Washington-area barbecue fans have another reason to celebrate this summer.
Yelp just released its latest list of the Top 100 BBQ Restaurants in the U.S., and five beloved DMV-area spots landed on the nationwide ranking.
The list was curated using ratings, reviews, and popularity from Yelp Elite users, highlighting everything from authentic Texas-style smoked meats to standout Korean BBQ experiences.
And notably, three DMV restaurants cracked the top 30 in the nation (with 5 in total making the top 100) — putting the region firmly on the map as one of America’s rising BBQ destinations!
Gyu Shige Is One Of America’s Highest-Ranked Japanese BBQ Restaurants
Located in Northern Virginia, Gyu Shige earned the impressive No. 24 spot nationwide thanks to its premium Japanese yakiniku-style barbecue experience.
The restaurant is especially known for its high-quality wagyu beef cuts, interactive tabletop grilling, and upscale atmosphere that blends traditional Japanese barbecue with modern presentation.
Some of the most popular menu items include:
- A5 Wagyu beef platters
- Harami skirt steak
- Garlic butter beef tongue
- Japanese-style short ribs
Reviewers frequently praise the restaurant’s melt-in-your-mouth meats and elevated dining experience, making it one of the DMV’s most sought-after BBQ reservations.
2Fifty Texas BBQ Continues Its National Rise
Already a cult favorite in the DMV, 2Fifty Texas BBQ ranked No. 28 in the country after building a massive following for its authentic Central Texas-style barbecue.
Founded by husband-and-wife team Fernando González and Debby Portillo, the restaurant has become famous for smoking meats low and slow using traditional post oak wood techniques.
Its most talked-about dishes include:
- Brisket with bark-heavy crust
- Beef ribs
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Jalapeño cheddar sausage
Long lines regularly form before opening, especially on weekends when BBQ lovers rush to grab the restaurant’s famously limited daily smoked meats.
Meokja Meokja Brings Korean BBQ To Yelp’s National Spotlight
Just one spot behind 2Fifty Texas BBQ is Meokja Meokja, the wildly popular Korean BBQ destination in Fairfax that ranked No. 29 nationwide.
The restaurant has earned a loyal following for its premium marinated meats, energetic atmosphere, and attentive grill-side service. Unlike traditional American BBQ joints, diners cook many of the meats directly at the table, creating a highly interactive experience.
Fan-favorite dishes include:
- Prime marinated galbi short ribs
- Pork belly
- Bulgogi beef
- Kimchi fried rice
The combination of smoky flavors, sizzling tableside cooking, and shareable plates has helped turn the restaurant into one of the DMV’s hottest dining destinations.
Odd BBQ Is One Of DC’s Most Creative Smokehouses
Landing at No. 56 nationally, Odd BBQ has quickly become known for putting a creative spin on traditional smoked meats in Washington, D.C.
The restaurant blends classic barbecue techniques with globally inspired flavors, helping it stand out in an increasingly competitive food scene. Yelp reviewers frequently rave about both the quality of the smoked meats and the inventive side dishes.
Popular menu picks include:
- Smoked brisket sandwiches
- BBQ pork ribs
- Loaded mac and cheese
- House-made sauces
Its mix of bold flavors and modern presentation has helped it earn a devoted following among younger DC foodies.
Gogiville Rounds Out The DMV’s National BBQ Presence
Rounding out the list at No. 73 is Gogiville, another standout Korean BBQ restaurant in Northern Virginia.
Known for its all-you-can-eat options and premium meat selections, the restaurant has become especially popular for group dinners and weekend outings. Diners frequently praise the quality of the marinated meats and the restaurant’s lively atmosphere.
Top menu favorites include:
- Marinated beef bulgogi
- Spicy pork
- Galbi short ribs
- Cheesy corn and Korean sides
Its national ranking further highlights just how dominant Korean barbecue has become across the DMV dining scene.
