Columbia might be best known for the University of Missouri, but this friendly city is no less serious about barbecue than its St. Louis or Kansas City neighbors.
Columbia BBQ is hearty, unpretentious, and boasts rootsy Midwestern charm—with pitmasters drawing from multiple regional traditions to create their own smoky signatures.
Expect rib platters large enough to feed a football team, tangy house sauces, and plenty of side dish variety.
Buckingham Smokehouse BBQ
Buckingham’s has been the gold standard for Columbia barbecue since the ‘90s, merging Texas-style brisket and Memphis ribs in a homey roadhouse setting.
It’s all slow-smoked over hickory and cherry wood, and you can really taste the difference.
The pulled pork is super tender, and their marbled brisket is a must. Try the burnt ends platter—it goes fast! Deviled eggs, fried corn, and banana pudding round out the Missouri comfort experience.
Shotgun Pete’s BBQ Shack
Tiny, no-frills, and obsessed with meat, Shotgun Pete’s delivers big, bold flavors in every bite.
The dry-rubbed ribs win local awards, as do the sweet heat wings and sliced-to-order brisket sandwiches.
The house sauce has just the right balance of molasses and vinegar, and their garlic mashed potatoes are a cult favorite.
Look for their smoke wagon at local events and festivals when the shack itself is packed!
Como Smoke and Fire
Known for both their barbecue and extensive craft beer list, Como Smoke and Fire gives you the full Missouri comfort food treatment.
Big platters of brisket, pulled pork, and BBQ chicken arrive with mountain-sized sides: jalapeño bacon mac, green beans, and smoky baked beans.
Their “brisket nachos” are a proudly over-the-top local invention, and live music on weekends keeps the vibe lively.
Smokin’ Chicks BBQ
Smokin’ Chicks is a true family affair, with recipes handed down and a devotion to honest, flavorful barbecue—slow-cooked pork shoulder, ribs with a tangy-sweet glaze, and crisp smoked chicken quarters.
Their cornbread muffins and loaded potato salad are made fresh daily.
It’s casual, welcoming, and ideal for feasting with friends or family.
Lutz’s BBQ
Lutz’s brings a Kansas City vibe to Columbia with its juicy burnt ends, heaping mixed-meat plates, and big, saucy sandwiches.
Combo platters allow you to sample ribs, brisket, and turkey all at once, with fresh-cut fries and house-made pickles on the side.
The laid-back, roadhouse setting—with wood paneling and checkerboard tablecloths—feels just right for lingering over a messy, delicious meal.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
