In Saint Paul, I’ve chased barbecue like someone following a trail of incense, letting the smoke pull me through backstreets and corner lots.
These places aren’t polished temples; they’re lived-in shrines where meat sizzles, sides comfort, and sauce drips with unapologetic tang. I’ve leaned on counters, traded nods with strangers, and licked brisket from my fingers, all to understand why these joints matter.
They’re more than menus; they’re conversations between fire, patience, and Midwestern grit. What follows isn’t a full map of barbecue here, it’s the six spots that made me stay longer, eat slower, and savor Minnesota’s smoky heartbeat.
1. Rooster’s BBQ Deli, West 7th/Randolph
In the heart of West 7th, Rooster’s BBQ Deli stands as a beacon for BBQ enthusiasts. This retro-style eatery offers a nostalgic vibe with its vintage decor and bustling counter…