From high-altitude smokers to mobile food trucks, New Mexico's BBQ scene is heating up. Here are five spots you need to know.
The New Mexico BBQ Landscape
New Mexico's BBQ scene is as diverse as its landscape, blending traditional Texas-style smoking with local ingredients and high-altitude cooking challenges. From family-run restaurants to mobile food trucks, these businesses are redefining what BBQ means in the Land of Enchantment. Whether you're a local or just passing through, there's a smoker firing up somewhere that's worth your taste buds. The industry is growing, with new players bringing fresh energy and time-honored techniques to the table.
How We Evaluated
We looked at each business's service scope, pricing clarity, and local fit. Service scope covers dine-in, catering, and food truck options. Pricing clarity considers how easy it is to understand what you'll pay. Local fit measures how well the business integrates into its community and meets regional tastes. Each spot brings something unique, and we highlight what stood out for each.
Here's a quick look at the five BBQ spots we're featuring, from established favorites to rising stars.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| NewMex-A-Que | High-altitude, community-driven BBQ |
| Outlaw BBQ Company - Smoked Barbeque, Brisket, Ribs, Pork and Sausage | Family-run BBQ with catering and food truck options |
| Brown Bag BBQ | Creative, non-traditional BBQ from a food truck |
| CRAFT Q | Craft BBQ in Albuquerque |
| Roadside Smokehouse | Mobile BBQ and jerky |
The Deep Dive: 5 BBQ Spots to Watch
#1 NewMex-A-Que
A screenshot of the NewMex-A-Que website.
NewMex-A-Que brings a fresh take on BBQ, blending Tio's generations of backyard secrets with New Mexico's unique flavors. They operate at the highest altitude, which adds a distinctive challenge and character to their smoked meats. Their menu is crafted with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, prepared and smoked daily. You can order online, check their calendar for pop-up locations, and even book catering for events. They're building a community around their food, with a newsletter for soft launch updates. If you're looking for BBQ that's rooted in tradition but pushes boundaries, this is a must-try.
#2 Outlaw BBQ Company - Smoked Barbeque, Brisket, Ribs, Pork and Sausage
A screenshot of the Outlaw BBQ Company website.
Outlaw BBQ Company is a family-run gem in Chama, New Mexico, owned by Becki and Loyd McClanahan, who bring years of experience from a wildly popular Texas BBQ joint. They're committed to serving up the best BBQ in New Mexico, with oak-smoked brisket, ribs, pork, and sausage that'll make your mouth water. You can dine in at their picnic tables (weather permitting) or take your meal to go. They also offer catering, chef's tables, and food truck services to elevate your next event. Follow them on Facebook for updates and specials. This is your go-to for a memorable, down-home BBQ experience.
#3 Brown Bag BBQ
A screenshot of the Brown Bag BBQ website.
Brown Bag BBQ is a local, minority, and veteran-family run food truck that's making waves with its lip-smackin', bone-suckin' BBQ. They started as a dream between a husband-and-wife team and have grown into one of the city's most popular food trucks. Their menu is constantly evolving, featuring Southern-style BBQ and Louisiana Seafood, all made to order with fresh ingredients. You can find them traveling around the city—follow their schedule on social media to catch them. They also cater private events and parties, bringing their mouthwatering flavors to your gatherings. If you're after innovative, non-traditional BBQ, this is your spot.
#4 CRAFT Q
A screenshot of the CRAFT Q website.
CRAFT Q is a barbecue business based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that focuses on craft-level smoking and grilling. Their website is clean and straightforward, with sections for menu, location, and merchandise. They're active on social media, so you can follow them for updates on where to find them. While their online presence is minimal, their commitment to quality BBQ is evident. If you're in Albuquerque and craving expertly smoked meats, CRAFT Q is worth checking out. They're a solid choice for locals who appreciate a no-frills approach to BBQ.
#5 Roadside Smokehouse
A screenshot of the Roadside Smokehouse listing on FoodTrucksIn.
Roadside Smokehouse is a mobile kitchen that specializes in BBQ and jerky, bringing smoked goodness to events and neighborhoods across Albuquerque. As part of the food truck scene, they offer a convenient way to enjoy quality BBQ on the go. Their menu features classic smoked meats, and they're known for their jerky, which is a great grab-and-go snack. You can find them at various locations around the city—check their schedule to see where they'll be next. They're a great option for catering and private events, too. If you're looking for BBQ that comes to you, Roadside Smokehouse delivers.
How to Choose Your Next BBQ Spot
When picking a BBQ spot, think about what you're in the mood for. If you want a sit-down experience with a family atmosphere, Outlaw BBQ Company is your pick. For something more adventurous and community-focused, NewMex-A-Que offers a unique high-altitude twist. If you're on the go, Brown Bag BBQ and Roadside Smokehouse bring the food to you. And if you're in Albuquerque and want a craft-focused option, CRAFT Q has you covered. Consider whether you need catering, a food truck, or just a quick bite, and match that to what each spot offers.
Streamline Your BBQ Business
Running a BBQ business involves juggling orders, catering requests, and social media updates. You can automate your online ordering system to handle takeout and delivery seamlessly. Use scheduling tools to plan your food truck locations and post updates automatically. For catering, set up a simple booking form that sends confirmations and reminders to clients. Email marketing platforms can keep your customers informed about specials and events without manual effort. By automating these tasks, you free up more time to focus on perfecting your smoke.
The Bottom Line
New Mexico's BBQ scene is thriving, with each of these five spots bringing something unique to the table. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you've got plenty of delicious options to explore. From family-run restaurants to mobile food trucks, there's a BBQ experience waiting for you. So get out there, follow your nose, and enjoy some of the best smoked meats the Southwest has to offer.