I recently checked out Matt’s BBQ, and let me tell you, their Texas-style barbecue is a total game-changer! What really sets it apart is the no-sugar sauce—without all that sweetness, you can fully appreciate the rich, smoky flavors of the meat. 

One of the highlights was getting to see Matt and his crew in action. They use an offset smoker with oak wood, and you can really taste the difference. The meat have a deep smokiness that just adds a whole new level to the barbecue.

The place also had a casual atmosphere with a food truck park and picnic tables scattered around—-perfect for hanging out with friends. 

However, during peak hours, things can get pretty hectic. I visited with my coworkers again during dinner time and the limited seating made the place a bit crowded.

Some of the customers I chatted with also mentioned minor service issues, like missing napkin dispensers. It’s a little thing, but it can take away from the overall experience. 

The beef rib was HUGE and delicious!

“The beef rib was HUGE and delicious! It started falling off the bone as soon as he picked it up! Everything was delicious. We tried the giant beef rib, burnt ends, brisket, mac, and coleslaw. We made little sandwiches out of the bread slice and enjoyed the pickled veg on the side. The sauce that came with the tray was amazing, and there are more sauce options by the cart along with some hog vinegar. Next time we hope to try the armadillo eggs, but this was more than enough for us 2 and would have easily served 3-4. We will be back very soon!”

Amanda Rose, Google review

Wow! The ribs and pulled pork were so good

“We finally made it to Matt’s and wow the ribs and pulled pork were so good. The flavor is the best. A little smoke and good quality meats make for some good eating. The pinto beans and coleslaw were very tasty. The seating area had a good family and friends vibe.”

David Kennedy, Google review

What makes Lawless Barbecue stand out is its awesome Kansas City-style BBQ. I recently dug into a delicious meal with rich, tangy tomato-based sauces and a solid variety of smoked meats. It’s a refreshing change from the typical Texas or St. Louis BBQ spots.

Their menu is pretty wide, too! You’ll find all the classic BBQ staples like slow-smoked brisket and pulled pork, but they also mix it up with fun options like carnitas tacos. 

My friends and I went for The Lawless Platter, which is perfect for sharing. It has lots of meats and sides to dive into together. 

Plus, we loved that they’re teaming up with Little Beast Brewing. This allowed us enjoy some fantastic craft beer while we were chowing down.

Just a heads-up, though, the customer service could use a little work. The QR code ordering didn’t leave much room for chatting with the staff, so it made us feel a little ignored. Some of the customers I talked also echoed this sentiment. 

Top-tier BBQ, even the best in PDX

“I love this place. Top tier bbq maybe even the best in pdx. I plan to bring friends and family here when they visit. I’m always impressed with their food and very friendly service! I enjoy bringing my dog and sitting outside, plus great beer! What more can you ask for? I even braved winter weather my first time here, and they were kind enough to turn on the heaters outside. Highly recommend if you like Kansas City style bbq. The pictures speak for themselves. I’m tempted to tell you it’s bad so that I can keep this pace to myself, but that’s an injustice to the business…so you’re welcome.”

Debby Siroshton, Google review

Every interaction with the guys dishing BBQ is stellar

“The temperature was insufferable that day and the outside patio tables were all full so we sat inside where the AC was struggling. But none of that mattered because this place is amazing! The service is impeccable, the beers from Little Beast are excellent and the bbq nachos are life changing. Even tho they use contactless ordering via app at your table, each and every interaction with the guys dishing BBQ is stellar.”

Misty Heavilin, Google review

Podnah’s BBQ is all about that Texas-style barbecue, and I had to check it out after hearing it snagged the title of the Best Barbecue in Oregon from the Food Network. 

When I got there, I was lucky enough to watch the whole process of how they smoked their meat over oak wood. The way they let those natural flavors shine through with their special dry rub was something else—it creates this amazing crust, or “bark,” that’s just delicious.

The vibe at Podnah’s is super chill and welcoming, with rustic decor and cowboy-themed art that make it feel like an authentic Texas BBQ joint. 

I visited on a Saturday, which turned out to be perfect timing because I got to try their prime rib specials. And their sides, like the black-eyed pea salad and collard greens, added a lovely Southern twist that complemented the main dishes perfectly.

However, some sides can be hit or miss. Some customers we interviewed even affirmed it by describing some of them as a bit lackluster.

Didn’t even need BBQ sauce

“Great brisket and ribs, didn’t even need bbq sauce – the mark of truly well made barbecue. Sides and cornbread were excellent as well. Fun Texas vibes and good selection of beers to wash everything down. Looking forward to going back soon.”

Kevin Osborn, Google review

Really decent BBQ and a good price as well

“We were in Portland for a day and came with an aunt who lives close by. Really decent BBQ and a good price as well.  We got the pit boss platter with baked beans, mac and cheese and coleslaw with a few orders of fries as well. Plenty of food to feed the 6 of us. Thanks for dinner!”

Tanner Leavitt, Google review

I recently visited Reverend’s BBQ and they truly nail St. Louis-style BBQ! The smoked pork ribs were a standout—hearty and less fatty than the Texas-style options I’ve had in the past. They really let the meat shine without overwhelming it with grease.

Their menu features all the BBQ classics, including brisket and pulled pork. But, if you happen to visit on a Saturday, they also offer a prime rib special.

One of the things that impressed me the most was how everything is smoked in-house daily. Every bite I took was bursting with freshness and depth of flavor. I even got to chat with one of their cooks, who mentioned they stick to classic cooking techniques—something worth noting.

The vibe at Reverend’s is super chill and family-friendly. I loved the comfy booths and outdoor seating. Plus, their rotating selection of local craft beers on tap is fantastic for pairing with your food.

That said, I did hear from some customers that there can be significant delays when ordering takeout. So if you’re in a hurry, it might be worth considering dining in instead.

Delicious dishes and staff was friendly

“Met up with old friends here and really enjoyed our meal. We got for happy hour and enjoyed a good deal on individual ribs (versus a half rack). Fall off the bone tender St Louis style with a nice mop sauce. Other entrees included a fried chicken sandwich and a brisket sandwich. Only heard good things about those sandwiches. Ended the meal with key lime pie and banana pudding served in mason jars. Staff was friendly and personable and the high-backed booth made it easy to catch up with friends. Definitely recommend.”

Mary Griggs, Google review

Excellent BBQ. Chill atmosphere.

“Excellent bbq. Chill atmosphere. Try the pulled pork, and the fried chicken. You can’t go wrong with any of the sides. I especially enjoyed the slaw. They also offer desserts such as banana pudding, key lime pie, and pecan pie. And an assortment of bbq sauces.”

Laura Harden, Google review

The moment I stepped inside Boomers, the smoky aroma hit me—thanks to their unique slow-smoking technique with Apple, Mesquite, and Pecan woods. 

Their menu is impressively varied, featuring everything from classic pulled pork to burgers. I tried their baby back ribs and it practically melted in my mouth. I’m even tempted to swing by for breakfast because they’ve got some tasty options as well.

The atmosphere felt like a cozy neighborhood hangout which is perfect for families until 3 PM. I loved that there were plenty of TVs for catching the game, which added to the laid-back vibe. 

Being a first-timer here, I jumped on their happy hour and scored some amazing deals—definitely a tip for anyone visiting!

While the prices are a bit higher, the the food to the atmosphere makes it all worthwhile.

I’m coming back here when I want some meat

“I am so surprised at how awesome this place is. I get intimidated by bar-like places so I was a bit scared upon entrance, but I was really craving some good BBQ. And I got it here! Their lunch specials are so amazingly priced for great meat. Their ribs and pulled pork are both super tasty and juicy, as well as the shoestring potatoes. I’m a big fan of their hot and spicy barbecue sauce. The employee who helped me, who might have been the owner, was super nice and quick to get to everyone at the restaurant. My food came quickly too but I could tell it was fresh. The establishment is not very big, but they keep it pretty clean for what it is. Just awesome bang for your buck and you can bet I’m coming back here when I want some meat.”

Angelyka Cava, Google review

I highly recommend Boomers if you haven’t been there

“Great place. I’m from New Orleans so I have a certain taste that I’m accustomed to and I must say it’s not the exact taste but the food is wonderful as well as everything about this place. Boomers is now my go to place to eat. I highly recommend Boomers if you haven’t been there !!”

Jared Landry, Google review