Welcome to Big Papa's

The best barbeque...period

Big Papa's BBQ offers award winning smoked meats and barbeque catering to the Denver metro area. From our slow smoked ribs to the home style sides you can't find a more authentic barbeque experience.

Did you know that Big Papa's has won Best of Westword for their signature baby back ribs? The menu features unique selections from catfish (fried, grilled or blackened), okra, sweet potatoes, mustard greens, or 4 different styles of the best ribs in Colorado. For the lighter side, try one of the signature salads topped with grilled chicken or turkey and a small po'boy sandwich. Try all four signature, home made BBQ sauces.

Sit down on our patio at Big Papa's Bar and Grill restaurant in Littleton while eating some Good ole' southern barbeque or stop by and grab some of the best ribs in Denver at our East Evans restaurant. The entire family is welcome. Big Papa's BBQ restaurants are family friendly with affordable kids menu items.

Can't come in? We offer barbeque catering for groups from 2 to 2500. You can fill out our online catering form or contact one of our catering specialists to find out more information. You're just a few clicks away from having barbeque and your next event.

Come in or order today!

Big Papa's BBQ

 When I opened the door to go into Big Papa's BBQ, I knew I had stumbled upon something good. Amidst the packed dining room, well after the normal lunch-time rush, the smell of hickory smoke signaled the art of good, slow cooked meats. As I stood in line, I couldn't help but notice all of the accolades - The Denver Broncos, Alfred Williams, George Karl, The Gabby Gourmet, The Denver Post, 5280, The Westword, and more. I don't go south of downtown very often, but I think I'm going to get in the habit of doing it more.

I felt slightly cheated when I looked at the tasty heaping plates being carried out, as I knew that I could only try so much this time around. But I had a feeling whatever I ordered would be delicious. I opted for the ribs, which I rarely order out, a side of brisket, and some mac and cheese.

The St. Louis style ribs were placed in front of me, looking beautifully charred. Piercing through the crunchy outer layer led way to the fall-off-the-bone, tender, smoky rib meat. As I flew through the conveniently placed paper towel roll on my table, I couldn't help but close my eyes and savor perfectly cooked ribs.

Next was the brisket. Now brisket, if not cooked properly, can turn out rather tough. To be honest - this brisket was so tender, I could hardly stab a piece with my fork. It literally just fell apart on contact. So I drenched it in Maureen's Memphis Sauce, and messily spooned mouthfuls in between sips of their homemade sweet tea.

The mac and cheese was traditional southern style - creamy, heavy cheddar flavor, and elbow macaroni. The only thing that I regretted about this side, was not having another one to dig into.

Big Papa's is a must-try for any BBQ lover. I know they're locations are south-oriented from Downtown Denver, but it's worth the drive. I'm so happy I heard about their "free-ribs pop-up" event on Broadway last month, otherwise, I never would have known they existed. After some social investigating (aka the search box on Facebook) I found out these "free-ribs pop-up" events happen pretty regularly. Yeah free food doesn't suck - so you should follow them on Twitter or Facebook to stay in the loop.

After my shirt-staining adventure to the East Evans location, I emailed the owner, Frank, to ask him a few questions. Check out how his responses below.

IE: Frank, what is one tip you have for the home Q-er (that's me trying to sound hip per BBQ world standards)

Frank: Start off with a great cut of meat.

IE: What's your favorite spot to grab local grub?

Frank: I love 240 Union. My favorite dish is the Grilled Pork Chop with Pinot Noir Plum Wine Sauce.

Frank was a man of few words, but I couldn't agree with him more. Starting off with good meat is the first step in cooking a great meal at home. There are tons of great butchers in the Denver Metro area, so be sure to shop local! My personal fav is Edwards Meats off I-70 and Ward Road.

Big Papas is worth a Saturday adventure. They have three locations, and all are worth the trip from anywhere in the metro area. With plenty of New Belgium on tap, and plenty of bones to take down, you'll leave saying, "What Brothers?"

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