Kansas City is actually two different cities and States. There is Kansas City, MO (Missouri). It was incorporated on June 1, 1850. It is larger in population than her little sister, Kansas City, KS (Kansas). Kansas City, KS which was incorporated in October 1876 and is smaller. We use KCMO or KCK to indicate which side of the line we are on. Despite this, it will always be Kansas City and both sided of the line offer the Ultimate BBQ experience.

These two metropolises offer an awesome food experience. Both are an eclectic mix and have such a wide variety of cultures. There are enclaves of Mexican, African, Asian, German, Polish, and many others. This puts Kansas City on the map for a Prime food experience.

The area is known for sports teams. These include Super Bowl Champions KC Chiefs and World Series Champions KC Royals (On the MO side). The MLS Cup winners Sporting KC Soccer Team (on the KS side). However, one of the best food scenes on both sides is BBQ. Our BBQ is always compared to N. Caroline, Texas, and Tennessee, but we are “The Best” spot for BBQ.

Kansas City BBQ is worlds famous; it has been featured in so many Food shows and articles. Our BBQ is unmatched. Kansas City has the worlds largest BBQ Competition and Championship know as The American Royal.

The American Royal has a fascinating history that’s deeply connected to Kansas City’s identity as a barbecue capital. It began in 1899 as a livestock show in the Kansas City Stockyards, originally called the “National Hereford Show.” The event was dubbed the “American Royal” by a newspaper editor who noted its prestigious status among livestock shows.

Let me dive deeper into the rich history of the American Royal:

1899-1920s

• Founded in 1899 during Kansas City’s peak as a livestock trading hub
• Originally called the “National Hereford Show,” focusing exclusively on Hereford cattle
• C.W. Armour donated land in the stockyards for a permanent building
• The name “American Royal” came from the Kansas City Star newspaper, comparing it to Britain’s “Royal Agricultural Fair”
• Early shows featured grand parades through downtown Kansas City with prize cattle

1920s-1970s

• Expanded beyond just Herefords to include other livestock breeds
• Added horse shows, rodeos, and agricultural education programs
• Became a major social event in Kansas City, with formal balls and ceremonies
• The American Royal Building burned down in 1925 but was quickly rebuilt
• During WWII, the event continued but on a smaller scale
• Post-war expansion included youth programs and scholarships

1980-Present

• 1980: Added the BBQ competition with just a few dozen teams
• Late 1980s: BBQ contest grew rapidly as Kansas City’s barbecue culture boomed
• 1990s: Became recognized as the world’s largest barbecue competition
• 1998: Moved to larger grounds at the Kemper Arena complex
• 2016: Relocated to Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas
• Today generates millions in economic impact and provides substantial scholarship funding

Kansas City evolved from a cattle show to include the world’s largest BBQ competition. This change demonstrates its transition from a livestock hub to a cultural center. It also highlights America’s growing obsession with barbecue.

The barbecue competition aspect didn’t actually begin until much later, in 1980. It started as a small cook-off with just a handful of teams. Now it’s known as the “World Series of Barbecue®”. This is the largest barbecue competition in the world.

Some key historical highlights:

• In the early 1900s, the event was primarily focused on livestock and agriculture education
• The competition moved several times, from the original Kansas City Stockyards to Kemper Arena, and now to the Kansas Speedway
• By the 1990s, the barbecue competition had grown to hundreds of teams
• Today, it draws over 500 teams from around the world, competing in multiple categories including brisket, pork ribs, chicken, and pork shoulder

The American Royal BBQ competition has played a significant role in establishing Kansas City’s reputation as a barbecue destination. It has also helped to define Kansas City-style barbecue. This style is known for its thick, sweet, tomato-based sauce and emphasis on multiple meat varieties.

Top Mentions:

So many have a top BBQ joint here in KC, Here are a Few Names that come up often:

1. S.L.A.P.S BBQ

Their slow cooked BBQ offers a taste delight. They shortened the name to slaps because (Squeal Like A Pig) was too lone. The Burnt Ends are one of my favorites, along with the sweet savory sauce and delicious sides are Taste Sensations. Slap’s BBQ — Order Now

2. Gates BBQ

Gates is one of the oldest establishments in Kansas City, Gates was established in 1946 by George W Gates. Their ribs and sauce are a delightful taste. They even have lamb ribs for those who want BBQ other and Beef or Pork. Gates BBQ | Barbecue sauces and rubs from the Kansas City restaurant.

3. Joes KC BBQ

The original Joe’s is located in a gas station in Mission Kansas. Their signature sandwich the Z-Mans is a meal on a bun. The onion ring and sauce on top gives it the ultimate flavor explosion. Joe’s Kansas City BBQ – World Famous Barbecue.

4. Holy Smokes BBQ (A new kid on the block)

Mr. and Mrs. Jeron & Nykita Slater, better known as Mr. and Mrs. Holy Smoke, started Holy Smoke BBQ on May 21, 2021. They are a pillar of the community and a favorite on the KCK side. KC barbecue | Holy Smoke BBQ | Kansas City.

5. Q39

This establishment has been on the BBQ block since 2014. Their roots started in the competition arena. Their ribs are competition worthy. They are a delicious bite every time. It is a favorite of Coach Andy Reid. Kansas City BBQ Restaurants & BBQ Catering Services | Q39.

There are so many spots to name. If you are ever here, someone will let you know their favorite spot to eat. BBQ is one of the top cuisines here in the Kansas City area.

Some other mentions are:

Jack Stacks, LC’s, BB’s Landslide, Danny Edwards BBQ, Arthur Bryant’s, Char-bar, and Woodyard just to name a few.

If you want to add to this list leave a comment and show off your BBQ Fave.