If you think barbecue is just a southern specialty, Ohio may change your mind. Across the state, pitmasters serve up flavors that reflect family traditions, creative twists, and a genuine love for the craft. Each spot on this list offers something unforgettable, from historic institutions to quirky roadside finds, Ohio’s barbecue deserves a spot on your next travel itinerary.
I’ve tasted my way through these ten places, each one unique and worth the trip. Whether you crave smoky brisket, saucy ribs, or inventive sandwiches, there’s a plate waiting for you in Ohio. Here’s where to find BBQ so good, you’ll want to add it to your travel list. Hungry yet? Read on for the details!
1. Eli’s BBQ, Cincinnati
On a sunny Cincinnati afternoon, there’s nothing quite like settling into a picnic table at Eli’s BBQ. What started as a low-key, almost hidden spot now draws crowds with its mouthwatering pulled pork, tender, smoky, and topped with a house-made sauce that brightens each bite. Locals bring their own drinks, making it easy to linger over plates stacked with BBQ chicken, cornbread, and coleslaw.
The charm isn’t just in the food; Eli’s has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that feels more like a backyard gathering than a restaurant. The cornbread, studded with jalapeños and cheese, is a must-order. I always end up sharing extra with friends.
If you’re lucky, you might land a seat during live music nights, when the energy matches the flavors. Over the years, national food magazines have noticed what Cincinnatians have always known: Eli’s makes barbecue meant for sharing, savoring, and coming back to again. It’s a summer tradition I never miss.
2. Ray Ray’s Hog Pit, Columbus
Ray Ray’s Hog Pit grabs your attention the minute you pull up, smoke drifting through the air and a line that tells you you’re in the right place. I respect their commitment to using Ohio-raised animals and hickory and oak from their own woods. That approach gives every bite a rich, earthy depth you just don’t get elsewhere.
Brisket here is a standout, full of flavor from hours over the fire, while the pulled pork tastes like something from a backyard feast. Even regulars say the specials keep things interesting, sometimes you’ll find burnt ends or house-made sausages that rival the classics.
Ray Ray’s isn’t flashy or over-designed, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s the kind of place where the food speaks for itself, and the community feel makes you want to stay a bit longer. Bring friends and try as many sides as you can fit on your tray, every dish has a story.
3. 7 Miles Smokehouse, Chillicothe
If you drive down a quiet stretch just outside Chillicothe, you’ll stumble onto 7 Miles Smokehouse. Trust me, it’s worth the detour. Their ‘Mad Dog’ sandwich is a local legend, piled high with smoked meats and just the right amount of sauce, it’s the sort of meal you remember (and maybe need to nap after).
What makes 7 Miles memorable isn’t just the generous portions but the clever spins on classic BBQ. You might find brisket with unexpected toppings or sides that riff on southern comfort. Every visit feels a bit like discovering something new.
The roadside setting only adds to the charm. You’ll see regulars chatting with staff, travelers taking photos, and families digging in after a day out. If you want barbecue that feels both creative and down-home, this is the spot to pull over.
4. Bill’s Real Pit BBQ, Nashport
Stepping into Bill’s Real Pit BBQ is like stepping into a family kitchen where barbecue has been perfected over generations. I love the no-frills atmosphere, wood-paneled walls, a classic smoker, and regulars who know each other by name. The ribs come glazed in a sauce that’s been in the family for years, and you can taste the tradition with every bite.
They don’t bother with trends or fancy presentations here. Instead, you’ll find honest, smoky meats and sides that taste like home. The pulled pork is tender, the slaw is crisp, and everything arrives piping hot.
Locals swear by Bill’s, and for good reason. It’s unpretentious but consistently delicious, proving that sometimes the best barbecue comes from places that never change, because they don’t need to. If you appreciate history and heart, Bill’s should be on your route.
5. Combs BBQ Central, Middletown
The first thing I noticed at Combs BBQ Central wasn’t the smoky aroma, but the warm, church potluck energy. Friends gather at long tables, families share platters, and the staff greets newcomers like regulars. Their smoked ribs have a loyal following, with a dry rub that holds up beautifully beside the tangy house sauce.
I appreciate how Combs rewards adventurous eaters, try their whole spread and you’ll earn not just a full belly, but maybe a souvenir T-shirt. The menu rotates, but staples like pulled chicken and mac ‘n’ cheese are always crowd-pleasers.
What sets Combs apart is the little touches: house-made pickles, friendly banter at the counter, and portions generous enough to share. If you want barbecue with heart and hospitality, you’ll find both here.
6. Smoked on High, Columbus
Smoked on High looks like any other historic home from the sidewalk. Step inside, and you’ll find a BBQ spot that’s built a devoted following. The ribs here find a rare balance, smoky and tender, but never falling apart, with a bark that delivers a satisfying bite every time.
I’ve seen their burnt ends fly off the counter before noon, and the brisket sandwiches are worth arriving early for. The staff knows their meats and will guide you through the menu, making each visit feel personal.
This spot has popped up in travel guides for its consistency and creativity. If you appreciate barbecue that respects tradition without being stuck in it, make a stop at Smoked on High. It’s easy to see why locals keep this gem all to themselves.
7. Montgomery Inn, Cincinnati Suburbs
Montgomery Inn is almost an institution in the Cincinnati area, and once you try their famous ribs, you’ll understand why. Their secret? Loin-back ribs that are tender but still hold their shape, paired with a house sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. The ribs and sauce are legendary, though some BBQ purists note the style leans more saucy than smoky, which is exactly what makes Montgomery Inn distinct in Ohio’s barbecue scene.
There’s a sense of occasion every time you walk through the door. The staff treats every guest like a VIP, and the energy in the dining room is contagious. Their sauce has become so well-loved, you’ll spot bottles sold in local grocery stores.
If you want a meal with a side of history, Montgomery Inn is the place. It’s a taste of Cincinnati tradition that’s managed to stay fresh for over 70 years.
8. City Barbeque, Columbus (Statewide)
City Barbeque started in Columbus in 1999 and, though it’s now a regional chain, it remains deeply Ohio-rooted, one reason locals still embrace it as their own. Today it stretches across the Midwest, and I think their brisket competes with the best anywhere.
The staff carves every order fresh, right in front of you, so you never get anything but peak flavor and texture. I’m always impressed by how they keep a personal touch, even with restaurants in multiple states. Their sandwiches have won more than a few awards, and I keep coming back for the turkey, it’s juicy, smoky, and a nice change of pace. The sides, from hush puppies to greens, show just as much care as the meats.
You’ll find City Barbeque in everything from shopping centers to stand-alone buildings, but the vibe stays relaxed and genuine. Whether you’re local or just passing through, it’s a reliable place to satisfy a BBQ craving.
9. Midwest Best BBQ and Creamery, Loveland
Not every barbecue joint ends the meal with ice cream, but Midwest Best BBQ and Creamery pulls it off. Their smoked turkey has a devoted following, with just the right amount of woodsy flavor, while the ribs arrive so tender you barely need a knife. I always save room for dessert, because the homemade ice cream (try the Buckeye flavor) is a highlight on its own.
The atmosphere is cheerful and relaxed, with plenty of outdoor seating and big tables for families. Staff are happy to offer samples or help you pair a scoop with your meal.
If you’ve got kids in tow or just want a sweet finish to your BBQ adventure, this Loveland spot is worth the drive. It’s casual, it’s tasty, and you’ll leave satisfied on both fronts: savory and sweet.
10. Uncle Beth’s BBQ, North Lewisburg
Uncle Beth’s BBQ in North Lewisburg feels like visiting a friend who just happens to cook award-winning barbecue. The blackberry-glazed ribs are the star, offering a perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and tangy. Each meal ends with homemade desserts, and I never pass up a slice of pie when I visit.
The owners run the place with genuine care, often coming out to chat about your meal or offer a recommendation for sides. It’s one of those spots where regulars and newcomers are equally welcome, and the personal touch makes all the difference.
Their recipes are closely guarded family secrets, passed down through generations, which gives every bite a sense of heritage. If you want barbecue with soul and a strong sense of community, Uncle Beth’s delivers every time. Beyond the small-town charm, their blackberry-glazed ribs and hearty sides have also earned recognition on BBQ competition circuits, adding extra credibility among pitmasters.
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