Does Black Hawk Have Colorado’s Best ‘Hidden Gem’ BBQ?

It would appear that when you're heading for some gambling in Black Hawk, Colorado, you may not have to gamble on some good BBQ.

What could be a contender for "Colorado's best barbecue" may be a part of your day of fun in Black Hawk. Some slots, some Blackjack, maybe some video poker; the next time you "head up the hill" to try to try your luck, take the time to find this joint.

This particular BBQ joint in Colorado is a "must" for those who love barbecue, history, and a rooftop patio. "A rooftop patio, in Black Hawk?" Yes. Who's in?

Do you have any "traditions" when it comes to going to Black Hawk? Do you stop in at specific places?  This place could very easily become a new tradition for you: "Let's not forget to great some of that great barbecue."

THERE IS A GREAT BARBECUE PLACE IN HISTORIC BLACK HAWK, COLORADO

In 2013, Black Hawk established its HARD District- History Appreciation Recreation District.

 ...Whether you are spending the day hiking, biking the mountain trails or enjoying Gregory Street Plaza, Black Hawk’s HARD DISTRICT has something for everyone.

In the heart of that HARD District, is the Gregory Street Plaza: A pedestrian-friendly area of shops and entertainment. The area is not far from the casinos you're familiar with in Black Hawk; it's just a bit southwest of the Saratoga Casino.

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WHAT WAS ONCE COLORADO'S OLDEST SALOON IS NOW MEMPHIS BBQ

There is a great old building on Gregory Street in Black Hawk, that at one time was home to "Colorado's Oldest Saloon"- that's was a long time ago, though. Crook's Palace dates back over 150 years.

WHO IS THE GREAT BARBECUE JOINT IN BLACK HAWK?

Inside of the Crook's Palace today, is JKQ BBQ. They moved into the historic building in 2022, after being in town at another location since 2019.

According to the Mountain-Ear, the owners (Joe & Kara Tinucci) operate the restaurant/bar along with their son, "Q." - JKQ. Joe got his barbecue skills in Memphis; he and Kara lived in Las Vegas for a few years, where their BBQ won Best of Las Vegas, not once, but twice.

We slow smoke our meats over hickory and apple wood. We hand pull our pulled pork and trim
each brisket. We are also scratch making our sides.

 

IS JKQ BBQ IN BLACK HAWK A COLORAD 'HIDDEN GEM' BBQ SPOT?

If you check out JKQ BBQ on Yelp, you're going to find that it ranks high among those that have been there, getting 4.5 stars.

I really enjoyed the bbq lamb sandwich. I've tried several items on the menu and they are all delicious.

Amazing pig wings and ribs! The pit master drink was so good! The service was spectacular and we will 100% be back!

The brisket was super tender, very flavorful, and not at all dry. The ribs were, in my amateur opinion, competition level. Honestly, the meat pulled off the bone with just the right resistance and there was so much flavor going on.

 

THEY HAVE A ROOFTOP PATIO?

It's true.

Will you be checking them out on your next visit to Black Hawk?