Kansas City BBQ Tour: Four Stops, Endless Flavor

We’ve been talking for years about doing a BBQ tour in Kansas City—hitting a few different spots in one day. This year, we finally made it happen on the Friday after Christmas. The goal was to visit four places and sample burnt ends, sausage, pulled pork, and ribs. Of course, we planned to get sides at each stop too. The challenge was making sure six of us could enjoy a bite or two of each meat and side without filling up too soon. Mission accomplished!

Stop 1: Slap’s BBQ

We arrived at Slap’s around 10:45 and waited for them to open at 11. By the time we left, the line was even longer than when we first arrived. The burnt ends were disappointing—no bark and lacking flavor—so we all rated them low. The ribs were tender, and the smoked turkey was excellent. For me, the sides were the highlight here. The potatoes were fantastic!

Stop 2: Joe’s KC BBQ

Most of us had been to Joe’s before, but this was my first time at the original location inside a working gas station. We waited about an hour to order. The ribs are a must—they don’t fall off the bone, but they don’t need to because the meat is so flavorful. The burnt ends were far better than at Slap’s, with a nice bark and just enough fat for extra flavor. The ribs were also better here. The sauces were great too—I stuck with the hot sauce, and it was perfect.

A Quick Break

After Joe’s, we took a break at Boulevard Brewing and then J. Rieger & Co. for a few drinks. At Boulevard, I had my favorite Wheat beer a couple of times and sampled some seasonal brews—all delicious. At J. Rieger & Co., we enjoyed cocktails; it’s always a great spot for an Old Fashioned or a G&T.

Stop 3: Q39

Most of us had tried Q39 before, but not at this location. Unlike the first two counter-service spots, Q39 offered table service. Our waiter was excellent—helpful and fun while we debated what to order. Everything was good. The ribs were delicious, and the sauce was solid. The burnt ends had great bark and flavor. The sides were good overall, though the corn was forgettable.

Stop 4: Jack Stack BBQ

Jack Stack was our final stop, and we had reservations for 8 p.m. We arrived two hours early, but nothing else was open, so we waited. Luckily, they seated us around 7:30. Another great waiter—friendly, helpful, and even treated us to a free dessert. The sides were as good as we remembered, and the ribs, burnt ends, and pulled pork didn’t disappoint. I tried the sausage but realized I’m just not a sausage guy when there are so many other great options.

Selfie at Slap's BBQ

Selfie at Joe's BBQ

 

Selfie at Jack Stack BBQ

I realized as I was posting the pictures from the BBQ trip that I missed getting a selfie of everyone at Q39. Oh well, we will have to do it again.

The Sweet Finish

After Jack Stack, we swung by Cheesecake Factory to grab dessert for home. It was a wonderful day with beautiful weather—chilly at our first stop but perfect for sitting outside at Joe’s and comfortable by the end of the night.

Next week, I’ll share the overall ratings from our group of six for the KC BBQ tour. Have a great week—and get some BBQ if you can!