May is National Barbecue Month, and if you’re anywhere near South Lexington or Jessamine County, KY, you’re in for a treat. Around here, barbecue isn’t just a meal, it’s a full-on experience, a reason to gather, and a point of local pride. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just someone who likes their ribs saucy and their sides plentiful, let’s take a tasty tour of the local barbecue scene and pick up some grilling wisdom.
The Sizzle of South Lexington and Jessamine County
When the calendar flips to May, grills all over Kentucky start firing up for National Barbecue Month. Folks here know that barbecue is more than just food; it’s a social event, a tradition, and sometimes even a friendly competition. The air fills with the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats, and you can bet there’s a debate somewhere about which spot serves the best brisket or whose sauce reigns supreme.
Top Local BBQ Joints
Let’s get straight to the main course: the best barbecue spots in South Lexington and nearby Jessamine County. If you’re new to the area or just passing through, these are the places that locals rave about.
Blue Door Smokehouse
Don’t let its modest appearance fool you, Blue Door Smokehouse is often called the best BBQ in Lexington. The brisket here is the stuff of legend: moist, tender, and perfectly smoked. Customers can’t stop talking about the ribs, which are juicy, tender, and fall right off the bone. The pulled pork sandwiches are another crowd-pleaser, and the sides-think fresh collard greens, creamy coleslaw, and potato salad-round out the meal. It’s not fancy, but the food is so good that you’ll probably be planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first plate.
Red State BBQ
Red State BBQ is another local favorite, known for its friendly service and a menu that covers all the barbecue bases. The pulled pork gets high marks for its flavor, and the brisket is tender enough to make you rethink everything you know about barbecue.
Ribs are a standout, too-fall-off-the-bone and packed with smoky goodness. The sides are classic Southern comfort: sweet corn muffins, fried green tomatoes, and green beans. What sets Red State apart is its sauce selection. From spicy Texas to tangy Carolina vinegar and sweet South Carolina mustard, there’s a sauce for every taste. And don’t skip the peach bread pudding for dessert.
Grilling Like a Pro: Tips From the Locals
Thinking about hosting your backyard barbecue? Here are some tips from local chefs and BBQ champions to help you grill like you’ve been doing it for years.
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Go Low and Slow: The secret to great barbecue is patience. Low heat and slow cooking make the meat tender and full of flavor.
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Marinades Matter: Don’t just slap meat on the grill. Let it soak in a marinade for a few hours (or overnight) to lock in moisture and add flavor. Try a mix of apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices for pork.
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Pick the Right Wood: In Kentucky, oak, hickory, and black locust are top choices for smoking meat. These woods burn hot and long, giving your barbecue a rich, smoky flavor.
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Safety First: Always grill in a well-ventilated area and keep a spray bottle of water handy for flare-ups. Check your grill for leaks or blockages before you start.
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Rest Your Meat: After grilling, let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those tasty juices inside.
Why South Lexington and Jessamine County Are a BBQ Lover’s Dream
If you love barbecue, there’s no better place to call home than South Lexington or Jessamine County. The food is top-notch, the people are welcoming, and there’s always a reason to fire up the grill. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of brisket at Blue Door Smokehouse or sampling every sauce at Red State BBQ, you’ll find that barbecue here is more than just a meal; it’s a way of life. So, if you’re thinking about moving, remember: in this part of Kentucky, you’re never far from your next great barbecue adventure.
Sources: bluedoorsmokehouse.com, redstatebbq.com
Header Image Source: Philipp Kämmerer on Unsplash
