9 Vermont BBQ Taverns So Good You’ll Plan a Trip Around Them

Vermont’s barbecue scene surprises travelers who come for mountains and maple, then stay for low-and-slow mastery.

Across the state, tavern-style dining rooms and roadside smokehouses craft regional takes that feel distinctly Green Mountain.

This list curates spots where ambiance matters as much as the pit, from riverside porches to repurposed mills.

Plan your route, because these nine stops will have you mapping a full Vermont road trip.

1. Prohibition Pig Restaurant, Waterbury

Set in downtown Waterbury, Prohibition Pig pairs a lively tavern vibe with a Vermont angle on eastern North Carolina techniques. The dining room leans warm and relaxed, with wooden tables, soft lighting, and an energetic hum that rolls in from Main Street. Service moves quickly, yet nothing feels rushed, making it a comfortable base for travelers exploring central Vermont.

The pit team highlights smoke and tang over heavy sweetness, which keeps each bite bright and balanced. Sides rotate with the seasons, and the staff knows the menu well, guiding first timers without fuss. Window seats bring in small town scenery, while the back room feels cozier for unhurried meals.

Waterbury sits at a convenient junction for day trips, and this spot works well as either a first stop or a celebratory finish. Parking is straightforward in nearby public lots, and walking the block reveals shops and galleries. If you want a snapshot of Vermont’s modern barbecue energy, this is the crowd pleaser.

2. Bluebird Barbecue, Burlington

Bluebird Barbecue sits by the Winooski River, a short drive from Burlington’s waterfront, and offers a comfortable, tavernlike setting. The room blends industrial touches with reclaimed wood, making it feel both polished and easygoing. Large windows frame the tree line outside, which sets a relaxing tone for groups and solo diners alike.

Staff greet guests with confidence, answering questions about smoke profiles and explaining how to pace a longer meal. Seating options range from spacious booths to smaller two tops that suit quick stops. The music stays low, so conversations flow without strain.

Burlington visitors often weave a lakeside stroll into their plans before or after a meal here. The location works well for a mellow evening, especially if you appreciate river views and a steady crowd. When mapping a Vermont trip, this tavern rewards anyone who values comfort, thoughtful service, and a polished space to settle in.

3. Wicked Awesome BBQ, White River Junction

Just off the junction where art studios and rail history meet, Wicked Awesome BBQ keeps the vibe unpretentious and welcoming. The dining area is modest and bright, with simple tables and a cheerful counter crew guiding you through the lineup. It feels like the kind of place locals recommend because it is easy to love and easier to return to.

The approach here blends regional ideas, shaped by New England palates and road-tested techniques. Guests settle into a relaxed rhythm as the room fills with friendly chatter. The layout keeps things moving, so you can eat and continue your Upper Valley plans without losing time.

White River Junction makes a smart base for drives along the Connecticut River, and this stop fits neatly into that circuit. Parking is straightforward, and the surrounding streets reward a short stroll. If you want barbecue with a hometown spirit and no fuss, this tavern-style spot delivers steady comfort.

4. Black Diamond Barbeque, Morrisville

Black Diamond Barbeque operates from Morrisville with a welcoming roadhouse feel and a loyal following. Inside, you will find rustic details, friendly staff, and a layout that handles families, groups, and solo diners without crowding. It sits near the Lamoille Valley, which adds an easy scenic loop to your agenda.

The team emphasizes steady smoke and consistency, the kind of pacing that rewards patience. Locals drop in for dependable plates, while travelers appreciate the mellow soundtrack and clean, straightforward design. The space encourages unhurried meals and unrushed conversation.

As a waypoint between Stowe and the northern lakes, it makes sense as a lunch anchor or early dinner. Parking is convenient, and staff move with practiced calm even when the room gets busy. If your Vermont road trip mixes mountain views and low-key tavern energy, this stop brings both within a short drive.

5. Mark BBQ, Essex Junction

In Essex Junction, Mark BBQ keeps the atmosphere simple and friendly, which suits travelers moving between Burlington and the Champlain Valley. The interior is bright, with clean lines, counter seating, and tables arranged for quick service. Natural light fills the space, making even a short stop feel upbeat.

Staff communicate clearly about portions and pacing, helping guests plan without guesswork. The room stays tidy, and turnover is brisk, so you can time your visit around nearby errands or train schedules. Background music is present but never intrusive.

Essex Junction’s compact center makes parking and walking easy, and the area has a growing mix of small shops. This spot works well for a fast, satisfying detour on a day of exploring northwest Vermont. If your route favors efficient stops with a sunny tone, this tavern-style barbecue joint fits the bill.

6. Big Fatty’s BBQ, White River Junction

Big Fatty’s BBQ anchors a lively corner of White River Junction with a down-to-earth dining room that feels built for regulars. Inside, you will see badge-covered walls, wood accents, and an easygoing flow between the counter and seating. The vibe is friendly in a way that makes newcomers comfortable right away.

The room handles busy periods gracefully, and the staff keep things moving without cutting corners. Lighting is warm, and tables are spaced for relaxed conversations. It is a convenient choice after gallery visits or a stroll near the rail station.

Travelers who value character over polish will appreciate the space. Parking options nearby broaden your timing flexibility, especially on weekends. As part of a broader Vermont tour, this tavern feels like a dependable hearth, a steady stop where energy and hospitality meet.

7. Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury

Middlebury’s Two Brothers Tavern is not a dedicated smokehouse, yet it earns a place on a barbecue-driven itinerary for its tavern soul and regional comfort. The historic basement lounge and upstairs dining spaces offer varied moods, from intimate nooks to an airy main room. Brick, timber, and soft lighting create a classic Vermont pub atmosphere.

Consistency and friendly service anchor the experience. Staff guide guests to daily specials and seasonal offerings, which pair well with the room’s relaxed pace. The seating layout is flexible, making it easy for couples or larger groups to settle in.

Set along Otter Creek and close to the college green, the location fits a pleasant town walk before or after your meal. Parking and wayfinding are simple in the compact center. For travelers stitching together Vermont culture with comfort-forward dining, this tavern is a reliable, character-rich stop.

8. Smokin’ Butts Bar-B-Q, St. Albans

St. Albans hosts Smokin’ Butts Bar-B-Q, a casual spot that channels small town warmth with straightforward seating and a friendly counter. The space favors clarity over clutter, which makes ordering and settling in effortless. Natural light from the storefront windows brightens the room, giving it an open feel.

Guests often comment on the attentive staff and the quick pace. Tables turn without pressure, leaving room for a relaxed chat or a short planning session for the next leg of your trip. The setting pairs well with a stroll around Taylor Park and the neighboring shops.

As a northern Vermont waypoint, this tavern-style joint fits neatly into a loop toward Lake Champlain or the islands. Parking nearby is typically manageable, even at peak times. If your route aims for simple comfort and clean, inviting energy, this place earns a pin on the map.

9. The Abbey Pub and Restaurant, Sheldon

North of St. Albans, The Abbey Pub and Restaurant functions as a community hub with a broad comfort menu and a welcoming, lodge-like interior. While not a pure smokehouse, it offers barbecue items in a cozy setting that suits long drives in Franklin County. The dining rooms feel expansive, yet the tone remains intimate.

Wood paneling, local memorabilia, and soft lighting set a calm rhythm for meals. Staff match the mood with steady service and clear guidance on seating options. Families and groups settle in easily, while solo travelers find quiet corners to recharge.

This stop works well for those tracing Vermont’s rural backroads toward the border. Parking is abundant, and the surrounding fields add a peaceful edge to the experience. If your tour values taverns that blend local spirit with barbecue-friendly comfort, The Abbey is a worthwhile pause.