Vegetarians look away, this week we’re talking barbecue meats as we check out the best barbecue restaurants in Melbourne.
That meaty craving is like no other. Sometimes you just need something spicy and hearty that will warm your insides and punch your taste buds into a state of well-fed contentment.
Korean BBQ seems to be having a bit of a moment, but when you’re looking for ooey-gooey mac and cheese, buttery cornbread and 72-hour smoked meat, you’ve gotta look out for something with a little more southern twang. Here’s where to head when you’re feeling like American BBQ in Melbourne.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
The best American BBQ in Melbourne
Le Bon Ton
View this post on Instagram
- 51 Gipps St, Collingwood VIC 3066
- Known for: Smoked meats
Situated down the historically industrial streets of Collingwood – sits near the top of my Favourite Melbourne Venues list. The never-empty pub ticks every single box for a fantastic time but it’s the late-night relaxed vibe that most flock here for. And of course its incredible meats. You can float on in at any odd hour – midnight, one, even two AM – and indulge in cocktails and power-food aplenty.
My order always tends to follow the same path. Southern-style buttermilk-soaked chicken tenders with cracked white gravy, or a pit-smoked brisket sandwich with dill pickles, cheddar cheese, onions and BBQ sauce. For sides, I’ll never turn away mac and cheese and at Le Bon Ton, the dish works with three cheeses: American, Swiss and cheddar.
The tangy coleslaw is a refreshing side order, and the potato salad is also worth trying. Yes, this all sounds incredible, but the truth is I’m only just touching the sides of what’s on offer.
Le Bon Ton has plenty of menus depending on the time and manner you dine, all inspired by multiple regions of the American South, and each is as delectably delicious as the last. Oh, and their espresso martini with whiskey should be your go-to cocktail order.
The Que Club
View this post on Instagram
- 434 Lygon St, Brunswick East VIC 3057
- Known for: Brisket
The newest kid on the block and also the topic of many conversations. The venue stands tall as the first Australian barbecue superstore, where the answer to any barbecue-related query you may have is sure to be a resounding “We’ve got it”.
Not only is the venue a restaurant that serves delicious meats and treats, but they’re also a butcher, a supply store – yes you can buy an actual barbecue here to start smokin’ for yourself – a bar, and even a cooking school. Located right in the heart of Fitzroy North, The Que Club is our new local barbecue headquarters.
When talking food on offer, the menu hosts the usual suspects – brisket croquettes, brisket samosas, pork with slaw, and salt and vinegar chicken to name a few – with sides to pair such as slaw and pickles, potato tots and Texas beans. The team are known for starting their days with creative flair, offering dishes of the day and other dreamy meat creations.
Recent specials have included lamb cutlets rubbed with tree bark, beef cheeks with parsnip, and homemade beef sausages. So, welcome to the block The Que Club – we very much appreciate what you’ve brought to the area.
Bluebonnet
View this post on Instagram
- 124-126 Lygon St, Brunswick East VIC 3057
- Known for: Charred brussel sprouts and pork belly
Bluebonnet fancies itself a true Texas BBQ joint. Personally, I’ve never been to Texas, but if it’s anything like Bluebonnet I’d happily book a flight. Everything you put in your mouth at this establishment will make your eyes roll back in ecstasy – it’s easily some of the best American BBQ in Melbourne.
You’ll order your meat by the gram, so if you’re a big hungry boy, you can really load up. There are a ton of free-range options as well, if you’re in the market for a guide-free munch.
No matter how much of a meat fanatic you are, do NOT miss out on the sides. You will regret it. The brussell sprouts are a stand-out, chatted to absolute perfection. The cornbread is sweet and crummy and the pickles provide that much-needed acidic crunch. Douse it all in one of their homemade sauces and you’ll have yourself a feast you won’t soon forget.
Dexter
View this post on Instagram
- 456 High St, Preston VIC 3072
- Known for: Meat donut
We’ll admit, the name does remind us of the murdery TV show. But you’re sure to forget about all of that when you’ve got a mouth full of succulent, slow-cooked meat. This Preston locale is laid back and moody on the interior – a little sexier than your average smokehouse, but comfy enough to pull up a chair for the whole night. Plus, the wine selection doesn’t disappoint, full of nice drops that’ll compliment your dinner.
The team does an excellent job of blending sweet and savoury. Take, for example, the Caramel Short Rib. Caramel and ribs – who would have thought? But it works! As do the cinnamon-salted fries and the apple-glazed pork belly. And then there’s the star of the show: the meat donut. Don’t ask questions. Just get one. Or two. Get however many you want, it’s your life!
If you’ve got a hankering for a truly indulgent meal that’ll make you loosen your belt a few notches, Dexter is your guy. Just make sure to make a booking in advance – it seems Preston’s best-kept secret is a secret no more.
For more American BBQ in Melbourne, head here.
