Best BBQ restaurants in Winter Haven
Picks are ranked by relevance to bbq restaraunt.
At a glance
| # | Business | Rating | From | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sonny's BBQ | 4.3 (538) | moderate | Classic pit-smoked ribs |
| 2 | Just Smoke & Things BBQ | 5 (5) | — | Tender brisket, family-run |
| 3 | Herb's BBQ and Rubs LLC | 5 (5) | — | Catering & food truck BBQ |
Ranked picks
Sonny's BBQ
Why it ranks first
Sonny's brings 50 years of pit-smoked barbecue history to Winter Haven, with 538 reviews backing a 4.3 average. Server Jasmine gets called out again and again for staying warm and attentive even near closing time, and the menu stretches from ribs to kids' and vegetarian options. It's the most traditional BBQ stop in this group.
Pros
- Pit-smoked ribs and a wide meat selection
- 50 years of operating history in the area
- Catering available for large parties
- Menu covers kids and vegetarian options too
Services: smokehouse bbq, bbq catering, carolina style bbq, texas style bbq · Price: moderate
Just Smoke & Things BBQ
Why it ranks second
Just Smoke & Things is a small, family-run operation with a perfect 5.0 average, though that's built on just 5 reviews so far, so treat it as an early signal rather than a settled track record. What feedback exists is consistent: the brisket comes out fork-tender without being overseasoned, and owner Marcus is mentioned by name for genuinely engaging with customers. Homemade sauces and sides like mac and cheese round out the plate.
Pros
- Brisket cooked tender and precisely seasoned
- Owner Marcus engages directly with customers
Services: bbq food truck, smokehouse bbq, carolina style bbq, texas style bbq
Herb's BBQ and Rubs LLC
Why it ranks third
Herb's runs as a food truck and catering operation, with a 5.0 average across an early set of 5 reviews, so it's still building a longer track record. Reviewers point to flavorful brisket and pork plus a catering team that handles large events without a hitch. Expect to catch the truck at rodeos and farm events around Winter Haven as much as at a fixed spot.
Pros
- Brisket and pork are standout plates
- Full-service catering for large groups
Services: bbq buffet, bbq food truck, bbq catering