The Ultimate Guide to BBQ Styles Across America: A Tour at Old Town Smokehouse
Barbecue in the United States is not just a method of cooking – it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and a testament to the regional diversity that makes this country’s food scene so vibrant. At Old Town Smokehouse in Wentzville, Missouri, we celebrate this diversity by bringing the best of American BBQ styles under one roof, located at 2 E Main St. In this guide, we take you on a flavorful journey through the most iconic BBQ traditions across America and show you how we pay homage to these flavors right here at Old Town Smokehouse.
Carolina BBQ: Vinegar and Spice
Starting in the East, Carolina BBQ is famous for its sharp, vinegar-based sauces and slow-cooked pulled pork. It’s a style known for its tang and depth of flavor, often accompanied by a spicy kick. At Old Town Smokehouse, our Carolina-inspired pulled pork sandwich pays homage to this tradition. The pork is tender, marinated and slow-cooked to perfection, and served with a house-made vinegar-based sauce that brings just the right amount of zing.
Kansas City BBQ: Saucy and Sweet
Moving into the heartland, Kansas City BBQ is all about the sauce. Thick, tomato-based, and sweet with a touch of molasses, this style covers a variety of meats from ribs to brisket. Our menu features a Kansas City-style ribs dish that is generously slathered in our signature sweet and sticky sauce, slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection.
Texas BBQ: Big and Beefy
In Texas, beef reigns supreme, particularly brisket, which is often seasoned with a simple yet robust rub and smoked to create a juicy, tender meat with a smoky crust known as the ‘bark’. Our Texas-inspired brisket at Old Town Smokehouse is a nod to this Lone Star tradition, offering slices of beefy bliss that have been smoked for hours over pecan wood to achieve the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Memphis BBQ: Dry Rubs and Ribs
Memphis BBQ stands out for its preference for pork ribs, which are typically prepared with a dry rub and smoked before being served either ‘dry’ or with sauce on the side. Our Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs are a favorite among our patrons, featuring a secret blend of spices that lock in flavor and tenderness.
More Than Just BBQ
While our menu is deeply rooted in the traditions of American barbecue, Old Town Smokehouse is more than just a BBQ joint. We are a place where food brings people together. Our live music events, featuring local artists, provide the perfect backdrop for a night out enjoying great food and tunes.
A Commitment to Local and Fresh
We pride ourselves on sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. This commitment not only supports our community but also ensures that every dish we serve is as fresh and flavorful as possible. From farm-fresh vegetables for our sides to locally sourced meats, every ingredient is chosen with care.
Join Us on a Culinary Journey
We invite you to experience the diverse flavors of American BBQ right here at Old Town Smokehouse. Whether you’re in the mood for Carolina vinegar tang, Kansas City sweetness, Texas beef, or Memphis spice, our menu has something to satisfy every BBQ lover. And don’t forget to pair your meal with one of our craft beers or specialty cocktails for the complete Old Town Smokehouse experience.
Visit us at 2 E Main St, Wentzville, MO, or check out our full menu and upcoming events at oldtownsmokehouse.com. Come for the food, stay for the experience. Let’s make your next meal at Old Town Smokehouse a memorable journey through the heart of American barbecue culture.