Set on the Arkansas-Oklahoma border, Fort Smith is a city steeped in frontier history and hearty Southern hospitality—meaning the local barbecue is smoky, soulful, and full of big, bold tradition.
Here you’ll find deep roots: family recipes passed down, slow-smoked pork, sweet-and-spicy Arkansas sauces, and sides that don’t play second fiddle (think beans, fries, and fried okra).
From hidden gems to venerable classics, the city’s BBQ is a true community feast.
1. Ralph’s Pink Flamingo BBQ
A Fort Smith legend! Ralph’s regularly lands on “best of” lists thanks to its juicy baby-back ribs, crisp-skinned chicken, and a slightly sweet, tomato-based house sauce.
Locals love the rib tips and homemade baked beans, and the casual, neon-lit setting is pure Arkansas charm.
2. Jerry Neel’s Bar-B-Q
A family favorite since the ‘60s, Jerry Neel’s is old-school: pork shoulder, beef brisket, and sausage cooked low and slow, served with traditional (sweet and a little tart) Arkansas sauce. The “deluxe” platters and their popular loaded BBQ baked potatoes are comfort food at its best.
3. Whole Hog Café
Though it began in Little Rock, Fort Smith’s Whole Hog gets high marks for tender pulled pork, “fall-apart” ribs, and an array of six unique house sauces (from classic sweet to chipotle-spiked).
The potato salad and slaw are musts, and the “Ultimate Platter” covers all the classics for the indecisive.
4. Patrick’s Butcher Boy Burgers & BBQ
This family-friendly spot does double duty—smokehouse and burger counter—but the BBQ easily holds its own.
Brisket, pork, and ribs are all smoked in-house and can be stuffed into burgers or giant sandwiches.
Don’t miss the house pickles!
5. Old South BBQ
A low-key takeout favorite, Old South is all about no-frills, slow-cooked meats, with a peppery dry rub and a slightly tangy sauce.
This neighborhood spot is great for ribs that pull clean, chopped pork sandwiches, and classic fried sides.
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