West Virginia’s barbecue scene runs from rib shacks on the Kanawha to smokehouses in small mountain towns, with menus that lean saucy, smoky or spice-forward depending on the pit. Whether you chase baby backs, Texas-style brisket, pulled pork or smoked wings, these standouts show how local crews do barbecue their way—and what to order when you get there.

Dem 2 Brothers & A Grill — Charleston

Charleston’s West Side staple built its reputation on smoky ribs and pulled pork, with chicken and burgers rounding out a hearty, no-frills menu. Founder Adrian “Bay” Wright grew the business from a roadside setup to a full restaurant, and crowds still line up for rib plates and sandwiches. Ribs get a brown-sugar rub and mustard mop as they slow cook—a combo that landed the spot on Food Network’s “So

See Full Page