Which Oklahoma City Barbeque Restaurants Are Best?

New to town and looking for a great barbeque joint? You’re in luck because chefs in Oklahoma City know how to do barbecue right. Each restaurant has its own method of smoking meats so they come out tender and juicy. And each has its own secret recipe for the flavorful sauce. Here are a few of Oklahoma City residents’ favorite barbecue spots you should try!

Iron Star Urban Barbeque
3700 N. Shartel

The Iron Star Urban Barbeque, which gets its name from the infamous Oklahoma outlaw Belle Starr, is an OKC favorite. The wood floors and brick walls provide just the right ambiance to enjoy the barbequed ribs, chicken, pulled pork and beef brisket. And if you love southern-style food, you’ll really enjoy the fancy mac and cheese, Barbeque baked beans, collard greens, Barrios street corn and fried okra to accompany your smoky meat selection.

Leo's Barbeque
3631 N. Kelly Ave

Leo's is a little hole-in-wall place that serves great food. Their focus is on meat, and they serve the best brisket, ribs, chicken, and hot links you’ve ever eaten. The portions are big and will definitely fill you up. Some of the dishes are called "lite," but don't let the name fool you. Leo's Special Lite comes with ribs, pulled pork, hot link, toast, your choice of two sides and a slice of strawberry banana cake.

Swadley's BBQ
8317 S. Western Ave

Swadley's looks like your typical Barbeque restaurant and the food they put out is delicious. They have been named "Best Barbeque" in Oklahoma by Thrillist and are also recommended on TripAdvisor. Swadley’s always starts with fresh meats (never frozen) that go into the smokers early every morning, and sometimes the night before. The result? Juicy, tender meats with rich, smoky flavors you’re sure to enjoy.

Pappy's BBQ
201 S. May Ave.

Pappy's may not look like much from the outside, but looks are often deceiving. Pappy's makes some of the most flavorful, mouth-watering barbequed meat around. It's not big on frills; there is no waitperson so you’ll need to get your own drinks, forks, and napkins. What it is big on, however, is taste and good, quick service.

While you're checking out the best barbecue spots, be sure to check out Oklahoma breweries and pubs for some great micro brews as well. Have a favorite barbeque place we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below.