Fargo might be more famous for blizzards and hockey than barbecue, but this Northern Plains city has a quietly loyal—and growing—smoke-loving fan base.
Here, barbecue is a community affair, blending Midwest comfort with Southern flavor.
Expect wood-fired brisket, saucy ribs, and unexpected touches like Scandinavian slaw or tater-tot casseroles as sides, all served with North Dakota hospitality that keeps you coming back.
1. Boneshaker Coffee & BBQ
Funky, fun, and family-friendly, Boneshaker brings craft coffee and real wood-smoked barbecue together.
The “Smoked Coffee Brisket Sandwich” is a must for fusion fans.
Their sides—sweet potato tots and maple-glazed carrots—give this spot a unique, Fargo-from-scratch appeal.
2. Spitfire Bar & Grill
A Fargo staple, Spitfire is all about the oak-fired rotisserie: ribs, brisket, and half-chickens, all with a subtle smokiness and plenty of house-made sauce.
Their signature “BBQ Bowl”—piled high with brisket, cheese, and taters—has a cult following, as do their beer pairings.
3. Famous Dave’s
While a chain, the Fargo location offers a warm, local vibe and reliably good barbecue—order up the St. Louis-style ribs, chopped pork, and a flight of sauces (like “Devil’s Spit” and “Sweet & Zesty”).
Live blues nights and family platters draw a steady crowd.
4. Pounds
Downtown and more pub-like, Pounds features elevated bar food and a committed smoke program.
Their brisket grilled cheese and “Fargo Fries” (smothered in pulled pork and cheese) are perfect comfort food after a snowy day, and their rotating selection of sauces keeps things fresh.
5. JL Beers (BBQ Specials)
While best known for gourmet burgers and a mind-boggling beer list, JL Beers’ special BBQ nights (and their BBQ burger, loaded with house-pulled pork and fried onions) easily satisfy the barbecue cravings of Fargo diehards.
The vibe is collegiate, casual, and as local as it gets.
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