Billings is Montana’s biggest city, set against dramatic cliffs and open skies.
The barbecue here is hearty, unfussy, and influenced by ranching traditions. Expect big portions, real-wood smoke, and pitmasters who’ve mastered both regional (Texas/Kansas City) and hyper-local styles.
You’ll find everything from classic rib plates to creative, modern BBQ mashups.
Blue’s BBQ
A beloved roadside joint, Blue’s is known for its friendly welcome, tender brisket, and house-made spicy-sweet sauce.
Sides like loaded potato salad and savory baked beans win almost as many fans as the meat itself, and their daily specials range from rib tips to smoked turkey legs.
Montana’s Rib & Chop House
A steakhouse with a barbecue heart, Montana’s serves up generous racks of pork and beef ribs, peppered bison brisket, and a hearty smoked chicken.
The cowboy-inspired, wood-paneled space is as classic as it gets—and they’re famous for huge portions and warm Montana hospitality.
Blue Cat Bar & Grill
A Billings bar with a solid BBQ menu, Blue Cat’s slow-smoked pulled pork and smoked chicken wings are standouts, especially when paired with one of their dozen local beers on tap.
The vibe is all Montana—relaxed, lively, and just rowdy enough.
Redneck Barbecue
A favorite at local fairs and food truck gatherings, Redneck’s pit-smoked ribs (with a sticky sweet glaze), brisket, and haystack onion rings are huge hits.
Watch for their pop-up events, which often feature classic Montana-style “BBQ bowls” piled high with meat, slaw, and fries.
Jake’s Bar & Grill Downtown
Known for steaks, but don’t skip the barbecue here—especially the house-smoked prime rib and BBQ pork sandwiches.
Jake’s is a Billings institution and their barbecue has a touch of fine-dining flair, with locally sourced meats and creative sauces always in rotation.
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