Denver, CO
For BBQ in Denver, the local food press points to Post Oak Barbecue, GQue BBQ Denver, and Pit Fiend Barbecue. Picks from Westword and 5280 Magazine, updated July 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Westword and 5280 Magazine. Updated July 2026.
Post Oak Barbecue · Berkeley
Westword's 2024 Best of Denver Readers' Choice BBQ winner and a 5280 pick. Fort Worth-trained Nick Prince's all-wood-fire Texas trinity of brisket, sausage, and pork ribs.
GQue BBQ Denver
Westword and 5280 lead pick. Competition-circuit pitmaster Jason Ganahl's operation, the most consistent brisket-ribs-sausage plate in the metro.
Pit Fiend Barbecue · RiNo
Westword's standout in the former Owlbear space. Live-fire, all-natural wood smoke with USDA Prime Creekstone beef and heritage Duroc pork.
Smok Barbecue · RiNo
Westword and 5280 pick at The Source. Chef-driven barbecue with exceptional sides, including elote-inspired creamed corn.
Roaming Buffalo Bar-B-Que · Platt Park
Westword and 5280 pick. a Colorado-proud smokehouse with bison ribs, lamb shoulder, and venison sausage alongside traditional brisket.
What’s your #1 BBQ in Denver?
Rank your top five and be the first to set Denver's local ranking.