Barbecue can be a divisive topic in some locations, but La Crosse, WI has a little something for everyone when it comes to smoked meats. The city’s diverse culinary scene offers extensive options with different approaches to smoking, grilling, and more. Here are 4 places dishing out the best barbecue in the area:
Best Atmosphere: Pogreba Restaurant
With 10 years of experience and internationally-inspired dishes, Pogreba Restaurant is ideal for your next gathering. This cozy yet sophisticated locale has a menu that changes seasonally and offers fresh takes on several foods, including barbecue. According to the owners themselves, “The aroma of burning charcoal will give you an idea of the quality and dedication we put into our menu”.
For a unique dining experience, try the house-smoked ribs served with a coating of hoisin barbecue sauce. This sweet and tangy entree comes with sweet potato fries and apple kimchi. Or, try a fresh pork belly appetizer with hoisin sauce instead.
On-the-Go Option: Sweet Lou Barbecue
Although it’s technically a food truck, Sweet Lou Barbecue frequents several spots in the La Crosse area to delight customers with their delicious products. This well-known food truck serves a variety of traditional dishes, such as burnt ends, pulled pork, ribs, and brisket.
Additionally, Sweet Lou creates their own barbecue sauce, which visitors may purchase for their own grilling at home. Alongside customary menu offerings, customers can also expect experimental alternatives such as the “Sweet Lou Sundae”, which is mac and cheese topped with barbecue sauce and either brisket or pulled pork.
Date Night Pick: Piggy’s Restaurant & Blues Lounge
Although Piggy’s has only been in its current location since 2004, the restaurant actually started in its original building in the 1980s. For history buffs, the building is rife with historic images and relics from past decades, including 4 chandeliers from the Stoddard Hotel which once welcomed Elvis Presley, Richard Nixon, John F. Kennedy, and Louis Armstrong as guests.
Aside from the refined setting, Piggy’s dishes range from eclectic Pulled Pork Poutine to classic dishes like ribs and pork chops. They even have fried pickles as an appetizer, a signature barbecue side served with Maple Grain Aioli.
Overall Favorite: Famous Dave’s
Serving up traditional flavors, Famous Dave’s provides customers the best barbecue selection, including pork, chicken, and beef. Their award-winning ribs are smoked over hickory for 3-4 hours, hand-rubbed with a signature spice blend, and sealed with barbecue sauce.
Kids will love the wide range of “Lil’ Wilbur Meals”, and there are also catering options and family packs for summer gatherings, corporate events, and more.
Barbecue comes in several forms, with varying sauces, cooking methods, and seasonings. However, no matter which style you like best, you can find a restaurant to suit your needs in the area. Try one of our recommended barbecue destinations listed above on your next trip to La Crosse, WI, and be sure to visit Pischke Motors Nissan for all your automotive needs.
Connect with us
