John Brown Smokehouse

John Brown Smokehouse: A Kansas City-Style BBQ Haven in Long Island City

If you're looking for authentic Kansas City-style barbecue in New York City, look no further than John Brown Smokehouse. Located at 10-43 44th Dr in Long Island City, this counter-service spot has earned a well-deserved 4.5 out of 2603 Google reviews for its mouth-watering meats, delectable sides, and refreshing drinks.

Chef Josh Bowen founded John Brown Smokehouse with the goal of bringing the freshest and most delicious KC-style BBQ to the people of Long Island City and beyond. And he has certainly succeeded. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of meats, including burnt ends, brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausage, all of which are smoked to perfection for hours on end. The sides are equally impressive, with options like mac and cheese, collard greens, potato salad, and coleslaw, all of which are made from scratch and bursting with flavor.

But what sets John Brown Smokehouse apart from other BBQ joints in the city is its commitment to quality and its attention to detail. The meats are sourced from local farms and butchered in-house, ensuring that they are always fresh and of the highest quality. The sides are made with the freshest ingredients, and the drinks menu features a selection of craft beers and wines that pair perfectly with the smoky, savory flavors of the meats.

One standout menu item is the John Brown Pastrami on rye with coleslaw and Swiss cheese, which has become something of a signature dish. The pastrami is seasoned with a blend of spices and smoked for hours, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is truly unforgettable. Another must-try is the spicy chopped beef, which is tender and juicy with just the right amount of heat.

But it's not just the food that makes John Brown Smokehouse worth visiting. The restaurant's casual, laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends and family. If you're looking for a more formal dining experience, however, you may want to look elsewhere, as the restaurant is primarily counter-service with limited seating.

That being said, John Brown Smokehouse does offer a few outdoor seating options, including a covered patio with heated seating, which is perfect for those chilly NYC nights. And there are plenty of interesting landmarks nearby, including the iconic Pepsi sign and the Long Island City waterfront, which offer stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Whether you're a BBQ aficionado or a first-time visitor, John Brown Smokehouse is definitely worth a visit. With its delicious food, friendly staff, and laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a casual lunch, a dinner with friends, or a quick takeout meal. And with its commitment to quality and its dedication to the art of barbecue, it's sure to become a favorite among NYC foodies for years to come.