TripAdvisor releases list of best states for BBQ

Just in time for Memorial Day, TripAdvisor has announced the top-rated barbecue restaurants and states in the country.

The hotly debated topic is sure to drum up controversy, but here's the travel website's take on how the top BBQ states across the US stack up:

Top 10 U.S. States for BBQ

1. Tennessee
2. Texas
3. Missouri
4. North Carolina
5. Georgia
6. Florida
7. South Carolina
8. California
9. Virginia
10. New York
 
Based on ratings and reviews from their website, TripAdvisor then made a list of the top BBQ restaurants in the country:

Top 10 BBQ Restaurants in the U.S.

1. Joe's BBQ - Blue Ridge, Georgia

“Nestled in the mountains of northern Georgia, this cabin-style restaurant claims to be a small place with big taste.” 

2. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que - Kansas City, Kansas

“Home to some of America's best ribs and signature creations including the Hog Heaven sandwich, the original Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que is uniquely located within a gas station.”

3. Bogart's Smokehouse - Saint Louis, Missouri

“From apricot brûléed ribs to pastrami smoked over apple and cherrywood, this Gateway City favorite serves deliciously inventive spins on classic smokehouse fare.”

4. Reuben's Smokehouse - Fort Myers, Florida

“On the menu, travelers will find a tantalizing selection of smoky meats and tempting sides including sweet molasses baked beans and savory cheesy mac.”

5. Andy Nelson's Southern Pit BBQ - Cockeysville, Maryland

“Located less than 20 miles north of Baltimore, this popular joint founded by local football legend Andy Nelson serves a medley of mouthwatering meats including Memphis-style ribs and Dixie chicken.”

6. Captain's BBQ - Palm Coast, Florida

“Accessible by land or sea, al fresco dining is a popular option at this barbecue joint located along the Intracoastal Highway.”

7.  HogsHead Café - Richmond, Virginia

“With an unassuming strip mall location, this place packs a flavorful punch.”

8. Buck's Smokehouse - Destin, Florida

“After spending nearly 20 years catering local events, Mike 'Buck' Buckingham opened this Gulf Coast smokehouse that quickly attracted many passionate patrons.”

9. Franklin Barbecue - Austin, Texas

“Recently named the best chef in the Southwest by the James Beard Foundation, Aaron Franklin has amassed quite a following for his namesake Austin joint where guests wait hours for a chance to chow down.”

10. Pappy's Smokehouse - Saint Louis, Missouri

“In midtown Saint Louis, carnivorous customers can get their fill of Memphis-style ribs, pulled pork, and brisket at this joint that smokes its dry-rubbed meats for 14 hours over sweet cherry wood.”

Cox Media Group