The debate over which Kansas City has the best BBQ is a longstanding one, with both Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, boasting a rich BBQ heritage. The city’s style of BBQ is known for its use of a thick tomato-based sauce, slow-smoking meats over hickory wood, and a wide variety of meats, including brisket, burnt ends, and sausage. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Kansas City BBQ, explore the different styles and techniques used in each city, and ultimately crown the champion of KC’s BBQ scene.
A Brief History of Kansas City BBQ
Kansas City’s BBQ tradition dates back to the early 20th century, when pitmasters from the South brought their slow-smoking techniques to the city. The first BBQ joints in Kansas City were typically small, family-owned operations that served up classic Southern-style ‘cue. Over time, however, Kansas City’s BBQ scene evolved and developed its own unique style, characterized by the use of a thick, sweet, and tangy tomato-based sauce. Today, Kansas City is home to over 100 BBQ restaurants, each with its own unique twist on the classic style.
The Kansas City, Kansas, BBQ Scene
Kansas City, Kansas, is often overlooked in the BBQ debate, but it has a thriving BBQ scene that’s that worth exploring. One of the most famous BBQ joints in Kansas City, Kansas, is Joe’s Kansas City BB-Q, which has been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Joe’s is known for its Z-Man sandwich, which features slow-smoked brisket, provolone cheese, and a tangy BBQ sauce, all piled high on a crusty baguette. Other notable BBQ joints in Kansas City, Kansas, include Slaps BBQ and Brobeck’s BBQ, both of which offer a wide variety of meats and sides.
The Kansas City, Missouri, BBQ Scene
Kansas City, Missouri, is perhaps the more famous of the two cities when it comes to BBQ, and for good reason. The city is home to a number of world-renowned BBQ joints, including Arthur Bryant’s and Gates Bar-B-Q. Arthur Bryant’s, which has been in operation since 1952, is often credited with inventing the Kansas City-style BBQ sauce, and its burnt ends are a must-try for any BBQ enthusiast. Gates Bar-B-Q, on the other hand, is known for its signature sauce, which is sweet, tangy, and utterly addictive.
BBQ Styles and Techniques
One of the key factors that sets Kansas City BBQ apart from other styles is its use of a thick, tomato-based sauce. This sauce is typically applied to the meat during the last few minutes of cooking, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor. In addition to the sauce, Kansas City BBQ is also known for its use of hickory wood, which gives the meat a rich, smoky flavor. Meats are typically slow-smoked over the hickory wood for several hours, resulting in a tender, fall-apart texture.
Meats and Sides
Kansas City BBQ is known for its wide variety of meats, including brisket, burnt ends, sausage, and ribs. The brisket is typically slow-smoked for several hours, resulting in a tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for slicing thin. The burnt ends, which are the crispy, flavorful ends of the brisket, are a Kansas City specialty and are often served as an appetizer or side dish. Sausages are typically made in-house and are flavored with a blend of spices and herbs. Ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and are often slathered in a thick layer of BBQ sauce.
Regional Influences
Kansas City’s BBQ scene has been influenced by a number of regional and cultural factors, including its location at the crossroads of the Midwest and the South. The city’s BBQ style has been shaped by the traditions of both the Midwest and the South, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and techniques. The use of hickory wood, for example, is a nod to the Southern tradition of slow-smoking meats over wood, while the thick tomato-based sauce is a characteristic of Midwestern BBQ.
Conclusion: Which Kansas City Has the Best BBQ?
So, which Kansas City has the best BBQ? The answer, of course, is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, after careful consideration and a thorough exploration of the BBQ scenes in both Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, we’re crowning Kansas City, Missouri, the champion of KC’s BBQ scene. The city’s rich BBQ heritage, combined with its wide variety of meats and sides, make it the top destination for BBQ enthusiasts. That being said, Kansas City, Kansas, is definitely worth a visit, and its BBQ joints, such as Joe’s Kansas City BB-Q and Slaps BBQ, are not to be missed.
| City | BBQ Joints | Must-Try Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, Missouri | Arthur Bryant’s, Gates Bar-B-Q | Burnt ends, signature sauce |
| Kansas City, Kansas | Joe’s Kansas City BB-Q, Slaps BBQ | Z-Man sandwich, slow-smoked brisket |
In the end, the debate over which Kansas City has the best BBQ is a fun and delicious one, and both cities have their own unique charms and attractions. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Kansas City is the perfect destination for you. So why not plan a trip to KC and decide for yourself which city has the best ‘cue? With its rich BBQ heritage, wide variety of meats and sides, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere, you’re sure to have a blast exploring the BBQ scene in Kansas City.
What makes Kansas City-style BBQ unique?
Kansas City-style BBQ is known for its use of a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and lamb, which are slow-smoked over hickory wood to give them a rich, complex flavor. The city’s BBQ joints often serve a wide range of meats, from burnt ends to ribs, brisket, and sausage, all of which are smoked to perfection. The slow-smoking process, which can take up to 18 hours, allows the meat to absorb the deep, smoky flavor of the hickory wood, making it tender and juicy.
The unique flavor profile of Kansas City-style BBQ is also due in part to the city’s BBQ sauce, which is typically sweet and tangy, with a thick, tomato-based consistency. The sauce is often served on the side, allowing customers to add as much or as little as they like to their meat. This approach to BBQ is distinct from other regional styles, such as Texas-style BBQ, which tends to be more focused on beef and often features a drier, more rustic flavor profile. Overall, Kansas City-style BBQ is a delicious and unique blend of flavors and techniques that sets it apart from other BBQ styles.
Which BBQ joints are considered to be among the best in Kansas City?
Kansas City is home to a wide range of excellent BBQ joints, each with its own unique character and specialties. Some of the most highly-recommended BBQ joints in the city include Arthur Bryant’s, Gates Bar-B-Q, and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, all of which have been featured on food television shows and have received rave reviews from critics and customers alike. These joints offer a range of meats and sides, from classic burnt ends and ribs to more innovative dishes like BBQ sandwiches and salads.
In addition to these well-known BBQ joints, Kansas City is also home to a number of smaller, family-owned restaurants that serve up delicious BBQ in a more casual, laid-back atmosphere. These joints often have their own secret recipes and techniques, and may offer a more personalized and welcoming experience for customers. Some examples of these smaller BBQ joints include LC’s Bar-B-Q, which is known for its tender, smoky meats, and Q39, which offers a wide range of creative BBQ dishes and sides. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a delicious meal, Kansas City has something to offer.
What are the most popular BBQ dishes in Kansas City?
The most popular BBQ dishes in Kansas City tend to be the classic meats, such as burnt ends, ribs, and brisket, which are slow-smoked to perfection over hickory wood. Burnt ends, in particular, are a Kansas City specialty, and are made from the crispy, flavorful ends of smoked brisket. They are often served with a side of BBQ sauce, and are a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Ribs are also extremely popular, and are typically served as a rack, with a variety of sauces and seasonings available.
In addition to these classic meats, Kansas City BBQ joints also offer a range of sides and desserts, from classic coleslaw and baked beans to more innovative dishes like BBQ sandwiches and salads. Some popular sides include french fries, which are often cooked to a crispy perfection, and grilled vegetables, which are smothered in BBQ sauce and grilled to perfection. For dessert, many BBQ joints offer classic treats like peach cobbler and banana pudding, which are the perfect way to cap off a delicious BBQ meal.
How does the BBQ scene in Kansas City compare to other cities?
The BBQ scene in Kansas City is unique and distinct from other cities, with its own rich history and cultural traditions. While other cities, such as Memphis and Texas, have their own styles of BBQ, Kansas City’s slow-smoking technique and use of a variety of meats set it apart. The city’s BBQ joints are also known for their friendly, welcoming atmosphere, which makes them a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a delicious meal, Kansas City’s BBQ scene has something to offer.
In comparison to other cities, Kansas City’s BBQ scene is also notable for its diversity and creativity. While some cities may be known for a single style of BBQ, Kansas City’s BBQ joints offer a wide range of meats, sides, and desserts, from classic burnt ends and ribs to more innovative dishes like BBQ tacos and salads. This diversity, combined with the city’s rich BBQ history and cultural traditions, make Kansas City a must-visit destination for anyone who loves BBQ. With its unique flavor profile, friendly atmosphere, and creative dishes, Kansas City’s BBQ scene is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
What is the history of BBQ in Kansas City?
The history of BBQ in Kansas City dates back to the early 20th century, when pitmasters from the South began to settle in the city and bring their BBQ traditions with them. One of the most influential pitmasters was Henry Perry, who is often credited with inventing Kansas City-style BBQ. Perry’s BBQ restaurant, which opened in the 1920s, served a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and lamb, all of which were slow-smoked over hickory wood to give them a rich, complex flavor.
Over time, Kansas City’s BBQ scene continued to evolve and grow, with new BBQ joints opening up across the city. The city’s BBQ tradition was also influenced by its cultural and economic history, including the city’s role as a major railroad hub and its diverse population of immigrants from across the United States. Today, Kansas City’s BBQ scene is a thriving and vibrant part of the city’s culture, with a wide range of BBQ joints and festivals celebrating the city’s rich BBQ heritage. From the annual Kansas City BBQ Festival to the city’s many BBQ joints, Kansas City is a city that is deeply passionate about its BBQ.
How do I choose the best BBQ joint in Kansas City?
Choosing the best BBQ joint in Kansas City can be a daunting task, given the city’s many excellent options. One approach is to ask locals for recommendations, as they often have a deep knowledge of the city’s BBQ scene and can point you in the direction of their favorite joints. You can also check online review sites, such as Yelp or TripAdvisor, to see what other customers have to say about a particular BBQ joint. Additionally, consider visiting multiple BBQ joints and trying a variety of meats and sides to get a sense of which ones you like best.
Another factor to consider when choosing a BBQ joint is the atmosphere and ambiance of the restaurant. Some BBQ joints, such as Arthur Bryant’s, have a classic, no-frills atmosphere that is reminiscent of the city’s BBQ tradition. Others, such as Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, have a more modern and trendy vibe, with a wide range of creative BBQ dishes and sides. Ultimately, the best BBQ joint for you will depend on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a BBQ experience. By doing some research and trying out a few different options, you’re sure to find a BBQ joint that suits your tastes and leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
Are there any BBQ festivals or events in Kansas City?
Yes, Kansas City hosts a number of BBQ festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the city’s rich BBQ heritage and showcasing the best of the city’s BBQ scene. One of the most popular events is the Kansas City BBQ Festival, which takes place annually in October and features live music, BBQ competitions, and a wide range of BBQ vendors and restaurants. The festival is a great opportunity to try a variety of BBQ styles and flavors, and to learn more about the city’s BBQ tradition.
In addition to the Kansas City BBQ Festival, the city also hosts a number of other BBQ events and competitions, including the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, which is one of the largest and most prestigious BBQ competitions in the world. The competition, which takes place in September, features teams from across the United States and around the world, all of whom are competing for the top prize in a variety of BBQ categories. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a fun and delicious experience, Kansas City’s BBQ festivals and events are sure to please.