6 Spots For BBQ—Your Way

Whether you’re searching for meaty dishes or you’re eager to fire up the grill yourself, these Bergen businesses can help.
Cheryl De Leon,
2 Spots Bbq

The season sure has been slow to get started, huh? We’ve been treated to a lingering spring—crisp mornings, cool nights and enough rain to keep the flowers sprouting for months. But a glance at the 10-day forecast shows that those hotter days are fast approaching (nearly 90 degrees on Sunday!), which means cookout season is upon us at last.

Maybe you’re dreaming of your Memorial Day Weekend spread, maybe the changing weather just has you craving a tender bite or maybe you want to celebrate National Barbecue Day on May 16. No matter the reason, Bergen has you covered. Check out these eateries (some are recent Readers’ Choice Award winners and all highly rated) for the county’s best barbecue:

  • Brothers Smokehouse. You’ll find all your favorites at this 2026 winner by the plateful, plus family-style options to keep everyone happy.
    *900 Rte. 17 N., Ramsey, 551.264.9073
  • Cubby’s. Don’t skip the sides here, with options that include Texas chili, barbecue baked beans and four different kinds of onion rings.
    *249 S. River St., Hackensack, 201.488.9389
  • House of ’Que. The American Dream mall isn’t just about shopping and indoor skiing—it’s home to great barbecue too. This restaurant has all the burgers and chicken sandwiches you need, plus must-try brisket, sausage, ribs and more.
    *1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 201.402.4881
  • Jim Dandy’s. They consider themselves the “home of the killer ribs,” but the menu also includes mouth-watering brisket, pulled pork, sides and desserts.
    *102 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201.896.2224
  • Kimchi Smoke. This spot is both award-winning and a local favorite, known for its innovative takes on classics and its on-demand food truck. Stop by either of the two locations!
    *2 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201.447.6653; 55 Kinderkamack Rd., Westwood,201.32.7996

Want to man the grill yourself? You’ll find only the best cuts of meat to fire up at these local butchers (also Readers’ Choice nods).

  • B&M Market. You can also browse the hot take-out menu here if you need to grab a side dish after discussing the perfect cut of meat with the award-winning butcher. *146 Kinderkamack Rd. Unit B, Park Ridge, 201.391.4373
  • Steve’s Market. A special Memorial Day menu is already up on their website, featuring prime steaks to bone-in chicken breasts. (Orders need to be in by May 21, so don’t wait.)
    *41 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201.327.9466
  • Westwood Prime Eats. A perennial Best Butcher winner, you’ll find the perfect cut here, whether you’re seeking poultry, pork, veal, lamb or beef. 
    *198 Westwood Ave., Westwood, 201.664.0069

Did we miss your favorite local butcher? Make sure you tag us on Instagram @bergenmagnj in all of Bergen’s best moments!

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life