Get Your ‘Cue On: Best Barbecue Restaurants & Food Trucks in Greater Portland, Maine

There are certain food experiences that stick in your memory for a lifetime.

Some may not be so pleasant, but the majority are memories of pure bliss. Maybe it was the perfect bite or sip. Perhaps it was an extravagant meal or the ideal bottle of wine. Whatever they are, they tend to leave a lasting impression for the rest of your life.

Experiencing Authentic Barbecue Can be an Amazing Experience

For me, one of those memories has to be the first bite into an exquisitely smoked pork rib. There's nothing like a perfect chomp through a seasoned, juicy, and tender rib. Quite frankly, it can be a religious experience.

Let's be honest, the same goes for all barbecue. What carnivore doesn't love the combination of meat and smoke? It's quite possibly the very first cooking method there was. It's practically in our DNA (don't quote me on that).

Even though we're well into the northern part of the country, the Greater Portland area is holding its own when it comes to smoky cuisine. Over the last decade, the region has truly built a solid reputation for barbecue.

Greater Portland's BBQ Joints That Will Fill You With Bliss

Below, you'll find a list of barbecue joints and trucks located in Greater Portland. These spots have all built strong followings and continue to grow.

It's also a wonderfully diverse group. You'll find a wide range of culinary styles—Latin-inspired, Jamaican, Korean, African, and just about every region of the United States. It’s truly a well-stacked deck.

READ MORE: Maine’s Most Popular Farmer’s Market Reveals 2025 Opening Date

Hungry for some 'cue? Learn more about Greater Portland's ‘Cue Culture below.

Quick note: Many other restaurants in the Greater Portland area serve barbecue dishes. However, for this list, we specifically focused on dedicated barbecue restaurants.