Miami might conjure images of Cuban sandwiches, seafood, and tropical flavors, but the city’s barbecue scene is both lively and deeply satisfying.
Local pitmasters fuse classic Southern smoke with bold Latin influences, creating a uniquely Miami twist—think churrasco, guava-glazed ribs, and plenty of fresh citrus in the sauces.
Whether you want old-school or nuevo, beachy or down-home, Magic City has you covered.
La Traila Barbecue
La Traila started as a pop-up and quickly rose to cult status for their Texas-inspired barbecue made with Miami flair.
The brisket, smoked for hours over oak, is perfectly tender with a peppery bark.
Don’t miss their tacos stuffed with burnt ends or the smoked queso.
They’re always introducing “Miami-style” specials—like smoked pork belly with guava glaze.
Smoke & Dough
This stylish, modern smokehouse in Coral Gables is all about creative takes and chef-driven barbecue.
The menu features everything from smoked short ribs to house-made sausages and Florida-inspired sides like yuca fries and tangy slaw.
The vibe is sophisticated but playful, with a strong local following for both brunch and dinner.
Society BBQ
Housed in the hip food hall The Citadel, Society BBQ brings together all the regional hits—brisket, pork ribs, chopped chicken, and pulled pork—often with a twist (like barbecue-vinaigrette slaw).
The “Parker’s Sandwich” (brisket and sausage with a fried egg) is already a local legend. Perfect for groups or a pre-night-out feast.
Shorty’s Bar-B-Q
A Miami institution since 1951, Shorty’s is the place for classic, family-friendly barbecue with a true vintage vibe.
Long communal tables, red-checkered tablecloths, and heaping plates of ribs, chicken, and slaw make for a nostalgic, stick-to-your-ribs experience.
The sauce is sweeter than you’ll find up north, and don’t miss the sweet corn on the cob.
King BBQ Miami
King BBQ brings a modern Asian influence to traditional barbecue, fusing southern-style smoked meats with flavors like lemongrass, ginger, and spicy house sauces.
Whether you’re after the sticky pork ribs, smoked duck, or braised brisket bao, it’s a unique twist you won’t find anywhere else in Miami—and an Instagram favorite, too.
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