Cleveland’s Best BBQ Spots

In Cleveland, few things say soul food like some mouth-watering barbecue fresh from the flame. For most Cleveland locals, barbecue is the go-to food when they have a hefty appetite, want something to hold a few beers down, or are celebrating a life event. It’s the perfect mix of tangy and sweet. Plus, it’s tasty and satisfying. 

Read on to learn our top eight places to find Cleveland’s best barbecue.

Boney Fingers BBQ 

“Mmm… braised and sauced ribs” licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Flickr by jeffreyw

“Mmm… braised and sauced ribs” licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Flickr by jeffreyw

Boney Fingers BBQ brings authentic smokehouse barbecue to Cleveland. The restaurant smokes their meat fresh daily for as long as 16 hours at a time and makes every side dish from scratch with the best ingredients. This dedication to culinary excellence ensures that customers receive the best meal possible. 

Patrons and first-timers can choose from a wide selection of menu items, including brisket, pulled pork, chicken, baby back ribs, and pork belly. Loyal customers swear by the Boney Boy. It’s a hefty sandwich filled with beef polish sausage, pulled pork, coleslaw, cheese sauce, and barbecue sauce. This generous helping comes with your choice of two sides and some Texas bread. 

Boney Fingers BBQ is at their new location, on 1800 Euclid Ave., right here in Cleveland. The outfit’s hours of operation are Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. They’re closed on Sunday. For information, call 216-331-5252.

Ohio City BBQ

Ohio City BBQ is a familiar name when talking about authentic smoked barbecue. The atmosphere in this establishment is kind, inviting, and genuine. The care put into the food plus the friendly smiles staff wears make the ambiance here homely. 

Each dish is smoked with care, so the flavor is deep, smokey, and original no matter what you order. We suggest you go for the Cleveland Porkanator. This $11 dish is a giant sandwich filled with slow-smoked pulled shoulder, apple-smoked bacon, pepper-jack cheese, and ham. Add baked beans, slaw, or potato salad and cornbread for $3. 

Ohio City BBQ is easy to find at 3829 Lorain Ave. Restaurant hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. To place an order for carryout, call 216-417-5987.

Mabel’s BBQ

Mabel’s BBQ, owned and operated by Chef Michael Symon, serves Cleveland-style barbecue using Eastern European spices and meat smoked over local fruitwood. You can go with a large group of friends and enjoy family-style dining at a picnic table or grab an order to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. The Heat-at-Home Packs are ideal for a busy weeknight meal to fill hungry bellies. 

Mabel’s BBQ is located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, at 2050 E 4th Street, with a new location soon to open on Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere. Typical hours of operation are Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. They’re closed Sunday and Monday. Call 216-417-8823 to place an order for pickup. 

The Proper Pig Smokehouse

The Proper Pig Smokehouse is serious about barbecue and offers a unique experience where customers can see their order cut and served up fresh right before them. What began as a humble food truck with two friends and $1000 is now one of Cleveland’s favorite spots for some authentic Texas barbecue right in Ohio. 

New items have been added recently to make the menu more exciting for the adventurous diner. You can get tasty little snacks like the Bacon-on-a-Stick or full platters of traditional barbecue favorites, including brisket and baby back ribs. Go with time and appetite to try their unique line of moonshine. You can taste four different flavors for $10. 

The Proper Pig is conveniently on Detroit Avenue. Check their website for the latest hours of operation. 

Mission BBQ

Mission BBQ is on a mission to serve up great BBQ with exceptional side dishes. We suggest you leave room for the macaroni and cheese, which balances the smokey flavor of the main dishes nicely. 

You’ll find Mission BBQ on Ridgewood Drive. Go with an appetite, as this place is known for providing generous servings. For online ordering information or to learn about their catering, call 216-487-6274.

Rising Grill Korean BBQ

Try the Rising Grill Korean BBQ if you want barbecue done a little differently. This establishment, located on Payne Avenue, puts a Korean twist on barbecue, infusing their meat and side dishes with a Korean flavor. Using authentic Korean tradition with a modern twist, the Rising Grill creates an unforgettable dining experience while serving up some of the best steaks you’ll find in Cleveland. 

For inquiries, call 216-465-3561.

The Rib Cage Smokehouse and Bar

At the Rib Cage Smokehouse and Bar, it’s all about the sauce! They slow-smoke their meat in a massive smokehouse and douse it in some of the tastiest sauces to be found in Cleveland or anywhere else. Grab yourself a slab of baby back ribs, and you’ll see why so many people rave about this restaurant. 

Also, to host your next special event here, call one of their two locations in Cleveland. For the location on West 25th, call 216-762-1996. But to contact the one on Lee Road, dial 216-321-7427.

Smokin Q’s BBQ and Beer House

To pair your barbecue with some quality brew, head over to Smokin Q’s BBQ and Beer House, where you can pair your savory meal with local draft beer. This joint offers an ever-rotating selection of beer and a full bar, so you’ll always have something new to choose from. Get a combo platter to try a little of everything. The smokey flavor can’t be beat. Check out their website for hours and to see their full menu. 

So there you have it. North Coast Auto Mall has just shared with you our list of the top eight places to find Cleveland’s best barbecue. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or celebrating a birthday or anniversary, barbecue is an excellent choice to bring a smile to your face. 

What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite restaurant to grab some finger-licking barbecue? If we did, let us know. Leave us a message and we’ll be happy to check out your suggestions.