Are you ready to embark on a finger-licking adventure to discover the best BBQ in Lansing, MI? Well, buckle up because today, we’re diving into the smoky, savory, and downright delicious world of barbecue in Michigan’s capital city.
As a die-hard foodie and self-proclaimed BBQ connoisseur, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting some truly unique places in Lansing, and I’m thrilled to share my discoveries with you.
Now, you might be thinking, “Lansing, really? A BBQ hotspot?” But let me tell you, this city is full of hidden culinary gems just waiting to be discovered.
Lansing has a diverse and vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes, from classic American comfort food to mouthwatering international flavors.
The city’s BBQ game is no exception – it’s strong, smoky, and sure to tantalize your taste buds.
As we explore Lansing’s BBQ landscape together, we’ll uncover some of the best-kept secrets in town.
From tried-and-true favorites to new kids on the block, we’re going to dive deep into the world of slow-cooked, tender meats, tangy sauces, and hearty sides.
And the best part? You’ll get to experience it all through the eyes of someone who’s been there, tasted that, and lived to tell the delicious tale.
So, grab your bib, loosen your belt, and get ready to experience the ultimate BBQ feast – Lansing style!
Trust me, after reading this, you’ll be itching to hit the road and embark on your very own Lansing BBQ adventure. Let’s get smokin’!
Table of Contents
My Top 3 Picks of the Best Places for BBQ in Lansing MI
| Restaurant | Top Pick | Our Rating |
| Meat BBQ | Fatty Brisket | 5/5 |
| The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ | Ribs | 5/5 |
| Willie Dee’s BBQ | Peach cobbler | 4.5/5 |
The 8 Best Spots for BBQ in Lansing MI
Saddleback BBQ REO Town
1147 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI 48910, United States // +15173069002
Let me start by telling you about an experience I had at one of Lansing’s smokin’ hot barbecue spots – Saddleback BBQ REO Town.
Boy, oh boy, was it a game-changer for my taste buds! As someone who’s always on the hunt for lip-smacking good food, I was more than excited to give this place a try.
The mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked meats greeted me right at the door, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on some of that deliciousness. The best part? My food was ready in minutes! Talk about great service.
Located in the heart of Lansing, Saddleback BBQ is a prime spot for foodies who love to support local businesses. I’m all about that, so I felt right at home.
The only downside I noticed was the lack of combo options on the menu – not exactly ideal for my fellow budget-conscious food adventurers. But hey, sometimes you’ve just got to splurge a little for quality eats, am I right?
The cashier was super friendly and helped me navigate the mouthwatering menu. I decided to go for the two-meat plate with pulled pork and brisket, accompanied by Mac ‘n’ cheese and Vernor’s sweet potatoes.
Everything was beyond tasty! I’m already planning to try and recreate those Vernor’s sweet potatoes in my own kitchen.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the Sweet and Savory barbecue sauce. It was so finger-lickin’ good that I couldn’t resist grabbing a bottle to take home with me. Seriously, you’ve got to try it for yourself!
However, what impressed me about Saddleback BBQ was its dedication to its employees and the local community.
They genuinely care about supporting fellow restaurants and positively impacting Lansing. You’ve got to love a business with heart!
So, if you’re looking for great food, a lively atmosphere, and a place that values community, don’t sleep on Saddleback BBQ REO Town.
It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy delicious eats, drinks, and good company. If you haven’t tried it yet, do yourself a favor and check it out. You won’t be disappointed!
Meat BBQ
1224 Turner Rd., Lansing, MI 48906, United States // +15175804400
If you’re a carnivore at heart, this is one place you’ll definitely want to add to your must-visit list for Lansing barbecue.
Meat BBQ is a cozy, hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint with eclectic decor and an atmosphere that just screams laid-back good times, a place where massive portions are the norm, and your taste buds are in for a wild ride.
The tender, juicy meats were cooked to absolute perfection, and every single bite was bursting with flavor. And can we talk about their homemade sauces? Simply divine!
Just make sure you come hungry because this place doesn’t mess around when it comes to satisfying your carnivorous cravings.
And while they may not offer dessert, you’ll hardly miss it with all the meaty goodness on your plate.
What really made my experience at Meat BBQ stand out? The friendly, welcoming staff and the laid-back atmosphere of a place that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re catching up with friends or just grabbing a quick bite solo.
As for the appetizers, let me tell you about their Fried Pickles. I was pleasantly surprised to discover they were served “stringed,” which quickly became my new favorite way to enjoy them.
In fact, I’m already planning my next pit stop in Lansing just for these pickles and a cold beer.
Speaking of beer, Meat BBQ boasts an impressive selection, ranging from the rich Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Rasputin XX to the refreshing Ellison Amber and the fruity Passion Fruit Kolsch. There’s truly something for everyone!
For my main course, I indulged in the Fatty Brisket and a half rack of ribs, accompanied by Mac and Cheese, Slaw, and an order of French Fries.
It was a feast fit for a king, and if you are looking for a down-to-earth Lansing BBQ experience with amazing food, great beer, and a welcoming atmosphere, look no further than Meat BBQ in Old Town!
Capital City BBQ
1026 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48915, United States // +15177211500
When I first stumbled upon Capital City BBQ in Lansing, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. From the outside, it didn’t look like much, but boy, was I in for a pleasant surprise!
You see, Capital City BBQ has a fascinating history. Originally a cell phone store, it later transformed into a unique store/restaurant hybrid that has since won the hearts of foodies all over Lansing.
Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
Just a heads up; the restaurant is on the smaller side, and parking can be a bit tight. But don’t let that deter you – it’s all part of the charm!
What really sets Capital City BBQ apart is its ability to master two completely different cuisines, barbecue and Vietnamese.
I was amazed by how they managed to nail both styles, creating dishes that were nothing short of perfection.
I decided to try both the BBQ and Vietnamese offerings, and each dish was absolutely on point.
The Rib Tips were tender, juicy, and packed with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting without being overwhelming.
The Pork Spring Rolls were hands down the best I’ve ever had. The rice paper wrapper was incredibly fresh, and a complex and flavorful peanut sauce perfectly complemented the bright, crisp veggies. It was simply divine!
Of course, I couldn’t resist trying the Pork Bánh Mi, which was everything a good Bánh Mi should be, flavorful, fresh, and crusty. And the attention to detail didn’t stop at the main dishes – even the sides were top-notch.
I highly recommend pairing the cornbread and coleslaw with the BBQ, and don’t miss the fries that come with the delicious Smoking Hot Chicks sandwich – easily some of the best I’ve ever had.
If you haven’t visited Capital City BBQ yet, you’re in for a real treat. I only wish I’d discovered this amazing spot sooner.
So, next time you’re looking for barbecue in Lansing, make sure to stop by and experience this delightful fusion of flavors for yourself.
D’s & C’s Barbeque
4215 N. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906, United States // +15178198987
This place is a must-try for anyone who loves great food and an even better atmosphere.
You can’t miss D’s & C’s – just follow your nose and look for the big, bold sign out front. And if the mouthwatering aroma of smoky goodness doesn’t give it away, the clean, bright interior and inviting picnic tables surely will.
One of the best parts of my experience at D’s & C’s was meeting the owner, Dennis, and the rest of the friendly staff.
Their warm, attentive service made me feel right at home and added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit D’s & C’s Barbeque in Lansing twice, and I was blown away each time.
On my first visit, I indulged in the brisket, which was unbelievably juicy and packed with flavor.
But my second trip was all about the ribs – a massive pile of meaty goodness that left me absolutely speechless. Pure BBQ bliss!
Not only is Dennis an absolute master of the barbecue, but he’s also incredibly personable and gregarious. You can tell he’s passionate about his craft, and it shows in every delicious bite.
If you haven’t tried D’s & C’s Barbeque yet, I can’t recommend it enough. Trust me; you’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and a new favorite BBQ spot in Lansing.
So, what are you waiting for? Head on over and experience the magic for yourself!
517 BBQ
427 E. Oakland Ave., Lansing, MI 48906, United States // +15173089762
I’ve got yet another delightful little discovery to share with you: 517 BBQ in Lansing. Trust me when I say these guys are cooking up something exceptional that you won’t want to miss!
This cozy gem offers both indoor seating and a convenient drive-thru for those on-the-go BBQ cravings.
On my visit, I decided to dine in and treat myself to the mouthwatering brisket sandwich, accompanied by mac & cheese and baked beans.
As a self-proclaimed big eater, I was more than satisfied with the generous portions. The brisket was cooked to absolute perfection, and the BBQ sauce – oh, the BBQ sauce! – it was nothing short of amazing. Paired with two scrumptious sides, it was the perfect meal to satiate my hunger.
What really stood out to me, though, was the speedy service and piping hot food. The friendly staff at 517 BBQ ensured my experience was top-notch from start to finish, cementing this spot as a must-visit destination for true BBQ in Lansing.
So, if you find yourself in Lansing and are on the hunt for an authentic, mouthwatering BBQ experience, look no further than 517 BBQ.
I can’t recommend it enough, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit!
Willie Dee’s Bbq
1225 W. Holmes Rd., Lansing, MI 48911, United States // +19899335485
An incredible BBQ Soul Food truck I stumbled upon in Lansing, Willie Dee’s BBQ. Get ready to be blown away by the friendly owners, reasonable prices, and – most importantly – the delicious food!
When I first laid eyes on Willie Dee’s BBQ truck, I knew I was in for a treat. And boy, did they deliver!
The food was not only generously portioned but also absolutely delicious. You won’t be able to get enough of their mouthwatering offerings.
I couldn’t resist trying the ribs and peach cobbler. The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, and the peach cobbler – oh my goodness! – it was off-the-charts amazing. I can’t even begin to describe the heavenly flavors that danced across my taste buds with each bite.
What really made my experience at Willie Dee’s Lansing BBQ memorable, though, was the warm and inviting service.
Sheronda, one of the owners, greeted me with a beaming smile and a wonderful disposition that made me feel right at home.
So, if you’re ever craving some top-notch BBQ Soul Food in Lansing, look no further than Willie Dee’s BBQ truck.
Your stomach – and your taste buds – will be eternally grateful. I know I can’t wait for my next visit to indulge in their unique dishes once more!
Irie Smoke Shack
325 Riverfront Dr., Lansing, MI 48912, United States // +15173340878
If you’re a fan of tender, melt-in-your-mouth brisket and delicious sides, you’ll want to visit this place!
The first thing you should know about Irie Smoke Shack is that their brisket is out of this world!
The only thing I found myself wishing for was a wider selection of sauces – they offered house BBQ and garlic aioli, which were both delightful, but my taste buds were craving a little more variety.
Now let me tell you about their loaded brisket fries and mac & cheese. Talk about a food lover’s dream come true!
The service was attentive, efficient, and incredibly kind, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The mac & cheese was ultra-cheesy and scrumptious, while the loaded fries were piled high with a mouthwatering array of toppings. Trust me when I say it’s definitely worth a visit.
I was also super impressed with their excellent customer service. The food arrived quickly, the prices were reasonable, and they even provided tickets for free parking at the door, a nice little bonus that made my visit even more enjoyable.
If you’re in Lansing and craving some amazing BBQ, don’t hesitate to pay a visit to Irie Smoke Shack.
The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ
908 Elmwood Rd., Lansing, MI 48917, United States // +15175825100
Craving an exceptional BBQ in Lansing Mi? This hidden treasure offers a drool-worthy adventure you’ll want to relive time and time again.
Boasting a warm and welcoming atmosphere, The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ puts a fresh spin on traditional BBQ favorites, making it the ultimate spot to enjoy some mouthwatering, tender delights with your loved ones.
Gear up for a one-of-a-kind culinary escapade as you discover a menu brimming with juicy ribs, irresistible sides, and divine desserts, all meticulously crafted to leave you amazed.
I decided to go for the ribs, mac & cheese, and banana pudding – and boy, was I in for a treat!
The ribs were massive, with tender, perfectly seasoned meat that could easily stand on its own without any sauce.
These spare ribs, complete with tips, were a delightful change from the usual baby back ribs you might find elsewhere.
Now, let’s talk about that banana pudding. At first, I was a little taken aback by their unique twist: they use Nutter Butter cookies instead of the traditional vanilla wafers.
But after just a couple of bites, I was blown away by how well the peanut butter flavor worked with the classic banana pudding taste. It was a delightful surprise that didn’t last long on my plate!
I can’t recommend The Smoke N’ Pig BBQ enough if you find yourself in the Lansing area. The combination of their enormous, tender ribs and the unexpected deliciousness of their banana pudding make this spot a must-visit for any BBQ fan.
BBQ Fans Also Ask:
What makes Lansing’s BBQ scene unique and worth exploring?
Lansing’s BBQ scene is a delightful mix of traditional Southern-style BBQ and innovative culinary twists, making it a must-visit for any food lover.
From food trucks to cozy dine-in spots, there’s something to satisfy every BBQ enthusiast’s taste buds.
What types of BBQ styles can I find in Lansing?
Lansing’s BBQ scene offers a diverse range of styles, from classic Texas-style brisket to mouthwatering Carolina pulled pork.
You’ll also find unique fusion dishes that blend BBQ with other culinary traditions, making the city’s BBQ landscape a true melting pot of flavors.
Can I find BBQ food trucks in Lansing, MI?
Lansing is home to several BBQ food trucks that offer delicious, smoky treats on the go!
Keep an eye out for these mobile culinary hotspots at local events, parks, or even on social media to find out where they’ll be serving up their delicious BBQ fare.
Can I find any locally brewed craft beers to pair with my BBQ meal in Lansing?
Yes, you’re in luck! Lansing is home to several local breweries that offer an impressive selection of craft beers to perfectly complement your BBQ feast.
Many BBQ spots in the city have partnered with these breweries to provide a truly local dining experience.
Wrapping Up: The 8 Best Spots for BBQ in Lansing MI
In conclusion, Lansing, Michigan, is a veritable playground for BBQ enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
This vibrant city has cemented its place on the culinary map with its eclectic array of mouthwatering BBQ joints.
Each spot offers its own unique spin on smoky, tender delights, ensuring that your taste buds are in for a memorable adventure every time you explore the Lansing BBQ scene.
With so many incredible BBQ destinations to choose from, you might find it hard to settle on just one.
But fear not because embarking on a tantalizing tour of Lansing’s best BBQ spots is a journey that never gets old.
From tender ribs and juicy brisket to creative fusion dishes and irresistible sides, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Lansing’s smoky wonderland.
And let’s not forget the charm of the city itself! Lansing, with its rich history, lively arts scene, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, offers the perfect backdrop for a BBQ feast.
As you savor the best bbq in lansing mi, you’ll also get a taste of the community spirit that makes Lansing so special.
So, next time you find yourself craving some finger-licking BBQ goodness, be sure to keep Lansing, Michigan, on your radar.
This BBQ haven is truly a food lover’s paradise, where each bite celebrates smoky, tender, and oh-so-delicious flavors.
Whether you’re a Lansing local or just passing through, don’t miss the chance to experience the city’s best BBQ restaurants – they’re guaranteed to leave you hungry for more!
If you liked this article and found it helpful or interesting, and you are looking for some more recommendations for other restaurants where you can get some delicious food and good vibes in Lansing, make sure to check out our articles:
- The 8 Best Mexican Restaurants in Lansing, MI
- 17 Must-Try Lansing Restaurants
- Where to Find the Best Sushi in East Lansing
- The 8 Best Restaurants in Downtown Lansing, MI
- The 15 Best East Lansing Restaurants
Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever