5 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Worcester, Massachusetts to Try

Massachusetts and barbecue? You bet.

Worcester, the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” has a scrappy, eclectic food scene that’s seen a boom in authentic, creative barbecue over the past decade.

Pitmasters here draw inspiration from all regions—Southern, Texas, Kansas City—while adding a Yankee spin: local maple syrup, tangy sauces, and a laid-back, blue-collar energy.

It’s the kind of city where you’re just as likely to find brisket in an old mill building as you are pulled pork at a funky downtown spot.

B.T.’s Smokehouse Worcester

Originally a beloved roadside shack in Sturbridge, B.T.’s now has a thriving Worcester location bringing serious, wood-fired Southern barbecue straight to the city.

Chef Brian Treitman’s dry-rubbed brisket, Memphis ribs, and pulled pork are all hickory- and applewood-smoked (no gas in sight), while house-made pickles and creamy coleslaw round out massive platters.

Burnt ends and maple-bacon beans are the insider favorites.

Smokestack Urban Barbecue

Located in a converted brick warehouse, Smokestack’s atmosphere is both retro and modern—think exposed beams, craft cocktails, and a menu where bold barbecue meets New England comfort.

Brisket, ribs, pulled chicken, and peppered turkey are all smoked to perfection, and signature cocktails like the Smoked Manhattan or craft-brewed root beer make this a great evening out.

Try the fried pickles and the decadent poutine laced with brisket gravy.

Fatima’s Cafe

This East African community favorite stands out for its unique blend of barbecue and Somali flavors—smoked chicken and lamb come marinated in East African spices and served with coconut rice and sautéed greens.

Don’t miss the beef samosas, and save room for the sweet plantain. For those who love barbecue with a twist, Fatima’s is a local gem.

Firefly’s BBQ

With a flagship further out in Marlborough, Firefly’s “Q on the Go” serves up competition-level barbecue to Worcester crowds.

Their classic St. Louis ribs, Texas brisket, and mouthwatering burnt ends all get plenty of hickory smoke.

Southern sides—fried okra, hush puppies, collard greens—bring a little Gulf Coast flavor to the Northeast.

Woo Daddy’s BBQ

A true-blue food truck and catering legend, Woo Daddy’s is the city’s go-to for smoky meats on the move.

Brisket melts in your mouth, pulled pork sandwiches come stacked high, and their “Loaded BBQ Fries” have reached cult status. Their homemade Carolina-style vinegar sauce is a tart, spicy revelation.