightful contrast to the savory feast.

Overall, the excellent service and mouthwatering dishes at Smokin’ Jack's BBQ make it one of the top contenders for the best BBQ in Milwaukee. If you find yourself in the area, this spot is a definite must-visit!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Waukesha.

David Alan Alan's Smokehouse & Saloon MKE

Highlights
Delicious and tender meat
Amazing cornbread
Great selection of sauces
Friendly and helpful service
Perfect pulled chicken

Review of David Alan Alan's Smokehouse & Saloon MKE

When I stepped into David Alan Alan's Smokehouse & Saloon MKE, I could almost hear the dreams of barbecue lovers wafting through the air. The moment I took my seat, I was greeted by a team that radiated friendliness—you could tell they were as passionate about BBQ as I am!

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the meat. Oh, the delicious and tender meat! I indulged in the pulled chicken, which was so perfectly smoked it practically melted in my mouth. Paired with their fantastic selection of sauces, it was a match made in heaven. But wait, there’s more! The cornbread stole the spotlight—its fluffy texture and just the right hint of sweetness made every bite a delight.

Each dish not only satisfied my cravings but also left me wanting more. David Alan Alan's is not just a BBQ joint; it’s an experience to savor. If you’re in Milwaukee and seeking the best BBQ, this is truly a smoky haven worth exploring! I’ll be back for more; this place has definitely hit the sweet spot in my BBQ-loving heart!

You might also want to check out the best cafes in Milwaukee.

The Saucy Swine

Highlights
Juicy and succulent brisket
Refreshing coleslaw
Tasty corn muffin
Great service and atmosphere
Unique dill cucumber side

The Saucy Swine is a true gem in Milwaukee’s vibrant BBQ scene. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by the smoky aroma that teased my taste buds with what was to come. I decided to dive into their juicy and succulent brisket, and let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint! The meat was perfectly tender and had an exquisite smoky flavor that spoke volumes of the mastery behind the smoker's art.

Accompanying my brisket was a refreshing coleslaw that provided a delightful crunch with each bite. It was the perfect contrast, balancing the richness of the brisket. I couldn't resist trying their tasty corn muffin as well, which added a subtly sweet touch to the meal—absolutely divine!

Furthermore, the service was impeccable. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring I had everything I needed to fully enjoy my meal. To top it all off, I tried their unique dill cucumber side, a quirky but delightful addition that kept my palate excited throughout.

In summary, if you’re in the mood for BBQ that ignites a flavor explosion, The Saucy Swine is a must-visit destination in Milwaukee!

You might also want to check out the best soup in Milwaukee.

Heaven's Table BBQ

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Delicious brisket and chicken
Perfectly seasoned mac n cheese
Reliable catering for events
Attentive and personable staff

When I stepped into Heaven's Table BBQ, I was immediately enveloped by a waft of smoky goodness that set my appetite tingling. The exceptional customer service made me feel right at home—as if I were walking into a friend's backyard cookout. The staff was not only attentive but downright personable, taking the time to guide me through the mouthwatering menu.

I dove into the brisket and chicken, each bite a celebration of flavor. The brisket was tender and juicy, melty like a dream, while the chicken had that perfect char, lovingly kissed by the grill. But let's not overlook the side star—the mac n cheese! It was perfectly seasoned, rich and creamy, dancing on my palate like an encore after a stellar performance.

Whether you're planning a big party or just craving a quick BBQ fix, Heaven's Table offers reliable catering that will make your event a hit. All in all, this gem has carved a special place in my BBQ heart and it's one I’ll certainly revisit. If you’re hunting for mouthwatering BBQ in Milwaukee, look no further than Heaven's Table—it’s a heavenly experience!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Milwaukee.

Silver Spur Texas Smokehouse BBQ

Highlights
Delicious Philly Cheesesteak
Impressive Salmon BLT
Mixed Reviews on BBQ
Online Ordering Issues

When I stepped into Silver Spur Texas Smokehouse BBQ, I was immediately greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of smoked meats wafting through the air. I decided to try their famed Philly Cheesesteak, which was a delightful surprise, combining juicy beef with melted cheese in a perfectly toasted hoagie. The flavor was so authentic that it transported me straight to the streets of Philly!

Next, the Salmon BLT proved to be an impressive twist on a classic. The crispy bacon paired with perfectly cooked salmon was a refreshing touch amidst the barbecue-heavy menu. Despite the standout sandwiches, I found the BBQ offerings to be a bit uneven. Some flavors were fantastic, while others missed the mark, leaving me wondering where the real Texas magic had gone.

One downside was the online ordering process, which could use some improvement; I encountered a few hiccups that disrupted my plan for a smooth takeout. Overall, Silver Spur has potential with its unique offerings, but if you're hunting for the ultimate BBQ experience in Milwaukee, prepare to savor both the hits and misses.

You might also want to check out the best ramen in Milwaukee.

Speed Queen Bar-B-Q

Highlights
Chewy rib tips
Inconsistent portion sizes
Spoiled side dishes
Great macaroni and cornbread
Disappointing second visit

Speed Queen Bar-B-Q Review

During my recent culinary adventure to Speed Queen Bar-B-Q, I was eager to sink my teeth into what has become a local favorite. The chewy rib tips definitely delivered that smoky goodness I crave in BBQ. Each bite was packed with flavor and left me wanting more. However, I did notice some inconsistencies in portion sizes; sometimes, you get a mouthwatering feast, while other visits leave you scratching your head, wondering where the meat went!

Now, onto the side dishes—let's just say, a couple of them tasted a bit spoiled on my last visit. Not what I expected from such a cherished establishment! On a brighter note, their macaroni and cornbread were absolute stars on the plate; creamy and sweet, they made a delightful duo that I found hard to resist.

As I reflect on my experiences at Speed Queen, I have to admit, my second visit was somewhat disappointing, leaving me longing for that initial thrill. Nonetheless, it remains a solid stop for BBQ enthusiasts in Milwaukee, provided you're prepared for a little hit-or-miss adventure. In the end, it's the rib tips that might just make the journey worthwhile!

You might also want to check out the best hibachi in Milwaukee.

Smoke Shack

Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee, Smoke Shack is a barbecue paradise that had my taste buds dancing. From the moment I stepped inside, the smoky aroma wrapped around me like a warm hug. I dove into their pulled pork sandwich, which was an explosion of flavor—juicy, tender, and topped with a tangy sauce that kept me coming back for more. The house-made pickles added the perfect crunch! Don’t skip the sides; the mac and cheese is downright heavenly. If you’re on the hunt for the best BBQ in Milwaukee, Smoke Shack is a must-visit—you'll leave with a happy belly and a smile!

You might also want to check out the best chicken wings in Milwaukee.

DOC's Commerce Smokehouse

Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee, DOC's Commerce Smokehouse is a true gem for BBQ lovers! The moment I stepped inside, the rich aroma of smoked meats enveloped me, sparking my appetite. I indulged in their pulled pork sandwich, which was a heavenly blend of tenderness and flavor, while the house-made BBQ sauce added a delightful kick. The brisket? Say no more—it’s melt-in-your-mouth perfection! The laid-back vibe, paired with friendly service, made my visit feel like a backyard cookout. For anyone craving top-notch barbecue, DOC's is a must-try destination that’ll leave you eagerly planning your next visit!

You might also want to check out the best hot wings in Milwaukee.

Old Man's BBQ

Old Man's BBQ in Milwaukee is a hidden gem that BBQ enthusiasts must try! From the moment I walked in, the mouthwatering aroma enveloped me like a warm hug. The pulled pork was nothing short of heavenly, tender and packed with flavor. Their signature BBQ sauce balanced sweetness with a perfect hint of smokiness, making every bite a delight. Don’t skip the mac and cheese—it's creamy and rich, a truly comforting side! The casual vibe made me feel at home, and the staff was welcoming. For authentic BBQ bliss, Old Man’s is sure to satisfy your cravings! Finger-lickin’ good!

You might also want to check out the best prime rib in Milwaukee.