Having savored countless smoky flavors and tangy sauces, I’ve honed my taste buds to a fine art. After scouring Lincoln for the ultimate barbecue joints, I’ve compiled a list of ten mouthwatering spots that truly stand out. Each one offers its own twist on classic dishes, making them must-visit destinations for any BBQ lover.

Why trust my recommendations? Well, I’ve not only feasted on BBQ from coast to coast, but I’ve also developed a discerning palate that knows the difference between good and exceptional. So grab your napkins and prepare your taste buds for a journey through Lincoln’s BBQ scene that promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more!

Eric’s BBQ

Highlights
Perfectly cooked St. Louis ribs
Flavor-packed tri-tip
Excellent potato salad
Creamy baked mac 'n' cheese
Generous portions

Eric's BBQ is nothing short of a BBQ wonderland, nestled right in the heart of Lincoln. The first bite of their perfectly cooked St. Louis ribs had me questioning reality—so tender, they practically fell off the bone! It's like they had a secret pact with flavor, each smoky morsel bursting with the right balance of sweetness and tang.

Now, let’s talk about the tri-tip. Oh my goodness! This cut was not just flavorful, but beautifully seasoned and melted in my mouth, proving that Eric truly knows his craft. I paired it with their excellent potato salad, which was refreshingly creamy with just the right zing. This delightful side dish can easily steal the spotlight if you let it!

And how could I forget the baked mac 'n' cheese? Let’s just say I could have forgotten about my diet (for the day, at least). Creamy, cheesy, and decadently delicious, it was the perfect complement to my BBQ feast.

Portion sizes are wonderfully generous—so much so that you might just have leftovers for breakfast! If you’re searching for BBQ that delivers on taste and experience, Eric's BBQ is a must-try destination in Lincoln!

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Bounty Hunters Grind & Grill

Highlights
Perfectly cooked burgers
Amazing mac-n-cheese
Attentive and personable service
Family-owned and operated
Great outdoor seating

Bounty Hunters Grind & Grill stands out as a true gem in Lincoln’s BBQ scene. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere of this family-owned establishment, which made me feel right at home. The personable service was top-notch, with staff who seemed genuinely excited to share their favorites from the menu.

Now, let’s talk about the food. I couldn’t resist trying their perfectly cooked burgers, which were juicy and flavorful - a true testament to their grilling prowess. But it was the mac-n-cheese that really captured my heart; this dish is creamy, cheesy, and downright indulgent. Each bite was like a hug from a warm blanket on a chilly day.

The outdoor seating area is a wonderful bonus, perfect for enjoying a sunny afternoon while savoring incredible BBQ. It's the type of place where you can kick back with friends and relish some of Lincoln's finest eats.

Overall, I highly recommend Bounty Hunters Grind & Grill for anyone searching for great BBQ in Lincoln. Trust me; it’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

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Hops & Hogs

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Casual and upbeat atmosphere
Amazing Californication burger
Delicious pork belly tacos
Great lemonade

Hops & Hogs in Lincoln is a delightful gem that combines mouthwatering barbeque with an inviting, laid-back atmosphere. Upon entering, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive staff, who made me feel like an old friend. The casual, upbeat vibe sets the perfect backdrop for a great meal.

I had the pleasure of indulging in their Californication burger — it's truly a masterpiece! The juicy patty paired with fresh toppings made me question if I’d ever enjoy a regular burger again. The pork belly tacos were equally unforgettable; the tender, smoky meat danced on my palate, leaving me craving more with every bite.

Don't even get me started on the lemonade! It was the perfect refreshing complement to the rich flavors, and I found myself sipping on it throughout the meal. Hops & Hogs truly pays attention to detail, creating a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of BBQ.

If you're in Lincoln and seeking a place that marries great food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, look no further. Hops & Hogs has officially earned a spot on my list of must-visit BBQ locales!

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Brick & Barrel Kitchen + Bar

Highlights
Great family-friendly atmosphere
Outstanding tequila lime wings
Accommodates large parties
Unique pizzas and mac and cheese
Exceptional service by Jay

Brick & Barrel Kitchen + Bar is a culinary gem that truly shines in the Lincoln BBQ scene. From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a great family-friendly atmosphere that buzzed with cheerful chatter and laughter. It's the kind of place where you can gather your loved ones without a worry in the world.

I couldn't resist starting with their outstanding tequila lime wings—a delightful concoction that had just the right kick of flavor. If you're looking for something a little different, their unique pizzas and creamy mac and cheese are also well worth a try. There's a creative spin on classic dishes that keeps you coming back for more!

While I was there, I was particularly impressed by the exceptional service provided by Jay, who made sure my dining experience was nothing short of spectacular. Plus, the establishment is perfect for accommodating large parties, making it easy to enjoy good food with friends.

Brick & Barrel isn’t just another BBQ spot; it’s a vibrant dining destination full of flavor and fun. If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend swinging by for a memorable meal!

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Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

Highlights
Incredible friendly service
To-die-for pork belly ends
Delicious cracked-out deviled eggs
Melting warm biscuits
Flavor-packed BBQ experience

During my recent visit to Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, I was greeted with an aura of warmth and hospitality that instantly set the tone for my meal. The incredible friendly service made me feel like an unexpected guest at a family gathering. Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the food!

I couldn’t resist diving into the pork belly ends that were absolutely to-die-for. Each bite was a flavorful explosion that left me craving more. The menu also featured some incredibly delicious cracked-out deviled eggs, a unique twist that paired brilliantly with the smoky essence of the barbecue.

I must mention the melting warm biscuits that arrived at my table as well; they practically begged to be slathered in butter! Overall, my experience at Lucille's was nothing short of a flavor-packed extravaganza. If you’re on the hunt for a memorable BBQ outing in Lincoln, Lucille’s is a must-visit! Their remarkable blend of soulful cuisine and inviting atmosphere simply makes this restaurant a standout choice. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready for a delightful journey into the world of BBQ!

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RNB BBQ and Sausage

Highlights
Award-winning BBQ
House-made sausage and sides
Friendly owner welcomes you
Smoky, flavorful chicken
Cozy, clean dining atmosphere

RNB BBQ and Sausage offers a truly delightful barbecue experience in the heart of Lincoln. As I walked in, I was instantly greeted by the friendly owner, whose welcoming demeanor set the tone for my visit. The cozy and clean atmosphere makes it feel like home, perfect for savoring their award-winning BBQ.

The star of the show is undoubtedly their house-made sausage—a true culinary masterpiece. The flavors were bold and smoky, perfectly complementing their succulent, juicy chicken. It’s clear that each dish is crafted with passion and attention to detail. I couldn’t resist trying a few sides, which were equally impressive and rounded out my meal beautifully.

In Lincoln's BBQ scene, RNB is a gem that stands out not just for its delicious offerings, but also for the warmth of its service. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you owe it to your taste buds to indulge in this smoky paradise. Overall, it’s a delightful spot that takes BBQ to the next level, making it one of the best in Lincoln. So grab a fork, and dig in—you won't regret it!

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LBB Gastropub & Smokehouse

Highlights
Flavorful smoked chicken
Lively and energetic atmosphere
Huge, fresh nachos
Smoked meat cooked to perfection
Excellent service

LBB Gastropub & Smokehouse is a delightful gem in Lincoln that truly knows how to elevate the BBQ game. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a lively atmosphere buzzing with energy, perfect for gathering with friends or family. The moment I perused their menu, I was drawn in by the promise of flavorful smoked chicken—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

Upon ordering, I couldn't resist complementing my meal with their huge, fresh nachos. The combination of smoky and spicy flavors created a delightful harmony that set the stage for the main event. When my plate of smoked meat cooked to perfection arrived, it was a feast for the eyes. Each bite of that tender, juicy meat was a celebration of flavor, leaving me craving more.

The service, too, was commendable—our server was attentive and exuded warmth, which made the experience all the more enjoyable. If you’re in the mood for a memorable BBQ experience in Lincoln, I wholeheartedly recommend LBB Gastropub & Smokehouse. This place has personality, delicious food, and a charm that resonates long after you leave. Grab your friends and head over—you won’t regret it!

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Buckhorn BBQ + Grill

Highlights
Welcoming and helpful staff
Excellent meat quality
Great sauce options
Impressive value for money
Full bar available

Buckhorn BBQ + Grill truly captivated my taste buds during my recent visit! From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted by the welcoming and helpful staff who made me feel right at home. Their enthusiasm for BBQ was infectious, and it set the tone for the delicious journey ahead.

Now, let's talk about the meat—oh, the meat! The excellent quality was evident with every bite. I opted for their signature pulled pork, which was perfectly seasoned and smoked to tender perfection. It paired beautifully with an array of great sauce options, ranging from tangy to sweet, allowing me to customize each bite to my preference.

Beyond the food, Buckhorn offers impressive value for money, ensuring that my cravings were satisfied without breaking the bank. And to top it off, the full bar available is a delightful perk for those looking to enjoy a chilled drink alongside their meal.

In summary, Buckhorn BBQ + Grill stands out among Lincoln's BBQ scene. If you’re searching for a place that combines quality, flavor, and a friendly atmosphere, look no further—I can’t wait to come back!

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Dueling Dogs Brewing Co.

Highlights
Relaxed farm setting
Exceptional staff service
Well-crafted beer selection
Friendly atmosphere for pets
Great spot for craft beer fans

Dueling Dogs Brewing Co. is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends mouthwatering BBQ with an award-winning craft beer selection. Nestled in a charming farm setting, this venue invites patrons to enjoy their meals outside under the sun or in the cozy taproom. The ambiance strikes just the right balance between laid-back and lively, making it the ideal spot to unwind with friends or even bring along your furry companions, as the atmosphere is wonderfully pet-friendly.

As I dove into their BBQ offerings, I was impressed by the care and attention to detail in every dish. The smoky flavors and tender meats were elevated further by their homemade sauces—a perfect match for the well-crafted beers on tap. Speaking of the drinks, the variety here is sure to satisfy every craft beer enthusiast, showcasing everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

What truly sets Dueling Dogs apart, however, is the exceptional service. The staff greeted me with genuine smiles and recommended some of their favorite dishes without hesitation. If you're in Lincoln, stopping by Dueling Dogs is not just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. Don't miss it!

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Lost Shaker Bar & Grill

Highlights
Massive taco salad
Rich and flavorful tacos
Warm and attentive service
Great spot to relax
Delicious chicken wings

Lost Shaker Bar & Grill left me with a smile and a satisfied belly! From the moment I walked in, the warm and attentive service welcomed me like family. I couldn't resist diving into their massive taco salad at the recommendation of the staff. Wow! It was a delightful explosion of flavors that set the tone for the rest of my meal!

Feeling adventurous, I also sampled their rich and flavorful tacos. Each bite was a fiesta of spices and textures, making it nearly impossible to choose a favorite. And let’s not forget the delicious chicken wings—perfectly crispy and coated in a tangy sauce that had me reaching for more.

What truly sets Lost Shaker apart is the ambiance; it’s a great spot to relax with friends or enjoy a casual meal while savoring the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're coming for a hearty meal or just to grab a drink, this place has something for everyone. If you're in Lincoln, you absolutely must experience the mouthwatering offerings at Lost Shaker—it's comfort food done right!

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