A Carnivore’s Dream: The Best BBQ Spots in Perth
Food . Travel TipsWhen I think about great BBQ, the first place that comes to mind isn’t always the expected one. Often, the best spots are tucked away in unexpected places, and after spending some time in the UK’s Perth, I’m convinced this charming Scottish city has some of the best BBQ to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard meat lover or just someone looking for a satisfying meal, Perth (yes, in Scotland!) has a surprisingly robust BBQ scene that left me more than impressed.
I had the chance to explore a few of these hidden gems while I was visiting, and it’s safe to say I’ve found some of the most mouthwatering BBQ in the UK. From smoky ribs to juicy briskets, Perth’s BBQ culture isn’t something you’d expect in a small Scottish city—but it’s definitely something you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the meaty goodness of Perth’s best BBQ spots.
1. The BBQ Scene in Perth, UK: A Hidden Gem
When I first arrived in Perth, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The city is small, rich in history, and quaint in the way many Scottish towns are. But after speaking to a few locals and doing some research, it quickly became clear that Perth punches well above its weight when it comes to BBQ. The city’s BBQ scene is still relatively under the radar, but those in the know are keen to keep it that way.
Unlike larger cities like Glasgow or Edinburgh, where the BBQ culture has had more time to develop, Perth’s scene feels like a well-kept secret. And honestly, I love that about it. The quality of the food was on par with some of the best I’ve had in major BBQ hubs around the world, but with the charm of a small Scottish town. The meat was consistently tender, smoky, and full of flavour, making each meal an unforgettable experience.
2. “The BBQ Shack” – A Cozy Corner of Meaty Heaven
The first stop on my BBQ tour of Perth was a small but incredibly popular spot called The BBQ Shack, nestled near the city centre. The moment I stepped inside, the delicious aroma of slow-cooked meat hit me. The atmosphere was casual and welcoming—perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner. It’s a family-run place, and the staff are passionate about what they do, which shows in the food.
The star of the show here is definitely their pulled pork. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork was tender and moist, with a sweet and smoky flavour that had just the right amount of tang. The portion sizes were generous, and the meat practically fell apart with the slightest touch. What I appreciated most was that they didn’t overdo the sauce; it was served on the side, allowing the smoky meat to shine on its own.
If you’re looking for something with a bit of a kick, the spicy BBQ ribs are a must-try. They have a great balance of spice, sweetness, and smoke, and the ribs themselves were cooked to perfection—tender, with a nice charred exterior. The sides here were equally impressive; their coleslaw was fresh and crunchy, while the cornbread was sweet and slightly crumbly—just the way it should be.
For those who want to try a little bit of everything, I recommend ordering the BBQ platter. It comes with a selection of their best meats—smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and even a few sausages—perfect for sharing if you’re dining with friends. And if you’re worried about making a reservation, I recommend using Resy or OpenTable, as The BBQ Shack can get pretty busy, especially on weekends.
3. “The Grillhouse” – Steak and BBQ Perfection
For a more upscale BBQ experience, The Grillhouse in Perth offers a perfect blend of fine dining and hearty BBQ. Located in the heart of the city, this spot focuses on high-quality cuts of meat, and they certainly know how to grill them. If you’re in the mood for a premium BBQ experience, this is the place to go.
I opted for the slow-cooked beef brisket, and it was easily one of the most tender pieces of meat I’ve ever had. The smoke ring around the edges was deep and flavorful, and the meat itself was rich without being overly greasy. The accompanying BBQ sauce had a nice sweetness with just a hint of heat, complementing the brisket without overpowering it.
Their steak options also deserve a mention. The dry-aged rib-eye is a standout, and if you’re looking for a classic BBQ steak, it doesn’t get much better than this. Cooked exactly to order, with a charred exterior and a juicy interior, the rib-eye here is everything you could want in a steak.
Aside from their meat, The Grillhouse also offers a range of sides that really enhance the experience. Their smoked mac and cheese was creamy with just the right amount of smoky flavour, and the BBQ beans were tangy and slightly spicy, balancing out the richness of the meats perfectly. If you’re planning to visit, definitely book ahead through Bookatable or directly via their website to ensure you get a table.
4. “Meat in the Middle” – A New Take on BBQ in Perth
If you’re after something a little more contemporary, Meat in the Middle is a unique BBQ joint in Perth that brings a modern twist to traditional BBQ cooking. Situated on a charming street corner, this place has quickly become a favourite for locals who want BBQ with a bit of creativity.
One of their signature dishes is the BBQ brisket burger. The tender, smoky brisket is piled high in a soft bun, along with tangy pickles, creamy coleslaw, and a spicy sauce. Every bite is a combination of textures—crispy, crunchy, and juicy—and the smoky flavour of the brisket is perfectly balanced with the freshness of the other ingredients.
Another dish worth trying is their grilled lamb chops. These are perfectly cooked, with a smoky char on the outside and tender meat that falls off the bone. Paired with a side of sweet potato fries, it’s a perfect combination of flavours. If you’re a fan of spicy BBQ, I highly recommend trying their hot wings—they pack quite a punch but are perfectly balanced with a slight sweetness.
Bookings can be made directly on their website or through platforms like OpenTable, so make sure to secure your table in advance, especially on weekends.
5. “The Smokehouse” – Traditional BBQ at Its Finest
For those who appreciate the art of slow-cooked, smoked meat, The Smokehouse is a must-visit. This hidden gem has a rustic, no-frills atmosphere that allows the food to speak for itself. The focus here is on slow-smoking meats to perfection, and they do it better than almost anyone else in Perth.
I had the chance to try their smoked pork ribs, and it was an experience that I won’t forget. The ribs were tender and juicy, with just the right amount of smokiness and a sweet, sticky glaze that added a nice finish. The meat was cooked slowly over several hours, and you could really taste the difference in the texture and depth of flavour.
If you’re feeling adventurous, their smoked whole chicken is another great option. The skin was crispy, while the meat underneath was incredibly juicy and packed with smoky goodness. Paired with their tangy BBQ sauce and a side of corn on the cob, it was a meal that perfectly captured the essence of traditional BBQ cooking.
Reservations can be made directly through Resy or via their website, and I’d highly recommend booking early—especially if you’re planning to visit on the weekend when the place fills up fast.
6. “The Grill & Smokehouse” – BBQ and Craft Beer, A Perfect Pair
If you’re a fan of BBQ and craft beer, The Grill & Smokehouse is a spot that combines both effortlessly. Located near the river, this place offers stunning views and a fantastic BBQ menu. From BBQ beef short ribs to pulled chicken sandwiches, The Grill & Smokehouse is a great place to indulge in hearty meals while enjoying a local pint.
One of the standout dishes here is their BBQ beef short ribs, which were tender, smoky, and coated in a rich, slightly sweet glaze. Paired with a local IPA, the combination of bold flavours made for a perfect meal. The pulled chicken sandwich was another hit, with juicy, smoky meat and a tangy slaw that added a refreshing crunch.
For those who love craft beer, the selection here is impressive. With a rotating list of local brews, you’ll have plenty of options to pair with your BBQ.
7. Booking Your BBQ Feast in Perth, UK
Perth’s BBQ scene may still be a bit of a secret, but it’s certainly worth exploring, especially if you’re a fan of good meat. Booking your table at any of these popular spots in advance is a good idea, especially during weekends or holidays. Websites like Resy, OpenTable, and Bookatable are excellent platforms to secure your spot at these popular BBQ joints, and many of the restaurants also allow for direct booking through their websites.
8. Why Perth, UK, Should Be on Your BBQ Radar
Though Perth may not be the first place you’d think of when it comes to BBQ, this small Scottish city has a lot to offer meat lovers. The BBQ spots here are diverse, from traditional smoked meats to modern twists on classic dishes, and each location offers something unique. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a more refined dining experience, Perth’s BBQ scene has it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Perth, UK, and you’re a fan of BBQ, make sure to check out these spots. You won’t be disappointed—there’s something about the way the food is cooked, the quality of the meats, and the care put into every dish that makes Perth a hidden gem for BBQ lovers.
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