Holy smokes: ‘Bucket-list’ barbecue restaurants in each New England state

ARLINGTON, Mass. — Have you been searching for that perfect barbeque meal, but don’t have time to travel to one of the southern states? Not to worry! A new list has named the “bucket-list” barbecue restaurants that are worth visiting in each New England state.

Cheapism, a website dedicated to seeking out the best products and services at the very best prices, recently published a list of bucket list-worthy barbecue joints that have “received top marks from customers and critics” in all 50 states.

In Massachusetts, Blue Ribbon BBQ in Arlington was named the bucket-list restaurant. The eatery has been serving up various styles of Southern barbecue since 1995.

“The North Carolina-style pork is the way to go here, as it goes exceptionally well with the vinegar-based barbecue sauce available at the sauce bar. A big slab of cornbread and fluffy mashed potatoes are great accompaniments,” Cheapism said of Blue Ribbon BBQ.

In New Hampshire, Smoke Shack Cafe in Londonderry earned the bucket-list honors for its Texas-style barbecue.

“There’s a Texas flag as you walk in, and Texas license plates adorning the front counter. You’d do yourself a favor by ordering the brisket, either sliced or chopped,” Cheapism said of Smoke Shack Cafe.

In Vermont, Top of the Hill Grill in Brattleboro was named the bucket-list place to eat at. Perched on hill, it’s said to be a cozy seasonal smokehouse with a great view from its outdoor patio.

Cheapism said of Top of the Hill Grill, “Whimsical, colorful hand-drawn signs illustrate the menu at the window. Hickory-smoked, meaty burnt ends and apple-smoked turkey make for a good pair on the combo platter, which is served with cornbread, slaw, and baked beans. For a to-go option, get your barbecue stuffed in a tortilla wrap, like a burrito.”

In Maine, Spring Creek Bar-B-Q in Monson earned high praise, in part due to because it was once visited by the famed Anthony Bourdain.

“The restaurant is as casual as you can get, and the meats are Texas-style and spicy. The ever-changing menu is written in chalk on the wall, so just order whatever sounds best that day, from in-demand ribs to mac and cheese,” Cheapism said of Spring Creek Bar-B-Q.

In Rhode Island, Becky’s BBQ in Middletown earned the bucket-list nod for its smoke pit, where meat is cooked over hickory wood.

“The ribs come hand-rubbed in a signature blend of spices before getting barbecued for hours over the hickory pit. While the ribs are delicious on their own, both the sweet Kansas City sauce and the vinegary North Carolina sauce are worth tasting. Diners say the sides are just as good, from the moist cornbread to the potato salad,” Cheapism said of Becky’s.

In Connecticut, the Taino Smokehouse in Middletown was highlighted as a can’t miss spot, despite its location in a tiny storefront.

“People line up for smoked corned beef turned into an amazing Reuben sandwich. There’s also a Thai twist on barbecue with drunken noodles made with chopped smoked meat and Thai basil,” Cheapism wrote of Taino Smokehouse.

To view the full list, click here.

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