Barbecue is a beloved cuisine that has been enjoyed for centuries in the southern United States. Orlando, Florida may not be known as a barbecue destination, but it boasts a variety of restaurants that offer mouth-watering smoked meats and flavorful sauces. According to recent data, over 60% of Americans enjoy barbecue at least once a month, making it one of the most popular types of food in the country.
In this article, we will explore some of the best BBQ spots in Orlando. From local favorites to high-end experiences, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether you are a resident or just passing through, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic southern-style barbecue.
So sit back and get ready to discover some hidden gems in The City Beautiful.
Key Takeaways
- Orlando has a diverse restaurant scene with a variety of BBQ options to choose from, each offering distinct flavors and atmospheres.
- Popular BBQ dishes in Orlando include pulled pork sandwiches, beef brisket platters, and smoked chicken wings, as well as classic sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans.
- Some top BBQ spots in Orlando include Sonny’s BBQ for consistent quality and affordability, Yellow Dog Eats for innovative takes on traditional dishes and locally-sourced ingredients, and The Ravenous Pig for a high-end option with a sophisticated twist on BBQ.
- The success of each BBQ restaurant in Orlando lies in their commitment to maintaining authenticity in their cooking methods and use of high-quality ingredients.
The Coop: A Southern Classic
The Coop, a Southern classic restaurant located in Orlando, offers a delectable selection of barbecue dishes that are sure to tantalize the taste buds of any discerning food enthusiast. Known for their classic dishes and traditional cooking methods, The Coop has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Established in 2014 by John Rivers, founder of the popular barbecue chain 4 Rivers Smokehouse, The Coop was created as a tribute to his grandmother’s southern-style cooking.
The menu at The Coop features an array of mouthwatering barbecue options such as pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken wings, beef brisket platters and much more. Each dish is prepared using traditional smoking techniques that allow for maximum flavor infusion while maintaining the tenderness of the meat.
In addition to their delicious meats, The Coop also offers sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans that perfectly complement their main courses.
Aside from their exceptional cuisine offerings, The Coop also boasts an intriguing history. Founded on the principles of high-quality ingredients and southern hospitality, this eatery strives to provide customers with an authentic dining experience unlike any other in Orlando.
From its humble beginnings as a tribute to John River’s beloved grandmother’s recipes to its current status as one of Orlando’s most popular barbecue destinations – The Coop has definitely made a name for itself among food enthusiasts everywhere.
In contrast to The Coop’s classic appeal is Rivers Smokehouse: A local favorite known for its innovative twists on traditional BBQ dishes. With locations all over Florida including Winter Park and Lake Mary just outside Orlando city limits – Rivers Smokehouse is quickly becoming one of Central Florida’s go-to spots for great tasting BBQ meals.
4 Rivers Smokehouse: A Local Favorite
One renowned establishment that has garnered a devoted following in Orlando for its smoked meats is Rivers Smokehouse. What makes this barbecue joint stand out from others is the local ambiance it exudes. The restaurant’s interior boasts wood paneling, vintage signs, and rustic decor – all of which create an inviting atmosphere that transports diners to a southern-style eatery. In addition, customers can enjoy outdoor seating on the patio with picturesque views of Lake Jennie Jewel.
Aside from its charming atmosphere, Rivers Smokehouse offers a menu full of favorites that keep customers coming back time and time again. One standout dish is their brisket, which is slow-cooked to perfection over oak wood for 16 hours. The result is melt-in-your-mouth meat that packs a flavorful punch with each bite. Another popular item on the menu is their pulled pork sandwich – piled high with juicy meat and topped with tangy coleslaw.
For those looking for something unique, Rivers Smokehouse also offers less traditional barbecue options such as smoked salmon and vegetarian-friendly dishes like grilled portobello mushrooms. With so many delicious options to choose from, it’s no wonder why locals have made this establishment a go-to spot for satisfying cravings.
Transitioning into the subsequent section about ‘bubbalou’s bodacious bar-b-que: a family tradition’, it’s clear that Orlando has no shortage of excellent barbecue restaurants to choose from. However, what sets each one apart are the distinct flavors and atmospheres they offer – making each dining experience truly one-of-a-kind.
Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que: A Family Tradition
Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que is a longstanding family-owned restaurant in Orlando that offers a unique blend of traditional southern barbecue and Florida-inspired flavors. The restaurant has been serving customers since 1986, and its success lies in its commitment to maintaining the authenticity of old school techniques and family recipes. Bubbalou’s prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients that are cooked low and slow to perfection.
The culinary legacy of Bubbalou’s begins with its founder, Robert ‘Bubba’Usher, who learned how to smoke meats from his grandfather at the age of 9. The secret sauce recipe used by the restaurant today was created by Bubba’s grandmother over 60 years ago. These family recipes have been passed down through generations and continue to be used at Bubbalou’s today.
One of the most impressive things about Bubbalou’s is their dedication to maintaining authenticity in their cooking methods. They use an old-fashioned pit smoker that requires constant attention and monitoring throughout the cooking process. This method ensures that each piece of meat is cooked evenly and thoroughly, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a smoky flavor.
Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic southern barbecue with a Florida twist. From their commitment to using fresh ingredients to their use of old-school techniques and family recipes, every aspect of this restaurant screams authenticity.
Transitioning into the subsequent section about Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa: Unique and flavorful, visitors can expect something different yet equally delicious when they step outside traditional barbeque fare and try out Pig Floyd’s innovative menu offerings.
Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa: Unique and Flavorful
Located in the heart of Orlando, Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa offers a unique dining experience with an innovative menu that combines traditional barbeque flavors with international influences. This Flavorful fusion is the brainchild of Thomas Ward, who was inspired by his travels around the world and his passion for cooking. The result is a restaurant that serves up some of the most mouth-watering dishes in town.
One of the standout items on Pig Floyd’s menu is their “Banh Mi”sandwich made with pork belly and pickled vegetables. This Vietnamese-inspired dish has become a fan favorite, thanks to its perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. Other popular options include their brisket tacos served with pineapple salsa and their smoked wings coated in Korean chili sauce. All these dishes are served in an urban ambiance that perfectly complements the restaurant’s modern take on barbeque.
Pig Floyd’s pride themselves on using only fresh ingredients sourced from local farms whenever possible. They also smoke all their meat in-house over oak wood for hours until it reaches perfection. It’s no wonder why this restaurant has been voted as one of Orlando’s top-rated BBQ joints year after year.
Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa stands out among other BBQ restaurants in Orlando due to its Flavorful fusion cuisine and trendy atmosphere. Whether you’re craving traditional barbeque or something more adventurous, there is something for everyone at this spot. Next up we will explore Sonny’s BBQ: A chain with consistent quality without losing our focus on finding the best bbq in Orlando!
Sonny’s BBQ: A Chain with Consistent Quality
Sonny’s BBQ has gained popularity as a chain that has managed to maintain consistent quality in their dishes, ensuring customer satisfaction with every bite. They offer a diverse menu of classic barbecue dishes such as pulled pork, beef brisket, and ribs cooked to perfection. In addition, they also have vegetarian options like the Beyond Burger for those looking for a meatless alternative.
One aspect that sets Sonny’s BBQ apart from other chains is their affordable pricing range. Guests can enjoy hearty portions at reasonable prices without compromising on taste or quality. This makes it an ideal spot for families and groups who are looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and comfortable, with friendly staff that adds to its welcoming ambiance. The decor is rustic with wood paneling and country-style accents that add to its charm. It is a great place to gather with friends or family and enjoy some delicious barbecue fare.
Sonny’s BBQ offers consistently good food at affordable prices in a comfortable setting making it an excellent choice for those seeking authentic barbecue flavors in Orlando.
However, if you’re looking for something more unique and eclectic than chains like Sonny’s BBQ check out Yellow Dog Eats: A Barbecue Spot With Character where you’ll find quirky décor along with innovative takes on traditional barbecue dishes.
Yellow Dog Eats: A BBQ Spot with Character
Yellow Dog Eats offers a unique dining experience with its quirky atmosphere and eclectic menu, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking something different in the Orlando area.
Here are four reasons why Yellow Dog Eats stands out from other BBQ joints in Orlando:
- Eclectic decor: Walking into Yellow Dog Eats is like stepping into a vintage store or an antique shop. Everywhere you look, there’s something interesting to see – from old license plates on the walls to mismatched chairs and tables.
- Innovative takes on traditional barbecue dishes: While you can find traditional BBQ staples like pulled pork and brisket on the menu, Yellow Dog Eats also offers some unexpected twists on classic dishes. For example, their ‘Porky Pig’sandwich includes pulled pork topped with peanut butter and banana slices.
- Focus on fresh ingredients: One thing that sets Yellow Dog Eats apart is their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. This means that not only do their dishes taste great, but they’re also better for you.
- Friendly atmosphere: The staff at Yellow Dog Eats are known for being welcoming and friendly, which adds to the overall laid-back vibe of the restaurant.
What sets Yellow Dog Eats apart from other BBQ joints in Orlando? It’s not just about the food – although that’s certainly a big part of it! Instead, it’s the combination of factors like their quirky decor, innovative menu items, focus on fresh ingredients, and friendly atmosphere that make this place truly special.
Moving forward to our next subtopic – The Ravenous Pig: A High-end BBQ Experience – diners looking for a more upscale take on barbeque should check out The Ravenous Pig.
The Ravenous Pig: A High-End BBQ Experience
For those seeking an elevated dining experience with a focus on barbecue, The Ravenous Pig offers a sophisticated twist on traditional dishes that is sure to leave diners licking their chops. Located in Winter Park, this high-end BBQ spot has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its unique flavors and upscale atmosphere. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the freshest ingredients from local farmers and artisans ensures that every dish is bursting with flavor.
One of the standout features of The Ravenous Pig is their attention to detail when it comes to presentation. Each dish is carefully crafted and beautifully plated, making for an unforgettable dining experience. While the menu changes seasonally, some of their most popular dishes include the smoked pork chop with sweet potato puree and collard greens, as well as the crispy chicken thighs served with bacon-braised cabbage.
In addition to their exceptional food offerings, The Ravenous Pig also boasts an impressive wine list featuring selections from around the world. Their knowledgeable staff can assist diners in selecting the perfect pairing for their meal. For those looking for something stronger than wine, there is also an extensive cocktail menu available.
Overall, The Ravenous Pig offers a high-end option for those looking for a unique take on traditional BBQ dishes. With its sophisticated atmosphere and attention to detail, it’s no wonder why this restaurant has become one of Orlando’s top culinary destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prices like at each of these BBQ spots?
When evaluating BBQ spots, it is important to consider factors such as ambiance and level of spiciness in BBQ dishes. Prices can vary depending on the location, quality of ingredients, and overall dining experience. It is recommended to research each individual restaurant’s menu and pricing before making a decision.
The ambiance of a BBQ spot can greatly impact the enjoyment of the meal, with factors such as decor, music, and seating arrangements all playing a role. Additionally, some diners may prefer spicier options when it comes to BBQ dishes while others may prefer milder flavors.
Ultimately, determining the best value for price will depend on personal preferences and priorities when dining out.
Are any of these BBQ spots open late at night?
Late night cravings for BBQ in Orlando can be satisfied with a few options that offer delivery services. While the best BBQ spots in Orlando have varying operating hours, some of them close early and do not cater to late night diners.
However, there are several barbecue restaurants that offer delivery services until late at night. For instance, Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa delivers its signature dishes until 11 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends. Similarly, 4 Rivers Smokehouse offers online ordering for pickup or delivery until 9 pm every day. Other options include Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que and Sonny’s BBQ, which both offer online ordering and delivery services until late at night.
Therefore, those who crave BBQ during odd hours can still enjoy their favorite dishes from these restaurants without leaving the comfort of their homes.
Do any of these BBQ spots offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Vegan alternatives and dietary restrictions are becoming increasingly important in the culinary world. According to a survey conducted by the Vegetarian Resource Group, about 3% of the United States population identifies as vegan and about 5% identifies as vegetarian.
Therefore, it is not surprising that more restaurants are offering vegan and vegetarian options to cater to this growing demographic. In terms of barbecue spots in Orlando, there are some that offer vegan alternatives such as jackfruit or tofu as a meat substitute, while others may have sides or salads that are suitable for vegetarians.
It is important for individuals with specific dietary restrictions to do their research beforehand and inquire about menu options when dining out at barbecue spots in Orlando.
Is there outdoor seating available at any of these BBQ spots?
Several of the BBQ spots in Orlando offer outdoor seating options for customers to enjoy their meals. These venues allow diners to savor their food in a relaxed and refreshing outdoor ambiance, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.
Moreover, some of these BBQ joints have pet-friendly policies that permit customers to bring along their furry friends when they are dining out. This feature makes these establishments ideal places for families with pets who wish to spend some quality time together while enjoying great food.
Overall, the availability of outdoor seating and pet-friendly policies at various BBQ spots in Orlando make them excellent choices for individuals seeking a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.
Are any of these BBQ spots located near public transportation or parking options?
There are various BBQ spots in Orlando that offer convenient parking options and nearby bus stops for those who prefer to use public transportation. Available parking options include street parking, metered parking, and paid parking lots located near the BBQ establishments.
Additionally, some of these BBQ spots are conveniently located near various bus stops, providing easy access to customers who prefer using public transportation. Some popular bus routes that have stops near these BBQ spots include Lynx Bus Routes 8, 42, and 50 among others.
Overall, whether you prefer driving or using public transportation to get to your favorite BBQ spot in Orlando, there are several options available to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Conclusion
The BBQ scene in Orlando offers a diverse range of options, from traditional Southern classics to unique and flavorful offerings. The Coop is a standout for its authentic Southern cuisine, while 4 Rivers Smokehouse remains a local favorite with consistently good food. Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que is known for its family tradition, and Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa offers something different with its fusion of flavors.
Sonny’s BBQ stands out as a chain restaurant that maintains consistent quality across all locations, and Yellow Dog Eats is noted for its quirky atmosphere and character. For those seeking a high-end BBQ experience, The Ravenous Pig delivers on both flavor and presentation.
According to a recent study by the National Restaurant Association, 66% of Americans say they enjoy eating barbecue. This statistic highlights the enduring popularity of this cuisine and underscores the importance of excellent BBQ options in cities like Orlando.
With such an array of delicious choices available in this city alone, it’s clear that the love for barbecue isn’t going away anytime soon.
