No trip to Kansas City is complete without diving into its legendary BBQ scene, and Q39 is one of the top names that locals and visitors alike rave about. With two locations—Q39 Midtown and Q39 South—this queer-friendly hotspot brings together the soul of traditional Kansas City barbecue with a chef-driven, elevated approach that still feels totally down-to-earth.

Expect perfectly smoked meats, house-made sauces, and creative sides that go way beyond the basics. Their brisket is melt-in-your-mouth amazing, the burnt ends are iconic, and their smoked chicken and ribs hold their own, too. Not into meat? They’ve got vegetarian options as well, including salads and a pretty great veggie burger. It’s approachable, stylish, and feels like a step above your typical BBQ joint, without losing that KC authenticity.