This Ain't Texas...
...and we are not even trying to compare, but New York does have some good places to try if you want Barbecue. Whether it's hickory-smoked or cooked on a wood-fired brick pit, a good meat has flavor, tenderness, and of course a great sauce. All of these restaurants serve the traditional staple meats for a good BBQ (and some have unique new additions). Come hungry, leave happy.
Hudson Smokehouse
Right outside of Harlem, on the corner of Alexander and Bruckner Blvd in the Bronx, you'll find the Hudson Smokehouse.
Sit at one of their oak tabletops where you'll food will be served in cafeteria-style metal trays. On the table, choose from a variety of their BBQ sauces to slathered on your rib tips. They also serve classic brisket, pastrami, and smoke fried chicken wings that come in seven flavors, including Alabama White and Cajun. The french fries are also delicious. Thick cut and lightly dusted with a BBQ seasoning. No need for ketchup (unless you really need to take a dip). Come for happy hour or brunch, and make sure to try something off their unique dessert menu featuring deep fried Snickers and PB&J.
Mabel's Smokehouse
This Williamsburg restaurant is best to come with friends and is all about the ribs. Food is served cafeteria style and they have All You Can Eat Specials on certain days of the week. On Wednesdays it's AYCE Ribs and on Thursdays it's AYCE Wings. (Both for less than $30). They also have NFL Football Specials so make sure to check out there page before you go!
Queens Bully
Named after the street it's located on (Queens Boulevard), this place has an eclectic menu that might draw you in, but what you need to focus on is the Barbecue. There meats are smoked in-house and are free range and locally sourced. The Brisket and the Baby Back Ribs are a must. Both are tender and seasoned. They even have Smoked Jackfruit for the vegan friend who wanted to tag along. We are NOT coleslaw fans, seriously. But there's something super delicious about the coleslaw at Queens Bully that we must order every time we go. (Maybe it's the fact that it's not soggy or overly saturated in mayo). Don't worry, it comes as a side unless you choose the potato salad. And the Creamy Cheddar Mac should be ordered to share at the table.
Pig Beach BBQ
With locations in both Brooklyn and Queens, it's hard not to be able to come and enjoy a Southern supper at this eatery. You can get a lil' of everything from their Smoked Lamb Shoulder to the salt & pepper crusted Beef Brisket. The Smoked BBQ Chicken with a Chipotle Rub is also something that needs to be ordered. Can't decide? Try the Sampler Platter where you can get a few of the different meats and one large side.