Barbecue—once the domain of backyard summer parties—is now a year-round obsession in Dublin. In recent years, the city has developed a reputation for authentic, low-and-slow smoked meat, American-style brisket, and creative global BBQ fusions.
As someone who’s spent countless weekends sampling pulled pork sandwiches in food markets, ribs in beer gardens, and brisket in dive bars from Rathmines to Smithfield, I’ve seen Dublin’s BBQ scene evolve first-hand. It’s no longer just burgers and sausages on a grill—it’s wood-smoked artistry, often influenced by southern U.S. traditions, Korean fire cooking, and Irish culinary innovation.
In this article, we’ll explore the best BBQ in Dublin—backed by up-to-date reviews, expert commentary, and personal insights. Whether you’re a local meat lover or a tourist craving a smoky fix, this guide will help you find your next favourite BBQ joint.
🍖 What Makes Great BBQ?
Before diving into Dublin’s top spots, here’s what BBQ purists and pros say defines great barbecue:
- Low and slow cooking (smoked at low temps over hours)
- Quality meat, especially brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder
- Wood smoke flavour (oak, hickory, or applewood)
- Balanced sauces—not overly sweet or acidic
- Bark (the dark, crusty exterior formed during smoking)
- Moisture retention—dry brisket is a crime!
“Barbecue is both an art and a science. Done right, it’s one of the purest expressions of slow food.”
— Aaron Franklin, owner of Franklin Barbecue (via MasterClass BBQ Series)
🥇 Top 7 BBQ Spots in Dublin (2025)
Here are the best BBQ restaurants and smokehouses in Dublin based on personal experiences, local feedback, online ratings, and trusted food sources like The Irish Times, Lovin Dublin, and McKennas’ Guides.
| Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range | Google Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bison Bar & BBQ | Brisket, Ribs | €15–€25 | ⭐ 4.4 (3,000+ reviews) |
| Smokin’ Bones | Pulled pork, wings | €12–€30 | ⭐ 4.3 |
| Pitt Bros BBQ | St. Louis ribs, burnt ends | €13–€27 | ⭐ 4.2 |
| My Meat Wagon | BBQ platters, brisket | €14–€28 | ⭐ 4.5 |
| Krewe | Cajun BBQ, shrimp & ribs | €20–€35 | ⭐ 4.6 |
| F.X. Buckley Smokehouse | Irish beef, grilled meats | €20–€40 | ⭐ 4.7 |
| Token (Smithfield) | Burgers, BBQ wings, arcade bar | €10–€20 | ⭐ 4.4 |
1. Bison Bar & BBQ (Wellington Quay)
📍 Location: 11 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar
🍽️ Signature Dish: Texas-style brisket and baby back ribs
💬 Vibe: Rustic, whiskey bar meets BBQ shack
👥 Great for: Groups, casual nights out, tourists
Why It’s a Must-Try:
One of the OGs of Dublin BBQ, Bison Bar is serious about its meat. The brisket is smoked for over 14 hours, and the house sauces range from sweet to smoky-spicy. Their long wooden benches, huge whiskey menu, and barrel décor transport you straight to Austin.
Personal tip: Get the brisket & pulled pork combo plate, and pair it with their homemade slaw and fries. Wash it down with a smoky bourbon.
2. Smokin’ Bones (Temple Bar & Walkinstown)
📍 Locations: Dame Street, Temple Bar; also in Walkinstown
🔥 Specialty: Pit-cooked BBQ, massive sharing platters
💰 Price: Generous portions, great value for money
Why It’s Popular:
Smokin’ Bones offers Southern-style pit BBQ using hickory wood. Everything is dry-rubbed and slow-cooked, then finished with your choice of sauce. Their Walkinstown location has a cult following for takeaways and casual dine-ins.
Must-try: The BBQ sharing platter with brisket, ribs, wings, and pulled pork. Enough for 2–3 people.
3. Pitt Bros BBQ (Georges St.)
📍 Location: 19 South Great George’s Street
🎯 Highlights: Burnt ends, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, soft-serve dessert included
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly: Yes
Why It’s Unique:
Known for American-style BBQ with a fun twist, Pitt Bros dishes up mouthwatering St. Louis ribs, beef brisket, and burnt ends. All meals include free soft-serve ice cream—a nice touch for kids (or nostalgic adults).
Pro tip: Their burnt ends—caramelized, smoky beef bits—are a rare find in Ireland and absolutely worth it.
4. My Meat Wagon (Smithfield Square)
📍 Location: In front of the Lighthouse Cinema
🌍 Style: Global meat-focused BBQ—Irish, American, and Mexican influences
🧾 Menu: Platters, tacos, and juicy brisket burgers
What to Know:
My Meat Wagon is a cool, edgy meat haven. With a stripped-back industrial vibe and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for sunny weekends. Their “three meat platter” (brisket, pulled pork, chicken) is a fan favorite.
I ordered the brisket with loaded fries on my last visit—fantastic texture, slightly peppery bark, and tender enough to pull apart with a fork.
5. Krewe (Capel Street)
📍 Location: 45 Capel Street, Dublin 1
🍤 BBQ Style: New Orleans / Cajun fusion
💃 Vibe: Lively, colorful, unique cocktails
Why You’ll Love It:
Krewe is not strictly BBQ, but their Cajun BBQ ribs, spicy prawns, and blackened chicken are spectacular. Great cocktails, live music, and a buzzing Capel Street atmosphere make it a night out destination.
Best for: Dates, groups, anyone looking for a Creole BBQ twist.
6. F.X. Buckley Smokehouse (Malahide)
📍 Location: Main Street, Malahide
🥩 Known For: Premium Irish meats, cooked on wood-fired grills
🍷 Upscale: Ideal for date night or special occasions
The Experience:
F.X. Buckley is famous for its butcher-to-table steaks, but its smokehouse menu includes BBQ ribs, slow-cooked lamb, and flame-grilled skewers. They use Irish Hereford beef, dry-aged in-house.
Note: More polished and formal than most BBQ joints, but the meat quality is unmatched.
7. Token (Smithfield)
📍 Location: 72 Queen Street, Dublin 7
🎮 Unique Offering: BBQ meets retro arcade
🧒 Great for: Fun nights out, casual foodies
Why It Works:
While more burger-focused, Token’s BBQ wings and smoked brisket sandwiches deserve a mention. Add in craft beer, vintage arcade machines, and cool décor—you’ve got a BBQ experience like no other.
💡 Tips for the Best BBQ Experience in Dublin
- Book ahead on weekends – Most BBQ joints fill up fast, especially Bison Bar & Pitt Bros.
- Try the platters – Best value for sharing and sampling multiple meats.
- Ask about wood type – Oak and hickory are common; some places use local Irish hardwoods.
- Pair with craft beer or bourbon – Most BBQ restaurants offer local Irish brews or whiskey pairings.
- Don’t skip the sides – Mac ‘n’ cheese, coleslaw, pickles, and cornbread complete the experience.
❓ FAQs About BBQ in Dublin
Q: Is the BBQ in Dublin authentic?
A: Yes. Many chefs have trained in the U.S. or follow authentic smoking methods with wood-fired pits, low-and-slow techniques, and dry rubs.
Q: Are there good BBQ vegetarian options?
A: A few places like Krewe and Pitt Bros offer jackfruit, BBQ tofu, or veggie burgers—but options are limited.
Q: Is BBQ expensive in Dublin?
A: Mid-range. Expect to pay €15–€25 for a main, with combo platters at €25–€35. It’s pricier than a chipper, but you’re paying for quality smoked meats.
Q: Do BBQ restaurants in Dublin offer takeout?
A: Most do. My Meat Wagon, Smokin’ Bones, and Pitt Bros have excellent takeaway packaging and delivery options.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Smoke, Spice & Satisfaction in the Capital
Dublin’s BBQ scene isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. With top-tier smokehouses, dedicated pitmasters, and creative menus, the capital offers something for everyone—whether you’re a purist after brisket or a foodie seeking BBQ tacos with a twist.
If you’re new to BBQ in Dublin, start with Bison Bar or Pitt Bros. For something elevated, try F.X. Buckley Smokehouse. And if you’re after fun, Token and My Meat Wagon deliver serious flavour in casual, energetic settings.
Got a favourite BBQ spot in Dublin or a question about smoking meat at home? Drop a comment or reach out—I’d love to hear from fellow food lovers!
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
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