American Way Smokehouse - Kansas City BBQ

Reviews

• DG

  Diana Griffiths

  2 days ago
  5.0
  The pulled pork was amazing without any sauce - that's my test for good pulled pork! They offer a variety of sauces - we tried the sweet and tangy Original - very nice. I had a one-meat plate which came with 2 sides. The fries were hot and crispy. The coleslaw wasn't to my liking; not very flavorful but if you like plainish raw cabbage it's for you. There are plenty of side options to try next time. My husband had the brisket with beans and sweet potato fries. He enjoyed it all. Portion sizes are generous. We give this barbecue place two thumbs up and will be back.
• MR

  Maria Ramirez

  6 days ago
  5.0
  My daughter and I went to Merchant Square and the moment we arrived we could smell the BBQ in the air. It smelled so good and instantly made us hungry. The food did not disappoint at all. I ordered the burnt ends with sweet potato fries and backyard beans and everything was amazing. The burnt ends were tender and full of flavor, the sweet potato fries were perfect, and the beans were honestly so good. Everyone was kind and friendly which made the experience even better. We will definitely be back.
• MD

  Moto Man Dan

  Jan 5, 2026
  1.0
  Many issues, Many bots in the reviews fyi Toilet was leaking Meat was dry as if left on a meat warmer, also bland. BBQ sauce shared among tables so random people would stop by asking for it Silverware was almost out when we got to it and it's all self served, yet they have optional tip before getting food. Fountain machine sprayed water out the side of the spicket when pressed. Many food options were not available as they were out of a lot of things. For a new place it was odd that the menu sign at the counter was messed up. Prices were way to high for that kind of service and atmosphere. There are plenty of great BBQ joints in kc, go to them.
• ZM

  Zayne Munn

  Jan 3, 2026
  2.0
  Decided to try this place based on the reviews and was pretty disappointed. Ordered the 3 meat plate and got burnt ends, ham, chicken, fries, and beans. The best thing on the plate was the bread. The meat didn’t really have that Smokey flavor and did not taste very good, like barely had any seasoning and there was next to no bark on the burnt ends. The burnt ends for the most part were also pretty tough. This was probably some of the worst bbq I have had and for KC being known for bbq this place meat is subpar to most area establishments. With all of that being said the bbq sauce was actually really good and made the food edible. The spicy sauce was my personal favorite. I also feel like the portion size for the money was a good value, I just wish the meat was better.
• BP

  Bob Page

  Dec 27, 2025
  5.0
  We have a tradition of having BBQ on Christmas Eve. Slaps, Joes, Jackstack, LC's, Plowboys. This year decided to surprise the family with something new and try American Way Smokehouse. First, excellent service up front with Kyle and Emmerson! Very friendly and helpful. The Pit Boss was also friendly, but very busy working his magic. Family was all very curious to see how the new BBQ would be. Ribs, Burnt Ends, Brisket, Turkey & Sausage. Served on Christmas Eve and had a unanimous response-Loved it! Everyone agreed, it was great BBQ. MY 8 yo Granddaughter even had Ribs and Burnt Ends and was very happy! So we have now found a new BBQ we love and one very close by which is nice. Thanks American Way Smokehouse for adding to our joy on Christmas Eve!

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