St. Petersburg’s Gulf breezes might say relaxation, but the city’s barbecue scene is all about bold flavors and hard-won smokehouse perfection.
St. Pete melds Florida’s love of fresh ingredients with Southern comfort and the innovation of a city increasingly known for unique eats. Coastal transplants and Southern pitmasters share the block here, so you’ll find both familiar classics and inventive local spins.
Want your pulled pork with citrus glaze? Or ribs with a side of fresh Gulf shrimp? St. Pete has you covered.
Shaner’s Land & Sea Market
Hidden away in a Pass-a-Grille neighborhood, Shaner’s combines barbecue with an old-school butcher and seafood counter.
Famous for their house-smoked ribs—meaty, sticky, and kissed with just enough char—they also craft sausage, brisket, and pulled pork sandwiches that are local favorites.
Loyalists rave about their sides (try the mac and cheese) and the casual, friendly neighborhood vibe—picnic tables out front, grab a cold drink, and settle in.
Dr. BBQ
Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe is a legend in the competitive barbecue world, and his modern, bustling spot in St. Pete’s Edge District showcases why.
Southern classics meet wild creativity (smoked jackfruit, anyone?): sample the Texas brisket, St. Louis ribs, burnt ends, and “competition pork” smoked low and slow.
Sauces span regional styles and sides like jalapeno cheddar grits and killer cornbread complete the experience.
A great bar and relaxed, lively atmosphere round it out.
Urban Brew and BBQ
BBQ and craft beer—a Florida marriage made in heaven!
This Central Ave mainstay specializes in house-smoked pork shoulder, brisket, and juicy ribs, served up with creative flair.
Must-try: the smoked wings and their legendary “Urban Mac” (creamy mac and cheese with BBQ pulled pork). Dog-friendly patio, rotating taps, and plenty of Southern hospitality make it a crowd-pleaser for groups and locals alike.
Smokin’ J’s Real Texas BBQ
For a true Texas fix on the peninsula, Smokin’ J’s delivers big portions of peppery brisket, meaty ribs, turkey, and plump sausages served with straightforward sides like baked beans and classic potato salad.
No-frills, cafeteria style—this place is all about the meat.
Try the sampler plate for a tour of the region, and don’t miss their house sauce with a touch of heat.
The Wheelhouse
Part BBQ joint, part neighborhood tavern with epic live music, Wheelhouse has built a devoted following for their house-smoked wings, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and pork belly “bites.”
The smoked chicken sandwich (with house slaw) is a sleeper hit.
Extra points for local beer taps and a funky-cool dive bar vibe—plus, this is where you might find a lively local crowd late into the night.
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