Edison may be best known for its bustling multicultural food scene—Indian curries, Korean barbecue, and Italian trattorias line its busy highways—but the Garden State’s hunger for smoky Southern-style barbecue is real, too.
In Edison and the surrounding Middlesex County suburbs, pitmasters combine slow-smoked classics with Jersey ingenuity, satisfying everyone from brisket devotees to rib rookies.
Whether you’re after no-frills comfort or Instagram-ready smorgasbords, Edison’s BBQ is all about generous portions, friendly counter service, and in true Jersey fashion—a little attitude on the side.
1. Jersey Shore BBQ – East Brunswick Edition
While the “Shore” is in the name, this spot’s Edison-adjacent location makes it a go-to for locals.
Expect stick-to-your-ribs Texas-style brisket, burnt ends with a killer bark, juicy ribs, and inventive weekly specials (smoked pork belly, anyone?).
Their house sauces range from tangy Carolina to peppery Southwest, and the mac ‘n’ cheese is a must-grab side.
2. Big W’s Roadside Bar-B-Q
Big W’s is classic barbecue road fare: walk-up window, smoky air, and no-nonsense presentation.
The pulled pork sandwiches piled high with homemade slaw are local legend, and the St. Louis–style ribs come glistening with a sweet-spicy glaze.
Their weekend-only smoked turkey is a rare treat that regulars order ahead.
3. Local Smoke BBQ
A championship-winning outfit that started from competitions, Local Smoke brings serious pit cred to Central Jersey.
The brisket is trimmed, smoked, and sliced to perfection, while their pulled chicken offers a lighter—but equally tasty—option. Sides like collard greens and creamy cornbread round things out.
Try their “Three Meats” platter if you’re with friends!
4. Smokin’ Chicks BBQ
The fun, family-friendly vibe (sometimes with live music) matches the approachable, Southern-style menu.
Go for the meaty, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs, but don’t overlook the smoked wings, which come tossed in honey BBQ, Carolina gold, and spicy buffalo. People rave about their house-made banana pudding for dessert.
5. Boss Hog Barbeque
With a focus on the classics, Boss Hog serves hearty platters of brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage, plus a handful of house-made sauces that range sweet to spicy.
The portion size is ample enough for take-home leftovers, and their cheesy hashbrown casserole is an unexpected, addictive side.
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