Believe it or not, Toronto is home to a thriving BBQ scene, with plenty of family-friendly spots that cater to both adults and kids. Whether you’re looking for a casual weekend meal or planning a special family outing, these BBQ joints offer something for everyone. From slow-cooked brisket to kid-approved sides, here are 10 of the best BBQ spots in Toronto that will satisfy your cravings while keeping the little ones happy.
1. Barque Smokehouse
Location: 299 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
Barque Smokehouse is a long-time favourite for families in Toronto. Known for its smoked meats and creative sides, Barque offers a casual yet refined dining experience. The restaurant even has a kids’ menu featuring smaller portions of BBQ classics like pulled pork and chicken, making it perfect for family outings. They even have complimentary popcorn covered in spice rub. Kids also eat free on school nights (I think that is still a thing).
2. Beach Hill Smokehouse
Location: 172 South Main Street, Toronto. Additional Locations: 2190C Bloor St W & 620 Yonge St
For authentic Texas-style BBQ, Beach Hill Smokehouse is the place to go. With three locations across the city, this spot serves up mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and sausage. The laid-back atmosphere and generous portions make it an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy some Southern hospitality without leaving Toronto.
3. Cherry Street Bar-B-Que
Location: 275 Cherry Street, Toronto
Located near the waterfront, Cherry Street Bar-B-Que offers fantastic views alongside its smoky meats. This spot is perfect for families who want to enjoy a day by the lake before digging into some delicious BBQ. Their outdoor seating area is spacious and kid-friendly, making it ideal for family gatherings.
4. Pig Out BBQ
Location: 650 Spadina Ave, Toronto
Nestled near the University of Toronto, Pig Out BBQ is a casual joint offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families who want to indulge in hearty southern-style barbecue. Their menu features all the classics—pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, wings, and burgers—along with delicious sides like mac n’ cheese and sweet potato fries. The portions are generous, making it ideal for sharing platters like the Jr. Pig Out Platter, which includes ribs, wings, brisket, and sides that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Plus if you have little kids, there is nothing better than a logo with a cartoon pig.
5. Northern Smokes
Location: 371 Old Kingston Rd, Scarborough.
Northern Smokes is a hidden gem in Scarborough offering halal BBQ options that are perfect for diverse families. Their menu features smoked brisket, lamb ribs, and even smoked salmon. The casual setting and friendly service make it an excellent choice for family outings in East Toronto.
6. Benny’s Barbecue
Location: 2409 Yonge St Unit 106, Toronto
Benny’s Barbecue brings traditional Southern BBQ to midtown Toronto with a menu full of slow-cooked meats and hearty sides. Their kid-friendly options include smaller portions of pulled pork sandwiches and chicken tenders, making it easy to please both adults and children alike.
7. Mr. Corn BBQ Catering
Location: 150 Rivalda Rd, North York
While primarily known for catering services and food trucks at local events like the CNE, Mr. Corn BBQ also provides on-site BBQ experiences perfect for family gatherings. Yes, they even do birthday parties. Just saying. Their kid-approved menu includes carnival favourites like corn dogs alongside traditional BBQ options like ribs and brisket.
8. Hank Daddy’s Barbecue
Location: 7777 Keele Street, Vaughan
Just outside of Toronto in Vaughan, Hank Daddy’s Barbecue offers a fun family atmosphere with its signature “Pulled Pork Parfait” (layers of pulled pork and mashed potatoes). The restaurant’s casual vibe makes it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy some hearty comfort food.
9. Smoque N’ Bones
Location: 869 Queen St W, Toronto
Smoque N’ Bones offers an intimate yet casual setting with some of the best ribs in the city. Located on Queen West, this spot serves up delicious smoked meats that are sure to please both adults and kids alike. Their sides like cornbread and fries are always a hit with younger diners. In the summer, it’s pretty amazing to get some BBQ and sit in Trinity Bellwoods Park and have the tastiest picnic ever.
10. Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co
Location: 120 Centre Island Dock, Toronto Islands
For a unique family outing experience, head over to the Toronto Islands and visit Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co. This spot offers stunning views of the city skyline along with delicious BBQ fare like pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken wings. It’s the perfect place to relax after spending the day exploring the islands with your family. Whether you’re craving brisket or looking for a fun spot where your kids can enjoy some tasty sides while you indulge in ribs or pulled pork, these BBQ joints have you covered. Each location offers something unique while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for families looking to bond over great food in Toronto. Heads up, this location is seasonal, so you are going to have to wait until the warmer weather returns.
Bonus. The Royal BBQ Grill
Location: 390 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
I just saw this place the other day when I was walking up Roncy. The Royal BBQ Grill on Roncesvalles Avenue offers a diverse culinary experience with a wide menu for both lunch and dinner. The warm and cozy atmosphere, coupled with friendly staff, creates a welcoming environment. Patrons can enjoy a variety of cocktails while watching live sports and taking advantage of exciting daily offers. It’s a place where the community gathers to savour good food and camaraderie. Since it is on Roncy, I am almost certain it will cater to families and be a place where kids feel welcome. I hope they give Barque a run for their money. The more good BBQ, the better.
Cheat sheet for those who don’t want to read
Here is a list of 10 family-friendly BBQ spots in Toronto that are still open and cater to both adults and kids:
- Barque Smokehouse
Address: 299 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto - Beach Hill Smokehouse
Address: 172 South Main Street, Toronto - Smoque N’ Bones
Address: 869 Queen St W, Toronto - Cherry Street Bar-B-Que
Address: 275 Cherry Street, Toronto - Pig Out BBQ
Address: 650 Spadina Ave, Toronto - Northern Smokes
Address: 371 Old Kingston Rd, Scarborough - Benny’s Barbecue
Address: 2409 Yonge St, Unit 106, Toronto - Mr. Corn BBQ Catering
Address: 150 Rivalda Rd, North York - Hank Daddy’s Barbecue
Address: 7777 Keele Street, Vaughan - Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co (Seasonal)
Address: 120 Centre Island Dock, Toronto Islands, Toronto, ON - The Royal BBQ Grill
Address: 390 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
These spots offer a variety of BBQ options that are perfect for family outings in and around Toronto.
What Toronto BBQ joints would you add to this list?
