5 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Salem, Oregon to Try

Salem is best known as Oregon’s state capital and Willamette Valley wine country hub, but it’s also a quietly rising barbecue destination.

Here, passionate pitmasters smoke up everything from Pacific Northwest salmon to Carolina-style pulled pork, blending lush local ingredients with deep-rooted Southern and Texas traditions.

Whether you’re vegan or carnivore, Salem’s BBQ joints are big on heart, local flavor, and a side of Oregon quirkiness.

Adam’s Rib Smokehouse

A Salem landmark, Adam’s Rib has been family-owned for over 20 years and still smokes all their meats daily.

Their baby back ribs, brisket sandwiches, and pulled pork are mainstays, but don’t miss the “Oregon Style” tri-tip or their green-bean casserole loaded with bacon.

The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for a plate piled high with comfort food.

Best Little Roadhouse

Half BBQ joint, half roadhouse-themed restaurant (with its own mini-golf!),

Best Little Roadhouse is famous for its slow-cooked pork ribs, hefty smoked chicken platters, and extra-fluffy honey-butter rolls.

Their menu is loaded with classic barbecue comfort foods, and the vibe is as family-friendly as it gets.

Rudy’s Steakhouse BBQ

Though best known for steak, Rudy’s offers a barbecue menu packed with smoky favorites, including oak-fired brisket, slow-cooked ribs, and juicy pulled pork.

Their house-made barbecue sauce is so popular you can buy jars to take home, and the bacon-studded potato salad is hard to beat.

Roger That BBQ

A local pop-up-turned-catering star, Roger That BBQ is growing a cult following for their smoked brisket, jerk chicken, and rich mac and cheese.

They rotate locations, so check their schedule, but when you find them, you’ll want to load up on the peppery, bark-covered burnt ends.

Word of Mouth Bistro

While it’s technically a breakfast and lunch spot, Word of Mouth wows with their Dr. Pepper-glazed smoked pork, tri-tip sandwiches, and pulled pork benedicts.

Their house rubs and sauces are creative (try the marionberry BBQ glaze), and portions are famously generous. A must for those who like their barbecue with a Pacific Northwest twist.