A full slab of barbecue ribs at B.B.'s Lawnside Blues & BBQ.
“Kansas City is all about barbecue, and narrowing down the best spots could be a full-time job,” says Andrew Zimmern, host of Bizarre Foods. “Pork-aholics already know a thing or two about the famed pit-smoked and roasted grub at Arthur Bryant’s or Fiorella’s Jack Stack, but here are three lesser-known places populated by serious fanatics and barbecue devotees.”
Earl Quick’s Bar-B-Q & Catering Co.
Here’s the classic no-frills spot for fall-off-the-bone barbecue. Sidle up to the counter for the legendary burnt ends—the beef brisket’s well-done ends, chopped up and smothered with tangy sauce. They are slightly charred, with the perfect amount of fat. Quick’s is a must for every barbecue lover. 1007 Merriam Lane, 913-236-7228
Danny Edward’s Boulevard BBQ
Formerly Lil’ Jakes, Danny Edward’s tiny barbecue joint recently moved to bigger digs. Now patrons can sit and enjoy heirloom recipes that the Edward family has been passing down since the Great Depression. Opt for big, meaty ribs, tender and juicy turkey or the beef brisket. Better yet, try all three. 2900 Southwest Boulevard, 816-283-0880
B.B.’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ
Everyone knows that nothing pairs with barbecue like a hefty serving of blues music. At B.B.’s Lawnside, you get both. Opt for gigantic slabs of saucy ribs served with pit beans and white bread. The sauce is tart and sweet, and the ribs are arguably the best in the city. And in this city, that’s saying a lot. 1205 East 85th Street, 816-822-7427