St. Louis BBQ: 7 Pitmaster-Approved Spots

St. Louis barbecue—distinct for pork spare ribs (trimmed "St. Louis style"), sweet-tangy tomato sauce, and slow smoking over hickory—thrives at these destinations:

1. Pappy's Smokehouse (Midtown) – Legendary ribs, burnt ends, 3-meat plate. Line forms early; worth it.
2. Sugarfire Smoke House (multiple) – Competition champs. Brisket, pulled pork, creative sides (fried corn, apple slaw).
3. The Shaved Duck (Tower Grove) – Unique: smoked duck, turkey, chicken + classics. Duck wings, duck pastrami.
4. Bogart's Smokehouse (Soulard) – Family-run. "Burnt Ends Sundae" (beans, ends, sauce, onion rings).
5. Salt + Smoke (Downtown/Chesterfield) – Modern twist. Brisket tacos, pork belly burnt ends, craft beer.
6. Clementine's Naughty & Nice – BBQ + catering. Vegetarian options, wings, extensive sauce flight.
7. The Smoke Shack – Tiny, cash-only, cult favorite. Ribs, pulled pork, no frills.

Pro tip: Arrive 30 min before open at Pappy's/Sugarfire. Order "wet" (sauced) or "dry" (rub only). Try white bread, pickles, onion on side—traditional.