Hello dear
Welcome to Smoking Kow BBQ
Smoking Kow BBQ, located at 3250 Duke St in Alexandria, VA, is a hidden gem for barbecue enthusiasts. This cozy eatery offers a mouthwatering selection of smoked meats, including tender brisket, flavorful pulled pork, and juicy turkey breast, all served with a side of warm cornbread. Diners rave about the perfect char on the ribs and the variety of rich sauces, with a standout being the Carolina gold. The inviting atmosphere complements the delicious food, making it ideal for relaxation. With friendly service and generous portions, Smoking Kow BBQ is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, hearty BBQ in the DMV area.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Platter - BBQ Ribs
Sprite
Cheesy Jalapeno Grits
Candied Jalapenos
About
Smoking Kow BBQ
Welcome to the tantalizing world of Smoking Kow BBQ, a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts in Alexandria, VA. Nestled conveniently at 3250 Duke St, this charming eatery brings the authentic taste of smoked meats right to your plate, enticing your taste buds with every bite. Locals hail it as a hidden gem, and after just one visit, it's easy to see why.
At Smoking Kow BBQ, the menu bursts with flavorful options. From their impressive family platters — including the Extravaganza for Eight and the delightful Feast for Four — this spot promises to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. The Pork Pack, generously serving pulled pork or chicken with sides of cornbread, coleslaw, and mac, elevates comfort food to new heights. Each dish is prepared with meticulous care, ensuring that flavors meld perfectly and create a memorable dining experience.
The accolades for their meats are well-deserved. Customers rave about the perfectly charred ribs, succulent brisket, and tender pulled chicken, with reviewers like Taylor Morris noting the exceptional service and cozy atmosphere. Those seeking a taste of Southern cooking will find the Texas Caviar and creamy Mac N Cheese to be standout sides, while the popular Carolina gold sauce adds a zesty twist that keeps patrons coming back for more. There's something inherently satisfying about indulging in hearty BBQ while feeling at home in a clean, inviting space.
John Smith III puts it simply: "delicious in every bite." His enthusiasm for the brisket platter speaks volumes about the craftsmanship behind each meal. The care taken in preparation is palpable, whether it's the dynamic balance of spices or the intensive smoking process that imbues each dish with that irresistible smoky flavor. Under the direction of the attentive staff, including some personal interactions with the owner that Ian Cozens cherished, every visit feels personalized and full of warmth.
With an array of beverages to complement your meal, from local lagers to classic favorites like Miller Lite, Smoking Kow BBQ invites you to unwind with friends and family, making every meal an occasion to celebrate. Whether you are planning a feast or simply stopping by for a quick bite, this spot promises an unforgettable BBQ experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Southern hospitality.
Indulge in the pleasures of expertly smoked meats, delectable sides, and an atmosphere that welcomes all who step through its doors. Smoking Kow BBQ is more than just barbecue; it's a culinary journey through rich flavors and heartfelt service that guarantees you'll return time and again. Don’t miss out on this smoking hot BBQ haven!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ First time trying! Ribs were amazing, the char on them was perfect! The service was quick and staff was very friendly and helpful. Cornbread was very flavorful but a bit dry. Will be back ! ”
“ this place is delicious!! Good smoke flavor on the pulled pork, brisket, and turkey. Hefty portions and the Carolina gold sauce was my personal favorite. Staff was really sweet and we went back for a second order after finishing off a platter. The atmosphere was incredible - cozy and comfortable vibes where everything is super clean and you can relax. Highly recommend for some good BBQ in the DMV! ”
“ There’s some REALLY GOOD BBQ here!! Stopped in for lunch and was surprised to see how many proteins they offered on their menu, it reminded me of a real TX smokehouse, with a chalkboard style offerings list and so many options... they had everything except beef ribs! So, I opted for a half pound each of turkey, pulled chicken, and brisket. Also got a side of Texas Caviar. The side was really good, it’s basically a cold bean salad with a smokey, spicy sauce. The brisket was decent, but they cut me some off the fatty, point side, which isn’t my fav, but it was definitely moist and tender. It just had way more fat than I wanted. But that pulled chicken was some of the best I’ve ever had! Tender and very nicely seasoned! The turkey was great! The only better turkey I’ve had was at La BBQ in Austin (and I’ve had smoked turkey at many places in TX and KS.). Their sauces were decent, but all three were heavy on the vinegar, lite on the tomato.... Still, nicely seasoned. Service was great and the place, including restroom was very clean. Highly recommend stopping in! ”
“ Smoking Kow BBQ is on another level of BBQ, PERIOD! I was getting some work done on my car around the corner from Smoking Kow BBQ. Having passed this location a few times, I always wondered what they served. Wonder no more, they serve delicious in every bite. Today I ordered the Brisket Platter with two sides (baked beans, coleslaw) and cornbread with a side of lemonade. This meal was AMAZING! The flavors of the brisket were done to perfection with just enough to heat to make the sides melt in your mouth as well. While this was my first time visiting, it will not be my last. Enjoy! ”
“ Me and a coworker stopped into this place for lunch the other day and were blown away. This was some of the best bbq I have ever had. I grill and smoke frequently at home and have never had burnt ends cooked to perfection like this place. The mac n cheese, sweet potato mash and grits were phenomenal. We also spoke with the owner throughout the entire meal and had great experience. Highly recommend this spot and will be looking to return soon. ”
“ The brisket is to die for! The cornbread is moist and sweet. The baked beans a seasoned perfectly. After I left, I can still smell the smokiness in my shirt, it’s the best cologne ever lol. Honestly I’ve started coming here every weekend, my family loves it, I feel like I’m back in Texas! ”
“ Hands down the best BBQ I have had all year! My friend and I have been past this place several times and have always wanted to stop and try it out. Today we did and let me tell you it was worth it. We tried the brisket, pulled pork, and smoked ends and each was unique with a delicious flavor profile that was of top quality. With each dish, we tried their dipping sauces. The regular, chipotle, and Carolina styles. The Carolina was my favorite and my friend loved the chipotle. The brisket is sensational and was my favorite. Perfectly cooked, savory, and the right amount of fat. I highly recommend trying it. The pull pork was very good, was cooked well and not dry and had a mellow sweet smoked flavor to it that went very well with the sauce. The ends were absolutely sensational. Fatty and juicy and packed with smokey and sweet flavors along with a zesty season a crisp on the outside that was a true cornerstone to try. I strongly also recommend trying the ends. Pickles were great along with the bread. Thank you Smoking Kow, you did an absolutely sensational job. A rare 10 out of 10. We will be back! ”
“ Very good brisket, and the barbecue sauce is off the charts! Get here early for the burnt ends though, they run out! The staff is super friendly also, definitely sweet homey vibes ”