Looking for the ultimate local dining experience to treat Dad this Father’s Day, or simply craving some authentic smoked meats? The Treasure Coast, right down to the heart of Vero Beach, boasts an incredible lineup of local barbecue joints that pair perfectly with our laid-back Florida lifestyle. Whether you want to dine in or grab takeout for a backyard family picnic, Indian River County and the surrounding areas offer mouthwatering options that are sure to satisfy.
For Vero Beach residents and those exploring the local real estate and lifestyle scene, Indian River County features two standout culinary destinations:
- Wilke’s 14 Bones BBQ: A staple since 2013, located at 1500 U.S. 1 in Vero Beach. This beloved local spot continues to thrill meat-eaters with tender, juicy brisket paired with comforting sides like creamy macaroni and cheese and crispy French fries. Beyond the kitchen, the restaurant’s ownership is deeply rooted in the community, frequently supporting the Mental Health Association and previously stepping up to provide meals for a Vero Beach football team.
- Pepper & Salt BBQ at Hogan Yards: Located at 2745 St. Lucie Ave in Vero Beach, this newly opened entertainment hub seamlessly pairs Texas low-and-slow style barbecue with an active coastal lifestyle. After moving from their original Old Dixie Highway location, Pepper & Salt now serves up their signature smoked meats, hearty sandwiches, and loaded tater tots inside Hogan Yards. Visitors can enjoy their savory BBQ alongside specialty Star Ruby beer, pickleball courts, and arcade games.
If you are up for a short scenic drive to explore the wider Treasure Coast region, St. Lucie and Martin counties offer fantastic dining destinations just a stone’s throw from Vero Beach:
- My Brothers BBQ (Port St. Lucie): Located at 464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd. What started as a food truck blossomed into a permanent brick-and-mortar location in 2021. Recently featured on celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s Best Bite in Town television show in 2024, this joint offers unapologetically comforting, roll-up-your-sleeves barbecue where napkins are an absolute necessity.
- Moonswiners Bar-B-Q (Fort Pierce): Situated at 3900 Okeechobee Road, this establishment took over the former Dale’s BBQ West building in 2014. Everything from the slow-smoked meats to the signature bottled sauces and sides is made completely from scratch using guarded family recipes. All meats are cooked on-site over real wood for an unmistakable smoky flavor.
- Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen (Stuart): Found at 290 S.E. Federal Highway, owners John and Margie Stiburek brought this rebranded concept to life in 2021. They specialize in classic comfort foods, traditional smoked meat platters featuring brisket and ribs, and Southern-inspired entrees like chicken and waffles or bayou catfish.
- Barbecue Beer Co. (Jensen Beach): The newest addition to the regional scene, opening in March 2025 at 1830 N.E. Jensen Beach Blvd. Alongside delicious BBQ fare, they offer a rotating list of craft beers on tap, house wines, music bingo, and live sports broadcasts, making it an engaging weekend hangout spot.
The Treasure Coast offers a diverse and expanding barbecue scene, anchored by community-focused staples and vibrant new entertainment venues in Vero Beach, providing locals with high-quality, slow-smoked culinary experiences perfect for family celebrations.
Whether you are a long-time resident of Indian River County or a prospective homebuyer looking to experience the authentic flavor of the Treasure Coast, our local food scene is just one more reason to love living in Florida. Grab some extra napkins and support these fantastic local businesses!
