3 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Hartford, CT

“Bear's Smokehouse Barbecue specializes in smoked meats, sandwiches, and comforting sides, all served in a relaxed setting. With a focus on delivering the finest Kansas City-style barbecue to the local neighborhood, Bear's Smokehouse Barbecue offers a diverse menu of wood-smoked options, along with gluten-free sauces and rubs. The restaurant features a private room with a long community table, ideal for seating 12-14 guests. For larger groups of up to 40 people, a designated section of the store can be reserved for a buffet-style setup, with applicable fees for room rental, minimum revenue, and service staff. This venue is well-suited for various events, including corporate gatherings, networking functions, receptions, cocktail parties, and family milestone celebrations. Bear's Smokehouse Barbecue provides top-notch catering services for all types of events. Whether you're seeking a quick meal or a convenient spot for drinks before heading to Infinity Music Hall across the street, Bear's is the perfect choice in the area.”

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“Black-Eyed Sally's offers a blend of Southern cuisine and BBQ, accompanied by live blues, jazz, and soul music. Housed in a historic 100-year-old brick building with pressed tin walls and time-worn wood floors, this Downtown landmark exudes a hip and lively atmosphere. Black-Eyed Sally's is owned and operated by a family deeply rooted in the Connecticut community for over two decades. Their commitment to passion on the plate is evident in their award-winning Barbeque and authentic Southern cooking, creating a unique dining experience in an atmosphere reminiscent of an authentic juke joint. As a venue with a rich history, Black-Eyed Sally's has gained a national reputation for hosting some of the best artists on the music scene. Whether it's Jazz, Blues, Rock, or Roots music, the restaurant stands as Hartford's home for exceptional live performances. Additionally, they offer Black-eyed Sally's Barbecue Catering Services for various events, ensuring that their delicious offerings are available to enhance any occasion. Black-Eyed Sally's Southern Kitchen & Bar remains Hartford's premier destination for those seeking great Southern Cookin', BBQ, and live music. Experience the unique blend of flavors and sounds that define this iconic establishment, and don't miss the opportunity to explore their catering services for a taste of their renowned culinary expertise.”

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“The Portly Pig is owned and led by Executive Chef Jonathon Shivick. The restaurant is on a mission to blend the finest elements of America's diverse regional barbecue styles with their classic New England heritage and the global influences of the various cultures found in the region. Departing from the conventional perception of barbecue limited to brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, The Portly Pig offers a culinary fusion of traditional practices and contemporary flavors in a delightfully unexpected yet strangely familiar manner. Emphasizing creativity, they present innovative interpretations of classic barbecue dishes complemented by an array of farm-fresh sides, all meticulously sourced and freshly prepared from local ingredients. The culinary traditions at The Portly Pig extend beyond barbecue, embracing a rich tapestry of experiences, from seaside clam bakes to lobster boils and cherished Sunday gatherings featuring Grandma's beloved Yankee pot roast. The Portly Pig believes in redefining barbecue, expanding it beyond the conventional notions of brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Their culinary approach involves blending time-honored traditions with contemporary fusion flavors, creating a dining experience that feels both surprising and comfortingly familiar. The Portly Pig takes pride in providing catering and event planning services for various occasions. Whether it's a corporate luncheon, a casual backyard barbecue, a birthday celebration, or even a wedding, they are committed to delivering exceptional food and service to make any event memorable.”

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