5 best barbecue joints around Vail Valley

Barbecue has a way of slowing things down—in the best possible way. The smoky aroma, the tang of sauce, and the tender meat all tell a story that’s as much about patience as it is about flavor. In Vail Valley, barbecue takes on a local twist, blending mountain charm with Southern-style comfort. From casual roadside spots to restaurants with deep roots in the community, these kitchens have mastered the art of low and slow. In the Best of Vail Valley contest, voters celebrated the pitmasters and restaurants that make the mountains smell just a little like hickory.

Kirby Cosmo’s BBQ Bar in Minturn is a local favorite where the laid-back mountain vibe meets big barbecue flavor. The restaurant’s menu covers all the classics—pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and smoked chicken—served with hearty sides that complete the meal. Kirby Cosmo’s pairs its comfort food with a full bar and friendly, casual atmosphere that keeps people coming back after long days outdoors. It’s the kind of place where the smoke, laughter, and music all mix together in just the right way.

Moe’s Original BBQ brings Southern roots to Eagle with recipes honed through years of backyard cooking and road-trip inspiration. Founded by three friends from Alabama, Moe’s combines signature smoked meats with comfort-food sides and a relaxed, family-style environment. The restaurant’s sauces and rubs are made in-house, and every dish—from pulled pork sandwiches to smoked turkey—reflects its founders’ devotion to authentic Southern barbecue.

The pitmasters behind The Full Belly BBQ in Gypsum know how to feed a crowd. The restaurant specializes in slow-smoked meats that are tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. While it keeps things simple and focused on the essentials, Full Belly’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients set it apart. Whether it’s a family dinner or a community event, the team behind Full Belly BBQ delivers classic barbecue done right.

Main Street Grill in Edwards isn’t strictly a barbecue joint, but it’s earned recognition for doing barbecue-inspired dishes exceptionally well. From smoky ribs to hearty burgers, its menu offers comfort and flavor in equal measure. Combined with the restaurant’s lively bar and welcoming staff, it’s easy to see why locals consider Main Street Grill a reliable stop for casual, satisfying food with plenty of personality.

Piney River Ranch offers a barbecue experience like no other—set beside a lake, surrounded by alpine peaks, and served with a side of fresh mountain air. Open seasonally, the ranch’s restaurant features hearty smoked meats and traditional sides that taste even better after a hike or paddle on Piney Lake. The scenery alone makes the trip memorable, but the food ensures guests leave full and happy.

Thanks, ChatGPT.