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The 10 Best BBQ Restaurants in Richmond (2026)
Richmond’s barbecue scene blends longstanding neighborhood joints, modern smokehouses, and places that riff on classic BBQ plates. This list ranks the 10 best BBQ restaurants in Richmond in 2026 using a method based on Google reviews: a Bayesian score that balances average rating with review volume, so highly rated places with few reviews don’t automatically outrank established favorites. The roundup was built from live Google data and updated for 2026 to reflect current feedback. Whether you’re after a casual takeout spot or a sit-down smokehouse, these ten reflect where local diners are leaving the most positive reviews across the city.
This ranking is computed from Google reviews (our method). Listings marked Partner are paid advertising spots: they sit alongside the ranking without changing its order.
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bb.q Chicken Lotte Market Richmond
Our top pick is bb.q Chicken Lotte Market Richmond, which earns the number-one spot with a 4.8 Google rating from 850 reviews. The listing’s combination of a high average score and substantial review volume gives it strong weight in a Bayesian-style ranking. The restaurant classification and its name also indicate a clear chicken focus, which sets expectations for the kind of menu a visitor might find. Its Broad Street location places it among Richmond venues seeing consistent local attention.
The full ranking
Scott’s Smokehouse
Scott’s Smokehouse appears in Google as a Barbecue spot with a 4.9 rating based on 33 reviews. The address on Lauderdale Dr places it in Ridge, VA.
33 reviews
ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque
ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque is categorized as Barbecue and carries a 4.7 rating from 3,061 Google reviews. Its large review count marks it as one of the most-reviewed barbecue destinations in the area.
3061 reviews
Deep Run Roadhouse
Deep Run Roadhouse is listed under Barbecue and has a 4.7 Google rating across 1,751 reviews. The location on John Rolfe Pkwy identifies it as a Richmond-area smokehouse.
1751 reviews
Smohk RVA BBQ
Smohk RVA BBQ is categorized as Barbecue and posts a 4.7 rating from 638 reviews on Google. The restaurant’s address on W Leigh St places it within Richmond.
638 reviews
Side Chic
Side Chic appears as a Restaurant with a 4.7 Google rating based on 601 reviews. It is located at 219 E Clay St in Richmond.
601 reviews
Olde Towne Smokehouse
Olde Towne Smokehouse shows as a Barbecue business with a 4.7 rating from 379 reviews. The address lists Mechanicsville, VA, as its locality.
379 reviews
Dress Blue BBQ
Dress Blue BBQ is listed as Barbecue and carries a 4.7 rating drawn from 156 Google reviews. The business is situated at 1212 Hull St in Richmond.
156 reviews
Richmond Eats
Richmond Eats is categorized as a Restaurant and has a 4.7 rating from 46 reviews on Google. Its address on W Broad St places it in Richmond.
46 reviews
MISSION BBQ
MISSION BBQ appears under Barbecue with a 4.6 Google rating based on 2,076 reviews. The location is listed at 5440 Glenside Dr in Richmond.
2076 reviews
Frequently asked questions
How should I choose a BBQ restaurant in Richmond?
Consider recent online reviews, the number of reviewers, and the venue’s Google category to set expectations (for example, ‘Barbecue’ versus general ‘Restaurant’). Also check the address and hours to make sure the location and service style fit your plans, and look for photos or menu links when available.
What does a typical meal at a BBQ restaurant cost?
Prices vary by portion size, cut of meat, and sides, but BBQ meals are commonly priced per plate or by pound for takeout. Check menus online or call the restaurant to confirm current pricing before you go.
What should I check before hiring a BBQ place for catering or a large order?
Ask about minimum order sizes, lead time for large orders, delivery or pickup options, and any available setup or serving services. Confirm dietary accommodations and cancellation policies in writing to avoid surprises on the event day.
How was this ranking of BBQ restaurants compiled?
This list is built from live Google review data and uses a Bayesian-style score that weights average rating by review volume, so places with many reviews carry appropriate influence. Rankings were updated for 2026 to reflect current ratings and review counts.