We’re back at it again with another edition of our Ask a Local series, where we ask Green Bay experts (otherwise known as the people who live here!) to share their favorite places for eats, treats, activities, hidden gems, and more around the area.
This time we’re tackling one of summer’s greatest culinary traditions, barbecue! So where do locals go when they’re craving fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoky brisket, burnt ends, or pulled pork piled high? Keep reading to find out!
High Kaliber Craft Kitchen
📍126 S Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54303
High Kaliber claimed the top spot with tons of recommendations from locals. Many people first discovered High Kaliber through its popular food truck which has been serving up BBQ deliciousness throughout Northeast Wisconsin and the Fox Valley for a few years. Luckily, you no longer have to chase it down! High Kaliber now has a permanent home on Broadway Street.
“High Kaliber craft kitchen on Broadway is by far the best barbecue in the city if not in northeast Wisconsin,” Green Bay redditor Sudden_Moodswing told us, also advising visitors to “get there early because they run out frequently and you will not be disappointed.”
Another Green Bay resident says of High Kaliber, “The BBQ was probably the best I’ve had since living in Texas, and throughout many southern states. This place is going to outgrow that location fast if they keep that quality as is!!!”
Steel Belly BBQ
📍2025 Lake St, Algoma, WI 54201
Next up is Steel Belly BBQ, a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts who know where to look.
Green Bay local FF-Jeff on reddit who says: “As someone who moved here from the south and loves making my own BBQ on the smoker, the answer is Steel Belly BBQ hands down. They are out of Algoma but they are regularly at local events. I usually see them at the Wednesday Broadway market and Titletown Thursday market.”
Parker John’s
📍2851 S Oneida St, Green Bay, WI 54304
(📸 Parker John's)
Another local favorite is Parker John's, where the brisket and burnt ends have earned a loyal following.
Green Bay resident Steven says, “This is the BBQ joint if your coming to GB. Get the Burnt Ends or Brisket because once it's gone no dice. This is hands down some of the best BBQ I have ever had and would give any BBQ restaurant in KC, Texas, Iowa, etc a run for their money. This is a must stop!”
Great BBQ Beyond the BBQ Joints
You don't necessarily have to visit a dedicated barbecue restaurant to enjoy some fantastic smoked meats around Green Bay.
Green Bay redditor steelgate601 recommends the ribs at Gallagher's Pizza, simply saying: “I love the BBQ ribs at Gallaghers.”
Another local pointed us toward The Depot, calling their ribs “very good.” Meanwhile, redditor Royboy_Himself gave a nod to Mackinaws Grill & Spirits, saying: “Mackinaws has a pretty decent rack of ribs with good sides. I get it once in a while and it didn't disappoint.”
And if you're visiting on a Saturday, you might want to plan your evening around 21 Gun Roadhouse. Redditor ApprehensiveLoad9234 had this recommendation: "Excellent ribs but only on Saturday nights… 🤤" (Mark your calendars!)
Last but not least…not one we were expecting but perhaps should have—Kwik Trip! With several votes for the beloved gas station’s BBQ rib sandwich, we’re left wondering what can’t they do?
Want to Fire Up the Grill Yourself?
Tis the season of the cookout! If you're staying somewhere with a grill—or you're lucky enough to have friends or family hosting a backyard cookout—Green Bay’s got you covered in the meat department. After all, quality meat makes quality barbecue!
Maplewood Meats
📍4663 Milltown Ct, Green Bay, WI 54313
Paulie’s Chop Shop
📍 E0267 WI-54, Luxemburg, WI 54217
(📸 Paulie's Chop Shop)
Melotte Meats
📍 1442 Main St, Green Bay, WI 54302
Pelkin’s Smokey Meat Market
📍 1756 Riverside Dr Upper Suite, Suamico, WI 54173
