If you are in Kansas City for any reason, you have to make time to stop by Joe’s Kansas City BBQ. It is hands down the best barbecue place in Kansas City. I was born in Kansas, I’ve eaten at just about every single bbq joint, and this is seriously the best. Let me tell you why. (We found this place on our own, this is not sponsored, I hope you enjoy this mini-restautran guide.)
Our Experience at Joe’s Kansas City BBQ
When we travelled to Kansas City, we were on a mission: find some amazing BBQ and eat our hearts out. Kansas City is known for their barbecue. It’s a distinct flavor – smoked, tender meat with an earthy but sweet sauce. Finding the perfect balance of smoke and sweet is what BBQers battle it out to obtain.
Joe’s Kansas City BBQ wins!
We also ate at Jack Stack BBQ. Jack Stack was amazing. But there is just something endearing about Joe’s.
First, I have to tell you, we were a bit confused. Is the best BBQ in Kansas City really in a gas station? YES! We ate here at night (I wish we had arrived earlier, if only for a better pic opp!). Will and I decided to try it because, well, if it is as good as everyone told us, it’s worth a try.
I’m glad we did!
Real quick – I have to admit, Joe’s does have another location that is a standalone restaurant near a suburban shopping area. That other location is just as delicious. But there is something just fun about eating in a gas station. You can’t beat the laid back atmosphere.
Ordering Food at Joe’s Kansas City BBQ
If you go to Joe’s during a meal time, be prepared for a line and a packed restaurant. Just walk up to the ordering line. You’ll see the menu on the big chalkboard. I know it all looks amazing – because it is. Just pick something. It’s all good. When it’s your turn to order, you’ll tell the person behind the tin “shed” your order. They will (more than likely) repeat your order and maybe shout it out too. (It’s so “diner” and old school. I LOVE IT!)
After you order, you’ll walk to your left to the cash register and pay. Then, hang out for a bit, your food will be ready super fast. They will hand you your tray of food then you can look behind you for a seat. Yup, you seat yourself. It’s like fast food but tastes unforgettable.
What To Order At Joe’s Kansas City BBQ
This is what I ordered – an amazing BBQ beef brisket and cole slaw. I can never get my brisket to turn out this tender. Oh and the sauce? I’ve never had something so full of spice and sweetness that I wanted to just sit there and enjoy it. I didn’t want it to end. The slaw was ok. But the meat? That’s where it’s at.
Image credit: Joe’s KC BBQ
I did not order this and yes, I do kind of regret it. This is the Joe’s Kansas City BBQ Zman Sandwich. It’s their signature sandwich and the most popular item on their menu. I didn’t order it cause I didn’t think I’d be able to eat it all!
Eating At A Gas Station Restaurant – Actually FUN!
Finding a place to sit seems like a problem here. But by the time you order and pay for your food, there is usually a place to sit. It is packed! Grab a seat when you can! I enjoyed looking around at all the local awards Joe’s has won. They continue to enter BBQ contests and keep winning!
By the time we finished eating and headed out, the place was starting to clear out too. I grabbed this pic really quick of their wall. You can see their menu, the specials, and all the pics of them at various BBQ contests. It’s so quaint and homey.
Yes…the best BBQ in Kansas City really is in in a gas station! As we got up to leave, we browsed the normal convenience store fare…crackers, chips, soda. And a cash register where you can pay for your snacks and gas. My mind is blown. I feel like I stumbled on the best kept secret. Why did it take my husband and I so long to eat here?
Go Eat At Joe’s – If You Want Authentic KC BBQ
You have to try it out! Here’s all the info about Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que!
- Joe’s Kansas City Website
- Joe’s BBQ – 3 Locations
- Joe’s on Facebook
- Joe’s on Twitter – @JoesKC
- Joe’s on Instagram – @JoesKC
If you enjoyed this guide, please comment or share this post with your friends! Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite travel board! Thank you so much.
Some of the best food I’ve ever eaten was in a little hole in the wall restaurant. This barbecue looks fantastic!
I love BBQ. I had some Friday for the first time in a while. This looks amazing. If I’m ever in Kansas city I’ll have to visit there.
God this place looks amazing! I love the look of the burgers! Made me feel so hungry!!
I have pinned this for reference, my fiance loves BBQ so if we are ever in the area we will check it out.
Yum – that looks amazing!! My husband loves that type of meal, I’ll have to see if he’ll take me there if we ever visit. 🙂
Looks like one of the places shown on food channel. I can’t eat burgers due to food restrictions but will share to anyone who is head to Kansas City.
Oh I love BBQ food. This looks like a place that I would love
This looks so good. I love a good BBQ place. I need to send it to my sister in law. She plans her road trips around places to eat.
That looks like really good BBQ, I love it. It has to be one of the my favorite genre of food.
Ouuuuu this sounds delicious! I love me some good BBQ. I’ll have to put it on my list if I’m ever in Kansas City 🙂
It looks like a lovely spot and that you had a super time visiting it and enjoying the food they have to offer.
Sounds great that you’ve enjoyed everything about Joe’s Bar -B-Que Restaurant and base on what you’ve said the food are so good. I will definitely eat there once I visit this place.
It looks like a great place but I’d better not look at this food for too long ince I’m on a diet and I might get cravings for it )))
I love bbq. And the burger looks so delicious. Just by looking at the pictures, makes me crave for it.
The food looks amazing and well seasoned! My diet would go straight out of the window if I ever happen to pass this place. Thanks for sharing.