Barbecue is more than just a dinner option in Virginia. For most people, it’s a passion. Ask just about anyone in Roanoke for their favorite BBQ spot and they’re sure to have one. We decided to come up with a list of our own. Take a look at our picks below and find yourself some tasty ‘cue to chow down on today.
1. Canale’s Ham and BBQ
The grub served up at this joint is finger-licking good. Start off with a whole basket full of fries to munch on while your meat is cooking. Then take your pick for the main course. A personal favorite would have to be the full rack of ribs. This hearty portion will fill you up right and has that perfect smoky taste you expect from BBQ ribs. If you’ve got room left over, try some banana pudding for dessert.
2. Master Sergeant BBQ
‘Master Sergeant’ isn’t just the name for this choice BBQ spot: the owner here is a veteran himself. They slow-smoke their meat over a wood fire daily, giving it that authentic BBQ taste you crave. Treat yourself to some pulled pork, either on its own or served on a bun, and taste the difference their careful method gives the flavor. Our pick for a side to accompany your BBQ is their homemade mac and cheese.
3. Wildwood Smokehouse
Wildwood specializes in slow-cooking some of the best BBQ in town, but they’ve got lots of other great eats besides that. If you can’t decide what to get, just get a little bit of everything with their combo plate accurately named ‘The Porker.’ You’ll get pulled pork, pulled chicken, beef brisket, ribs, and ham served with your choice of up to four different sides. Just make sure you’re hungry, this combo is enough food for two!
4. Bad Wolf BBQ
This bad wolf will huff, and puff, and knock your socks off with the delicious food they serve up here. We loved the applewood smoked chicken salad sandwich, served with lettuce, tomato, and creamy homemade mayo. Get it with a side of their zesty Cajun fries to complete your meal. Or if you’re feeling a sweet side dish, go for the sweet potato fries with Bad Wolf’s signature peach apricot sauce.
5. TJ’s Backyard BBQ
Sometimes, it’s hard to beat the flavor you get from a home cookout. TJ’s Backyard BBQ takes that flavor and brings it to a restaurant with its authentic slow-cooking process. Try their pulled pork sandwich combo that comes with your pick of any two sides, as well as some hush puppies for an after-meal snack. If you’ve still got a dessert craving, try one of their made-from-scratch cupcakes. We especially loved the strawberry crunch cupcake.
All of these picks are keeping the Virginia BBQ tradition alive and well. Try one – or more! – out today and who knows: you might find a new favorite!
