These KC spots have the best cheap barbecue, list says. Are they actually cheap?
What’s something better than Kansas City barbecue? KC barbecue that doesn’t charge an arm and a leg.
Cheapism, a blog that revolves around budgeting, released a list of spots in each state across the U.S. where you can find cheap barbecue. Now the list doesn’t necessarily have the state’s lowest priced barbecue, but the restaurants were chosen based on the quality, portion sizes and overall experience that makes every price dollar worth it.
The Kansas and Missouri options featured some Kansas City favorites. Arthur Bryant's for KCMO, and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que for KCK.
Of course, Joe’s was highlighted for its Z-Man sandwich, with the blog noting that the portions at Joe’s typically leave room for leftovers. Cheapism said Arthur Bryant’s has “generous portions, and approachable prices,” which has visitors leaving feeling they’ve experienced one of America’s great barbecue institutions.
The common factor between the two KC classics appears to be their portions. But does that excuse its prices? You can decide, as we’ve listed some popular and common dishes between the two restaurants and how much it will run you.
Sandwiches
Arthur Bryant’s: Open-faced burnt end sandwich, $20.50.
Joe’s: Z-Man sandwich, $12.79 for the regular or $14.79 for the jumbo.
Meat by the pound
Arthur Bryant’s: Brisket, $28.25/pound; sausage, turkey, pork, ham, $25/pound.
Joe’s: Beef Brisket, $24.99/pound; pulled pork, turkey, ham, sausage, $21.49/pound; burnt ends, $26.99/pound.
Ribs
Arthur Bryant’s: Full slab, $30.95
Joe’s: Full slab, $27.99
Sides
Arthur Bryant’s: Side order of fries and onion rings $.5.50; side order of baked beans and coleslaw, $5.50.
Joe’s: A side of BBQ beans and coleslaw, $5.50; fries, $5.59; onion rings, $8.49.
Joe’s has locations in Olathe and Leawood, alongside its historic gas station site in KCK. Arthur Bryant’s is located at 1727 Brooklyn Ave.
