Joe's KC BBQ
Barbecue restaurant · Kansas City
3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS 66103
Highlights
Famous gas station BBQ: Z-Man sandwich, ribs, burnt ends
Famous gas station BBQ: Z-Man sandwich, ribs, burnt ends
"Originating out of a gas station and now expanded to multiple locations, this Kansas City staple draws long lines for classic items like brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, ribs, and burnt ends. Fans — including actor Paul Rudd — rave about the Z-Man sandwich, which layers brisket slices with smoked provolone and onion rings on a kaiser roll and is often cited as the shop’s signature creation." - Greg Baker
"A Kansas City barbecue institution represented in a curated Pitmaster Icons gift set; the contribution showcases the region's distinctive sauce style and helps illustrate the set's goal of offering five different regional barbecue flavors for at-home grilling." - Francky Knapp
"Joe’s is the gold standard of local BBQ. We have a ritual of bringing out-of-towners we love most (you’re welcome!) to experience the Z-Man sandwich that’s loaded with brisket, provolone, onion rings, and BBQ sauce, just so we can watch their eyes light up when they take a bite. Both Joe’s thick classic and spicy sauces pair perfectly with expertly seasoned ribs and smoky burnt ends, and their fries may also be the best in town. There’s always going to be a wait at this functioning gas station/restaurant, so get in line, make some friends, and enjoy the convenience store-meets-busy-dining room vibes." - ryan bernsten
"Located on the Kansas side of town, Joe’s is our top pick for local BBQ. We have a ritual of bringing out-of-towners we love most (you’re welcome!) to experience the Z-Man sandwich that’s loaded with brisket, provolone, onion rings, and BBQ sauce, just so we can watch their eyes light up when they take a bite. Both Joe’s thick classic and spicy sauces pair perfectly with expertly seasoned ribs and smoky burnt ends, and their fries may also be the best in town. There’s always going to be a wait at this functioning gas station/restaurant, so get in line, make some friends, and enjoy the convenience store-meets-busy-dining room vibes." - ryan bernsten
"Anthony Bourdain famously named Kansas City’s iconic gas station barbecue spot as one of his “13 places to eat before you die.” Order a slab of ribs or the Z-Man: a pile of lean, thin-sliced brisket topped with smoked provolone, fried onion rings, and the sweet-hot sauce that typifies KC barbecue. Best for: To-go orders. Dine-in space is limited and lines run out the door at peak times, so most locals just call in their orders to skip the wait." - Liz Cook
