Nestled in the St. Louis metro area, O’Fallon is famous for big family gatherings and Midwestern hospitality—and that means barbecue is often the star of the show.
Here, you’ll find St. Louis–style spare ribs, sweet-and-savory sauces, and a love for pork steak that’s pure Missouri.
Recent years brought in new-school smokehouses, but the roots are classic and proud.
Here are five pit stops that make O’Fallon a BBQ destination.
Sugarfire Smoke House
A St. Louis area sensation that’s become a go-to in O’Fallon, Sugarfire is known for chef-driven takes on BBQ staples—think brisket cheese steaks, smoked portobello mushrooms for vegetarians, and outrageous daily specials.
The brisket and ribs are always juicy, the sausage is top-tier, and house sauces run the gamut from “St. Louie Sweet” to “Texas Hot.”
Ethyl’s Smokehouse & Saloon
With a rustic roadhouse vibe, Ethyl’s specializes in hickory-smoked meats, slow-cooked for hours then finished with a sweet, sticky house sauce.
Ribs are their calling card—tender with a great bark—and sides like loaded mashed potatoes and fried green beans make for a Midwestern comfort feast.
Big Woody’s BBQ
Big Woody’s is smaller and local, but their flavor is huge—pork steak, brisket, turkey and sausage, all cooked low and slow and served with your pick of spicy or sweet house sauces.
Their baked beans (often cooked right under the smoker) and classic slaw are city legends.
Look out for their smoked wings and burnt ends on special.
Duke’s BBQ Shack
Duke’s keeps things fun and family-friendly, with outdoor seating, craft beers on tap, and an expertly carved beef brisket.
Their ribs are meaty and caramelized, pulled pork is piled high on fluffy buns, and you’ll want to dip everything in their tangy mustard sauce.
Don’t skip the fried pickles or house cornbread.
Lil’ Mickey’s Memphis Barbeque
Bringing true Memphis flavor to Missouri, Lil’ Mickey’s is all about dry-rubbed ribs, chopped pork shoulder, and a signature tangy sauce with a peppery bite.
The pitmaster routinely wins local awards, and it’s a lunch-hour favorite for working O’Fallon locals.
The banana pudding? Pure nostalgia.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
