Paterson, famous for its Great Falls and rich multicultural patchwork, brings barbecue in unexpected forms—Carolina classics, Latin American smoke, and backyard-style family spots.
This city isn’t afraid to mix cuisines, offering everything from slow-smoked brisket to smoky Puerto Rican pork and BBQ chicken empanadas.
1. Ribs Within BBQ
This award-winning pop-up team (they run out of vendor markets, but announce locations via social) is legendary for their ribs—fall-off-the-bone, wood-smoked, drenched in homemade sauce.
Their brisket and chicken are competition-quality, and you can usually grab house pickles or baked beans.
2. Don Julio BBQ
Part steakhouse, part barbecue, Don Julio fires up enormous platters of Argentine parillada, grilled sausages, chicken, and ribs, all complemented by tangy chimichurri.
Their smoky pork and signature BBQ beef are a celebration of South American grilling, perfect for group feasts.
3. Taqueria Los Gueros
While technically a taqueria, their smoky, pit-style carnitas, barbecue chicken tacos, and birria offerings are embraced like family BBQ.
Pair with grilled corn and fresh salsas for a local favorite fusion.
4. The Other Pit Barbecue
Classic Southern at heart, this unassuming joint leans on North Carolina technique: pork shoulder, smoked chicken, juicy ribs, and plenty of tangy, peppery slaw.
Sides are soul-food inspired—mac and cheese, collards, and cornbread.
5. Jacksonville BBQ
Tucked-away but beloved, Jacksonville does pork and beef with a Southern, home-cooked touch.
Slow-smoked pulled pork, classic ribs, and house potato salad keep the lunch crowd happy.
The portions are big, the prices fair, and the hospitality is always real.
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