Anthony Bourdain famously pointed out that a certain Midwestern town is the ultimate spot for incredible barbecue. Kansas City has earned its legendary status because of its amazing smoked meats and special local cooking styles. People who enjoy eating good food find this place to be a dream come true. It remains a top tier barbecue haven that totally lives up to its world-class reputation and you can taste why in every bite.
The ultimate stamp of approval from a legend
Anthony Bourdain knew food better than anyone so when he called Kansas City the best BBQ in the world people listened. He tried places all over the map and he found something truly special in this underrated Midwest city. Islands Magazine noted he ranked it as his absolute favorite spot to grab smoked meats.
It all started at a gas station
You might not expect greatness from a gas station but Oklahoma Joe’s proved everyone wrong. Now called Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que this spot was Bourdain’s top pick and it still pulls huge crowds today. Foodie mentions he was totally enchanted by their brisket and burnt ends.
Burnt ends are the real star of the show
Brisket has a special part called burnt ends and it is honestly the most tasty piece. Kansas City made these crispy fatty bites popular and every single piece has so much rich smoky flavor. They really are like meat candy and you will totally end up getting extra portions today.
They do not pick favorites with meat
Some places only focus on pork or beef but Kansas City literally smokes everything they can get their hands on. You will find incredible ribs and chicken and pulled pork sitting right next to sliced brisket. This means everyone in your friend group will find something they absolutely love.
The sauce is sweet and thick
If you think of standard barbecue sauce, this sweet tomato kind is probably it. It uses molasses to make it extra thick so it really clings to your fingers. It makes a total mess while you eat and you will need napkins for sure but it tastes so delicious.
The Black Keys even joined the fun
Bourdain actually brought the rock band The Black Keys to a spot called Woodyard BBQ during one of his visits. They sat outside and just housed huge plates of ribs like it was a backyard party. It really shows how this city makes food feel so chill and down to earth.
Slow and low is the only rule
Pitmasters here take their sweet time and they smoke the meat over mixed wood coals for hours on end. This slow process breaks everything down until it is so tender it just falls right off the bone. You can literally taste the patience in every single bite you take.
You better show up early for lunch
Lines form super fast at all the popular spots so you need to plan ahead if you want the good stuff. Foodie warns that you have to show up early at Joe’s because the lunch rush gets totally wild. Waiting in line makes the food taste even better when you finally sit down.
It blends the best of every region
Instead of sticking to one strict rule this city borrowed tricks from Texas and the Carolinas to make something completely new. They took whole hog smoking and low wood coals and combined them into a total master class. It is like the ultimate greatest hits album of American barbecue.
A vibe that feels just like home
They do not waste time trying to look fancy or modern for customers. All they care about is filling your plate up with really amazing food. The tables are super plain but the meals are huge and people act like your family. Bourdain truly loved this place for its pure honest spirit.
