Best Upscale BBQ in New York City | Top 1 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale BBQ in New York City | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• Simply Nova — American · rated 5/5: Simply Nova celebrates the timeless art of the smokehouse, where the delicate aroma of cured wood and sea salt greets guests entering this artisanal sanctuary. Silken ribbons of house-made gravlax and pastrami-cured salmon glisten alongside golden, oil-rich smoked sable, each cut showcasing a masterclass in texture and traditional brine. It is a destination where the ocean’s bounty is transformed through patient craftsmanship, offering a refined experience that honors the deep, savory heritage of the classic appetizing shop.
• Golden Way — Chinese · rated 5/5: Golden Way serves as a vibrant neighborhood destination where the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer yields perfectly crisped chicken wings and golden-hued seafood delicacies. The air carries the enticing, smoky sweetness of glazed BBQ rib tips and the savory crunch of hand-rolled appetizers, creating a haven of nostalgic comfort and bold, satisfying flavors.
• Hometown Bar-B-Que — American · rated 4.5/5: Housed in a sprawling, industrial warehouse, this rustic smokehouse invites guests into a space where the intoxicating aroma of slow-burning oak and smoldering pits sets the stage for a communal feast. Glistening slabs of salt-and-pepper brisket and tender, charred ribs are served atop butcher paper, creating a soulful dining experience that honors the patient art of low-and-slow fire cooking in a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere.
• Mabel's Smokehouse — American · rated 4.4/5: Step into a rustic sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of slow-smoldering hickory and oak clings to weathered wood walls and communal tables. Here, the art of low-and-slow barbecue is celebrated on paper-lined trays piled high with succulent, bark-crusted brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs that melt into a symphony of sweet heat and savory smoke.
• Gaonnuri — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Perched thirty-nine floors above the heart of Koreatown, this sophisticated penthouse retreat offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline through soaring floor-to-ceiling windows. The experience centers on the rhythmic sizzle of premium cuts caramelizing over tabletop grills, complemented by the vibrant, fermented tang of artisanal banchan and the aromatic warmth of bubbling stone-pot stews. It is a place where the energy of the city meets the refined artistry of Korean tradition, creating an elevated atmosphere that transforms a classic barbecue feast into a luminous, sky-high celebration.
• Peking BBQ — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Peking BBQ is a vibrant culinary destination where the air is perfumed with five-spice and the rhythmic cadence of cleavers meeting chopping blocks. Glistening ducks with lacquered, mahogany skin hang in the window, promising a delicate crunch that gives way to succulent meat seasoned by generations of tradition. It is a soulful space that brings together the rich, smoky flavors of authentic Chinese barbecue and the lively, welcoming energy of a neighborhood staple.
• Mighty Quinns Barbeque — American · rated 4.3/5: Mighty Quinns Barbeque captures the primal allure of the smokehouse, where the intoxicating aroma of slow-burning wood and spice-rubbed meats fills a rustic, communal space. Guests feast on glistening, salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and tender ribs carved to order, experiencing a soulful tribute to the low-and-slow tradition that balances deep, smoky char with succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Hill Country Barbecue Market — American · rated 4.3/5: Hill Country Barbecue Market transports diners to the heart of Central Texas, where the air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of post oak smoke and the rhythmic strumming of live honky-tonk music. Guests navigate a bustling, butcher-shop-style counter to claim succulent, salt-and-pepper rubbed brisket and snap-skinned sausages served on traditional brown paper, best enjoyed at long communal tables amidst a spirited, rustic atmosphere.
• The Pit — American · rated 4.3/5: The air at The Pit hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of smoldering hickory and slow-roasting meats, drawing diners into a rustic, high-energy space where the ancient art of the fire takes center stage. Succulent, spice-rubbed cuts emerge from the coals with a deep mahogany char, served alongside soulful sides that celebrate the bold, heart-warming traditions of classic American barbecue.
• Cowgirl — American · rated 4.2/5: Cowgirl captures the spirited soul of the American West, where neon lights cast a warm glow over rustic wood accents and the air hums with the lively energy of a modern-day honky-tonk. The kitchen serves up hearty, soulful comfort food that celebrates bold frontier flavors, from smoky barbecue to golden-fried favorites that pair perfectly with a frosty, salt-rimmed margarita. It is a vibrant, unpretentious retreat where the nostalgic charm of vintage Americana meets a bustling atmosphere, inviting guests to kick back and savor a true taste of the heartland.
• Mighty Quinn's — American · rated 4.2/5: Mighty Quinn’s captures the primal allure of the smokehouse, where the rich, woody scent of slow-burning hickory wafts through a modern, industrial-chic space. Diners dive into succulent, salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs, balanced by the sharp tang of house-pickled vegetables and communal tables that invite a shared celebration of American pit-mastery. This is a sensory-rich haven where the patient art of low-and-slow cooking meets a vibrant urban energy, delivering a visceral experience of fire and flavor.
• Tim Ho Wan — Chinese · rated 4.1/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic dance at this bustling dim sum sanctuary, where the air is perfumed with the savory-sweet aroma of legendary baked BBQ pork buns. Each bite-sized treasure, from translucent, hand-pleated dumplings to golden-crusted pastries, showcases a masterclass in Cantonese precision amidst a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. It is a place where the humble art of the dumpling is elevated to a sensory celebration, inviting diners to share in a continuous parade of meticulously crafted small plates.
• Cityrub Steak & Smokehouse — Steakhouse · rated 4.1/5: The air at Cityrub Steak & Smokehouse hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of slow-smoldering hickory and seasoned spice rubs, drawing guests into a space where industrial grit meets rustic warmth. Succulent, flame-kissed cuts of prime beef arrive with a perfect char that gives way to tender, juice-dripping centers, while the deep, smoky undertones of the pit-master’s craft infuse every bite with a bold, soulful depth. It is a spirited urban sanctuary where the clink of glasses and the rhythmic sizzle of the grill create a vibrant backdrop for a feast that celebrates the primal marriage of fire, wood, and salt.
• Golden Unicorn — Chinese · rated 4/5: Ascend into a sprawling, crimson-hued palace where the lively hum of conversation mingles with the aromatic steam rising from passing dim sum carts. Bamboo baskets overflow with plump, translucent shrimp har gow and savory barbecue pork buns, inviting diners into a timeless Cantonese tradition of communal feasting. Under the glow of ornate chandeliers, every meal becomes a vibrant celebration of flavor and heritage in the heart of the city.
• La Rosa Chicken & Grill — American · rated 4/5: Golden-brown chicken tenders and succulent flame-grilled breasts take center stage at La Rosa Chicken & Grill, where the mouthwatering aroma of a backyard barbecue invites guests to indulge in a feast of savory comfort. Designed for the joy of communal dining, the kitchen crafts generous, steaming trays of perfectly seasoned poultry that transform any gathering into a vibrant celebration of shared plates and hearty appetites.
• Cityrub Steak & Smokehouse — Steakhouse · rated 4/5: The air at Cityrub Steak & Smokehouse hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of smoldering hickory and slow-rendered fat, drawing guests into a vibrant, urban space where the craft of the pitmaster is celebrated. Here, the signature Black Angus short ribs emerge from the smoke with a deep, caramelized bark, offering a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that captures the bold, rugged spirit of authentic barbecue.
• Miti Miti — Mexican · rated 4/5: Miti Miti pulses with a vibrant, high-energy spirit where the air is thick with the scent of charred skirt steak and the rhythmic shake of fresh-muddled margaritas. Guests gather over overflowing plates of crispy fish and jerk chicken tacos that burst with tropical heat, alongside golden mounds of BBQ chicken nachos and savory mole enchiladas. This lively neighborhood hub blends bold Latin flavors with a festive, social atmosphere, turning every shared plate into a spirited celebration.
• Kick Axe — American · rated 4/5: Kick Axe transforms the traditional lodge into a high-octane social sanctuary where the rhythmic thud of steel hitting timber provides a pulse to the rustic, wood-clad surroundings. The experience is fueled by a sophisticated tapestry of flavors, ranging from the smoky depth of pit-master barbecue and golden, hand-pressed empanadas to crisp, garden-fresh bowls and artisanal burgers. Between throws, guests toast their victories with craft cocktails and curated brews, immersing themselves in a vibrant atmosphere that balances competitive adrenaline with a communal, flavor-forward feast.
• Charles Pan-Fried Chicken — American · rated 4/5: The rhythmic sizzle of cast-iron skillets sets the stage at this soulful destination, where chicken is pan-fried to a legendary, golden-brown crunch that gives way to succulent, tender meat. Generous plates of smoky barbecue ribs, velvet-textured smothered turkey wings, and crisp catfish create a symphony of Southern comfort, inviting guests to linger over deep, savory flavors that feel like a heartfelt, home-cooked embrace.
• New House Garden — Chinese · rated 4/5: New House Garden serves as a neighborhood sanctuary of golden-fried comforts, where the rhythmic sizzle of the kitchen promises a feast of crispy textures and bold, savory glazes. Guests dive into platters of crackling jumbo shrimp and tender scallops fried to a perfect amber hue, or savor the sticky, caramelized depth of BBQ boneless ribs and wings drenched in a pungent, aromatic garlic sauce. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of nostalgic flavor, creating a welcoming atmosphere where simple, soul-warming classics take center stage.
• Kimchi Grill — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at Kimchi Grill hums with the rhythmic sizzle of marinated meats hitting tabletop grates, filling the vibrant space with the irresistible aroma of caramelized garlic and sweet soy. Guests gather around glowing embers to char tender cuts of beef to perfection, pairing each smoky bite with a colorful array of pungent, house-made ferments that provide a bright, tangy counterpoint. This high-energy sanctuary transforms the art of Korean barbecue into a spirited communal feast where every crackle of the flame adds to the theater of the meal.
• Kpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot — Korean · rated 4/5: The air hums with the communal energy of tabletop grilling and the fragrant, swirling steam of bubbling hot pots, inviting guests into a vibrant, multisensory feast. Diners orchestrate their own culinary journey, plunging succulent jumbo shrimp and marbled ribbons of prime brisket into a diverse tapestry of broths that range from the zesty heat of Thai Tom Yum to the earthy depth of forest mushrooms. This interactive sanctuary blends modern flair with tradition, creating a lively atmosphere where every sizzle and simmer sparks a shared celebration of bold, global flavors.
• Brooklyn BBQ — American · rated 3.8/5: The air at Brooklyn BBQ hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of slow-burning hickory and oak, drawing diners into a ruggedly stylish space where industrial accents meet the warmth of communal wooden tables. Here, the art of the pit is celebrated through glistening, salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and tender ribs that pull effortlessly from the bone, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a vibrant backyard celebration in the heart of the city.
• Churrascaria Boi Na Brasa — Steakhouse · rated 3/5: Churrascaria Boi Na Brasa hums with a vibrant energy, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of garlic-sautéed shrimp and sizzling Portuguese sausages. Guests gather over rustic tables to share platters of tender clams in vibrant green sauce and smoky BBQ chicken hearts, celebrating a rich tapestry of flavors that feel both festive and deeply soulful. From the golden crunch of fried yuca to the delicate sweetness of crab-stuffed clams, every dish captures the spirited essence of a traditional coastal feast.
• Linsway Grill — Linsway Grill" (mental check · rated 3/5: Linsway Grill serves as a vibrant crossroads of Asian flavors, where the savory smoke of Korean BBQ meets the sweet, umami-rich glaze of Japanese teriyaki in a bustling, welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen artfully balances tradition and innovation, tossing fresh seafood and crisp garden vegetables in woks to create a diverse tapestry of Chinese classics and contemporary fusion plates that satisfy every craving.
• Urban Vegan Roots — American · rated 3/5: Vibrant energy and soulful rhythms pulse through Urban Vegan Roots, a sanctuary where plant-based comfort food is reimagined with a bold, hip-hop-inspired flair. Diners are treated to a sensory remix of global flavors, where the smoky heat of buffalo cauliflower and the golden, crispy crunch of Korean BBQ wings prove that soulful indulgence knows no bounds. This lively urban escape transforms conscious eating into a celebration of culture, blending nostalgic favorites like creamy mac n’ cheese with fresh, citrus-kissed salads in a space that feels both modern and deeply rooted.
• Dark Side of the Moo — American · rated 3/5: This edgy, high-energy haunt invites diners on a wild culinary journey where unconventional proteins and bold, punchy flavors take center stage. The air hums with the sizzle of exotic meats like lean bison and velvety yak hitting the grill, while decadent accents of truffle oil and smoky BBQ sauce transform every bite into a gourmet exploration. From the fiery kick of the Hell’s Kitchen burger to the global flair of the Havana sandwich, the experience is a masterclass in adventurous comfort food that celebrates the thrill of the unexpected.
• Chop Chop Chinese Restaurant — Chinese · rated 3/5: The golden glow of perfectly fried chicken and the aromatic steam of garlic-infused sauces define the bustling energy of Chop Chop Chinese Restaurant. Here, the satisfying crunch of salt-and-pepper breading meets the sticky sweetness of honey-glazed wings and tender BBQ rib tips, creating a symphony of classic comfort flavors. Every order arrives piping hot, offering a savory retreat for those craving the timeless appeal of crisp seafood treats and hearty, wok-fired favorites.
• Joy Kitchen — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets and the sweet, smoky aroma of glazed ribs fill this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the hum of conversation mingles with the comforting clatter of shared plates. Hand-pleated dumplings and delicate shrimp shu mai arrive as tender, savory parcels of flavor, perfectly complemented by succulent BBQ boneless ribs that melt away with a rich, caramelized finish. It is an inviting sanctuary of taste where traditional comforts are crafted with care, offering a dining experience that feels both soulful and deeply satisfying.
• Izzy's Brooklyn Smokehouse — American: Brooklyn energy meets the low-and-slow soul of a traditional smokehouse, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of hickory and smoldering spice. Tender, house-smoked brisket and succulent pulled beef find new life in crispy empanadas and street-style tacos, blending classic barbecue techniques with vibrant global accents like adobo and Korean glaze. Each dish offers a masterclass in texture and heat, from the satisfying crunch of golden egg rolls to the rich, savory depth of loaded fries, creating a destination for bold, soulful comfort food with an urban edge.