Craving smoky, tender perfection for your next meal? York, PA is hiding barbecue gems that’ll make your usual dinner pale in comparison. When that hankering for fall-off-the-bone ribs or melt-in-your-mouth brisket hits, let this list be your guide. These are the spots that deserve a permanent place in your carnivorous cravings.
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (717) 600-1700 | WEBSITE
Next time your “relaxing dinner out” turns into a Not So Relaxing Dinner Dilemma, cancel your plans, take a deep breath, and head straight to LongHorn Steakhouse. The steakhouse getaway is home to some of the city’s best barbeque-adjacent comfort food. The keys to their greatness are the consistently amazing food, the friendly staff like MacKenzie and Reanna, and the outstanding price-to-food ratio (you’ll get large portions for about $25 a plate).
Bones-n-Shells
$$ | (717) 741-4320 | WEBSITE
This York spot is all about two things—steaks and seafood—and both are executed with remarkable precision. It’s the perfect destination for a substantial dinner that justifies every dollar spent. Settle into one of the cozy booths for the rich prime rib and a crab-loaded roll, and consider investing in a sous-vide machine to attempt recreating that perfect medium-rare at home.
The Cove
$$ | (717) 793-3771 | WEBSITE
Just be prepared for two things when coming to this York spot for dinner. A doggy bag for tomorrow and finding a seat by the water. This seafood restaurant serves up plates that barely contain generous portions of fresh mahi sandwiches and prime rib quesadillas and delicious mac and cheese that any hungry family would welcome for their next night out. Most dishes won’t run you more than $25, just be sure you ask for Bryna’s whiskey recommendations.
Smokey Bones York
$$ | (717) 846-3760 | WEBSITE
It’s not often you find barbecue this satisfying with servers who remember your order without writing a thing, but at Smokey Bones York, that’s just a regular dinner. The flavorful spot serves standout $28 ribs that come with tender baked beans studded with pork pieces. There’s no going wrong, but we always find ourselves unable to resist the excellence of the service—the staff is attentive, the water glasses stay full, and extra napkins appear without interrupting the table.
Ethel’s BBQ & Catering
$ | (717) 873-1211 | WEBSITE
With a seemingly endless supply of fish platters, pulled chicken, and potato salad, Ethel’s BBQ & Catering inside Penn Market is an obvious choice for a midday meal (they also offer catering services). The counter-service barbecue spot has a few usually open tables, so you can spend immediate quality time with a hot, freshly cooked fish platter or a neatly layered pulled chicken sandwich. And don’t forget a side of cake.
Texas Roadhouse
$$ | (717) 600-1441 | WEBSITE
Texas Roadhouse is the perfect spot when you’re looking for a dinner that has no misses—this sit-down restaurant serves the best Texas-style barbeque in the city. Prime Rib is perfectly seasoned and cooked to order, ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the grilled salmon will teleport you straight to the coast. But before you sit down, head straight to the bread basket that’s full of the warmest and fluffiest rolls around.
The Burger Experience
$$$ | (717) 846-3760 | WEBSITE
Even if you’re not a die-hard barbecue fan, you should make a trip to this casual spot for a satisfying meal. The barbecue-focused restaurant serves up plates of pulled pork, hearty mac and cheese, and other smoked meats that work well for groups, but it’s also perfectly fine for eating alone—try the Smokehouse Mac & Cheese with pulled pork, or one of their classic burgers with a soft bun. The food comes out hot and well-prepared, though the quality can be hit-or-miss.
Service is generally attentive, with waiters checking in regularly, but you might occasionally encounter a server who seems rushed. Seating can be a bit tight, and the place isn’t spotless, but overall, The Burger Experience delivers a decent, no-fuss dining experience that hits the spot when you’re craving barbecue in York.
MISSION BBQ
$ | (717) 781-2120 | WEBSITE
This barbecue spot in York serves incredible brisket, pulled pork, turkey sandwiches, and sides, all of which are great for sharing out in their patriotic dining room. Make sure to get any dish that comes off the smoker—this is BBQ, after all—like the moist brisket platter with classic sides, and a turkey sandwich for a lighter option. If you don’t get the lean brisket topped with their signature sauce, you will have regret flashbacks.