Where to Get Good BBQ in Naples - Top 5 Countdown
Let’s get this out of the way: Naples is not Memphis, Texas, or the Carolinas. And that’s fine. But when the craving hits for BBQ, there are places locals consistently return to. That’s the key. Repeat business is the real review.
Here’s where locals actually go when they want BBQ in Naples:
1. Michelbob’s Championship Ribs & Steaks
Address: 371 Airport-Pulling Rd, Naples, FL 34104
Website: http://www.michelbobs.com/
This is the BBQ place most locals think of first when it comes to Naples: ribs that are reliably smoky, heavy helpings, classic sides, and a vibe that feels more like the ’80s and ’90s. When you want a big meal without fuss and tender meat options, Michelbob’s should be your first stop.
If you find the Marco Island outpost, that’s their offshoot take-out version: same basics, different digs.
2. Mission BBQ
Address: 5795 Airport Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Website: http://mission-bbq.com/locations-and-menu/naples-fl/
Mission BBQ is a national chain, but I’ll recommend it because it’s consistent and easy with all the favorites: brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sandwich platters. Service is friendly, and the smoke is dependable, and you won’t find a dry, sad sandwich here.
3. Fuse BBQ
Address: 2500 Tamiami Trl N, Unit 114, Naples, FL 34103
Website: http://fusebbq.com/
This one is more of a chef-driven, creative spot that happens to do BBQ. Think pulled pork sandwiches, inventive sides, and smart twists that come with fusion food. You’ll need an open mind because this is not your grandpa’s smokehouse, but it’s an underrated option that you might not think of when it comes to BBQ food.
4. Backyard Fire Grill
Address: 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples, FL 34103
Website: https://www.backyardfiregrill.com/
Not as talked about as the others, but it’s one of those places where locals say, “Yeah, that was good.” If you’re in Naples and the others aren’t convenient, it’s worth tasting for yourself — especially for creative takes on smoked and grilled meats.
5. Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse
Address: 4519 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112
Website: http://www.texastonys.com/
Casual, big portions, and Texas-style vibes right here in Naples. Locals who favor bold smoke and cold beer like this place, although it gets some mixed reviews, but it keeps coming up again and again for the best approximation of BBQ you cannot usually find in Florida.
In practice: start with Michelbob’s if you’re not sure. If you want something with a twist, try Fuse. If you just want dependable and easy, Mission is fine.
Originally published in
The Naples Florida Review.
Read the full edition here.