Reno, often dubbed “The Biggest Little City in the World,” has always been a place of reinvention and excitement—whether it’s high-stakes poker, all-night diners, or a deep-rooted love for comfort food.
In recent years, Reno’s barbecue scene has flourished, with ambitious pitmasters fusing Western spirit and classic Southern technique. Expect hints of cowboy cookfire, woodsy smoke, and a laid-back, anything-goes attitude.
Whether you crave classic Texas brisket, tangy pulled pork, or something delightfully offbeat, Reno’s BBQ joints promise bold flavors and a welcoming vibe.
Brothers Barbecue
Long considered Reno’s destination for true Texas-style barbecue, Brothers offers a rustic setting, hand-rubbed meats, and a smoker running all day long.
Their brisket is sliced thick, melting in your mouth and accompanied by a peppery bark that fans rave about.
Don’t miss the ribs—juicy, smoky, and best when coated in their tangy signature sauce.
Insiders love the jalapeño cheese sausage and their simple sides: creamy mac and cheese, tangy beans, and an excellent cornbread muffin.
BJ’s Nevada Barbecue Company
Founded in the 1980s, BJ’s is a longtime Reno staple, beloved for its smoky aromas and casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Ribs (both pork and beef) come slathered in award-winning sauce, and the tri-tip showcases that local California influence, grilled to perfection and thinly sliced.
The spicy BBQ beans and homemade pies—not just an afterthought—are worth saving room for.
Join the locals who have been coming here for generations for authentic ‘cue with a Nevada twist.
Pignic Pub & Patio
A unique blend of laid-back bar scene and serious barbecue, Pignic specializes in smoked meat platters—brisket, pulled pork, and house-made sausages—served on the expansive patio.
The vibe is young and fun, with seasonal cocktails, craft beers, and live music on weekends.
Pignic’s Pitmaster Platter is the way to go if you’re in a crew (or just extra hungry), and the smoked wings are a current local obsession.
Liberty Food & Wine Exchange
This downtown hotspot, while more of a chef-driven American tavern, is famed locally for its house-smoked meats—especially their oak-smoked chicken and elegant take on brisket sandwiches.
Artisanal, ingredient-forward sides (like crispy Brussels sprouts, herb potato salad, and homemade bread) elevate the whole experience.
If you like your barbecue in a buzzy, urban setting with a bit of foodie attitude, Liberty is not to be missed.
Carolina Kitchen & Barbecue
Run by a family straight out of North Carolina, this cozy Reno staple brings vinegary, peppery sauces and whole-hog inspiration to the desert.
Pork shoulder is the main event, chopped and piled high atop soft buns with a splash of slaw.
Locals come for hush puppies, fried okra, and banana pudding—Southern classics that taste just as good in the high desert.
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