Nothing brings people together quite like great barbecue, and Central Florida is home to no shortage of standout smokehouses serving tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and mouthwatering pulled pork. Over the past couple of weeks, our readers cast their votes to crown the very best BBQ spots across the region, recognizing the local restaurants that have earned a loyal following through incredible food, welcoming hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Join us as we spotlight this year’s winners, hear from the people behind the pits, and celebrate the community that helped make this contest such a success.
1st Place: Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ
Located on the Kissimmee lakefront, Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ has become a local favorite for its slow-smoked barbecue, homemade sides, and rock-and-roll atmosphere.
The family-owned restaurant serves hand-carved brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and andouille sausage, along with a variety of house-made sauces that allow guests to customize every bite. Combining Southern hospitality with a passion for classic rock, Big John’s has built a reputation as more than just a barbecue restaurant; it’s a place where great food, live music culture, and community come together.
After being voted the winner of Central Florida Lifestyle’s Best BBQ Spot Contest, Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ has earned a title that owner John “Big John” says belongs just as much to his customers as it does to him.
For more information, read HERE.
2nd Place: The Polite Pig
“Since opening its doors in 2017, The Polite Pig has become one of Orlando’s premier barbecue destinations, earning recognition as one of the Top 5 BBQ restaurants in Orlando and becoming one of the only local chef-driven concepts at Disney Springs. The restaurant combines traditional wood-fired barbecue techniques with fresh Florida flavors, Florida craft beers, drinks on tap, and a bourbon bar, creating a dining experience that is uniquely Central Florida.
The Polite Pig is the vision of acclaimed local restaurateurs James Petrakis, Julie Petrakis, and Brian Petrakis. Building on the success of their award-winning restaurant, The Ravenous Pig, the trio brought their passion for quality ingredients, handcrafted cooking, and genuine hospitality to Disney Springs. Their commitment to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and modern barbecue has helped establish The Polite Pig as a favorite among both Orlando locals and visitors from around the world.
Every item on the menu reflects the owners’ dedication to craftsmanship—from low-and-slow smoked brisket and pulled pork to signature sides, house-made sauces, and an extensive bourbon selection. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and exceptional food have earned national recognition, including selection in the MICHELIN Guide, cementing its reputation as one of Orlando’s must-visit dining destinations.
Today, The Polite Pig continues to showcase what Central Florida barbecue can be: bold, innovative, and rooted in Southern tradition. Whether guests are visiting Disney Springs for the first time or are returning regulars, they can expect outstanding food, warm hospitality, and a dining experience that reflects the passion and vision of the Petrakis family.” – The Polite Pig
3rd Place: 4 Rivers Smokehouse
“4 Rivers Smokehouse was founded by John Rivers in 2009 after a single barbecue fundraiser to help a local family whose young daughter was battling cancer. What started as one act of service grew into a restaurant built on two enduring principles: authentic, handcrafted barbecue and a genuine commitment to serving others. That same purpose lives on today through Peace, Love & 4theGreaterGood, the company’s charitable initiative dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations and communities in need. From the beginning, the focus has remained on slow-smoked meats, scratch-made recipes, and memorable guest experiences. As 4 Rivers has grown, it has stayed true to the craft of great barbecue while embracing thoughtful culinary innovation, creating a menu that honors tradition while continuing to evolve.
What Makes 4 Rivers Smokehouse Unique
4 Rivers Smokehouse is rooted in the craft of authentic barbecue—slow-smoking premium meats daily with a focus on quality, consistency, and flavor. While inspired by traditional barbecue techniques, the menu also reflects a willingness to innovate, blending classic barbecue with chef-driven creations that have become signature guest favorites. Brisket is the cornerstone of the menu and the restaurant’s top-selling protein, known for its rich flavor and tender texture after hours in the smoker. Close behind are St. Louis-style ribs and pulled pork, each prepared using traditional low-and-slow smoking methods that highlight the craft of barbecue. The menu also features John’s Originals, a collection of unique sandwiches and specialty items that showcase a more creative side of barbecue. Favorites like The BBQ Tacos and The Six Shooter combine smoked meats with distinctive flavors and ingredients, offering guests something they won’t find at a traditional BBQ restaurant. The balance of authentic smoked meats, scratch-made recipes, and thoughtful menu innovation is what continues to set 4 Rivers apart while staying true to the fundamentals of great barbecue.” – 4 Rivers Smokehouse
“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized by Central Florida Lifestyle as one of the Top 5 BBQ restaurants in Central Florida. This recognition is a testament to the passion our pitmasters, culinary team, and restaurant teams bring to the craft every day. Since the beginning, 4 Rivers has been built on two simple ideas: serving authentic, handcrafted barbecue and treating people with genuine kindness. We’re grateful to our guests and the Central Florida community for embracing both our food and our purpose, and we’re excited to continue serving barbecue that’s rooted in tradition while always looking for ways to innovate.” — Monique Waldrop, Chief Marketing Officer, 4 Rivers Restaurant Group
Runners Up
4th Place: Briskets BBQ Shack & Grill
5th Place: Uncle Tony’s Backyard BBQ
Thank you again to everyone who participated. Keep an eye out for a whole new wave of contests!
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