Danbury’s food scene is best known for old-school pizza and global eats, but a wave of new (and newly beloved) BBQ joints has taken root.
Connecticut barbecue draws on Southern, Mid-Atlantic, and even New York deli tradition—but at its best, you’ll taste true pit craft, smoky sides, and sauce personalities that prove you don’t have to live down South to find great ‘cue.
1. Big W’s Roadside Bar-B-Q
A legend in the Hudson Valley, Big W’s operates pop-ups and food truck events in and around Danbury, grilling brisket and ribs that have earned state-wide fame.
Try the pork belly burnt ends, smoked chicken, and sweet, sticky BBQ beans.
They sell by the pound, so bring your appetite (or a few friends).
2. Widow Brown’s Cafe
The barbecue at Widow Brown’s comes with a big side of local color: think tender ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and classic bar sides in a kitschy, aviation-themed setting.
The sweet and spicy house sauce is a highlight, and regulars rave about the Friday rib special.
3. Barbarie’s Black Angus Grill
While best known for steak and burgers, Barbarie’s runs special BBQ nights with Texas-style brisket, smoked chicken quarters, and pork ribs rubbed with house spices.
Pair your plate with their fresh-baked rolls and don’t skip the garlic mashed potatoes or buttery corn.
4. House of BBQ
This no-frills smokehouse focuses on big flavors: lean or fatty brisket, dry-rubbed ribs, and sausage served on butcher paper with classic fixings (coleslaw, cornbread, creamy mac).
Their barbecue sauce is a house secret, smoky but with palpable tang.
5. Q BBQ Public House
A family-run local chain, Q BBQ is a go-to for group takeout and casual dine-in, offering up smoky brisket sandwiches, robust racks of ribs, and generous BBQ combo platters.
They offer a few fun New England twists—like maple-glazed turkey and fried clam sides alongside traditional ‘cue.
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