Known for its cherry orchards and stunning lake views, Traverse City isn’t a traditional barbecue hotspot—but its food scene is fiercely creative.
Barbecue here often fuses Great Lakes ingredients, like cherrywood-smoked meats or housemade sauces using local fruits.
Expect a mix of down-home smokehouses, “up north” taverns, and a surprising amount of pitmaster passion on every plate.
1. Sparks BBQ
A Traverse City essential, Sparks serves up slow-cooked brisket, pulled pork, and St. Louis-style ribs smoked over local hardwoods.
Customers rave about their signature mac and cheese, homemade pickles, and the sweet, tangy cherry bbq sauce.
The patio is perfect for summer lake breezes, and their sampler platter is legendary.
2. Blue Tractor Barbecue
Blending barbecue and craft beer, Blue Tractor’s menu offers hearty pitmaster platters alongside creative Michigander twists—try the cherry-smoked wings, brisket chili, and truffle tater tots.
Their ribs come slathered in a sticky house sauce and pair perfectly with a pint of local ale.
3. Oakwood Proper Burgers & BBQ
Oakwood does classic American barbecue with a gourmet edge.
Besides killer burgers, don’t miss their slow-smoked pulled pork sandwich, Texas-style sausage, and bourbon BBQ brisket plate.
Generous sides include smoked gouda mac, pimento cheese grits, and seasonal Michigan greens.
4. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
A well-loved outpost of the Texas-founded chain, Dickey’s in Traverse City keeps things classic with tender brisket, pulled chicken, sausage, barbecue beans, baked potato casserole, and super fresh coleslaw.
Family packs are popular for takeout, and their spicy, smoky house sauce is a highlight.
5. The Filling Station Microbrewery
Primarily known for pizza and brews, The Filling Station surprises with weekend barbecue specials: smoked pork loin, ribs, and brisket, often using local apple/cherrywood.
Menu changes seasonally, but everything is made with care—and the railroad-themed setting is one-of-a-kind.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
