If you’re looking for a place where barbecue is not just food but a way of life, Melbourne, Florida, should be at the top of your list. Every May, as National Barbecue Month rolls around, the city’s grills fire up, the smoky aroma drifts through neighborhoods, and locals gather to celebrate a tradition that’s as much about community as it is about flavor. Let’s take a tasty tour of Melbourne’s best barbecue spots and pick up some expert grilling tips along the way.
Melbourne’s Top Barbecue Joints
Smokey Bones Melbourne
Ask any local where to find the best ribs in town, and you’ll likely be pointed to Smokey Bones. Located right by the Melbourne Mall, this spot is famous for its fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs and a side of cornbread that’s so good, it might just steal the show. Customers rave about the friendly serversask for Marissa if you want your meal to come with a side of genuine hospitality. The ribs here are tender, smoky, and perfectly sauced, while the fries and baked beans make for classic, satisfying sides. If you’re a barbecue fan, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
Dustin’s Bar-B-Q
Dustin’s Bar-B-Q is another local favorite, known for its quick service and friendly staff. While the barbecue meats sometimes take a back seat to the standout side dishes, regulars swear by the brisket and the all-wood décor that gives the place a laid-back, homey vibe. The portions are generous, and the prices are fair, making it a great spot for families or anyone looking to enjoy a casual meal with friends.
Grilling Like a Pro: Tips From the Pit
Whether you’re a backyard barbecue rookie or a self-proclaimed grill master, a few expert tips can take your cookout to the next level.
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Start with a Clean Grill: Before you even think about lighting the fire, give your grill a good scrub. A clean grill prevents sticking and helps your food cook evenly.
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Oil the Grates: Once clean, brush the grates with a light coating of oil to keep your food from sticking and to get those picture-perfect grill marks.
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Room Temperature is Key: Don’t throw cold meat straight from the fridge onto the grill. Let it sit out for about an hour to reach room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly and stay juicy.
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Salt Early: Season your meat with coarse salt about an hour before grilling. This draws out moisture and helps form a tasty crust.
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Master the Heat: Learn the difference between direct and indirect heat. Sear steaks and burgers over direct heat, but move thicker cuts to a cooler spot to finish cooking slowly without burning the outside.
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Choose the Right Wood: For that authentic smoky flavor, try adding wood chips to your charcoal or gas grill. Cherry wood gives a sweet, delicate flavor perfect for poultry, while hickory or oak adds a stronger, classic barbecue taste for beef and pork.
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Safety First: Always check your propane tank for leaks, and keep a meat thermometer handy to make sure your food is cooked to a safe temperature.
Why Melbourne Is a Barbecue Lover’s Dream
Living in Melbourne means you’re never far from a great barbecue meal or a sunny backyard perfect for grilling. The city’s laid-back coastal vibe pairs perfectly with the slow, social pace of barbecue. Whether you’re feasting on ribs at Smokey Bones, enjoying brisket and sides at Dustin’s, or firing up your grill with tips from the pros, Melbourne offers a barbecue experience that’s hard to beat.
Discover the Flavorful Side of Life in Melbourne
If the thought of smoky ribs, friendly neighbors, and year-round grilling weather sounds good to you, Melbourne, Florida, is calling your name. Here, barbecue isn’t just a meal, it’s a celebration of good food, good company, and a community that knows how to savor the simple things. Come for the barbecue, stay for the lifestyle, and discover why so many people are proud to call Melbourne home.
Sources: locations.smokeybones.com, yelp.com
Header Image Source: Philipp Kämmerer on Unsplash
