Food & Drink

5 Wisconsin BBQ spots worth a pit stop

We asked our UpNorthNews audience the barbecue spots you need to check out. From Birchwood to Egg Harbor, here’s your guide to Wisconsin’s most-loved BBQ restaurants worth a pit stop.

Wisconsin barbecue
Wisconsin barbecue restaurants worth checking out. (Sydney Sang/Pexels)

You don’t need to travel all the way to Texas to satisfy your barbecue craving—you can get it right here in Wisconsin.

While our state is more known for its dairy and beer, there’s no shortage of delicious barbecue spots to try.

From smoked meats to handcrafted sides, here are some of the best barbecue spots worth checking out, according to our readers.

Pit Stop BBQ Smokehouse

Looking for someplace with more than just your classic barbecue? Pit Stop BBQ Smokehouse in Birchwood has got you covered.

Formerly known as Ed’s Pit Stop, this barbecue joint  is also a convenience and grocery store, gas station, and more.

The menu features your barbecue classics like smoked brisket, chicken, and pork, but it’s also got an espresso bar, gourmet chocolates, and ice cream—there’s something on the menu for everyone.

Here’s what our reader Kim W. had to say about the spot:

“One of the best places for BBQ is in Birchwood, WI. It used to be called Ed’s Pits stop and now it is called Pit Stop BBQ Smokehouse. It is also a local grocery/gas station and you can order to carry out. We travel 10 miles from our lake house to pick up dinner all the time. It is our kids ‘place to go’ when they are at the lake.”

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Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza

If you want some delicious barbecue with a slice of pizza, Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza in Menasha is the spot for you.

The business initially started as a pizza restaurant. Then, in 2011, owners Aaron and Jennifer bought a smoker and never looked back.

Alongside the complementary peanuts, the menu features slow-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and pizzas. And, if you’re looking for something to sip on, try one of their loaded Bloody Marys.

Here’s what our reader, Judy G. had to say about the spot: 

“I love their beef brisket!”

Casey’s BBQ & Smokehouse

For delicious barbecue and history packed into the same building, Casey’s BBQ & Smokehouse in Egg Harbor is the perfect spot.

The business was originally known as Uncle Jerry’s from 1870 to 1897 until a fire destroyed the building. It was rebuilt and known as LeMere Tavern, then Casey and Leila Lautenbach purchased it and named it Casey’s Inn.

Now, the restaurant serves up all your barbecue favorites, like smoked beef brisket, baby back ribs, and smoked pork shoulder.

Here’s what our reader, LaVonne B. had to say about the spot:

“It’s excellent every time we eat there! And he has won numerous awards for his meats!!”

BP Smokehouse BBQ

In need of some barbecue catering? BP Smokehouse BBQ in Tomah has that and then some. 

The business is not only a restaurant, but offers a catering service perfect for any occasion. It also placed third out of 35 states and seven countries in the 33rd Annual American Royal World Series of Barbecue® Sauce Contest with its mild tomato sauce. 

The menu offers a selection of authentic barbecue options, including 

Here’s what our reader, David O. had to say about the spot:

“Wisconsin is owned by retired State Patrol Major Darren Price and his wife Myra. They offer wonderful beef brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, BBQ ribs, and several delicious sides. They also have a busy catering business. They are open Monday through Saturday.”

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KRB’s Klinger’s Real Barbeque

Enjoy some barbecue on the patio at KRB’s Klinger’s Real Barbeque in Wautoma.

This restaurant takes pride in making its meals from scratch. The business features two large smokers, handmade by Ed Klinger and John Wenniger. Its meats are smoked daily using “hardwood and traditional techniques,” ensuring their food is high quality.

The menu features your fair share of smoked meats, and plenty of handcrafted sides, like 

cheddar jalapeno grits, potato salad, and collard greens.

Here’s why our reader Don R. likes this spot:

“The beautiful aroma of smoking meats hits you as soon as you get close to KRB’s! Generous helpings of goodness, the best sides (get the beans!) and great times with friends and family!”

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  • Ellie Bourdo is UpNorthNews’ newsletter editor. A Wisconsin native, she was born and raised in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in journalism and Spanish. In her free time, Ellie enjoys spending time with family and friends on the lake or at the ski hill.

    Have a story tip? Reach Ellie at ellie@couriernewsroom.com. For local reporting in Wisconsin that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for UpNorthNews’ “news of the day” email newsletter.