If you're a fan of brisket, there's no denying that Louisville has some of the best options around.
Whether you're in the mood for traditional Texas-style brisket, or a unique twist on the classic dish, there's no shortage of places to satisfy your cravings.
From hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale restaurants, Louisville has a brisket spot for everyone.
Each location has its own unique take on the dish, from the type of wood used in smoking to the seasoning and sauce.
But what makes a great brisket spot? It's a combination of factors, including the quality of the meat, the cooking method, and the overall flavor profile.
A truly great brisket spot will have all of these elements in perfect harmony, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave you coming back for more.
So, whether you're a Louisville local or just passing through, be sure to check out some of the best brisket spots in town.
You won't be disappointed.
1. Hammerheads
Hammerheads is a restaurant that specializes in smoked meats and assorted bar food.
They are known for their melt-in-your-mouth brisket that is smoked in-house using top-notch ingredients. The staff is friendly and provides great service.
The menu is diverse, with lots of creative options to choose from. The atmosphere is casual, and the beer selection is excellent.
If you're looking for delicious brisket and an overall great dining experience, Hammerheads is definitely worth checking out.
2. Momma's Mustard, Pickles & BBQ
Momma's Mustard, Pickles & BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for some delicious brisket.
The beef is cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful. The ribs are also a highlight, with a great rub and smoky flavor.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable for the portion sizes. Don't miss out on their famous wings, which are crispy and seasoned to perfection.
The classic decor adds to the cozy atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy some comfort food.
3. Feast BBQ
Feast BBQ serves up some of the best brisket in town. The meat is soft and flavorful, and the salads make for the perfect complement.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere and friendly staff.
The loaded tots and Mac and Cheese balls are a must-try, and the banana pudding is a perfect way to end the meal.
The prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for anyone looking for delicious BBQ.
4. Hilltop Tavern
Hilltop Tavern is an award-winning BBQ joint that serves delicious brisket at affordable prices.
The relaxed atmosphere and a variety of games including arcade, Jenga, and foosball make it a great spot to hang out with friends.
The tavern also offers a full bar and a menu that includes chicken and waffles with sweet bourbon syrup, southwest bean burger, and the Tavern Burger.
The bartenders are knowledgeable and the staff is friendly, making it a fun spot to enjoy drinks and food. Hilltop Tavern is a must-visit for anyone who loves great BBQ and a casual atmosphere.
5. Louie's Hot Chicken & Barbecue
Louie's Hot Chicken & Barbecue is a counter-serve joint that offers a variety of BBQ plates and chicken wings with different sauces.
The food is cooked to order and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The brisket is done right, and the pulled pork is savory and sweet.
The smoked wings are absolute FIRE and the hot chicken has multiple varieties of heat. The sides are fantastic, including the Fried Corn On The Cob.
Louie's Hot Chicken & Barbecue is a great small business take-out option that is definitely worth trying.
6. City Barbeque
City Barbeque is a counter-service smokehouse chain that serves classic barbecue fare in a down-home setting.
They offer a wide range of meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all cooked to perfection. The sides are just as delicious, with options like mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans.
The sauce selection is also impressive, with options ranging from sweet and tangy to spicy and bold.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're a fan of barbecue, City Barbeque is definitely worth checking out.
7. Mark's Feed Store
Mark's Feed Store is a local chain restaurant that serves up delicious BBQ and comfort sides in a casual space with a country vibe.
The brisket is a standout dish, cooked to perfection and full of flavor. The portions are huge, so be prepared to take some home with you.
The service is fast and friendly, making it a great spot for a quick meal. The atmosphere is rustic and comfortable, with a wide variety of food and drink choices.
If you're in the mood for some great BBQ, Mark's Feed Store is definitely worth a visit.
8. Red Hog Restaurant & Butcher Shop
If you're in the mood for some delicious brisket, look no further than Red Hog Restaurant & Butcher Shop.
This place is a meat lover's paradise, with an artisan butcher shop and American kitchen under one roof. The house-butchered meats are the stars of the menu, and the craft beer selection is not to be missed.
The industrial digs give the place a unique ambiance that sets it apart from other restaurants.
Whether you're in the mood for a juicy cheeseburger, perfectly cooked brisket, or some dry-aged ribeye, Red Hog has got you covered. Don't miss out on this meaty gem!
9. The Smokery
The Smokery is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious brisket. The food is authentic and melts in your mouth.
The barbecue sauce is homemade and the macaroni and cheese is wonderful. The staff is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home.
The bartender, Chris, is super nice and helpful. The owner is often seen bartending and the chef brings out the delicious food.
This new place has a lot of potential and is locally owned. The Smokery is definitely worth a visit.
10. Back Deck BBQ
Back Deck BBQ is a must-visit place for brisket lovers. Their brisket has a great bark on it, and it's tender and well-seasoned.
The pulled pork is also flavorful and tender, making it a close contender to the brisket. The sides are top-notch, with the yams and mac and cheese being the best ones.
The staff is attentive and provides excellent service, making the dining experience even better. The restaurant's no-sauce philosophy is well-executed, and the rub on the ribs is unique and delicious.
The portions are generous, and the meats are perfectly trimmed. Don't miss out on this small, hole-in-the-wall place for some of the best BBQ around.
11. FABD Smokehouse
FABD Smokehouse is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for great brisket.
Their BBQ sauce is one of the best in town and the portions are worth the value. The smoked salmon and baked beans are just as delicious.
The professional service and relaxing atmosphere make it an excellent dining experience.
The quirky environment and free miniature golf add to the fun. It is a classic example of a 'hole-in-the-wall' place to eat and enjoy.
12. C&L BBQ
C&L BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for great brisket.
This barbecue restaurant is known for its simple yet delicious pulled pork sandwich. The mac n cheese is also worth trying.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience. It's a great spot for takeout as well.
If you're in the mood for some mouthwatering brisket, C&L BBQ is the place to go.
13. Noche Mexican BBQ
Noche Mexican BBQ is the go-to place for brisket in town. The brisket is phenomenal and highly recommended by customers.
The atmosphere is beautiful with stained glass and amazing art. The restaurant is usually busy on weekends, so it's recommended to make a reservation.
The portions are large and everything is made fresh in the cleanest kitchen ever seen. The staff is hospitable and will make you feel at home.
The bar seating is comfy and the drinks are made with fresh squeezed juices. Noche Mexican BBQ is definitely worth a visit for the amazing food and beautiful atmosphere.
14. Rubbies
Rubbies is a local joint that serves up some of the best brisket in town.
This BBQ joint has a full bar and offers American comfort food, including BBQ, along with live music. The brisket is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
If you're looking for a great place to grab some delicious brisket, Rubbies is definitely worth a visit.
15. Bootleg Bar-B-Q
Bootleg Bar-B-Q is a local eatery that serves up some delicious brisket.
They offer a variety of sauces to choose from, including sugar-free options. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.
The staff is friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
Whether you're dining in or taking out, Bootleg Bar-B-Q is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for some tasty smoked meat.
16. River Road BBQ
River Road BBQ is a small and unassuming BBQ joint that serves up some of the best brisket in town.
The brisket is smoked for 8 hours and then slow cooked in the oven for 12 hours, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that is cut across the grain.
The sauce is unique and the pickles in the potato salad add a nice touch. The ribs are also a standout dish.
The atmosphere is nothing special, but the friendly staff and quick service make up for it. If you're a fan of smoked meat, River Road BBQ is definitely worth a visit.
