Florida is famous for beaches and theme parks, but hidden across the state are incredible barbecue joints that locals swear by. These underrated spots serve up smoky ribs, tender brisket, and mouthwatering sides that rival any famous chain.
Get ready to discover the best-kept secrets in Florida BBQ that will make you forget about those big-name restaurants.
1. Smokey Trails BBQ, Miami
Tucked away in Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods, this family-owned gem has been smoking meats the old-fashioned way for years. The pitmaster uses a secret blend of hardwoods that creates a flavor profile you won’t find anywhere else.
Their pulled pork practically melts in your mouth, while the burnt ends have a cult following among regulars. Every sauce is made from scratch daily, ranging from tangy vinegar-based to sweet molasses blends.
The casual atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re in shorts or business casual. Portions are generous enough to share, though you probably won’t want to.
2. Texas Best Barbecue, Englewood
Authentic Texas-style barbecue found its way to Florida’s Gulf Coast, and locals couldn’t be happier about it. The owner relocated from Austin and brought generations of smoking techniques with him.
Beef brisket here develops a perfect smoke ring after 14 hours in the pit, creating that coveted pink layer beneath the bark. The sausage links are handmade using a family recipe that’s been passed down since the 1950s.
Don’t skip the jalapeño cheese grits—they’re a Southern twist that perfectly complements the smoky meats. Weekend lines form early, but the wait is absolutely worth every minute.
3. Captain’s BBQ, Palm Coast
Right off the coastal highway sits a barbecue spot that combines seafood town charm with serious smoking skills. The Captain himself tends the pits daily, ensuring every rack of ribs gets personal attention.
Their signature dish blends land and sea—smoked fish dip served alongside traditional BBQ platters creates an unexpected flavor combination. Baby back ribs arrive glazed with a honey-bourbon sauce that caramelizes beautifully.
The outdoor seating area catches ocean breezes, making summer dining surprisingly comfortable.
4. Big John’s Alabama BBQ, Tampa
Alabama white sauce might sound unusual, but one taste at Big John’s will make you a believer in this tangy mayo-based creation. The restaurant brings authentic Alabama traditions to Tampa’s diverse food scene.
Smoked chicken gets dunked in that famous white sauce, creating a flavor explosion that’s both creamy and zesty. The hickory-smoked turkey breast stays incredibly moist, proving that poultry deserves as much attention as beef and pork.
Side dishes rotate daily, featuring everything from collard greens to mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping. The no-frills dining room keeps focus where it belongs—on outstanding food.
5. Hometown BBQ, Miami
Brooklyn-style barbecue made its way south to Miami, bringing a unique fusion of techniques and flavors. The pitmasters here studied under some of New York’s finest before opening their own spot.
Beef ribs are the showstopper—massive, meaty bones that require both hands and plenty of napkins to tackle properly. Their approach to smoking creates incredibly tender meat with a peppery crust that adds textural contrast.
The sides menu reads like a Southern comfort food encyclopedia, with standouts including jalapeño cornbread and bourbon baked beans. Despite the Miami location, the vibe stays true to casual BBQ joint roots.
6. Shiver’s BBQ, Homestead
Since 1950, this family operation has been serving South Florida with recipes that haven’t changed in over seven decades. The weathered building and vintage signs tell stories of countless satisfied customers through the years.
Oak wood fuels their smokers exclusively, imparting a distinct sweetness to everything that comes off the pit. The pork ribs fall off the bone effortlessly, while maintaining just enough texture to avoid mushiness.
Their tomato-based sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, complementing rather than overpowering the smoke flavor.
7. Dixie Pig Bar-B-Q, Oakland Park
A true South Florida classic, Dixie Pig has been dishing out authentic, no-frills barbecue since the 1950s. This nostalgic roadside joint keeps things simple—slow-smoked pork, tender ribs, and house-made sauces served on paper plates with a side of Southern charm.
The aroma of hickory smoke greets you before you even walk in, promising comfort food done right. Locals love the pulled pork sandwiches piled high, crispy hush puppies, and creamy coleslaw that tastes just like grandma used to make.
At Dixie Pig, every bite feels like a trip back to old-school Florida—warm, welcoming, and deliciously smoky.
8. Uncle Tony’s Backyard Barbecue, Orlando
What started as weekend cookouts for friends and neighbors grew into one of Orlando’s most beloved hidden gems. Uncle Tony still greets customers personally, sharing stories and BBQ tips with anyone interested.
The spare ribs showcase a dry rub that’s been tweaked and perfected over 20 years of experimentation. Meat pulls away cleanly from the bone, leaving behind that satisfying feeling of perfectly cooked pork.
Homemade sides change based on what’s fresh and seasonal, though the bacon-studded baked beans appear year-round by popular demand. The backyard vibe remains authentic, making tourists and locals feel equally at home.
9. Hot Spot Barbecue, Pensacola
Up in Florida’s Panhandle, this joint serves barbecue with a distinct regional flair that blends Southern and coastal influences. The location near military bases means the pitmasters have perfected feeding hungry crowds with generous portions.
Their smoked wings have developed a legendary reputation, tossed in a spicy-sweet glaze after coming off the smoker. Chopped brisket sandwiches pile high with meat, pickles, and onions on toasted buns.
The sauce bar offers six different varieties, encouraging experimentation to find your perfect match.
10. Rock n Roll Ribs, Coconut Creek
Music memorabilia covers every inch of wall space at this rockin’ barbecue spot where the playlist is as carefully curated as the menu. The owner’s passion for classic rock and slow-smoked meats created this unique dining experience.
St. Louis-style ribs are the headliner here, served with a glossy glaze that adds shine and incredible flavor. Each rack gets trimmed perfectly, ensuring consistent cooking and presentation.
The mac and cheese recipe includes three different cheeses and a secret ingredient that keeps customers guessing.
