Eau Claire, at the heart of Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley, might be better known for cheese curds and Friday fish fry, but the city’s smoky, wood-fired barbecue scene is surprisingly robust—thanks to a community that appreciates comfort food and regional, locally sourced ingredients.
If you’re looking for generous portions, slow-cooked richness, and that unmistakable Northern hospitality, Eau Claire’s barbecue will warm you up in any season.
Smoky’s BBQ and Grill
Smoky’s is Eau Claire’s go-to for classic down-home barbecue, with a menu stacking up favorites like tender beef brisket, baby back ribs, generous pulled pork sandwiches, and hearty sides.
The spicy baked beans and honey-butter cornbread are regulars’ favorites, and local microbrews complete the meal.
With its welcoming, rustic setting and live blues nights, Smoky’s feels like the real deal.
Ragazzi’s Pizza & Restaurant (Smokehouse Specialties)
Don’t let the Italian name fool you—Ragazzi’s moonlights as a BBQ destination, especially on weekends when the smoker rolls out brisket, St. Louis ribs, and saucy pulled pork.
Sides include classics like creamy cole slaw and buttery mashed potatoes.
The pizza’s great, but the hickory-smoked meats are what keep barbecue fans coming back.
The Classic Garage
This quirky, retro-themed diner puts out a surprisingly strong barbecue menu featuring pulled pork sandwiches, smoked sausage plates, and juicy ribs.
It’s a diner-meets-smokehouse set-up, with 1950s vibes and fast, friendly service.
The root beer floats and crispy fries complete a kid-friendly, all-American meal.
Cowboy Jack’s Saloon
Cowboy Jack’s brings a Texas roadhouse spirit to Eau Claire, specializing in slow-smoked brisket, tender ribs, and loaded BBQ nachos—great for sharing with friends.
The spacious, rustic bar setting (with country music and occasional line dancing) adds to the fun, and their sauce range covers everything from sweet-and-tangy to extra spicy.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Eau Claire’s outpost of the Texas-founded chain gets consistent praise for their reliably smoky pulled pork, jalapeño cheddar sausage, and kid-friendly atmosphere.
Order a plate of their pit-smoked wings or the classic brisket sandwich with fried okra.
The sweet tea and classic Southern desserts are crowd-pleasers, rounding out the menu for a taste of true barbecue comfort.
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