Fayetteville’s barbecue scene sizzles with government-backed flavor this summer. As the ‘Smoke Out To Help Out’ initiative offers diners up to $10 off per person on weeknight feasts, we’ve fired up our list of the 10 best joints where tender brisket and tangy sauce meet sweet savings.
Smoke ‘N’ Willie
$ | (479) 396-2831 | WEBSITE
Some folks dream of retiring to a beachfront villa. Some folks dream of endless rounds of golf. Me? I want to spend my golden years parked at Smoke ‘N’ Willie, working my way through a whole chopped brisket sandwich with no napkins and zero regrets. This Fayetteville barbecue joint is as satisfying as you can get this side of the Ozarks and their portions are just as generous. Heads up, they’ve also got ample parking for those hungry crowds.
Lucky Luke’s BBQ
$ | (479) 521-7550 | WEBSITE
Lucky Luke’s BBQ used to be known as one of Fayetteville’s best barbecue joints. Now, Lucky Luke’s BBQ is known as one of Fayetteville’s best barbecue joints with a Lynyrd Skynyrd feel. Thanks to the friendly staff and lively atmosphere, Lucky Luke’s now has that classic Southern rock vibe throughout the dining room. Expect a jolly sort of backyard barbecue feel, only instead of sharing a sad little store-bought potato salad, you’ll be eating excellent ribs and super spicy but tasty beans.
The Buffalo Wings are hot and delicious, and the variety of BBQ sauces adds to the experience. The reasonably priced family packs with generous portions make this a favorite spot for many, though customers do hope for a BBQ baked potato addition to the menu someday.
Penguin Ed’s Barbeque
$ | (479) 587-8646 | WEBSITE
Now and again – approximately every time we’re passing through Fayetteville – we get a craving for barbecue. And a lot of the time, when we think of barbecue, we think of the pulled pork sandwich with their flavorful sauces from Penguin Ed’s Barbeque. This local BBQ spot is what we believe the locals call ‘solid’. Basically, it’s welcoming, the food’s fantastic, and their large tables make it perfect for families, so it’s ideal for a little comfort food indulgence.
South Side Smoke Shack
It’s not that we’re saying we love South Side Smoke Shack’s brisket more than 90% of our friends. But we’re not not saying that. Judging us? That’s okay. We’d judge us too, right up until the moment where you’re met by an epiphany in smoked meat form. But the brisket isn’t the only thing on the menu you should be getting involved in, they also serve some of Fayetteville’s best baked beans. Find them throughout the year at their cozy smokehouse with that authentic BBQ atmosphere.
Sassy’s Barbecue and Grille
$ | (479) 435-6996 | WEBSITE
It doesn’t get more Fayetteville barbecue than Sassy’s Barbecue and Grille. A plate of their seasoned shredded pork, some potato salad, a little friendly service. Sign us up any lunch, any week, and any barbecue craving. Plus, for the very first time – dun dun dun – Sassy’s has become a reliable lunch spot. Eating barbecue in Fayetteville has peak comfort food potential and be sure to leave enough room for a round of coleslaw.
Ozark Lanes Cafe
$ | (479) 442-3511 | WEBSITE
We have a theory that heaven is just one big burger joint. Sure, there’ll probably be some pretty sunsets and that childhood baseball glove your parents told you ‘just needed a break’, but mostly, we think there’ll be burgers. More specifically, burgers in the form of Ozark Lanes Cafe’s traditional American patties.
This legendary spot will not only be serving breakfast around the clock, but for the first time they have the best prices in town at both their Fayetteville restaurant and classic diner atmosphere.
Ronda’s Roadhouse
$ | (479) 935-3240 | WEBSITE
Ronda’s Roadhouse is the quintessential hometown barbecue joint. Housed in a classic Fayetteville roadhouse, it’s got that whole nostalgic 80s and 90s vibe going on, with enough kitschy decor and comforting dishes on the menu to keep things feeling wonderfully familiar. It also benefits from being much more welcoming than your average barbecue spot and you can even have a little comfort food moment, involving their famous Wednesday meatloaf and some friendly staff attention throughout your meal.
Logan’s Roadhouse
$ | (479) 251-7775 | WEBSITE
Experts might claim that true barbecue requires smoke, fire, and patience. And yes, they’re absolutely correct, but in our honest view, barbecue magic also happens at Logan’s Roadhouse. This family-friendly spot in Fayetteville consistently delivers satisfaction to our taste buds and the same goes for enjoying tender ribs with loved ones. Overall, it’s one of our top choices for a hearty group meal that’s as wallet-friendly as it is delicious.
Penguin Ed’s Bar-B-Que
$ | (479) 521-3663 | WEBSITE
Let us tell you all about eating at this seriously excellent barbecue joint. Oh wait, we already did, in our report from our very first craving for smoky meats. TLDR? This place is fucking fantastic.
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (479) 439-6326 | WEBSITE
LongHorn Steakhouse should come with a satisfaction guarantee. Seriously, we’ve never had a disappointing meal in their dining room, savoring steaks, enjoying parmesan crusted chicken, and watching the thoughtful staff handle the bustling crowds. Get seated quicker than expected on top? Fantastic.
