5 Best Barbecue Joints in Gulfport, Mississippi to Try

With its Gulf breezes and laid-back, soulful vibe, Gulfport is a place where barbecue meets coastal flavors and deep Southern tradition.

The city’s pitmasters are equal parts storyteller and chef, braising family recipes with bayou spice and Gulf Coast bounty.

Smoked pork and brisket are given local flair with seafood sides, bold rubs, and a true come-as-you-are sensibility.

1. Murky Waters Blues-N-BBQ

A Mississippi mainstay, Murky Waters lives up to its name with deep, smoky flavors and top-tier Southern hospitality.

Blues music is always on, live or through speakers, and the ‘cue is legit: hickory-smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, sausage, and legendary smoked wings.

House sauces run from sweet to spicy, and the sides—think fried okra, collard greens, and hush puppies—are reason alone to visit.

2. The Rack House Steaks & Spirits

While known for killer steaks, their barbecue platters are local favorites. Slow-smoked ribs, juicy brisket, and a sweet tea brined pulled pork light up the menu, served with classic Southern sides and a long list of bourbons.

Their boudin sausage nods to Cajun neighbors, and pecan wood gives the meat a signature Gulfport twist.

3. Slap Ya Momma’s BBQ Smokehouse

Funky, casual, and full of fun, Slap Ya Momma’s goes big on Southern flavor.

The pit is fueled with love (and a little sass), smoking up pork ribs, beef brisket, and chicken quarters daily.

Try the “Mamma’s Sampler Plate” for the full experience, with their signature spicy-sweet sauce, cornbread muffins, and slow-simmered beans on the side.

4. Tony’s Brick Oven Pizzeria & BBQ

Don’t be fooled by the name—they serve both! Tony’s BBQ is a locals’ secret, thanks to their brisket plate (tender with a peppery bark), housemade sausage, and inventive brick oven smoked pizzas loaded up with burnt ends, jalapeños, and tangy BBQ sauce.

Grab a draft brew and never skip their down-home banana pudding.

5. Smokin’ the Sound BBQ

This food truck pops up at markets, festivals, and special events all over Gulfport and neighboring communities.

Their slow-cooked pork shoulder and brisket sandwiches draw faithful fans, and they’re especially known for zippy vinegar slaws and spicy “Sound Sauce,” which brings a touch of the Gulf’s heat to the table.