It’s something of an understatement to say we have you covered – in fact, ‘smothered’ might be the better word to use, because the ribs in Missouri are exactly that: they lay under sauces so sinfully gorgeous there should be a law against it.
So, look – you know what to do: slowly scroll through our list of some of the prime places to eat first-class Missouri ribs, trigger those hunger pangs, choose your venue, and get messy!
The Best Ribs in MissouriHow do these rankings work?
1. Q39– Kansas City
At Q39, the focus of their cuisine is a chef-driven barbecue, which means that you’re getting ribs packed with flavour well past just what a pitmaster might be able to deliver.
The spare ribs are artfully selected to feature only the highest-quality of meat. Then, they’re drizzled and smothered in a delectable honey glazed barbecue sauce. It’s as enticing as it sounds.
2. Rib City – St Louis
Okay, it goes without saying that a place called ‘Rib City’ will be a foolproof stop for when you have a craving for fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs. The ribs have the juiciest, most succulent meat you could ever imagine.
Can’t choose between St Louis ribs or baby back? Order the rib and rib combo for a serious feed.
3. KC Baby Back Ribs – Oak Grove
Their ribs are cooked to perfection; it’s all about that sweet perfect sauce that glazes them to perfection. Classic side orders are what take this meal to a whole different level. Superb.
The best thing is that they also deliver their drool-worthy BBQ within 10 miles, so you can pig out on their grub at home.
4. Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop – Branson
Danna’s BBQ ribs are the pick of a fantastic menu. They also do great beef, chicken wings and pulled pork, but believe us, you’ll want to make sure order those ribs no matter what. The ribs come with a dry rub and are tasty beyond belief.
Guests here rave about the sauce, so make sure you take some home to try in your own cooking.
5. Bandana’s Bar-B-Q and Catering – Jefferson City
The award-winning ribs at Bandana’s Bar-B-Q are dry-rubbed with the perfect blend of seasoning, then slow-smoked to perfection using hickory hardwoods. Slow smoking for five hours makes the rib meat tender and tasty, and gives it a reddish color known as a “smoke line”.
Beautifully sticky, with a rich charring and meat that falls off the bone.
6. Sugarfoot BBQ – Osceola
Sugarfoot BBQ is all about good vibes and even better BBQ.  The smoky smell of their ribs wafts into the taste, creating an unforgettable explosion of flavours at the first bite. Superb. You can order a half-pound of ribs, but honestly, you’re going to want to get seconds they’re just that good.
Add on a side of their signature horseradish coleslaw for a little bit of spice.
7. Harp Barbecue – Raytown
What stands out as particularly impressive about Harp Barbecue is that the owner’s made it a point to travel to over 300 different BBQ restaurants in the country just to perfect his recipe and style. His dedication shows, as the brisket at Harp Barbecue is some of the best in the entire country and his ribs would hold up against any you might find in other parts of Missouri.
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