Seattle may be known for coffee and seafood, but Wood Shop BBQ has added serious smoke to the city’s culinary conversation. Self-described as “Homesick for Kansas. Inspired by Texas. Found in Seattle,” this barbecue hotspot has fused two of America’s most iconic BBQ traditions—Kansas City’s sauce-forward richness and Texas’ dry-rubbed, smoky intensity. The result? A menu that satisfies purists and sauce-lovers alike.
What started as a quirky experiment involving a burning Christmas tree and a bottle of whiskey has blossomed into one of Seattle’s most respected barbecue brands. Voted Seattle’s Best BBQ by public acclaim, Wood Shop has struck the perfect balance between craftsmanship and character, cementing its place as a staple in the Central District and beyond.
Where to Find the Smoke
At their brick-and-mortar location in the Central District, guests enjoy a classic barbecue joint vibe complete with outdoor patio dining, picnic tables, the aroma of hickory smoke, and a down-to-earth staff that makes everyone feel like a regular. But the BBQ goodness doesn’t stop there.
For those on the move, Wood Shop’s food truck delivers brisket, pulled pork, and burnt ends to neighborhoods, breweries, and private events across Seattle. The mobile operation features much of the same mouthwatering menu, expanding their fanbase one neighborhood at a time.
Signature Dishes That Sell Out Fast
At the heart of Wood Shop’s menu are smoked meats executed with precision and pride. Their brisket, with its smoke ring and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, rivals anything from Texas. Their pulled pork, hand-shredded to order, is both juicy and flavorful, enhanced by house-made sauces ranging from sweet and sticky to tangy and bright.
One of the biggest crowd favorites? Burnt ends—that twice-smoked, caramelized brisket treat born of Kansas City tradition. These limited-time offerings often sell out within hours, so arrive early or check their social media updates to score them.
And don’t sleep on the mac & cheese—a bubbling, cheesy, crust-topped side that could easily stand on its own. Wood Shop doesn’t treat sides as filler; they treat them as essential co-stars to the main event.
From BBQ Roots to Tex-Mex Twists
Not content with dominating the barbecue scene, the Wood Shop team has branched out into Oaky’s Tex Mex, their sister restaurant that blends smoked meats with Mexican flavors. From tacos to nachos layered with brisket, they’re proving their culinary creativity extends far beyond the smoke ring.
They’re also frequently spotted collaborating with local breweries and food vendors, participating in events that strengthen Seattle’s already-thriving food culture.
A Community-Fueled BBQ Brand
More than just a restaurant, Wood Shop BBQ is a community presence. Their active social media keeps fans updated on truck locations, daily specials, and limited-run menu items. Their catering services now serve weddings, office parties, and private events—bringing their signature smoke wherever it’s needed.
Whether you’re a barbecue connoisseur or just looking for a killer brisket sandwich, Wood Shop BBQ proves that the Pacific Northwest can do barbecue just as well as anywhere else—if not better.
