Guide to Southern BBQ in Mississippi

No state does BBQ quite like Mississippi. We offer a wide variety of BBQ from diverse cultural backgrounds and cooking methods that all share one common trait: it is some of the best BBQ you will ever eat. Whether you’re visiting Biloxi, Holly Springs, or anywhere in between, you’re sure to find a restaurant that will satisfy your tastebuds and have you craving seconds. Visit Mississippi is dedicated to helping you explore the multitude of food and drink options in our beautiful state. Here, we describe the distinct qualities of Mississippi BBQ and offer a list of outstanding places to eat.

The Tradition of Mississippi BBQ

Three major patterns of BBQ have emerged over time in Mississippi based on the method of cooking used, including:

• Welded trailer rigs: These are typically used for home or traveling barbecues, and they produce a flavor no other cooker can make.
• Traditional pits: These are popular as they deliver a gentle, stable heat that achieves unmatched slow cooking.
• Gas and electric ovens: They provide the newest form of barbecue grilling and allow chefs to cook a lot at once with only one or two pieces of wood.

In addition to its various cooking methods, Mississippi BBQ also varies in the kinds of meats used. For example, you’ll find goat barbecue in Lafayette, Panola, and Tate counties and oxtails at Bully’s Restaurant in Jackson.

Six Great BBQ Restaurants in Mississippi

If there’s one word besides delicious that sums up Mississippi BBQ, it’s family. You’ll find that familial warmth every time you step inside these establishments and learn a lot about the history of the barbecue. To begin your journey, check out these unique Mississippi BBQ restaurants:

Abe’s Barbecue

This Clarksdale eatery was started in 1924 and is said to sit at the crossroads where Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for mastery of the guitar. Besides this legendary claim to fame, Abe’s Barbecue offers award-winning BBQ and a famous sauce the restaurant ships all over the country.

Leatha’s Bar-B-Que

Established in 1976 and located in Hattiesburg, Leatha’s Bar-B-Que is an award-winning restaurant that’s visited by locals, tourists, and even celebrities. It’s gained such notoriety that it’s been featured on TV shows and has a book published about it.

Memphis Barbecue Co.

You might have to visit Horn Lake just to eat at Memphis Barbecue Co., as it is one of only three in the country. A worldwide championship winner that has made several TV appearances, this restaurant is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

Pig & Pint

A staple of the culinary scene in Jackson’s fun and funky Fondren district, The Pig & Pint’s name advertises what it does so well—slow-smoked pork and brisket chased by one (or more) of the many craft beers on the menu. The restaurant is casual and pet-friendly on their outdoor patio. So bring your pup and enjoy some of Mississippi’s most mouthwatering flavors.

Spooney’s Bar-Be-Cue

You might have to scour around Greenwood for Spooney’s Bar-Be-Cue, but it’s well worth the search once you find it. After closing the storefront of his BBQ establishment, Leroy “Spooney” Kenter Jr. began serving food near his home in Baptist Town. Spooney’s Bar-Be-Cue truly puts the “home” in “home-cooked meals”.

Triple A’s BBQ

Chances are a gas station is the last place you’d expect to find decent BBQ, but Triple A’s BBQ in Flowood is a local favorite and a welcome surprise to travelers passing through the area. Triple A’s serves delicious, tender briskets with mouthwatering sides and gourmet flair. They also offer six sauce varieties, including a homemade blue cheese sauce.

Exploring Mississippi BBQ with Visit Mississippi

Whether you visit family-centric home barbecues or prefer the cooking of Mississippi’s pit masters, you’re sure to find restaurants that appeal to you no matter where the road takes you. With so many available options, it can be hard to decide where to start on your journey. That’s why Visit Mississippi curates a variety of food and drink establishments for you to investigate, as well as attractions, art centers, and more. Plan your trip with the help of Visit Mississippi today to be sure you experience some of Mississippi’s – and the world’s – most mouthwatering bbq.