Best BBQ Restaurants in Orlando

Although Central Florida is not a widely known a barbecue capital like Austin or Memphis, there are still many great places to satisfy your barbecue fix over your 4th of July getaway. As a tourist destination, of course Orlando has all the larger chains like Sonny’s and Dickey’s, but the smaller local places really stand out. Here are two exceptional food experiences for you and your family to try while in Orlando.

The Polite Pig

Looking for modern barbecue with an artisanal twist? The Polite Pig features delicious creations like The Southern Pig sandwich, which is filled with pulled pork, fennel-apple slaw, tangy mustard barbecue, and Duke’s mayo. Popular sides include the BBQ Waffle Fries and Mac and Cheese with aged cheddar and breadcrumbs. They also feature locally brewed Florida beers, craft cocktails, and an extensive bourbon collection. Check out the full menu here.

Located in Disney Springs, the Polite Pig is a must-try for any barbecue lovers who plan to spend a lot of time in the Disney area. It has only been open for about a year, but it was started by Orlando culinary legends James and Julie Petrakis, whose other restaurants (The Ravenous Pig, Swine and Sons, and Cask and Larder) have all won several awards.

4 Rivers Smokehouse

If you are a fan of brisket, then 4 Rivers is an absolute must. In fact, if you are a fan of delicious flavor in general, this is the place for you. Highlights include the Texas Destroyer (angus brisket sandwich topped with onion rings, jalapenos, melted provolone, and smothered in 4R Signature Sauce) and BBQ Street Tacos (brisket with cilantro lime crème fraiche, guasacaca, pico de gallo, queso blaco, and cilantro). There isn’t a bad item on the menu, as you can see for yourself here.

Founded in 2009 by John Rivers, 4 Rivers has become an Orlando sensation. They started with one location without indoor seating and harboring no intentions for expanding, but they have since exploded to 13 different locations across Florida.

Convenient, Excellent Hotel

Get out and savor delicious Orlando barbecue during your vacation for the 4th of July. Staying at Rosen Lake Buena Vista sets you up perfectly to satisfy all your barbecue cravings, with The Polite Pig right around the corner in Disney Springs and a 4 Rivers Smokehouse a few miles away in Kissimmee. Our guest services team is motivated to ensure that you have the best time during your stay, so stop by our desk with any questions. For reservations, call 407-996-7236.