Pack your wet wipes because we're going on a quest for some 'cue!
Summer's here. You can smell it in the air. The smoky bouquet of oak, maple, and hickory. A waft of dry rub in the breeze. And that intoxicating aroma that comes when sauce and meats collide. It can only mean one thing—BBQ season has arrived in Fairfax County!
The safari begins with Yelp's top-rated American spots, highlighted below. But with our county's culinary diversity, we'd be remiss not to also include Korean BBQ places like Meokja Meokja and Kogiya in our hunt. After sampling all our county's ‘cue, rinse your palate with one of our local brews and repeat all summer long! Be sure to explore some of the places with the best BBQ in Northern VA below!
Willard's Real Pit BBQ
If you're a fan of North Carolina-style pulled pork, Texas-style sliced brisket, Kansas City-style burnt ends, and Jamaican-style jerk chicken, you will be in hog heaven when stepping foot into Willard's Real Pit BBQ. With locations in both Chantilly and Reston, you won't find a lack of options at this local favorite. Families can also order group meals, whether a Feast for eight, a Feedbag for four, or a Supper for six. Keep an eye on their rotating sides and specials as well.
Odd BBQ
A hidden gem of a barbecue spot, tucked into a small kitchen operating out of Ono Brewing Company in Chantilly, Odd BBQ's menu may be limited, but oh my, the flavors and the juices and the sauces will keep you coming back. Dig into Smoked Pork Belly sandwiches, Half Smoke Sausage, or a Pork SpareRib Plate and pile up the incredible Mac & Cheese, Baked Beans, or Seasoned Rice sides. And of course, wash the deliciousness down with your pick from Ono Brewing Co.'s self-serve beer wall.
Mission BBQ
Mission BBQ isn't just one of the region's best BBQ joints, it's also on a patriotic mission to serve those who serve. Come at lunchtime when they do their daily salute to the Stars and Stripes. Otherwise, it's all about the smoky pork, brisket, chicken, turkey, and sausage. (There are three locations in Fairfax County - in Alexandria, in Chantilly, and in Herndon.)
Mookie's BBQ
Mookie's BBQ is a family-owned joint born of backyard cookouts and sanctioned competitions. This is where you'll find a perfect smoke ring, a wide array of sauces, and all the sides that say, “Summer has arrived!” And yes, they have banana pudding.
What are some of your favorite BBQ places in Fairfax County? Tell us in the comments below or tag us on social media the next time you visit one of those scrumptious 'cue spots: #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.
