What are the most popular smokehouse menu items?

Smokehouse restaurants are celebrated for their mastery in slow-cooking meats to perfection, creating dishes that are rich in flavor and tender in texture. The allure of a smokehouse menu lies in its variety, offering something for everyone, from meat lovers to those preferring lighter, yet equally flavorful options. The most popular items typically include smoked brisket, pulled pork, BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, beef ribs, burnt ends, and smoked sausage. These dishes are favored not only for their deep, smoky taste but also for the skill and time required to prepare them, making each bite a testament to the art of barbecue.

Smoked brisket

Smoked brisket stands out in the smokehouse scene for its tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. This popularity is owed to the brisket's long, slow cooking process, which imbues it with a deep, smoky flavor that's hard to resist. Smoked brisket is versatile, making it a hit among a wide audience, including families and solo diners, and is equally popular for sit-down meals or as a takeout option. From smoked brisket tacos, combining the rich taste of brisket with the zesty freshness of Tex-Mex cuisine, to brisket mac & cheese, which brings comfort food to new heights, there's a brisket dish for every palate. The availability of brisket in different forms, such as sandwiches, platters, and even in chili, ensures its status as a smokehouse staple.

Pulled pork

Pulled pork is another cornerstone of smokehouse cuisine, beloved for its smoky flavor and succulent, tender texture. This dish's appeal lies in its versatility and ability to cater to a broad demographic, from casual diners to serious barbecue enthusiasts. Pulled pork shines in various menu options, from the traditional smoked pulled pork sandwich, a staple that satisfies the craving for a classic barbecue, to more innovative dishes like pulled pork tacos, offering a lighter, more contemporary take on smokehouse fare. The Carolina pulled pork sandwich, with its tangy vinegar-based sauce, pays homage to regional barbecue traditions and adds diversity to the menu. Whether as a hearty platter or a topping for mac & cheese, pulled pork remains a sought-after choice for both dine-in and delivery.

BBQ ribs

BBQ ribs are synonymous with smokehouse dining, celebrated for their meaty richness and the satisfaction of eating them off the bone. The popularity of BBQ ribs spans various cooking styles, from the sticky sweetness of BBQ pork ribs to the robust flavor of beef ribs. Ribs cater to a wide audience, including groups and families looking for a communal dining experience, and are a favorite for both leisurely meals and special occasions. The introduction of Korean BBQ ribs and Kalbi short ribs on smokehouse menus speaks to the growing interest in fusion cuisine, offering a delightful blend of traditional smokehouse flavors with Asian influences. Whether served as a full rack for sharing or as a combo platter with sides, BBQ ribs are a quintessential part of the smokehouse experience.

Smoked chicken

Smoked chicken offers a lighter alternative to the beef and pork-centric smokehouse menu, without compromising on flavor. Its popularity stems from its versatility and appeal to a wide demographic, including those seeking healthier dining options. Smoked chicken can be enjoyed in various forms, from a classic smoked chicken plate, ideal for a wholesome meal, to smoked chicken wings, perfect for casual dining or as a shareable appetizer. The smoked chicken salad and sandwich options provide lighter fare that doesn't skimp on the smoky taste characteristic of barbecue cuisine. With options suitable for both sit-down meals and delivery, smoked chicken ensures that smokehouse menus have something for everyone.

Beef ribs

Beef ribs are a meat lover's delight, known for their rich flavor and tender meat that falls off the bone. This popularity is due in part to the variety of ways beef ribs can be prepared and served, from classic BBQ beef short ribs to the exotic taste of Korean BBQ short ribs. Beef ribs cater to those looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, making them a popular choice for dinner menus and special occasions. The inclusion of dishes like braised beef short ribs and the bone-in ribeye steak on smokehouse menus caters to a broad range of tastes, from traditional barbecue aficionados to those seeking a more refined dining experience. Beef ribs' versatility and broad appeal ensure their place as a staple in smokehouse cuisine.

Burnt ends

Burnt ends, with their charred exterior and tender, flavorful interior, embody the essence of smokehouse barbecue. These delectable morsels are a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts for their intense flavor and texture. Burnt ends are versatile, serving as a highlight in dishes like smoked brisket tacos and as a standalone dish that pairs wonderfully with classic sides like BBQ baked beans. Their popularity extends beyond the traditional barbecue crowd, appealing to anyone looking for a rich, meaty dish that's both satisfying and unique. As a testament to the art of smoking and barbecue, burnt ends hold a special place in the hearts of smokehouse patrons.

Smoked sausage

Smoked sausage rounds out the smokehouse menu with its spiced, smoky flavor and versatile applications. It appeals to a wide range of diners, from those looking for a hearty breakfast option to those seeking a savory addition to their barbecue platter. Smoked sausage can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or as part of a larger meal, making it a popular choice for all meal types and dining preferences. The availability of spicy variants caters to those who enjoy a bit of heat, while the inclusion of a vegan sausage option ensures that smokehouse menus are accessible to diners with different dietary needs. Whether served as part of a breakfast biscuit or a dinner plate, smoked sausage is a beloved staple of smokehouse cuisine.

The information presented in this article is based on a comprehensive study of Otter’s internal menu data for smokehouses, and does not represent a guarantee.

More resources

• What is a Smokehouse
• Food delivery trends and restaurant insights