When you get otherwise well-mannered people together and then introduce the concept of “who has the best BBQ in town,” you will quickly see who has manners and who is an all-out-meat-fiend.
People of distinction from across the ages have argued who has the best smoked, grilled, cooked, cut, hunted meat in town. In St. Louis, there are hundreds of choices for your particular taste of cow, bird, or pig, but these two have bubbled up as two of our favs for barbeque in the area.
First up:Pappy’s Smokehouse. Nestled near Harris-Stowe University, this place has great, well, everything. When you are ready to try something new, check out the Frito pie. Don’t ask.. just order it and you will be amazed. Pappy’s also has great sweet potato fries – good enough to write home about. The fried corn is just ok. The service is fast and responsive – they really came through when trying to get the airport to surprise a friend with those fries.
Second: Bogarts Smokehouse. 
Near the Soulard Market (one of the oldest in the country), this place is a favorite after strolling through the rows of produce, pastas, and other wonderful smells and sights. Or, just skip the market and go right to Bogart’s. Great, great meat and wonderful sides. Go on a nice day and sit outside to enjoy the deliciousness that is smoked meat.
Both places pass the “leave here with your clothes smelling like smoke” test. [Some local chains can’t boast even that!] They also both have great, fast service and excellent meat. Husband thinks Pappy’s wins – but I think that’s the sweet potato fries talkin’.
(Little Buddy with Pappy himself.
A picture that might just make the baby book.)
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