The Real Talk on Barbecue in Branson

Some of the barbecue in Branson is amazing, some of it is okay, and some of it is total trash. I’ve tried them all, and here’s my honest breakdown of where to go, what to skip, and where I would fight you for the last bite of mac and cheese.

Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop

We’re starting with Danna’s because you can’t talk about barbecue in Branson without mentioning it. This place is a cult classic. But hot take, don’t order the barbecue. It’s fine, but every single person I talk to raves about the burgers, the nachos, the loaded baked potato, the desserts, and that fried roll thing they do. Nobody is talking about the barbecue. I think it’s a great restaurant, but it doesn’t make my actual barbecue list.

Gettin’ Basted

Ninety-nine percent of people I talk to love Gettin’ Basted, and I get why. Brad, the owner, was the runner-up on Food Network’s Barbecue Showdown and has won more awards than I can count. We like to get the judges platter and share it. Just a heads up, they put barbecue sauce on everything, so if you want it dry, make sure to tell your server. I always forget and get mad at myself later. It’s right on the Strip, the food’s solid, and they’ve definitely earned their reputation.

Big D’s BBQ

Okay, I’ll be honest, this one’s just not my favorite. It’s good, but it doesn’t blow me away. Everybody else seems to love it though. They’ve got great ratings and loyal fans, so maybe it’s just me. If you love Big D’s, tell me why in the comments because I know some of y’all are going to defend it.

Oscar’s Famous Ribs

This one’s a total hole in the wall, but I swear they have the best ribs in Branson. Hands down! They lose me a little on the sides, they’re fine but nothing special. Still, those ribs are so good they make up for it.

Famous Dave’s

It’s fine. It’s a chain. Some things are good, some not so much. If you’ve been to any other Famous Dave’s, you pretty much know what you’re getting here.

Full Throttle Distillery

This new biker-themed spot downtown is actually from Sturgis. It’s marketed as a barbecue restaurant, but honestly, it’s more of an all-American grill. The atmosphere is really cool, the food’s decent, and it’s worth checking out if you want a fun vibe and something a little different.

Star BBQ

This one’s rough. It’s the lowest-rated barbecue spot in Branson, sitting at a 3.8 on Google. And you know me, I don’t cover anything under a 4.3. So, moving right along.

Old 76 Smokehouse

Now this is where the magic happens! It looks like it’s inside a gas station, but once you walk in, it’s small, cozy, and awesome. I love their patio. They run out of barbecue almost every day, and there’s a line before they even open. The mac and cheese is legit, and that corn casserole, I will slap your mama for a plate of that!

Come and Take It BBQ

Also west of town, and they’ve got some really good ribs. Just know there’s no indoor seating. It’s all open-air, picnic-style eating. Super casual, super good.

Pop Smoke Shack

Tiny hole in the wall, but their brisket mac and cheese is an A-plus. That’s my favorite thing on the menu, and honestly, worth the stop all by itself.

Wrapping It Up

So there you go, the honest breakdown of barbecue around Branson. Some hits, some misses, and a few that are absolutely worth driving out of town for!

Since you’re already here on Branson Show and Go, keep exploring! Check out my Real Talk Food Series to see where to find the best breakfast, Mexican food, and sweet spots around town. You can also peek at the Deals tab for discounts on shows, attractions, and more, because saving money means more barbecue!

Now tell me in the comments, who’s got the best barbecue in Branson? Because I already know somebody’s about to tell me I got this list all wrong!

Posted 11/12/2025