New Haven is world-famous for its pizza, but it’s also a city that loves slow-cooked comfort food and bold culinary experiments.
Barbecue here is powered by creative chefs and Southern transplants, and there’s a strong sense of community—whether you’re lining up at a food truck or sitting in a cozy café.
Expect smokehouses with Connecticut soul, regional spirit, and next-level hospitality.
1. The Cookout
A much-loved food truck turned brick-and-mortar, The Cookout delivers real-deal barbecue—smoked brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, plus soulful sides like baked mac, collards, and yams.
Their burnt ends are the stuff of local legend, and their cornbread walks the line between sweet and savory.
The regulars swear by their peach cobbler, too.
2. Bull & Swine
An Instagrammable barbecue bistro, Bull & Swine is known for creative twists—like smoked chicken tacos, coffee-rubbed brisket, and cornbread with New England honey.
The pitmaster emphasizes local, hormone-free meats; sides like housemade pickles and truffle mac add a modern flair.
Their sampler platter is a must for first-timers.
3. Sandra’s Next Generation
While Sandra’s is best known for soul food, their BBQ chicken and pork shoulder are menu highlights, with rich, smoky aromas and a sweet-tangy sauce handed down through generations.
Collard greens, cornbread, and banana pudding give every meal a true Southern heart—an essential comfort stop in New Haven’s foodie scene.
4. Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ
A Connecticut favorite now with a New Haven location, Bear’s serves up big Texas-style slabs—beef ribs, pulled pork, and house-made peach bourbon BBQ sauce.
Think cafeteria-style service, family-friendly energy, and generous combos that let you sample it all.
They’re known for their burnt ends and barbecue beans packed with brisket.
5. Ricky D’s Rib Shack
A well-kept secret off the I-91 ramp, Ricky D’s is small but mighty.
Their baby back ribs are smoked for hours and glazed in a peppery sauce with a satisfying char.
Don’t skip their Southern potato salad or the smoked chicken wings, which have a strong following for game day takeout.
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