Lakewood sits just outside Denver, but holds its own as a suburban melting pot influenced by the Rocky Mountains, Western cowboy pride, and Colorado’s inventive food scene. BBQ in Lakewood takes cues from all over—Texas brisket, Kansas City burnt ends, even a hint of Santa Maria tri-tip, often paired with local craft beer.
Here, you’ll find everything from down-home roadhouses to contemporary green-chile-smothered twists.
Whether you’re a barbecue purist or love to try the unexpected, Lakewood’s got you covered.
GQue Championship BBQ
This award-winning spot is a magnet for barbecue fans across the Denver metro area.
Owner Jason Ganahl is a competition pitmaster and it shows: brisket is tender with a peppery crust, ribs are perfectly glazed and meaty, and the “Hot Link Sandwich” is a spicy sleeper hit.
Homemade pickles and slaw balance every rich bite, and the burnt ends can sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
The casual, family-friendly setting and focus on quality make it feel both local and world-class.
Hog Heaven Bar-B-Q
With a roadhouse vibe and generous portions, Hog Heaven lives up to its name.
Their pulled pork is juicy, smoky, and crowned with crisp, tangy slaw. Locals line up for the rib platters, slow-cooked chicken, and classic “pit beans.”
The house-made sauces range from classic sweet tomato to a sharply tangy vinegar-mustard blend.
Save room for homemade peach cobbler—it’s the perfect ending to a hearty meal.
Moe’s Original BBQ
This Colorado mini-chain’s Lakewood outpost brings an Alabama-inspired approach to Rocky Mountain barbecue.
Wings, smoked turkey, and catfish join the lineup alongside the usual suspects, but their smoked ribs and “pulled pork platters” are best sellers.
They’re known for rotating country sides (think collard greens, cornbread, hash brown casserole) and their laid-back, come-as-you-are atmosphere—plus, there’s usually live music or trivia whenever possible.
Brothers BBQ
A Denver favorite that’s crossed into Lakewood, Brothers BBQ does reliable, fast-casual barbecue—chopped pork, brisket, burnt ends, and outstanding house-made sausages are the backbone of the menu.
Everything is wood-smoked, and the six different BBQ sauces (from mild to spicy and everything between) encourage customizing each bite. For a quick, no-nonsense barbecue fix, this is the spot.
Rocky Top Tavern (BBQ Nights)
More neighborhood pub than classic BBQ joint, Rocky Top occasionally hosts “BBQ Nights” featuring smoked brisket, pulled pork nachos, and green chile-smothered ribs.
Their Colorado spin on barbecue means you might find BBQ burritos or elk sausage, alongside classic pork platters.
The atmosphere is cozy, local, and a great place to grab a drink while sampling inventive smokehouse specials.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
