Best BBQ in VanPort
It’s our primal instinct to cook meat over fire. Our species has been doing it since the dawn of time. Large carnivore foodies usually have some type of grill at home. So if you’re going to pay at a restaurant or cart, it should be fantastic. These are the BBQ joints you want.
1. Matt’s BBQ
Portland – NorthOne of the best food carts in PDX. Epic BBQ coming out of a funky trailer. Loads of character and flavor. Expect a line. If you like spicy ask for Jalapenos. They’re wonderfully cooked whole which has a different flavor and texture.
2. Podnah’s BBQ
Portland – North
Matt’s BBQ is the most famous but a close 2nd is Podnah’s. There’s a reason they’ve been featured on TV and have received awards. The portions are large. Come hungry!
3. Grasslands Barbecue
Portland – Hood River
Being that Grasslands Barbecue is Hood River makes it on the edge of our coverage. But they are considered one of the best BBQ in the area andthis list wouldn’t be complete with out them.
4. Botto’s BBQ
Portland – Central
Don’t let look of the joint deceive you. Botto’s is one of the most respected barbeque joints in Portland. It’s the opposite of a chain restaurant. Their approach is intuition over institution.
5. Lil Pig Lil Pig
Vancouver – Downtown
Lil Pig is the a new restaurant by Brandon and Marci Rush who also own Hungry Sasquatch and 3 Howls Distillery in Battle Ground. It’s an order at the counter joint that’s super popular. One reason for the lines is chef Ryan Slattery who worked at Lardo and Bluto’s across the river.
The bar is geared for those who like spirits neat or old fashioneds. I ordered a Hog Wash (bacon fat washed bourbon, maple syrup, Angostura and orange bitters). It was ok but I hope they expand their bar to be able to make other craft cocktails.
Based on a recommendation I went with their Wagyu Brisket. The portion was smaller than I expected but I have to say it was the most tender I’ve ever had. Lil Pig sources all their meat locally and butcher it in-house.
My step son had the Lil Pig Burger (2 patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, Pimento cheese on a house made molasses brioche bun).
6. The Smokin’ Oak Barbeque
Vancouver – Downtown
Really good BBQ with a great bar (for a BBQ joint). Their sausage is fine but I wish it was more spicy. The brisket is excellent. The jalapeno pinto beans are amazing. The chili has loads of flavor. The Ol Smokey cocktail is ok. The king ice cube is a nice touch. The Texas Mary is a 22 oz bloody Mary with a garnish of sausage, brisket, pickle and a rib. It’s a fantastic value! Their bar has one of the better selection of base spirits in Vancouver. They have decent liquors and mixers, but you have to ask to receive the better offerings. I find their bartenders vary in skill and experience. Best to quality control your drink if savvy.
7. Creekside BBQ
Vancouver – Salmon Creek
The chef/owner at Creekside is killing it. This newer eatery is really gaining in popularity. A great staff, quality food and plenty of parking are a winning combination.
8. Daddy D’s Southern Style BBQ
Vancouver – Central
A delicious BBQ joint is hidden inside a Shell gas station. But the location is just a disguise. There’s fantastic food being created by passionate people.
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