Ribs are the number one must-try at Fred Cotten’s Landmark BBQ, which boast a deep smoke ring that marks their long hours in the grill. When it comes to sides, think dishes like baked beans and collard greens that are made with the same attention given to the meat in the smoker. 

Since 1957 Jenkins Quality Barbecue has been serving the Bold City smoked meats and hearty sides. What makes Jenkins standout from other barbecue restaurants in town is all of its meat is smoked on a wood-fired pit and slathered in a mustard-based sauce, with standouts being its tender ribs and juicy chicken. 

ABBQ in Atlantic Beach is known for its tender Texas-style brisket and cheddar and jalapeno sausage that’s made on-site. Be sure to bring an appetite because the sides like macaroni and cheese, Frito pie, and potato casserole are just as good as the meat they are served with. Plus every Friday and Saturday the restaurant has beef ribs as the special, which are worth driving across town for. 

Monroe’s serves up good old-fashioned Southern barbecue. The restaurant is best know for its smokehouse wings that have Monroe’s spice rub all over them, but the smoked turkey and pulled pork are also popular at this barbecue restaurant. When it’s time to pick sides, consider the sweet, Southern-style baked beans that are a few steps above what usually shows up at backyard parties. The homestyle banana pudding is also a must-try, but supplies are limited and on busy days it sells out quickly. 

Treemendous BBQ has been a Jacksonville staple since 2007. While the restaurant is small with just a few tables, what it lacks in size it makes up for in flavor. The restaurant and food truck specializes in smoked chicken, which can be made into a sandwich, chopped and put onto a salad, or just eaten by itself. But the best thing about stopping in at Treemendous is being able to order an entire gallon of banana pudding to share with friends and family. 

Berndt Ends BBQ specializes in perfectly smoked burnt ends that have a thick layer of bark made from a salt and pepper rub. Those looking for something a bit more regional should try the Alabama white chicken, made with pulled smoked chicken served in a sandwich or on its own and smothered in a white barbecue sauce. No matter what, do not skip the baked macaroni and cheese topped with more cheese, which pairs perfectly with the smoked meats. 

Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ is a landmark barbecue restaurant in Jacksonville. Favorites at the restaurant include brisket and ribs with its popular datil pepper barbecue sauce that’s slightly sweet and fairly spicy. Datil peppers are also used in the mustard-based sauce, corn, and baked beans for a spicy kick. Its meats are so popular that guests call ahead to make sure their desired dish is available, as they tend to sell out quickly. 

For those willing to to drive for good barbecue, Briskey’s BBQ in St. Augustine is certainly worth a visit. The restaurant serves some of the best brisket in the area, with a crispy, flavorful bark that gives way to tender meat. The side boasts Southern staples like sweet fried corn, beer glazed barbecue beans, and French fries.