If you’re like me, then the smell of barbecue is enough to get your mouth watering. For that reason alone, summer is one of my favorite seasons because you get to bring the grill out and make the best foods.
There’s nothing quite like sitting around grilled burgers, chicken, ribs, hot dogs—the works! If that’s what you have a taste for, then we’ve got you covered. When it comes to BBQ, Billings, Montana, has a smokin’ hot barbecue scene that’ll make your taste buds sing. You can get your feel on some smoky food that promises to be finger-lickin’ good.
From the Plains to Your Plate
Without question—when the words Montana barbecue are uttered, skepticism and eyebrows may raise all at the same time. But give it a chance, it’s definitely a hidden gem. I can testify that folks around here take their smoked meats seriously.
Let’s just say that there’s a whole mess of BBQ styles that you can choose from. Whether you’re a Texas brisket fanatic or a Kansas City ribs enthusiast, there’s a smokehouse in Billings with your name on it.
So, follow your appetite and let’s hit the trail!
Where the Magic Happens
Everyone loves a good rib bone, and if you don’t, what;’s wrong with you?! Here are the top places we recommend for taste, authenticity, and good vibes in Billings.
1. Blue’s BBQ
- Location: 523 Hilltop Rd, Billings, MT 59105
- Phone: (406) 245-2583
- Website: Blue’s BBQ
- Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 11 am-8 pm, Closed Sunday and Monday
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: Primarily Texas-style, with some unique twists
- Must-Try: Brisket, pulled pork sandwich, peach cobbler
- Vegetarian: Limited options, but the sides are excellent
- Price Range: $$
A Billings institution, Blue’s BBQ has been smokin’ since 2004. Kenny and Kim Hager, the pitmasters behind this BBQ haven, moved their operation from Wyoming to share their love of slow-smoked meats with Montana. Step inside, and you’ll find the air thick with the aroma of hickory wood, while the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere makes you feel right at home.
Blue’s is known for its melt-in-your-mouth brisket, so tender it practically falls apart on your fork. The pulled pork is another crowd-pleaser, piled high on a soft bun and topped with their signature tangy sauce.
Don’t leave without trying the peach cobbler—it’s the perfect sweet ending to a smoky meal. While vegetarian options are limited, the sides, like creamy mac and cheese and smoky baked beans, are definitely worth a taste. Whether you’re a local regular or a first-time visitor, Blue’s BBQ is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic, down-home barbecue in Billings.
2. Famous Dave’s
- Location: 2883 King Ave W, Billings, MT 59102
- Phone: (406) 652-4880
- Website: Famous Dave’s
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am-9 pm, Friday & Saturday: 11 am-10 pm
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: A unique blend of Kansas City and Memphis-style influences
- Must-Try: Porky Mac and Cheese, Hellfire Challenge, ribs
- Vegetarian: Limited options, but the sides are hearty and delicious
- Price Range: $$
If the name doesn’t grab you, the smell of smoke wafting from this unassuming spot sure will. Famous Dave’s is a local favorite known for its no-nonsense approach to barbecue. Step inside, and you’ll find a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with picnic-style tables and electric energy.
The menu features a mouthwatering selection of slow-smoked meats, from tender brisket to juicy pulled pork. But what sets this BBQ spot apart is its unique blend of flavors, drawing inspiration from both Kansas City and Memphis traditions. Their ribs are a must-try, perfectly seasoned and cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection.
For the adventurous, the “Hellfire Challenge” is a platter of fiery meats guaranteed to test your limits. And if you’re looking for a side that’s more than just an afterthought, the “Porky Mac and Cheese” is a cheesy, smoky, carb-loaded dream. While vegetarian options are limited, the hearty sides like baked beans and cornbread are sure to satisfy even the most committed herbivore. So come hungry and get ready to dig into some seriously good BBQ.
3. The Rib & Chop House
- Location: 1849 Majestic Ln, Billings, MT 59102
- Phone: (406) 839-9200
- Website: The Rib & Chop House
- Hours: Daily: 11 am-10 pm
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: Upscale BBQ with a focus on prime rib and chops
- Must-Try: Smoked prime rib, BBQ shrimp, gumbo
- Vegetarian: Limited options, but they can accommodate dietary restrictions
- Price Range: $$$
The Rib & Chop House, with its rustic, wood-beamed interior and crackling fireplace, offers an upscale yet inviting atmosphere for a memorable dining experience. While renowned for its hand-cut steaks, their BBQ menu is equally impressive.
Their signature smoked prime rib is a testament to their expertise. Slow-smoked over hardwood for hours until it achieves a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, it is another standout dish. The BBQ shrimp, bathed in a sweet and spicy sauce, is another standout dish. But before diving into the mains, don’t miss the chance to savor their unique gumbo.
The Rib & Chop House is an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined BBQ experience, whether for a special occasion or a casual night out. The extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails complement the rich flavors of the smoked meats, creating a dining experience that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
4. Carverss Brazilian Steakhouse
- Location: 1390 S 24th St W, Billings, MT 59102
- Phone: (406) 200-7910
- Website: Carverss Brazilian Steakhouse
- Hours: Monday-Thursday: 4 pm-8 pm, Friday & Saturday: 11 am-10 pm, Sunday: 11 am-8 pm
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: Brazilian Churrascaria
- Must-Try: Costela de Porco (BBQ Pork Ribs), Camarão (grilled shrimp), Beef Com Alho (garlic beef)
- Vegetarian: Salad bar with a variety of fresh items
- Price Range: $$$
Right in the heart of Billings, Carverss Brazilian Steakhouse gives you a slice of Brazil with its lively rodízio-style dining. The moment you step in, you’re greeted by the sizzle of meats on the grill and the colorful array of salads and sides. The experience is interactive and indulgent; flip your token to green, and a parade of skewered meats arrives at your table, each slice more succulent than the last.
The atmosphere is as warm as the grill, with an attentive yet relaxed service style. The salad bar wins awards for its freshness and variety, a perfect start to the feast. While the meats are the main attraction, vegetarians aren’t left out, thanks to the extensive salad options.
For a taste of Brazil that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable, Carverss Brazilian Steakhouse is the place to be. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply in the mood for an all-you-can-eat meat marathon, this is a culinary adventure you don’t wanna miss!
5. HuHot Mongolian Grill
- Location: 1806 King Ave W, Billings, MT 59102
- Phone: (406) 656-8822
- Website: HuHot Mongolian Grill
- Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 am-8 pm, Friday & Saturday: 11 am-9 pm, Sunday: 11 am-8 pm
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: Mongolian BBQ, Interactive stir-fry
- Must-Try: Asian BBQ beef, BBQ mustard pork, beanie baby
- Vegetarian: Vegetable and salad options
- Price Range: $$
HuHotl is where the sizzle of the grill is like music to your ears because you know some good food is comin’ your way. This chic eatery offers a unique dining experience where you become the chef of your own feast.
They have an insane amount of delicious barbecued and fresh meats, noodles, vegetables, and Asian-inspired sauces. What we love most besides the heavenly BBQ is that you can craft an unlimited stir fry that’s as bold or as mild as you desire.
The atmosphere is casual and energetic, perfect for family outings or a fun dinner with friends. The interactive grill, where your creations are cooked to perfection, adds a touch of theatre to the meal. And for those who prefer greens over grills, the salad bar is a treasure trove of fresh, crisp options. They ain’t lyin’ when they say this is the place to be!
6. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Location: 2519 Montana Ave, Billings, MT 59101
- Phone: (406) 969-3909
- Website: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Hours: Daily: 11 am-9 pm
- Dine-in/Take-out: Both
- Style: Texas style with a focus on slow-smoked meats
- Must-Try: Pulled pork, brisket, Westerner sandwich, loaded baked potato
- Vegetarian: Limited options, but the sides are plentiful
- Price Range: $$
A nationwide chain with a reputation for quality, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Billings holds its own in the local BBQ scene. Walking through the doors, you’re greeted with the tantalizing aroma of slow-smoked meats and a laid-back, Western atmosphere.
Dickey’s is a classic BBQ joint that offers all the staples you’d expect. Their pulled pork is juicy and tender, perfect for a sandwich or piled high on a plate. The brisket, slow-smoked over hickory wood, is a melt-in-your-mouth delight. But the real standout is the Westerner sandwich, a Texas toast creation loaded with pulled pork, jalapeños, onions, and cheddar cheese.
While their vegetarian options are somewhat limited, the sides more than make up for it. The loaded baked potato, overflowing with butter, cheese, and sour cream, is a meal in itself. The fried okra and waffle fries are also popular choices. Whether you’re a die-hard BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a satisfying meal, Dickey’s is a reliable option that won’t disappoint.
A Local’s Guide to Smokin’ Good Eats Along the BBQ Trail
Sometimes, it’s tough to know where to begin when you’re in a town with so much smoky goodness to choose from. We’ve taken the liberty of providing you with a few tips to help you navigate the BBQ trail like a seasoned pro:
- Embrace the Local Wisdom: Billings folks are passionate about their barbecue, so don’t be shy about asking for recommendations. Chat up the bartender at your hotel, strike up a conversation with the gas station attendant, or even ask the stranger sitting next to you at the bar. You might just discover a hidden gem that’s off the beaten path.
- Go for the Sampler Platter: Most BBQ joints offer sampler platters that let you sample a variety of meats and sides. It’s a great way to get a feel for the different flavors and find your favorites. Don’t be afraid to mix and match – a little brisket here, a few ribs there, and a side of mac and cheese to tie it all together.
- Pair Your BBQ with Local Brews: Billings has a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries popping up all over town. Many BBQ joints have local brews on tap, so why not try a pint with your pulled pork? It’s the perfect way to experience the flavors of Montana.
- Don’t Overdo It: Portions in Billings can be generous, especially at the barbecue joints. So pace yourself and share a plate with a friend or family member. Or, better yet, plan for leftovers – because trust me, you’ll want to savor those smoky flavors again and again.
Get Ready to Chow Down!
So there you have it, folks – your insider’s guide to the best barbecue in Billings, Montana. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure you save room for some seriously good eats.