If you’re searching for the best BBQ in Arlington, TX, look no further. Our 2025 list of top BBQ restaurants in Arlington highlights local favorites ranging from authentic Texas brisket and ribs to creative fusion twists. Whether you’re a local or visiting to catch the Rangers or Cowboys, this guide helps you plan the perfect BBQ crawl.
🔥 Arlington’s Top BBQ Joints for 2025
Smoke’N Ash Tex‑Ethiopian Smokehouse
Arlington’s unique Tex‑Ethiopian fusion spot, recently recognized by Michelin and a James Beard semifinalist, blends classic slow‑smoked brisket and ribs with Ethiopian spices like awaze and berbere. A must-try platter and standout sides like lentil stew and collard greens earn top praise.
Jambo’s BBQ
Located in Arlington’s historic Steakhouse building, Jambo’s serves stacked Texas BBQ sandwiches like the towering Jambo Texan (brisket, bologna, sausage, ribs and more). The atmosphere and stories from the Prohibition-era venue are as memorable as the food.
Hurtado Barbecue
A local favorite combining Tex‑Mex BBQ, Hurtado offers classic brisket, ribs and sausage alongside hatch‑chile mac and cheese, birria tacos, tostadas and street‑corn sides. It was named among Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ joints and even serves inside Globe Life Field.
M’Jays House of Smoke
Known for viral loaded creations like the Texas Spud and Three Headed Monster baked potatoes, M’Jays serves soulful Texas-style BBQ with creative sandwiches and sides. Popular and often sells out early.
225° BBQ
In downtown Arlington, 225° delivers classic brisket, ribs and sausage plus fusion dishes like birria ramen and brisket elote. A relaxed spot great for games nights and creative eats.
David’s Barbecue
A fourth‑generation Arlington institution, David’s delivers time-tested classics—brisket, ribs, sausage, turkey—with homestyle sides like beans, slaw and fried okra. Perfect for folks after authentic Texas BBQ flair.
| BBQ Spot | Signature Style |
|---|---|
| Smoke’N Ash | Tex‑Ethiopian fusion BBQ |
| Jambo’s BBQ | Stacked sandwiches, historic setting |
| Hurtado Barbecue | Tex‑Mex‑inspired BBQ, award‑winning |
| M’Jays House of Smoke | Creative loaded baked potatoes etc. |
| 225° BBQ | Classic plus fusion dishes |
| David’s Barbecue | Traditional, fourth‑generation joint |
| Texas Star, Goldee’s, Bodacious, Smokin ACE, Texas Slabs, and Rudy’s. | Yelp-mentioned local and regional picks |
⭐ Notable Mentions
- Texas Star BBQ, Goldee’s BBQ, Bodacious Bar‑B‑Q, Smokin ACE BBQ, and Texas Slabs appear in Yelp’s top Arlington BBQ listings for mid‑2025.
- Rudy’s “Country Store” & BBQ – Arlington, a regional Texas chain with solid brisket and ribs. Consistent and dependable—even if it’s not boutique BBQ—as noted by locals online.
- If you are a BBQ DIY, check out Los Primanos BBQ Rubs.
Arlington, TX is home to a diverse BBQ scene in 2025—from one-of-a-kind fusion at Smoke’N Ash and Hurtado Barbecue to classic Texas staples like Jambo’s, David’s, and local favorites like 225° BBQ and M’Jays. This curated list delivers the best BBQ in Arlington—sure to satisfy both brisket purists and flavor seekers.