No one knows barbecue better than Chesapeake. You can find it on countless menus across this city, but not all smoke rings are created equal. So we spent months tasting brisket (and suffering meat sweats) to bring you this official power ranking. The best ones pass the fork test. And if you don’t know what that is, you need to be eating more ‘cue. Luckily, there’s no better way to start your journey than with this guide.
Southside BBQ & Catering
$ | (757) 543-5778 | WEBSITE
Here’s another Chesapeake BBQ joint. This one stands out from the pack. Sometimes they shine with pulled chicken, other times they excel with pulled pork that needs no sauce. But it always has that quality we really appreciate. It’s remarkably flavorful and tender compared to other spots on this list—the kind of place you can visit regularly without getting bored of it.
Hotrodders Cafe
$ | (757) 546-1950 | WEBSITE
Hotrodders Cafe’s Danny burger exists in a savory reality between breakfast and lunch. They top it with a sunny side egg, so it melds into a hearty little creation with no pretension—and is more satisfying than most burgers. It almost tastes like home cooking. We get (and love) that Hotrodders offers gluten and dairy free options, but we’ll be quietly devastated if those mushrooms and okra ever disappear from the menu.
Johnson’s BBQ
$ | (757) 545-6957 | WEBSITE
The ribs at Johnson’s BBQ are pit-smoked for about twelve hours, giving them a completely unique smokey flavor that’s somehow not too overpowering. We like these ribs, but it’s that smoke that makes them worth seeking out. They taste like they went on a camping trip and spent all night by the bonfire. Because they kind of did.
Razorback
$ | (757) 485-1001 | WEBSITE
We love the vibe. The execution is spot on. Razorback’s cheeseburger is considered one of the best in the 757 area, and we now believe that burger deserves to become a Chesapeake lunch staple. It has a similar appeal to classic diner fare: hearty, satisfying, and unpretentious. The biggest highlight we have with Razorback’s version is with the service. Your favorite neighborhood spot probably treats regulars like this.
So consider this our enthusiastic recommendation for everyone to try this place—because we appreciate it so much.
Rodman’s Barbeque
$ | (757) 484-1297 | WEBSITE
Rodman’s pulled pork barbecue sandwich is a classic. But what sets it apart is the pronounced smoky flavor. It has a tender texture and tangy sauce that makes images of backyard cookouts flash across our mind with each bite. This sandwich isn’t trying to rewrite barbecue rules. It comes with a couple of napkins tucked under its bun and would no doubt earn the Virginia grandparent’s seal of approval, the highest honor for a Chesapeake barbecue.
MISSION BBQ
$ | (757) 276-5955 | WEBSITE
For years, no barbecue has knocked this reigning champ off its smoky pedestal. It’s perfect barbecue with an oddball side: sweet potato pie. It sounds like a simple dessert, but is in fact a rich, spiced pie that tastes a bit like cinnamon and comfort. It gives the meal a deeper, satisfying finish. There’s just no other version like this—probably in the state. Because it could only exist in Chesapeake.
Texas Roadhouse
$$ | (757) 382-7427 | WEBSITE
If you’re a fan of generous portions, you’ll like this barbecue spot. They’re swimming in them. So while we thought the loud music was a little too overwhelming (especially with the lively atmosphere throughout), folks who enjoy a boisterous setting might appreciate it more. Servers like Connor and Dana are a nice touch, too.
Top Mongolian
$ | (757) 312-0053 | WEBSITE
Top Mongolian’s sesame bread tastes the closest to the homemade kind you’d find at a family gathering. It’s a particularly fresh one that pulls apart in soft layers like that perfect loaf you can’t stop tearing into. The subtle sesame flavor coats each bite and makes the bread’s surface look like a lightly toasted golden crust.
The BBQ Shack
$ | (757) 485-5403 | WEBSITE
Picture for a moment that barbecue joints were judged by their brisket instead of their ambiance. If that were true, this brisket’s archetype would be the classic. You know, the one that sticks to tradition with spectacular results. This brisket leans more smoky than saucy because it’s smoked low and slow. But the tenderness is still there thanks to careful preparation and quality meat. If you want to go even heartier, they also have this in sandwich form.
Southern Flair Pub House
$ | (757) 842-4300 | WEBSITE
For those who miss the authentic Southern barbecue experience, we have good news: you can find it at Southern Flair Pub House in Chesapeake. Sure, you can get barbecue elsewhere, but it’s so much better here. The fried turkey wings are tender and smothered in rich brown gravy. The proverbial icing on top is the warm welcome from Felix, who makes every guest feel like family.