- Attraction: Big Ed’s Barbecue
- Location: 305 NJ-34, Matawan, NJ 07747
- Industry: Barbecue Restaurant
- Website: https://www.bigedsbbq.com/
Few sensations rival the intoxicating aroma of slow-smoked meats, and the moment you pull into the parking lot at Big Ed’s Barbecue, that is precisely the greeting you receive.
Born from a career disruption in 2007, owner Eddie Nero transformed a far-fetched idea into a celebrated culinary institution, proving that universal love for truly great BBQ can cross any state line, let alone just New Jersey.
This isn’t just another smoke shack; it’s a multi-award-winning spot that draws dedicated barbecue enthusiasts from across the region and beyond, often being cited as the best BBQ in Central New Jersey for years running.
Big Ed’s has perfected its craft over years, becoming known for generous portions and authentic, Southern-style preparations that make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to the heart of the Carolinas or Texas.
It’s a place where the love of smoked meats is evident in every tender, flavorful bite. Prepare to leave satisfied and likely planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
The Baby Back Ribs: These are the undisputed stars of the show and Big Ed’s most celebrated feature. They’re consistently described as falling-off-the-bone tender, cooked so perfectly that you might find yourself reaching for a fork instead of tearing at them with your hands.
The “All You Can Eat” Ribs: This is a weekend highlight and a major draw for the hungriest patrons. It’s a remarkable value proposition that allows you to indulge in endless quantities of their famed baby backs.
BBQ Beef Brisket: You’ll find this beef is smoked to a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, often praised for its deep smoky flavor and ideal fat marbling, making for an unforgettable sandwich or platter.
Pulled Pork: A classic BBQ staple, the pulled pork here is smoky and moist, served without any heavy sauces so you can appreciate the meat’s natural flavor before drizzling on your preferred sauce.
Apple Fritters: This unexpected dessert is a massive hit that often comes included with sandwiches and platters. These warm, sweet, powdered dough pieces are the perfect way to finish a savory, smoke-heavy meal.
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Discover MoreGarlic Bread: Frequently mentioned as a standout item, this simple side is elevated to a must-try with its potent flavor and perfect crunch, pairing surprisingly well with the smoky meats.
Chicken Wings: Forget the generic wing joints; Big Ed’s wings are famous for their size, fantastic flavor, and crispy texture, making them a great appetizer or a meal unto themselves.
Mac and Cheese: You’ll discover a creamy, rich side that serves as the ultimate comfort food complement to the savory BBQ offerings, often cited as a favorite side dish among customers.
Atmosphere & Décor
Unpretentious Vibe: This is a laid-back, family-friendly restaurant where you can relax and truly focus on the food. You will not find any white tablecloths here, but rather a simple, comfortable setting perfect for a hearty meal.
Authentic Southern Touches: The atmosphere speaks to the down-home spirit of BBQ, incorporating fun, quirky decor like whimsical board cutouts of pigs and cows dressed in aprons, adding a touch of personality to the space.
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Keep Exploring →Full Bar and Sports Viewing: Big Ed’s offers a full-service bar with a solid selection of beer, wine, and liquor, and has TVs positioned for you to catch the latest sports action, making it a great place to hang out.
The Scent of Smoke: The experience begins right in the parking lot where you get the first glorious whiff of wood smoke, promising the flavorful meal awaiting you inside.
Other Considerations
Pricing & Value: The portions are known to be massive, making the menu a very fair value for the sheer amount of high-quality, perfectly cooked meat you receive. Dinners are hearty, and most find the cost-to-portion size ratio generous.
Family-Friendly Focus: The restaurant goes out of its way to accommodate younger diners with a dedicated Kid’s Buckaroo Menu, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy a meal here.
Parking: The restaurant is easily accessible with its own dedicated parking area, meaning you won’t have to worry about frustrating on-street parking or walking a long distance after getting that wonderful smoky aroma on you.
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Discover MoreThe Dinner Combos: For an ideal first visit, try one of the combo platters, which allow you to sample a delicious variety of the most popular meats like baby back ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
Big Ed’s Barbecue
📍 305 NJ-34, Matawan, NJ 07747
