If you love barbecue, Kansas City is a place you cannot miss. Known for its rich barbecue culture, the city has earned fame for perfectly smoked meats and bold flavors.
Among the many dishes, one stands out as a true favorite: the burnt ends at Slap’s BBQ. These flavorful bites have become iconic in Kansas City’s barbecue tradition and are loved by locals and visitors alike.
What Are Burnt Ends?
Burnt ends come from the point half of a smoked beef brisket. This cut is marbled with fat and takes longer to cook than the flat portion of the brisket. Originally, pitmasters trimmed these pieces and often discarded them or gave them away.
Over time, people discovered that these small pieces are full of flavor. They are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and coated in a rich smoky taste that barbecue lovers can’t resist.
The Story of Slap’s BBQ
Slap’s BBQ is located in Kansas City, Kansas, and was founded by brothers Mike and Joe Pearce in 2014. Before opening the restaurant, they competed in barbecue contests as Squeal Like a Pig BBQ and gained recognition on the competition circuit.
Their experience in competitions and dedication to high-quality meat helped them create a restaurant that quickly became popular. Today, Slap’s continues to serve freshly smoked meats and participates in many barbecue competitions each year.
Why Slap’s BBQ Stands Out
Walking into Slap’s BBQ feels like stepping into a world of smoky aroma and delicious food. The restaurant focuses on preparing meats with care, using local ingredients, and smoking them to perfection.
The environment is casual and welcoming, making it perfect for families, friends, and barbecue enthusiasts. The staff are passionate about what they do, which makes every meal feel special.
Menu Highlights
Slap’s BBQ has a wide range of dishes. Some favorites include:
- Burnt End Combo: Burnt ends with a choice of another meat like sliced brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, or sausage.
- Sampler Plate: A mix of brisket, pork, turkey, sausage, and two sides. You can add burnt ends or ribs for an extra charge.
- Mike Johnson Sandwich: Jalapeno-cheddar sausage, smoked brisket, lettuce, and three sauces on a pretzel bun.
- Southern Comfort Sandwich: Pulled pork with creamy coleslaw and sweet sauce.
Popular Sides include baked potato casserole, cheesy corn-mac and cheese, hush puppies, onion rings, pickle chips, and sweet potato fries. Every dish is designed to pair perfectly with the smoked meats.
Table of Menu Highlights
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Burnt End Combo | Burnt ends plus one choice of meat |
| Sampler Plate | Brisket, pork, turkey, sausage, two sides |
| Mike Johnson Sandwich | Jalapeno-cheddar sausage, brisket, sauces on pretzel bun |
| Southern Comfort Sandwich | Pulled pork, coleslaw, sweet sauce |
| Popular Sides | Baked potato casserole, corn-mac & cheese, hush puppies, onion rings, pickle chips, sweet potato fries |
Visiting Slap’s BBQ
Slap’s BBQ is located in a friendly neighborhood with local charm. The area has easy access to parks, art installations, and attractions, making it perfect for families or visitors looking to explore Kansas City. The restaurant’s focus on quality and flavor ensures that every visit is memorable.
If you are in Kansas City and love barbecue, visiting Slap’s BBQ is a must. Their burnt ends, along with a variety of smoked meats and delicious sides, represent the best of Kansas City barbecue.
Every bite is smoky, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, Slap’s BBQ offers an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.




