Best Barbeque Restaurants in Little Rock, AR (2026)
Little Rock takes its barbecue seriously, and Central Arkansas pitmasters have perfected the art of smoke and fire. From tender pulled pork and juicy beef brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs slathered in tangy Arkansas-style sauce, the region’s BBQ joints serve up some of the South’s finest smoked meats. Local smokehouses blend Southern tradition with their own secret rubs and techniques, creating flavors you won’t find anywhere else. Pair your plate with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread for the complete Arkansas barbecue experience.
Local Favorite ★ 4.9 The Rib Cage BBQ
Hot Springs
"Arrive before 6 PM on weekends to ensure they haven't run..."
Smoked Pork Ribs
Beef Brisket Platter
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Lindsey’s Hospitality House & Barbecue
North Little Rock
"Arrive early during lunch hours to ensure the best select..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Hog Pen Bar-B-Q
Conway
"Arrive before noon on weekends to avoid the rush and ensu..."
Hickory Smoked Ribs
Pulled Pork Sandwich
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Whole Hog Cafe NLR
North Little Rock
"Arrive during lunch hours for the freshest cuts, as the m..."
Whole Hog Pulled Pork
Dry-Rubbed Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Wright’s Barbecue
Little Rock
"Arrive before noon on weekends to ensure they haven't sol..."
Smoked Beef Brisket
Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Blue Ember Smokehouse
Hot Springs
"Arrive before 6 PM on weekends to avoid the dinner rush, ..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Smokin’ Buns BBQ
Jacksonville
"Arrive before the dinner rush to ensure they haven't run ..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Ouachita Bar & Grill
Hot Springs
"Visit during happy hour for the best drink specials and t..."
Ouachita Burger
Grilled Arkansas Catfish
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.1 Whole Hog Cafe
Little Rock
"Order the meat by the pound if dining with a group to get..."
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Beef Brisket Platter
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.1 Whole Hog Cafe
Bryant
"Arrive before the lunch rush to ensure the best selection..."
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Whole Hog Cafe
Little Rock
"Order the combo plates to try multiple meats, and don't s..."
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Smoked Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Drip Drop BBQ Shop
Hot Springs
"Arrive early in the day when the meats are at their peak ..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs
+1 more
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