I have to disagree with this choice. The best part of BBQ in KC is the history and authenticity...and I just don't get that feeling unless I go to one of the more ma and pa-type joints. Although I am a big fan of Jack Stack baked beans - their BBQ doesn't compare to Oklahoma Joe's or one of my new favorite BBQ places, Woodyard BBQ (not new, but I just discovered!). Their BBQ is so delicious, it makes you crave for more even after you a full. Plus - when I am enjoying good BBQ, I want to be able to hear good music, visit with good ol' friendly folks and maybe even snag a drumstick as they are pulling them out of the pit....not wait for a table by the hostess stand.

I have to agree with the above post- We just recently moved to KC from North Carolina- We were very much looking for the aunthentic KC bar-b-que place and everyone said Jack Stack. I have been 3 times and am not thrilled. It is too commercial- I would love to get some mom and pop restaurants to try.

If you're looking for good, authentic and amazing KC BBQ, try Danny Edwards (1227 Grand Blvd). Definitely a hole in the wall and unfortunately only serves lunch. You won't be disappointed and the food alone beats all the hoopla surrounding Jack Stack (which is good....but not THIS good).

People need to know that the original Smokestack on 71 Highway in south Kansas City (now closed) was the genesis of Jack's Stack (originally called Smokestack in Martin City) as well as other Smokestacks in town. The original was run by Jack's parents, Russell and Flora Fiorella, and is where (I assume) Jack learned his trade. The Smokestack on Wornall was started by Jack's sister Mary (now deceased) and is now run by Mary's kids. This place has many of the same menu items as the original Smokestack (as well as Jack's Stack). But, unlike Jack's places, the Smokestack is a real blue collar "joint". Food's good, and you'll save a bunch of money.

While Kansas City is known for it's BBQ, ask any two people which they prefer and you most likely will get two different answers. If you were disappointed with Jack Stack, then I'd have to say your tastes and expectations lean toward something else.

For many, if it's not inner city BBQ it's not authentic. Some want there BBQ with a little more elegance. I prefer Jack Stack for a nice sit down BBQ meal. I love their burnt ends. We go there a lot for business lunches. I've also enjoyed many catered meals from Jack Stack and haven't been disapppointed.

I've heard great things about LC's, but was disappointed both in the quantity of food and the price. My sandwich, fries and drink were over $12.00 (Wow! Bring out the white table clothes).

While I enjoy Oklahoma Joe's, I don't consider it Kansas City BBQ, but then I know that going in. I guess it's Oklahoma BBQ. The sauces are not Kansas City style.

Some people swear by Rosedale's. I won't go there. The sauce is way too sweet for my liking.

Some people swear by Hayward's. I'm not one of them. It's close to Corporate Woods, which is a plus for some, but the meat is too bland and fatty for my taste.

Famous Dave's is just wrong. Wisconsin BBQ? That's all I'll say.

Arthur Bryant is always good, and a trip. My wife, however, can't stand their sauce; a bit too gritty for her. Be ready when it's your turn to order or you may get passed over.

Gates is consistant and good (Hi, may I help you?), but can have a feel of mass production. Maybe it's all the locations. It's my choice, however, for BBQ sauce I can buy at the store, but others will probably find it not to their liking.

For an out-of-the-way place that's good and reasonable, try Bates City BBQ, coincidentally enough, Bates City, MO. Think country, not inner city. It's consistently good, but as I said, a bit out of the way. If you ever find yourself on I70 east of Grain Valley around lunch or dinner, stop by and give it a try. They serve great slabs of ribs and smoked brisket, but they don't serve beer if that's a must for you.

I'm sure I've missed some great ones, as there are so many, but that's what makes Kansas City so great - All that BBQ.

It's all a matter of taste and expectations, in my opinion.

people should pay attention 2 the northland bbq,the smokehouse,has good(excellent)ribs and beans,along with super crispy sandwiches(made from burnt ends,on a french roll,with baked beans-french fries and pickles(an get extra-beans,which fries can be traded for extra beans--well worth the trade offf)(..can't remember if i've even had a bad meal-so i would think,that,maybe? i haven't::I beleive that jack stack doesn't hold a candel to them;;wish i could be a food critic-another good one is danny edwards,who was forced 2 sell his long time,small bbq joint(the people that forced him out-due to emminet domain-should have 2pay for lost revenue the first couple years//,Enuff said

I grew up in Kansas City. The one thing that I crave and miss the most is great K.C. BBQ. Of all the BBQ restaurants I've been to over the years, I think Smokestack is the current best! The beans are full of meat, but best of all the meat itself has that incredible smoky flavor- that's what BBQ is all about, isn't it? Everyone has their own preferences for sauce (my Dad, Fred Kern, loved Arthur Bryant's). Sauce at the Smokestack isn't too sweet, not too mustardy or peppery, just right! I try to visit the Smokestack whenever I come back!

bb's lawnside on 85th serves simply the best ribs i have ever eaten. the burnt ends are amazing also. the pit beans are great. if you are in the mood for a big meal, try the big walter. six meats in thier not too sweet sauce. the spicy sauce is excellent also. lastly, don't go for regular french fries, go for the battered fries. quartered potatoes battered and deep fried. never had anything quite like them. blues music is also abundant there with live music every night that they operate. what they lack in fancy plates, new tables, and a squekey clean overall restaurant, they make up for in character. amazing atmosphere, amazing food.

Two words. . . Oklahoma Joe's, the original locale.