With its sweeping views of the Rockies and an ever-growing suburban community, Centennial is a great example of how Colorado’s barbecue scene mixes outdoorsy energy with genuine smokehouse tradition.
Barbecue here is often a fusion—expect Texas, Memphis, and even Kansas City styles showing up alongside local beer, farm-fresh produce, and a healthy amount of foodie creativity.
1. Big Smoke BBQ
Known for true pitmaster passion and slow-cooked perfection, Big Smoke turns out brisket with a rich, black bark and ribs that pull clean from the bone.
Their house sauces—one smoky, one sweet, and one fiery—cover all barbecue bases.
The smoked turkey with tangy cranberry-apple slaw is a Colorado original, and their jalapeño cheddar cornbread is legendary.
2. Hickory House Ribs
With a second location just north in Parker, Hickory House is a rib-lover’s dream.
The baby backs are thick and saucy, but the burnt ends—smoked until the fat melts into the bark—steal the show.
Don’t skip their barbecue nachos (piled high with pulled pork and cheddar) or their giant smoked wings. Family friendly and full of energy.
3. Smoke & Fire Barbecue
This newer spot has developed a cult following for brisket chili, crispy smoked chicken, and a “sampler mountain” for indecisive (or just very hungry) diners.
Their house-made sauces run from tomato-molasses to spicy mustard, and specialty sandwiches like the “Rocky Mountain Burnt End Melt” are crowd favorites.
The modern, lodge-inspired interior is perfect for Colorado gatherings.
4. Brothers BBQ (Centennial location)
The Denver-based mini-chain, Brothers BBQ is fast, fun, and reliable—a local lunchtime favorite.
They serve sliced brisket, spicy sausage, and saucy ribs, but their pulled chicken sandwich (with coleslaw on top) is the true sleeper hit.
Don’t miss the spicy baked beans or the thick, hand-cut fries.
5. Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
An institution in the Denver area, Bennett’s brings old-school comfort to every plate.
From tender, smoky pork to gooey mac and cheese and fried okra, it’s a no-nonsense, family-friendly spot where “pit stops” are serious business.
Check their specials—smoked ham and turkey appear around the holidays.
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