3 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Denver, CO

"Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que is known for its wood-smoked meats and classic sides in a Western-themed setting. Their champion Pitmaster, “Famous” Dave Anderson, has won over 700 awards. This award-winning restaurant draws inspiration from street vendors who perfected ribs using 55-gallon smokers, staying true to authentic Southern BBQ traditions. Their professional chefs serve delicious BBQs and offer catering for events like weddings, corporate lunches, graduations, and more. Their catering team handles everything, so you can relax and enjoy your event. You can treat your guests with real pit-smoked BBQ, homemade sides, and handcrafted desserts. Choose from gift cards for birthdays, holidays, thank-you gifts, or any special occasion.

"Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Brew Denver is an award-winning BBQ spot with five locations across the state. This restaurant was founded by Dave and first opened in Estes Park, Colorado. Dave fell in love with cooking in his grandparents' kitchen, where Myer and Madeline Leven taught him the dedication needed to master his craft. For over 30 years, he has operated restaurants across Maui, Hawaii, and multiple Colorado cities, including Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, and Denver. Their BBQ sauce is made with all-natural ingredients, is gluten-free, and costs $8.50 per 16-ounce jar. Each location has a full bar with a variety of drinks, including local spirits, and offers happy hour specials. Whether dining in or taking home their signature sauce, guests can enjoy a delicious BBQ experience. Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Brew Denver also caters for birthdays, holidays, corporate events, weddings, and more. Their menu includes more than just BBQ, and they customize events to fit each guest’s needs.

"Smokin Yard's BBQ Denver offers ribs, brisket, and classic Southern sides in a relaxed setting. Their slow-smoked BBQ is paired with favorites like collard greens, creamed corn, fried okra, fried pickles, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, and mac-n-cheese. They make their own gluten-free sauces, including sweet, bold, spicy, Carolina mustard, and extra spicy flavors. Their menu also features gluten-free and vegetarian options. Smokin Yard's BBQ Denver also serves happy hour food. All sandwiches come with one side. Be sure to try their Southern-style fried catfish and free-boiled peanuts. Smokin Yard's BBQ Denver also serves in Idaho Springs.