With the Jersey Shore packed with weekend visitors, it’s once again getting harder to travel. For those of us who like to eat that can be a major problem especially when we love going to our favorite spot just to find it overbooked with tourists.

Well, have no fear if you’re in the mood for some delicious barbeque this summer we’ve got you covered. We took a look at Yelp and found some of the best smokehouses offering prime BBQ right here in Central New Jersey. So you hopefully won’t need to get stuck on the GSP for this list.

I really do this to myself though first best pizza places, then ramen shops, and now Barbecue I think I’m just looking for an excuse to go eat out.

So let’s see what you and your local community consider to be the seven best places in New Jersey if they’re looking for some BBQ to enjoy this summer.

• 7. Pork Chops BBQ

  First up is Pork Chops BBQ right of NJ 31 North in Flemington. They offer a wide variety of your favorite barbeque foods from Ribs to Pork Belly. And if you’re hungry for it they even have some deliciously sounding and even more delicious looking Portuguese and Filipino menu items.

  Reviews say your mouth will start watering at the door and with big portions and friendly staff, you can feel like you’re in your own backyard. If you can’t make it to Flemington they have two other locations In Middlesex and Ewing. See their full Menu by Clicking Here.

• 6. Mission BBQ

   

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  Our next stop to flavor town takes us to Mercer County where Mission BBQ in Hamilton is doing things the American way. They’ve got all the meat you can eat and more all for affordable prices.

  I personally love my turkey I mean who doesn’t!? So I might have to take the trip to Hamilton just to give it a try. Though they do offer take-out pick-up packs which is awesome! Check out the full menu on their Website.

• 5. Boss Hog Barbeque

   

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  Now Boss Hog Barbeque is a bit different in that they are closed on Monday and Tuesday, however, that certainly makes it feel like a middle-of-the-work-week treat when they do open up. So if you’re craving a more southern type of BBQ then this South Plainfield location may be your spot.

  I stopped at their first menu time. Memphis-styled ribs oh lordy. Customers say they are treated like family by the staff and owners. The meat is tender and charred to perfection. You had me at tender, but if you’re not sure what to try they even give you a sampler combo. See their full menu on their Website.

• 4. Red and White & Que Smokehouse

   

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  Well now for Somerset County they’ve got Red and White & Que Smokehouse, it’s Veteran family owned which is already a win, but they have decent prices for the quality you’re getting. Nothing gets better than tender brisket and delicious mac and cheese. I’d go as far as to say that right there is a perfect combo. Though patrons agree that the food is well cooked and made with love. I wouldn’t exactly call it a hidden gem, as it’s not so hidden anymore.

• 3. Big Pink's BBQ

   

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  Next up this location was featured in an episode of Diners, Drive-in, and Dives. Where we got the full story of how a broken-down food truck became a hot spot in Bridgewater. I’m adding this place to my must-visit as it’s simple, easy, and most importantly delicious looking.

  Reviews say the service is great and it’s nice to take the family and enjoy BBQ outside. This makes sense to me, Barbeque really is an outside food. Though even Guy Fieri called their food a win. See what this food truck can offer you by Clicking Here.

• 2. Jersey Shore BBQ

   

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  Most of this sums it up a nice Jersey Shore BBQ is what I need in my life. That and a million dollars, but we can stick with the BBQ for now. Right in East Brunswick, you can grab all your favorite Barbeque and more. They even have weekday specials for those looking to take an extended lunch break.

  Reviews say when you’re on the outside this spot is unassuming, but once you enter the magic begins. What’s not to love about that, well you can see why you should skip the Parkway and hop on Route 18 instead by checking out the Website.

• 1. Mostly Smoked

   

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  Now we’ve reached the end and if your stomach isn’t growling at you then congrats. Mine however practically has a megaphone.

  Mostly Smoked is located right in Manalapan and has only been established since 2020. So if they could survive the pandemic then they must be worth every bite. Some say the BBQ game in New Jersey has been on the rise, well this spot is game-changing.

  According to the reviews the owner is kind and the staff makes you feel welcome. I have to add this spot to my list and see what real New Jersey Barbeque is like. See their full menu by Clicking Here.

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