The aroma of smoky, slow-cooked meats wafting through the air, the laughter of friends gathered around picnic tables, and the unmistakable sizzle of a well-tended grill—these are the hallmarks of an authentic backyard barbecue experience.
In Brookings, a city known for its welcoming community and love of good food, Backyard BBQ has become a local institution. Their menu is a testament to the art of barbecue, blending time-honored techniques with innovative flavors.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor eager for a taste of the region’s culinary spirit, exploring the Backyard BBQ Brookings menu is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to connect, share, and indulge.
With a commitment to quality ingredients and a passion for hospitality, Backyard BBQ offers an enticing array of dishes that cater to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. Each bite promises a journey through bold seasonings, tender cuts, and expertly balanced sides.
Journey with us through the highlights and hidden gems of their menu, and discover why Backyard BBQ is the heartbeat of Brookings’ food scene.
Signature Smoked Meats: The Heart of the Menu
At the core of Backyard BBQ’s reputation are their signature smoked meats. These dishes showcase the mastery of slow-cooking and smoke infusion, delivering unforgettable flavor profiles.
Each cut is carefully selected and seasoned before spending hours in the smoker, ensuring a tender, flavorful result.
The brisket stands out as a customer favorite, characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth texture and complex bark. Ribs, another highlight, are slow-smoked to perfection and glazed with a house-made barbecue sauce.
Pulled pork, with its rich marbling and subtle spices, rounds out the trio of classic smoked options.
For those seeking variety, Backyard BBQ offers combination platters, allowing guests to sample several meats in a single meal. This approach caters to both newcomers eager to discover their favorites and seasoned barbecue fans with discerning palates.
“Our smoked meats are more than just food—they’re a celebration of patience, craftsmanship, and community.” — Backyard BBQ Pitmaster
- Brisket: Slow-cooked up to 14 hours for unparalleled tenderness
- Pulled Pork: Seasoned with a signature dry rub and smoked to juicy perfection
- Ribs: Glazed with a sweet-and-spicy sauce, finished over an open flame
- Chicken: Marinated overnight, then smoked for a delicate, smoky flavor
Classic Sides: The Perfect Companions
No barbecue experience is complete without the perfect side dishes. Backyard BBQ’s menu features an array of classic sides crafted to complement the rich flavors of their smoked meats.
Each side is prepared in-house, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Popular favorites include creamy macaroni and cheese, tangy coleslaw, and hearty baked beans. These dishes offer comforting textures and flavors that balance the smokiness of the main courses.
For those seeking lighter options, the menu features crisp salads and roasted seasonal vegetables.
Guests often rave about the cornbread, baked daily and served warm with honey butter. The combination of savory and sweet notes provides a delightful contrast to the bold barbecue flavors.
Regulars also appreciate the generous portion sizes and the ability to mix and match sides to create a personalized plate.
- Mac & Cheese: Rich, creamy, and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust
- Baked Beans: Slow-cooked with bits of smoked brisket and a hint of molasses
- Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy, with just the right amount of sweetness
- Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, served with whipped honey butter
“Sides aren’t just afterthoughts—they’re essential to the barbecue experience, offering balance and variety.” — Backyard BBQ Chef
Appetizers and Starters: Building Anticipation
Backyard BBQ understands the importance of creating an inviting experience from the very first bite. Their menu of appetizers and starters is designed to excite the palate and set the stage for the main event.
With options ranging from light bites to indulgent treats, there’s something to please every guest.
House-made smoked sausage links are a popular starter, served with tangy mustard and pickles. For those craving a lighter option, the grilled shrimp skewers deliver a burst of flavor with a hint of citrus and spice.
The BBQ nachos, loaded with pulled pork, cheese, and jalapeños, are perfect for sharing among friends.
Vegetarian guests aren’t left out, thanks to offerings like crispy fried pickles and smoked gouda-stuffed mushrooms. These appetizers showcase the kitchen’s commitment to creativity and inclusivity, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
The shared plates concept also encourages a convivial, communal dining atmosphere.
- Smoked Sausage: Served with house-made mustard and pickled vegetables
- BBQ Nachos: Topped with slow-cooked pork, melted cheese, and jalapeños
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated in citrus and spices, grilled to perfection
- Fried Pickles: Crispy, tangy, and served with ranch dipping sauce
“A great barbecue starts with great starters. Our appetizers are crafted to spark conversation and appetite alike.” — Backyard BBQ Manager
Specialty Sandwiches and Burgers
For guests seeking a more casual, handheld option, Backyard BBQ’s specialty sandwiches and burgers deliver bold flavors and generous portions. These menu items are ideal for lunch crowds, game day gatherings, or anyone craving a satisfying meal on the go.
The pulled pork sandwich is a perennial favorite, piled high with tender meat and topped with crunchy coleslaw. The brisket burger, featuring a thick patty of smoked brisket and tangy barbecue sauce, offers a unique twist on a classic.
Chicken sandwiches, available grilled or fried, cater to a variety of preferences.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully included, with items like the smoked portobello mushroom sandwich. Each sandwich is served on a freshly baked bun and accompanied by a choice of classic sides.
The menu also allows for customization, enabling guests to add toppings or sauces for a personalized touch.
| Sandwich | Main Protein | Toppings | Side Options |
| Pulled Pork Sandwich | Pulled Pork | Coleslaw, BBQ Sauce | Fries, Slaw, Beans |
| Brisket Burger | Smoked Brisket Patty | Cheddar, Onion Rings, BBQ Sauce | Fries, Salad, Cornbread |
| Chicken Sandwich | Grilled/Fried Chicken | Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles | Fries, Mac & Cheese, Slaw |
| Portobello Mushroom | Grilled Portobello | Arugula, Tomato, Aioli | Salad, Chips, Beans |
- Fresh-baked buns provide a soft, flavorful base for every sandwich
- House-made sauces allow for endless customization
- Vegetarian-friendly choices ensure everyone is included
Family Packs and Party Platters: Perfect for Groups
Backyard BBQ shines when it comes to feeding a crowd. Their family packs and party platters are crafted for gatherings, celebrations, and special events.
These packages make it easy to serve a delicious, hassle-free meal to family, friends, or colleagues.
Each pack includes an assortment of smoked meats, classic sides, and fresh-baked bread, with portion sizes designed to satisfy both small families and large parties. The flexibility of these packs allows customers to choose their favorite meats and sides, ensuring a customized experience.
Party platters go beyond the basics, offering options such as smoked sausage bites, slider assortments, and loaded potato skins. For game days or office lunches, these platters are a hit, providing variety and abundance.
The restaurant’s catering specialists are available to help plan the perfect menu for any occasion.
- Family Packs serve 4-8 people, with generous portions of meat and sides
- Party Platters are perfect for larger groups and special events
- Customizable selections let you build the perfect spread
- Catering services include delivery and setup for added convenience
“Backyard BBQ makes hosting easy—just pick your favorites, and we’ll take care of the rest.” — Backyard BBQ Catering Coordinator
Homemade Sauces and Seasonings
Every great barbecue joint has its secret weapons, and at Backyard BBQ, the homemade sauces and seasonings are legendary. These finishing touches elevate every dish, adding depth, heat, and sweetness in perfect balance.
Guests can choose from a selection of house-made sauces, ranging from classic Kansas City-style sweet and tangy to spicy jalapeño-infused blends. Each sauce is crafted in small batches, allowing the kitchen team to adjust flavors and ensure consistency.
The dry rubs, used on both meats and sides, feature a proprietary mix of herbs and spices.
For those who like to experiment, Backyard BBQ encourages mixing and matching sauces to create unique flavor combinations. Bottles of their most popular sauces are available for purchase, so fans can bring a taste of Brookings home.
The careful attention to seasoning and sauce is a hallmark of the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality.
- Kansas City-Style Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and full-bodied
- Spicy Jalapeño Sauce: Bold heat with a smoky finish
- Carolina Mustard: Tangy, with a hint of sweetness and spice
- Signature Dry Rub: Balanced blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and secret spices
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Best Pairing |
| Kansas City-Style | Sweet & Tangy | Brisket, Ribs |
| Spicy Jalapeño | Hot & Smoky | Pulled Pork, Chicken |
| Carolina Mustard | Tangy & Sharp | Pulled Pork, Sausage |
| Signature Dry Rub | Savory & Aromatic | Ribs, Chicken, Veggies |
Decadent Desserts and Sweet Endings
Every great meal deserves a sweet conclusion, and Backyard BBQ’s dessert offerings deliver in spades. Their dessert menu is a blend of traditional Southern treats and inventive new favorites, all crafted with the same attention to detail as their savory dishes.
The bread pudding, soaked in bourbon caramel sauce and served warm, is a standout. Seasonal fruit cobblers, featuring peaches or berries, offer a fresh and comforting finish.
Classic banana pudding, with layers of house-made custard and vanilla cookies, brings a nostalgic touch.
Each dessert is made in-house from scratch, with rotating specials that highlight local produce and seasonal flavors. For those celebrating special occasions, the restaurant offers full-size cakes and pies for pre-order, making every event a little sweeter.
- Bourbon Bread Pudding: Warm, rich, and drizzled with caramel sauce
- Peach Cobbler: Sweet, tart, and topped with a golden, buttery crust
- Banana Pudding: Creamy layers of custard, bananas, and cookies
- Chocolate Fudge Brownie: Decadent, dense, and served with vanilla ice cream
“Our desserts are the final note in your barbecue symphony—each one crafted to leave you smiling.” — Backyard BBQ Pastry Chef
Beverages: From Craft Brews to Sweet Tea
Pairing the right drink with your barbecue enhances every bite. Backyard BBQ offers a thoughtfully curated beverage selection that includes local craft beers, classic soft drinks, and house-brewed sweet tea.
This variety ensures there’s a refreshing option for every palate and occasion.
The rotating tap list features regional brews that pair beautifully with smoked meats and spicy sides. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the sweet tea is brewed fresh daily and served over ice, offering a cooling contrast to the robust flavors of the food.
Lemonade, both traditional and flavored, provides a tart, refreshing alternative.
For special occasions, the restaurant offers a selection of wines and craft cocktails, including bourbon-based drinks that echo the smoky notes of their barbecue. Guests are encouraged to ask staff for pairing recommendations to maximize their dining experience.
- Local craft beers highlight the best of the Brookings brewing scene
- House-brewed sweet tea is a must-try for newcomers
- Seasonal cocktails offer inventive twists on classic favorites
- Family-friendly options include soft drinks, lemonade, and fruit-infused water
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Craft IPA | Hoppy & Citrusy | Spicy Ribs, Chicken |
| Sweet Tea | Sweet & Refreshing | Pulled Pork, Brisket |
| Lemonade | Tart & Cool | Fried Appetizers, Salads |
| Bourbon Cocktail | Smoky & Smooth | Beef Brisket, Sausage |
Conclusion: Savoring the Backyard BBQ Brookings Experience
Backyard BBQ in Brookings isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a cornerstone of community, flavor, and tradition. The menu reflects a deep commitment to quality, hospitality, and the joy of sharing great food with others.
From the signature smoked meats to the imaginative sides and decadent desserts, every dish is a testament to the passion and expertise of the team behind the grill.
Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a casual lunch, or a festive celebration, the diverse offerings at Backyard BBQ invite you to create memorable moments. The customizable options, attentive service, and welcoming atmosphere transform every meal into an occasion.
Locals and visitors alike are drawn not just by the flavors, but by the sense of belonging that infuses every aspect of the experience.
For those who cherish the ritual of barbecue, Backyard BBQ in Brookings is a destination worth savoring. It’s a place where time slows down, laughter is shared, and every bite tells a story.
The next time you crave the warmth of smoke, the tang of sauce, and the comfort of good company, look no further than this beloved Brookings institution.
