Top 4 Locally Owned BBQ Spots in Las Vegas That Foodies Will Love

Las Vegas is a city that serves up more than just glitz and glamour—it’s a hidden gem for barbecue lovers craving smoky, tender meats and bold flavors. While the Strip dazzles with high-end dining, the real magic happens at the locally owned BBQ joints scattered across the valley. These spots are dishing out everything from Texas-style brisket to Las Vegas’s unique spin on barbecue, paired with sides that’ll make your taste buds sing. For foodies ready to dive into the best smoky goodness Sin City has to offer, here are the top four locally owned BBQ restaurants in Las Vegas in 2025, each with its flavor and flair. Buckle up for a mouthwatering ride!

1. John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill: A Legendary BBQ Haven

Tucked away in North Las Vegas at 3730 Thom Blvd, John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill is a bucket-list stop for any serious BBQ aficionado. This no-frills spot, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, started as a slaughterhouse over 70 years ago and has since transformed into a barbecue legend. The secret? Meats are vacuum-tumbled for 16 hours in a special rub of roasted peppers, salt, sugar, and spices, then slow-smoked for another 16 hours. The result is fall-off-the-bone ribs, juicy hot links, and some of the creamiest mac and cheese in town.

Foodies will love the covered patio vibe, where you’ll join locals and tourists waiting in line for a taste of history. Try the burnt ends or pulled chicken, paired with their killer baked beans. As one Reddit user raved, “John Mull’s has a solid menu and great baked beans, hands down the best BBQ in the valley.” Just be prepared for a wait—it’s worth every minute.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a spot, as seating is limited, and the line can get long.

2. Big B’s Texas BBQ: Brisket Done Right

For a taste of Texas in the desert, Big B’s Texas BBQ at 3019 St Rose Pkwy #130 is a must. Natalia Badzjo and Brian Buechner own this family-run gem. Their brisket is the star—thick-cut, melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a smoky, beefy flavor that earned praise from former Las Vegas Review-Journal critic Heidi Knapp Rinella for its “big, beefy flavor and incredible tenderness.”

The menu also shines with baby back ribs, pulled pork, and hot links, all smoked low and slow over hickory. Pair your plate with Southern staples like cornbread, yams, or fried okra. Foodies will appreciate the attention to detail, from the custom spice rubs to the house-made sauces. Yelp reviewers can’t stop raving about the juicy chicken and decadent sauces, making Big B’s a go-to for a hearty BBQ feast.

Pro Tip: Try the “Ten Gallon” platter for a little bit of everything, and don’t skip the smoked rice—it’s a game-changer.

3. Rollin Smoke BBQ: Southern Comfort with Vegas Swagger

Located at 3185 S Highland Dr, Rollin Smoke BBQ brings Southern soul to Las Vegas with a side of local swagger. This beloved spot, a staple since 2012, has earned a loyal following for its hickory-smoked meats and down-home vibe. Their menu is a love letter to BBQ purists, featuring St. Louis-style ribs, Texas brisket, and pulled pork smoked for up to 14 hours. The Arkansas-style sauce—sweet, tangy, and just a touch spicy—ties it all together, earning raves from foodies on Yelp for its “perfect balance.”

Rollin Smoke’s casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The sides are a standout, with creamy potato salad and sweet cornbread stealing the show. As one TripAdvisor reviewer noted, “The ribs are so tender, and the sauce is to die for—a must-visit for BBQ lovers!” Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or catering a party, Rollin Smoke delivers authentic Southern BBQ with a Vegas twist.

Pro Tip: Order the “Hogzilla” sandwich—a towering pile of pulled pork, sausage, and slaw—for a true foodie adventure.

4. Hattie Marie’s Texas BBQ and Cajun Kitchen: Southern Soul with a Twist

For a BBQ experience that marries Texas smoke with Cajun spice, Hattie Marie’s Texas BBQ and Cajun Kitchen at 7686 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste 101, Las Vegas, NV 89123 is a foodie paradise. Owned by former NFL Super Bowl champ Brandon Marshall, this vibrant eatery serves up tender brisket, juicy ribs, and smoked meatloaf alongside Cajun specialties like gumbo and fried catfish po’boys. The award-winning BBQ sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and smoky, elevating every bite. OpenTable diners rave about the “mouthwatering smoked meats” and “inviting atmosphere,” making it an excellent spot for a lively group meal.

The fusion of flavors here is what sets Hattie Marie’s apart. Foodies will love experimenting with sides like dirty rice or hushpuppies, which add a Southern twist to the BBQ experience. Yelp reviews highlight the friendly service and bold flavors, with one fan calling it “a true taste of the South.” Whether you’re craving a classic BBQ plate or a Cajun-inspired adventure, Hattie Marie’s delivers.

Pro Tip: Try the smoked meatloaf for something different, and pair it with a side of collard greens for a soulful meal.

Why These Spots Are Foodie Heaven

These four locally owned BBQ joints aren’t just restaurants—they’re destinations for foodies who live for bold flavors, smoky aromas, and the joy of discovering a perfect bite. Each spot brings something unique: John Mull’s offers a taste of Vegas’s gritty, authentic past; Big B’s delivers Texas-sized portions with finesse; Rollin Smoke blends Southern tradition with local flair; and Hattie Marie’s fuses Southern and Cajun soul. Together, they prove that Las Vegas’s BBQ scene is as vibrant as its nightlife.

In 2025, supporting these locally owned gems is more crucial than ever. They’re not just feeding us—they’re preserving the art of barbecue, creating community, and keeping Vegas’s culinary scene diverse and delicious. So, grab your stretchy pants, hit the road, and explore these BBQ havens. Your taste buds will thank you.