Set along the Illinois River, Peoria is pure Midwest at heart—meaning big portions, smoky comfort food, and hospitality that never quits.
The city’s barbecue spots celebrate everything from southern-style pulled pork and St. Louis ribs to tender, slow-cooked brisket.
There’s a community-driven “meat and three” tradition, lots of locally owned ‘cue shops, and plenty of pride in their house-made sauces (usually tomatoey, sweet, with a tangy punch).
Peoria may be under the radar, but its barbecue deserves the spotlight.
Hick’ry Stick
Locals swear by this cozy pit stop, which has served up ribs, smoked chicken, and pulled pork for decades.
Everything is wood-smoked onsite, and the tangy, slightly sweet house sauce is perfect for dipping or slathering.
Try their “Sampler Platter” for a bit of everything, and don’t miss the creamy coleslaw and classic peach cobbler.
The friendly small-town vibe and reliable quality keep regulars coming back.
Smo-King Pit
Housed in the Metro Centre, Smo-King Pit brings Kansas City BBQ flair to central Illinois.
Owners Tony and Marcia have spent years perfecting their brisket, ribs, and sausage—plus sandwich lovers go wild for the “Q Combo”: sausage, pulled pork, and slaw stacked on a bun.
Their baked beans are the stuff of legend, smoky and full of chunks of meat. Service here is quick and gracious—the perfect lunch or family dinner spot.
Thyme Kitchen + Craft Beer
While not an outright BBQ spot, Thyme gets serious BBQ points for their smoked brisket mac and cheese, bourbon BBQ wings, and inventive smoked pork tacos—plus one of the best local craft beer lists in town.
If you want modern, creative spins on familiar barbecue flavors, this is where Peoria’s foodies converge after work (especially for happy hour).
Alwan & Sons Meat Company
A Peoria butcher shop with a secret: their takeout window and BBQ trailer serves the juiciest pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and rib tips anywhere in town.
The meats are locally sourced and slow-cooked, then finished with their own blend of spices and sauce.
The rib tips are especially popular—tangy, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
If you’re throwing a party, their catering trays are legendary.
Sugar Wood-Fired Bistro
This industrial-chic eatery goes all in on wood-fired everything—including barbecue.
You’ll find smoky pork belly, brisket sliders, and sticky-sweet baby backs, plus artisanal pizzas and plenty of veggie-friendly appetizers (try the wood-roasted mushrooms!).
Their inventive cocktails round out the experience, making this a great choice for mixed groups.
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