Best BBQ Restaurants in Northwest Arkansas (2026): 30 Ranked by 27500+ Reviews

Wright's Barbecue Johnson is the most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 2,893 Google reviews and a 4.8-star average. Google describes it as laid-back outpost serving an array of smoked BBQ meats & hearty sides, plus a roomy outdoor patio. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “We saw Wrights BBQ on Peter Santenello’s episode about Bentonville & Fayetteville on YouTube. As we drove north from Florida back to SoDak we made it a point to include this with a couple stops in the area.”

2212 Main Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

Smokin' Joe's Ribhouse is the second-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 2,405 Google reviews and a 4.4-star average. Google describes it as bBQ joint doling out staples such as ribs & pulled pork, plus burgers, sandwiches & classic sides. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Rogers. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Went to eat with my daughter. An employee was having a conversation with our waitress. He proceeds to cuss and drop F bombs complaining about other workers.”

200 N 8th St, Rogers, AR 72756, USA

Sassy's Red House is the third-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,970 Google reviews and a 4.4-star average. Google describes it as ribs, brisket, pulled pork & more dished up at this casual BBQ joint with a lively, sports-bar vibe. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Pretty good bbq spot. Sides were good and the chicken was really good and smoky. Both the wings and sandwhich were on point. Brisket was a bit dry but still had good flavor. Their sauces are really good.”

708 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA

Smokin' Joe's Ribhouse is the fourth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,835 Google reviews and a 4.3-star average. Google describes it as bBQ joint doling out staples such as ribs & pulled pork, plus burgers, sandwiches & classic sides. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Bentonville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “This was a wonderful delight! 1st ..the waitress was a lovely young lady, who was so polite and returned frequently. (Love that) 2nd..the food was absolutely delicious! HUGE portions!”

2504 E Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

Wright's Barbecue Rogers is the fifth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,641 Google reviews and a 4.8-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Rogers. One 4-star reviewer wrote: “This Barbecue house offers extremely fresh, tasty and well cooked meats, vegetables and salads.”

5001 W Pauline Whitaker Pkwy, Rogers, AR 72758, USA

Penguin Ed's Bar-B-Que is the sixth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,379 Google reviews and a 4.6-star average. Google describes it as long-running local chain serving serving hickory-smoked BBQ, beer & vegetarian options. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Food was excellent! Prices were great for the quantity and quality. The cookies are overpriced in my opinion for them to just taste like something I can cook at home, but the Brisket Philly Cheesesteak is top tier.”

230 S E Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA

Penguin Ed's Barbeque is the seventh-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,341 Google reviews and a 4.4-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “This is one of the best flavored bbq places. All food was great the atmosphere is quiet”

2773 E Mission Blvd, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA

Sam's Olde Tyme Hamburgers & Barbecue is the eighth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,335 Google reviews and a 4.3-star average. It is inexpensive and open seven days a week, located in Rogers. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Breakfast diner meets Barbecue in the best way. Americana Decor well done. Waitress was friendly and right on with service. Sam's is not far from the Railyard and has its own parking.”

223 E Locust St, Rogers, AR 72756, USA

Boars Nest is the ninth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,142 Google reviews and a 4.2-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Rogers. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Great atmosphere! We loved this place. I was a little worried when we showed up with our son, bit it was totally fine. They have a kids menu We loved our server, Ms. "Dolly, Reba, and Beth" shirt.”

4404 W Walnut St, Rogers, AR 72756, USA

Wright's Barbecue Bentonville Square is the tenth-most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,122 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. Google describes it as brisket, ribs & pulled pork plates are showcased at this casual counter-serve with outdoor seating. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Bentonville. One 4-star reviewer wrote: “We came here for dinner from a recommendation from a local after a long day of bike riding. It is very small inside but there is lots of seating outside.”

208 NE 3rd St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot is the #11 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 1,049 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Rogers. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “A very fun and unique dining experience! The Korean BBQ was delicious, and cooking everything right at the table made the meal even more enjoyable.”

5204 Village Pkwy #1, Rogers, AR 72758, USA

Sassy's Barbecue and Grille is the #12 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 932 Google reviews and a 4.1-star average. Google describes it as laid-back Southern-style BBQ joint for meats, sides & homemade sauces, plus sports on TV & beer. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Truly enjoyed the food and service. We were served by Carson and she attended to us very swiftly. I order a 2 meat plate with brisket and wings —— AND IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!!! Specifically the wings!!!!”

1290 Steamboat Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

Smokewood American Grill is the #13 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 896 Google reviews and a 4.5-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Bentonville. One 4-star reviewer wrote: “Aaron took good care of us at Smokewood! We had time for a sit-down lunch due to flight delays, and we'd recommend this place if you are in a similar situation at the XNA airport. Good food and good service.”

1 Airport Blvd, Bentonville, AR 72713, USA

Gold Town Sushi & Korean BBQ is the #14 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 863 Google reviews and a 4.3-star average. Google describes it as counter-serve eatery offering Japanese & Korean staples like sushi, bento boxes & bibimbap. It is moderately priced and closed Tuesday, located in Bentonville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Great family restaurant. Our staple place for sushi. Spider roll is the best. The rice in their sushi is rice good, not compact but delicious.”

1100 SE 14th St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

Whole Hog Cafe is the #15 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 749 Google reviews and a 4.3-star average. Google describes it as outpost of a local BBQ chain dishing out ribs, brisket & other standards in a laid-back atmosphere. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville.

3009 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA

Chick'n Headz is the #16 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 692 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Monday, located in Bentonville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “We’re from Fort Worth, TX and happened to pass by this place while we were in the area and decided to give it a try, and I’m SO glad we did!”

201 SW 14th St #107, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

Beach BBQ is the #17 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 619 Google reviews and a 4.6-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Bentonville. One 4-star reviewer wrote: “My mom was craving BBQ so we decided to give this place a try!! The pork was so tender but the cole slaw was not my favorite and the BBQ sauce was runny!”

1080 SE 14th St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

Bubbas Bbq is the #18 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 551 Google reviews and a 4.6-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Monday, Tuesday and Sunday. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “I moved here in 1996. Bubba's was part of the gas station just over the line. My family and I have been enjoying this cuisine for all these years. Today's feast was no different, and it is still affordable.”

45 Peacock Ln #8279, Jane, MO 64856, USA

Lucky Luke's BBQ is the #19 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 537 Google reviews and a 4.4-star average. Google describes it as laid-back BBQ joint serving hickory-smoked meats & award-winning wings, plus local & craft beers. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “This hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint has a well worn and loved feel. When we visited on a Thursday at 11:30, it was bustling with a local crowd.”

1220 Garland Ave #1, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA

South Side Smoke Shack is the #20 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 476 Google reviews and a 5.0-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Monday and Sunday, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Best BBQ in Fayetteville! I've passed by many times. Finally able to stop and try it. Ordered the pulled pork sandwich: $5 and change. Can't get food like this for that price.”

596 S Happy Hollow Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA

RibCrib BBQ is the #21 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 468 Google reviews and a 3.8-star average. Google describes it as barbecue chain dishing up ribs, brisket, sandwiches & sides in a laid-back setting. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Centerton. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “The lady that waited on us was very sweet and fast and efficient. She kept our drinks full and kept checking to make sure we didn't need anything else.”

1801 E Centerton Blvd, Centerton, AR 72719, USA

Red Door Bar & Grill is the #22 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 465 Google reviews and a 4.6-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Springdale. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Excellent service, fast and courteous! Food was awesome! Their salsa is fresh and light, and the queso is delicious! I had the pick 3 sliders with fries and onion rings!! The onion rings were amazing!”

188 Pozza Ln, Springdale, AR 72762, USA

Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q is the #23 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 388 Google reviews and a 3.6-star average. Google describes it as brisket, ribs & sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “My wife and I were in Fayetteville for the evening and looking forward to eat, stumbled upon Rudy’s. I highly recommend. We were there on a Tuesday night. There’s no way for food and they had a special of a buy one.”

4084 W Martin Luther King Junior Blvd, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

Marsouls is the #24 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 374 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Monday, located in Rogers. One 4-star reviewer wrote: “The food was delicious. However even though we sat down right as we walked in... The waitress brought us our drinks and then didn't come back for 15 minutes to take our order.”

525 N 2nd St, Rogers, AR 72756, USA

Yankabilly Smokehouse is the #25 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 267 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Cave Springs. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Yankabilly Smokehouse is hands-down one of my favorite spots! The food is amazing—those ribs literally melt in your mouth and have just the right amount of meat without being too fatty.”

1499 S Main St, Cave Springs, AR 72718, USA

Brothers Meethouse is the #26 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 264 Google reviews and a 4.2-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Tuesday, located in Bentonville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “The best wings ever. They are not fried dry, they are smoked. The soup is excellent and there are pool tables. Great for a team after work drinks.”

405 SE 5th St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

Ronda's Roadhouse is the #27 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 245 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Monday and Sunday, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Honestly the best breakfast I’ve had in years across many restaurants. Yes, it’s a dive, but a family friendly dive which you can’t tell by the outside.”

504 E 15th St, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA

Beau's Bayou Smokehouse is the #28 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 217 Google reviews and a 4.9-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Farmington. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Some of the best food we’ve ever had! The brisket and pulled pork are outstanding. The pulled pork sandwich with the bleu cheese coleslaw is a must. It’s culinary genius. The Mac and cheese is super good.”

243 W Main St, Farmington, AR 72730, USA

Blue Ember Smokehouse is the #29 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 203 Google reviews and a 4.2-star average. It is moderately priced and open seven days a week, located in Rogers. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “We had a great experience at Blue Ember Smokehouse! I ordered the Smokehouse Baked Potato, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were amazing, and the portion was very satisfying.”

1723 W Pleasant Grove Rd, Rogers, AR 72758, USA

Wes BBQ Burger Plus is the #30 most-reviewed BBQ joint in Northwest Arkansas, with 184 Google reviews and a 4.4-star average. It is moderately priced and closed Sunday, located in Fayetteville. One 5-star reviewer wrote: “Took my daughter here for some lunch. Delicious and really affordable! Will definitely come back for more!”

14 S University Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA