There are three topics we’re often told to avoid in polite conversation: money, religion, and politics. But we’d argue that barbecue belongs on that list, too. Why? Because in Kansas City, barbecue loyalties run deep, and opinions on the best spot can be just as divisive.
That said, we’re willing to take the risk. If you’re looking for the best barbecue in and around Overland Park, here are a few top spots worth visiting. Just don’t blame us if your personal favorite didn’t make the list.
Q39
Price: $20-30 per personA relative newcomer to the Kansas City barbecue scene, Q39 quickly became a local favorite after their debut in 2014. What started as a competitive barbecue team has evolved into a stylish, yet rustic restaurant known for its perfectly smoked meats and creative dishes. They have two locations in the Metro: one in Midtown and one in Overland Park.
The chef's pride themselves on using competition-style techniques to create innovative, unique BBQ dishes like the Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine or the Pork Belly Tacos. If you're a traditionalist, opt for the Judge's Plate which comes with your choice of three of their most popular smoked meats: spare ribs, sliced brisket, pulled pork, chicken and the house-made chipotle sausage.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Price: $10-20 per person
Arguably the most famous barbecue joint on this list, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que has earned national recognition – and for good reason. What started as a gas station food stop in 1996 is now one of the most famous barbecue spots in the country. Despite national acclaim, Joe’s has remained committed to quality over expansion, with just three locations in the Kansas City area (including the original gas station location in Kansas City, Kansas).
Their menu is packed with smoked perfection, but the Z-Man Sandwich is a must-try—smoked brisket, provolone cheese, crispy onion rings, and barbecue sauce on a toasted bun. So if you're planning a weekend in Overland Park, a trip to Joe’s is an essential part of experiencing authentic Kansas City barbecue. Just be prepared to wait in line!
Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue
Price: $20-30 per personFiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue started in 1957 as a traditional storefront BBQ stand that served a handful of items. To stand out in the city’s competitive barbecue scene, Jack Stack used hickory wood to smoke its meats, creating the signature flavors that set it apart. In 1974, the first Fiorella’s Jack Stack opened in Martin City, eventually becoming the largest wood-fired barbecue restaurant in the U.S. Today, Jack Stack operates six restaurants throughout the Metro, including one in Overland Park.
Unlike other spots on this list, Jack Stack offers a refined, sit-down dining experience, making it the go-to spot for those looking to enjoy barbecue in a more upscale setting. While the menu is packed with standout dishes, one item is a must-order: the legendary cheesy corn. Trust us, skipping it would be a mistake.
Gates Bar-B-Q
Price: $10-20 per personNext up on our list is a KC staple: Gate's Bar-B-Q. Founded by George W. Gates in 1946, this family-run institution helped shape the city’s barbecue identity with its tangy, tomato-based sauce, open-pit cooking style, and no-nonsense approach to serving up slabs of ribs, burnt ends, and tender brisket. With multiple locations across the metro, Gates remains a go-to spot for both locals and visitors craving authentic Kansas City barbecue.
Stop by and dive into a mixed plate piled high with meats and fries and don't forget to drench your meal in their legendary sauce. No matter how you like your meats, one thing is certain – at Gates, you're experiencing a true piece of Kansas City history. When you're all done eating, grab a few bottles of their famous sauces to bring a little piece of KC history back home with you.
Brobeck's BBQ
Price: $10-20 per personOver at Brobeck's BBQ in Overland Park, they do BBQ a little differently. Doug Brobeck, raised in eastern Tennessee, developed a love for Carolina-style barbecue before bringing his unique take to KC. Here, the meats are coated in a Carolina-style dry rub, slow-smoked, and served without sauce – though you’re welcome to add as much or as little as you like. Their philosophy? Great barbecue should stand on its own.
While they're famous for their pulled pork, don’t overlook the ribs and burnt ends. And for something truly unique, try the Ham Salad Dip – a flavorful mix of smoked ham, smoked turkey, pickle relish, chopped onion, and seasonings. It’s a local favorite that perfectly captures Brobeck’s signature blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors.
Arthur Bryant's Barbeque
Price: $10-20 per personIt's time to discuss a mainstay in the KC BBQ scene: Arthur Bryant's Barbeque. Its roots trace back to 1908, when Henry Perry, known as the “Father of Kansas City Barbecue,” began serving slow-smoked meats to workers in the Garment District before moving to the 18th & Vine Jazz District. After Perry’s passing in 1940, his apprentice Charlie Bryant took over, and in 1946, his brother Arthur Bryant assumed ownership, transforming the restaurant into the iconic institution it is today.
Located just outside the 18th & Vine Jazz District, the spot has retained its original charm—with plastic tables, fluorescent lighting, and jugs of sauce lining the windows. They’re best known for their burnt ends and open-faced sandwiches, served alongside their signature tangy, paprika-rich sauce, a stark contrast to the city's traditionally sweeter barbecue sauces. Over the decades, many famous people have dined here, including Steven Spielberg, Jack Nicholson, and Barack Obama.
Harp Barbecue
Price: $10-20 per personNewly-opened in South Overland Park, Harp Barbecue is bringing its scrumptious burnt ends to the Kansas side! Originally launched in 2019 in Raytown, Missouri, Harp quickly made a name for itself with its expertly smoked brisket, rich and flavorful burnt ends, and uniquely crafted sausages. Their blueberry white cheddar and jalapeño cheddar sausages are fan favorites, delivering the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
If you’re planning a visit, go for a combo plate to sample a little bit of everything. From brisket to ribs and those famous burnt ends, every bite is a celebration of Kansas City-style barbecue. And don’t forget the sides! Their twice-baked potato salad, cheesy corn, and collard greens round out the meal with classic comfort food flavors. To top it all off, finish with a cup of their banana pudding, the perfect sweet ending to a smoky, satisfying feast.
Slap's BBQ
Price: $10-20 per personLocated about 20 minutes outside of Overland Park, Slap’s BBQ (short for “Squeal Like a Pig”) has become a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Founded by brothers Joe and Mike Pearce, the BBQ joint quickly gained a loyal following thanks to its perfectly smoked meats and bold, flavorful sauces.
Don’t be surprised if the staff yells out orders or keeps the line moving with a no-nonsense approach. It’s all part of the experience. Their burnt ends are commonly referred to by locals as the best in KC, while their ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender with just the right balance of smokiness and spice. Round out your meal with their famous cheesy corn, hickory pit beans, or potato casserole, and you’ll understand why Slap’s sells out daily. Get there early – once the meat’s gone, it’s gone!
