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Best Barbecue Restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

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8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Smokecraft Modern Barbecue restaurant
1. Smokecraft Modern Barbecue
4.6
Exceptional(415)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Arlington
Booked 4 times today
Smokecraft Modern Barbecue in Arlington is redefining Contemporary American cuisine with a unique twist on traditional barbecue. This vibrant establishment boasts "fantastic barbecue" that has been perfected through award-winning techniques, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece. Diners rave about the "juicy brisket" and "smoked turkey," which are both celebrated for their unparalleled flavor and tenderness. The restaurant's commitment to pushing culinary boundaries is evident in its innovative menu, featuring standout items like brisket egg rolls and smoked pumpkin pancakes. With an inviting atmosphere and attentive service, Smokecraft promises an exceptional dining experience that leaves guests eager to return.
A photo of Texas Jacks Barbecue restaurant
2. Texas Jacks Barbecue
4.8
Exceptional(1368)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Arlington
Booked 12 times today
Texas Jack's Barbecue in Arlington, Virginia, offers an authentic taste of American cuisine with its Lone Star-style barbecue that rivals even the best Texas joints. Known for its "absolutely delicious BBQ" and "outstanding" dishes, this rustic-modern hangout provides a lively, inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Diners rave about the "tender and flavorful" brisket and the Cucumber Salad's refreshing zest. The restaurant's full bar, featuring local craft beers and creative cocktails, adds to the dining experience. With friendly, attentive service and a menu that impresses locals and visitors alike, Texas Jack's is a must-visit for genuine American barbecue lovers.
A photo of Ruthie's All-Day restaurant
3. Ruthie's All-Day
4.8
Exceptional(3219)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Arlington
Booked 102 times today
Ruthie's All-Day in Arlington is a standout destination for authentic Southern Barbecue, offering a delightful "meat-and-three" experience that keeps diners coming back for more. The brisket is a particular highlight, praised for being "moist and perfectly seasoned," and the brisket hash is noted for its "wonderful blend" with just the right pepperiness. Each dish at Ruthie's takes familiar comfort food to new heights, with high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The restaurant's commitment to freshness, including herbs grown in their own community garden plot, ensures each meal is an "absolutely delicious" celebration of Southern flavors.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Arlington, VA | Clarendon restaurant
4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Arlington, VA | Clarendon
4.8
Exceptional(699)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • Arlington
Booked 28 times today
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Arlington, VA, is a standout destination for authentic Japanese Barbecue, where the quality and authenticity of its offerings truly shine. Diners rave about the "top quality of the meats and fresh ingredients" which are complemented by a variety of irresistible marinades such as miso and sweet soy. At Gyu-Kaku, you become the chef, grilling premium meats right at your table, adding a personal touch to your dining experience. The lively atmosphere, combined with "friendly and attentive" staff, ensures a memorable visit. Whether you're enjoying the spicy pork belly or the garlic shrimp, every bite is a testament to Gyu-Kaku's exceptional Barbecue cuisine.
A photo of Gyu San Japanese BBQ restaurant
5. Gyu San Japanese BBQ
4.6
Exceptional(88)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • Arlington
Booked 19 times today
Gyu San Japanese BBQ in Arlington is a paradise for barbecue enthusiasts, offering an authentic and high-quality dining experience that captivates all who visit. Known for its "best wagyu AYCE in town," the restaurant is celebrated for its tender, juicy, and flavorful meats, particularly the US and Japanese Wagyu beef. Guests rave about the interactive experience of grilling their own meats, making it a fun and engaging outing. The "Diamond combo" menu is a standout, providing an excellent value with its premium selection. With outstanding service and a commitment to quality, Gyu San is a must-visit for barbecue lovers.
A photo of Succotash - National Harbor restaurant
6. Succotash - National Harbor
4.5
Awesome(3454)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • National Harbor
Booked 47 times today
Experience the true flavors of Southern Barbecue at Succotash - National Harbor, where "every bite is exquisite!" This culinary gem expertly fuses Korean influences with authentic Southern recipes, creating a Barbecue experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Diners rave about the "BBQ pork ribs" and smoked meats, which are consistently praised for their tenderness and rich, smoky flavor. With dishes that embody the heart and soul of Southern cooking, Succotash offers a "Taste of the South" that leaves guests "eye-rolling, out-of-this-world" impressed. Visit Succotash to savor Barbecue cuisine that is both comforting and extraordinary.
A photo of Mystic BBQ & Grill restaurant
7. Mystic BBQ & Grill
4.5
Awesome(46)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Alexandria
Booked 1 time today
Mystic BBQ & Grill in Alexandria offers an exceptional taste of Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine that stands out for its authenticity and quality. Diners rave about the "phenomenal" smoked wings, shrimp and grits, and Creole bouillabaisse, making it a must-visit for true Southern flavors. The signature spicy she crab soup and jumbo lump crab cake sandwich are described as "top drawer" and "the best crab cake sandwich ever." The restaurant's atmosphere is both modern and welcoming, with friendly and attentive service. Whether you're in the mood for barbecue or seafood, Mystic provides a delightful and memorable dining experience.
A photo of Famous Dave's - Alexandria restaurant
8. Famous Dave's - Alexandria
4.5
Awesome(5)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Alexandria
Our authentic BBQ starts in a live-wood smoker stoked with genuine hickory logs. Our pitmasters hand-rub the meats with a custom blend of spices and cook for hours to extract the natural flavors. We source the highest quality meats and trim them up like we’re in a competition and hand-rub them with the freshest seasonings available to create mouthwatering experiences! In addition to our BBQ and grilled meats, our menu features a selection of salads, sandwiches, side items, and made-from-scratch desserts.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Nabee
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Tony was amazing with the service and the food was amazing.
    More info
    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Arlington, VA | ClarendonPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Arlington
    •
    4.8
  • BenniceVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Loud, open, friendly, super casual, good food! Like a great neighborhood diner with a bar and limited, curated menu. Definitely will be returning!
    More info
    Ruthie's All-DayPrice: Moderate• American• Arlington
    •
    4.8
  • Chris
    Portland / Oregon •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Jan 12, 2025
    Overall a great experience. Ambience was amazing. Food was exactly what you’d expect from an establishment with the name Texas and Barbecue in the name. Only downside is as the map went on and the establishment got a bit easier, the less we saw our server and they checked in. This in turn led to drinks remaining empty and us sitting waiting on them for a check. Don’t let this be the deciding point for you to decide if you enjoy this establishment. It truly is a great establishment and I look forward to patronizing it again on my next trip to the DC area.
    More info
    Texas Jacks BarbecuePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Arlington
    •
    4.8
  • Austin
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 12, 2025
    Extremely high-quality barbecue, with a surprisingly robust and well thought out brunch menu. In fact, I’d argue this is one of the best brunches around. Definitely try the bacon. 
    More info
    Smokecraft Modern BarbecuePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Arlington
    •
    4.6
  • Camellia
    Baltimore / Maryland •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 9, 2025
    On a delightful outing, I ventured in for a quick meal with a family member who had just flown in from out of state. Eager to sample a bit of everything, we opted for the all-you-can-eat option, and it certainly lived up to its promise. Our experience was a feast for the senses, from the enticing display of dishes on the table to the engaging cooking experience right before our eyes. The restaurant buzzed with a constant flow of delicious food, making it feel like a celebration at every turn. Our attentive waitress ensured we were well taken care of, adding to the warmth of our dining experience. Overall, this was a charming and memorable outing we highly recommend to anyone looking to indulge in a culinary adventure. Dr. Cam
    More info
    Gyu San Japanese BBQPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Arlington
    •
    4.6

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