Washington state is famous for its coffee, its mountains, and its seafood, but hidden across the region are some of the best BBQ spots you have never heard of. These are not the big chains with flashy signs and crowded parking lots.
Instead, these are the small, family-run joints where smoke rolls out the back door and locals line up for ribs, brisket, and pulled pork that taste like home. From Everett to Spokane, Vancouver to Mercer Island, Washington has a thriving BBQ scene that flies under the radar.
Whether you are a lifelong BBQ fan or just getting started, these hole-in-the-wall gems are worth the trip.
1. Hole In the Wall BBQ
Walking into this spot feels like stepping into someone’s backyard cookout, except the food is ten times better. The name says it all. This is not a fancy restaurant with white tablecloths and servers in ties. It is a no-frills BBQ joint where the focus is entirely on the meat, the smoke, and the sauce.
Regulars swear by the ribs, which come off the bone with just the right amount of tug. The brisket is smoked low and slow until it practically melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a deep, smoky flavor that makes you want to order more before you even finish your plate.
The sides are just as satisfying. Think creamy coleslaw, tangy baked beans, and cornbread that crumbles perfectly. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, the kind of place where you can show up in jeans and leave with a full belly and a smile.
If you are looking for authentic BBQ without the fuss, this is your spot. Bring your appetite and be ready to enjoy some of the best smoked meat Washington has to offer.
2. Lil Red Takeout & Catering
Sometimes the best meals come from the smallest kitchens. Lil Red Takeout & Catering proves that you do not need a big dining room to serve big flavors. This tiny spot focuses on takeout and catering, but do not let the size fool you.
The pulled pork here is a fan favorite, piled high on soft buns and topped with a tangy sauce that has just the right kick. The chicken is juicy and perfectly seasoned, with a smoky char that adds depth to every bite. Even the mac and cheese, a classic BBQ side, gets rave reviews for its creamy, cheesy goodness.
What makes Lil Red special is the care that goes into every order. You can tell the people behind the counter love what they do. The service is quick, the portions are generous, and the prices are fair.
Whether you are grabbing lunch on the go or ordering for a party, Lil Red delivers quality every time. It is the kind of place that turns first-time visitors into loyal regulars with just one meal.
3. Wood Shop BBQ
The name gives you a hint about what to expect. Wood Shop BBQ takes its craft seriously, treating smoked meat like an art form. The space has a rustic, workshop vibe that makes you feel right at home. Wooden tables, simple decor, and the smell of smoke in the air set the stage for a great meal.
The menu features all the BBQ classics, from ribs to brisket to sausage. Each cut is smoked with care, using quality wood to bring out rich, natural flavors. The brisket is a standout, with a beautiful smoke ring and a tender texture that makes it hard to stop eating.
The sauces here are house-made and range from sweet to spicy, so you can pick your favorite or try them all. The sides, like potato salad and collard greens, round out the meal perfectly. The staff is friendly and happy to explain the menu if you are new to BBQ.
Wood Shop BBQ is proof that great food does not need to be complicated. Just good ingredients, skilled hands, and a whole lot of smoke.
4. J and L BBQ Everett
Tucked away in Everett, J and L BBQ is the kind of place that locals love to keep to themselves. But once you try it, you will want to tell everyone you know. This family-run spot serves up hearty portions of smoked meat that hit the spot every single time.
The ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, coated in a sauce that balances sweet and tangy flavors beautifully. The pulled pork is another crowd-pleaser, slow-cooked until it shreds easily and soaks up all that smoky goodness. Pair it with their homemade coleslaw and you have a winning combination.
What really sets J and L apart is the warmth of the service. The owners treat every customer like family, and it shows. The dining area is cozy and casual, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends.
The prices are reasonable, the portions are generous, and the quality is consistent. If you are in Everett and craving BBQ, this is the place to go. You will leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
5. Lew’s BBQ – Everett
Lew’s BBQ in Everett has built a loyal following by doing one thing really well: smoking meat. This is not a place trying to be trendy or fancy. It is just honest, delicious BBQ made with passion and skill. The moment you walk in, the smell alone will make your mouth water.
The brisket here is legendary among locals. It has a perfect bark on the outside and stays juicy and tender on the inside. The ribs are equally impressive, with a nice char and a flavor that lingers long after the last bite. The pulled pork is smoky, savory, and piled high on every plate.
The sides are simple but satisfying. The baked beans have a hint of sweetness, and the cornbread is moist and crumbly. The staff is friendly and efficient, making sure you get your food hot and fresh every time.
Lew’s BBQ is proof that you do not need a fancy setup to serve amazing food. Just great ingredients, a smoker, and a love for BBQ. If you are in Everett, do not miss it.
6. Jeff’s Texas Style BBQ – Marysville
Texas BBQ in Washington? Absolutely. Jeff’s Texas Style BBQ in Marysville brings authentic Lone Star flavors to the Pacific Northwest, and it does it right. The focus here is on big, bold flavors and generous portions that would make any Texan proud.
The brisket is the star of the show. It is smoked for hours until it reaches that perfect balance of crusty bark and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The ribs are meaty and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice in the rub. The sausage, a Texas BBQ staple, is juicy and packed with flavor.
The sides here are classic and comforting. Think creamy mac and cheese, smoky baked beans, and tangy coleslaw. The portions are huge, so come hungry or be ready to take home leftovers. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with a Texas pride that shines through in every detail.
Jeff’s is the kind of place where you can taste the care and tradition in every bite. If you love Texas-style BBQ or just want to try something new, make the trip to Marysville. You will not regret it.
7. The Yards Bruncheon – Spokane
Brunch and BBQ might sound like an unusual pairing, but The Yards Bruncheon in Spokane makes it work beautifully. This spot combines the best of both worlds, offering smoked meats alongside creative brunch dishes that keep people coming back for more.
The BBQ here is top-notch. The pulled pork is tender and flavorful, perfect on its own or piled onto a breakfast sandwich. The brisket is smoked to perfection, with a rich, smoky flavor that pairs surprisingly well with eggs and hash browns. The ribs are another highlight, with a sticky glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness.
The brunch menu is equally impressive, featuring everything from fluffy pancakes to savory omelets. The combination of BBQ and brunch creates a unique dining experience that feels both indulgent and comforting. The space itself is modern and inviting, with plenty of natural light and a relaxed vibe.
Whether you are stopping by for a weekend brunch or a weekday lunch, The Yards Bruncheon offers something special. It is a refreshing twist on BBQ that Spokane locals have embraced wholeheartedly.
8. Longhorn Barbecue – Spokane
Longhorn Barbecue in Spokane has been serving up smoky, delicious BBQ for years, earning a reputation as one of the best spots in the area. This is the kind of place where the food speaks for itself, and the locals keep coming back for more.
The ribs here are a must-try. They are smoked until tender and coated in a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The brisket is equally impressive, with a beautiful smoke ring and a flavor that lingers on your palate. The pulled pork is juicy and full of smoky goodness, making it hard to choose just one favorite.
The sides are classic BBQ fare, done right. The coleslaw is crisp and refreshing, the baked beans are rich and hearty, and the cornbread is just the right amount of sweet. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, with a staff that clearly takes pride in what they serve.
Longhorn Barbecue is a Spokane staple for a reason. The food is consistently excellent, the portions are generous, and the prices are fair. If you are in town and craving BBQ, this is the place to go.
9. The Pit Stop – Cle Elum (Warrior’s Quick Stop)
Sometimes the best BBQ comes from the most unexpected places. The Pit Stop, now operating as Warrior’s Quick Stop in Cle Elum, still serves up some seriously good smoked meat from its BBQ counter. This is not a traditional sit-down restaurant, but that does not stop it from delivering big flavors.
The brisket here is a standout, with a smoky crust and a tender interior that makes every bite satisfying. The ribs are meaty and flavorful, perfect for a quick meal on the road. The pulled pork is another favorite, served on soft buns with a tangy sauce that ties everything together.
The setting is casual and convenient, making it a great stop for travelers heading through Cle Elum. You can grab your food to go and enjoy it on a picnic table outside or take it with you on your journey. The staff is friendly and quick, ensuring you get your meal without a long wait.
Warrior’s Quick Stop proves that you do not need a fancy setup to serve great BBQ. Just good meat, a smoker, and a passion for flavor. Stop by and see for yourself.
10. Roanoke Inn – Mercer Island
The Roanoke Inn on Mercer Island is a local landmark with a long history and a reputation for serving some of the best BBQ in the area. This charming spot combines a relaxed island vibe with seriously good food, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
The BBQ here is cooked with care and attention to detail. The ribs are tender and flavorful, with a sauce that complements the smoky meat without overpowering it. The brisket is another highlight, with a beautiful bark and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The pulled pork is juicy and packed with flavor, perfect for piling onto a bun or enjoying on its own.
The setting is part of the charm. The inn has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to stay and linger over your meal. The outdoor seating area offers beautiful views, making it a great spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall experience.
Roanoke Inn is more than just a BBQ spot. It is a piece of Mercer Island history that continues to serve great food and create lasting memories for everyone who visits.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
