In the heart of Berks County, Reading is a city proud of its blue-collar spirit, Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, and a growing barbecue culture that’s as comforting as it is bold.
Here, barbecue means family-run smokehouses, inventive pitmasters riffing on tradition, and a lively food truck scene—not to mention a penchant for sweet sauces and tangy slaws.
These five spots define Reading’s emerging BBQ identity.
Go Fish! Seafood & BBQ
A true local gem, Go Fish! started as a seafood shack but added barbecue after perfecting their house rubs and slow-smoking technique.
Brisket sliders, rib tips, and pulled pork sandwiches draw folks from all over the county.
The hush puppies and smoked baked beans are legendary, and their barbecue sauce—a balance of sweet, tangy, and a touch of local PA maple—is craveable.
Oakbrook Brewing Company
What’s better than brisket? Brisket with fresh craft beer.
Oakbrook, a converted firehouse-turned-brewpub, dishes out smoked meat platters (brisket, pulled pork, ribs), specialty sandwiches, and sides made for sharing—think creamy potato salad and tangy cider slaw.
Barrel-aged beers and smoked meat are a match made in Reading.
Mike’s Barbecue
Mike’s is a local favorite for counter-service barbecue with a homestyle feel.
Their smoked chicken is juicy and deeply flavorful, and they have a knack for burnt ends—tender, caramelized, just the right kick.
Family-friendly atmosphere and hearty sides (baked mac, German-style potato salad) make Mike’s a go-to for casual, comforting meals.
Hillbilly BBQ
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t just a wild roadside shack. Hillbilly BBQ brings real-deal pit-smoked ribs, pork, and sausage to Reading, often with Southern blues piping through the speakers.
Their signature “Hillbilly Sauce” is tangy, a little spicy, and perfect on their rib platter.
For the hungry, check out the “Redneck Nachos,” loaded with pulled pork and all the fixings.
Pig Pit BBQ
On the outskirts but deeply beloved, Pig Pit offers down-home barbecue in generous portions: whole racks of ribs, sliced brisket sandwiches, and heaping sides of coleslaw.
The vibe is unfussy and filled with regulars. Try their house hot sauce and homemade pickles for a PA twist on Southern tradition.
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