Take a gastronomic journey across the United States as we traverse the Great American Barbecue Trail, a melting pot of flavours, techniques, and regional specialties that define the country’s diverse barbecue traditions.
Kansas City, Missouri:
Start your journey in Kansas City, renowned for its distinctive style of barbecue. In this Midwestern city, barbecue is more than just a cuisine; it’s a way of life. Kansas City-style barbecue is characterized by a wide variety of meats, from pork to beef to chicken, all slow-smoked to perfection. The star of the show, however, is the city’s signature tangy and sweet tomato-based sauce. Head to the legendary Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que for a taste of their famous burnt ends, a flavourful and smoky Kansas City classic.
Memphis, Tennessee:
Next, head to Memphis, a city that takes its barbecue seriously. Here, the focus is predominantly on pork, whether it’s ribs or pulled pork. Memphis-style barbecue ribs can be served “wet” (covered in sauce) or “dry” (rubbed with a flavourful mix of spices and herbs before cooking). Pay a visit to the historic Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, which has been serving its special style of ribs in a basement location since 1948.
Austin, Texas:
Travel down to Texas, where beef is king and smoked brisket reigns supreme. Texas-style barbecue varies across the state, but in Central Texas and particularly in Austin, it’s all about slow-smoked meats served with minimal sauce. Be sure to visit Franklin Barbecue, often touted as the best BBQ joint in Austin. The queues are notoriously long, but the melt-in-your-mouth brisket is well worth the wait.
North Carolina:
Your journey ends in North Carolina, a state split into Eastern and Western (or Lexington) styles of barbecue. The former typically involves whole hog smoking, while the latter uses only the pork shoulder, served with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce. In both styles, the meat is often served pulled or chopped with coleslaw and hush puppies. Swing by Skylight Inn BBQ in Ayden for a plate of classic Eastern-style barbecue.
As you journey along the Great American Barbecue Trail, you’ll discover a mosaic of flavours, each telling a story of local history, culture, and tradition. This mouth-watering journey is a testament to the diversity and regional nuances of American barbecue, making it a must-do for food enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike.