Barbecue Beat: Wolfepack excels in beans and brisket
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I ordered the two meat plate, which comes with two sides. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
Kansas City is known for its barbecue — we're all aware. And we love the staples: Joe's, Gates, Arthur Bryant's, Jack Stack.
Yes, but: What about the single-store pits that pack just as much of a punch?
The big picture: Kansas City's barbecue scene runs deeper than the big names and we're highlighting the hidden gems that deserve a bite.
Cue the 'cue: Wolfepack BBQ in Columbus Park
Dig in: What started as a pop-up in a brewery has since turned into a neighborhood staple. "Everything but the bun" is made in-house, according to the restaurant's website.
What to try: Wolfepack is known for its thick-cut brisket, which rivals the brisket I've tasted in Texas. Yeah, I said it, Axios Austin.
- But what really blew me away was the side of "cowboy beans." The perfect mix of smokey, tangy and sweet deserves the title "best beans in KC."
- Pro tip: Mix the regular and spicy sauces for a perfect blend of sweet and heat.
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The vibe: Rustic wood meets eclectic decor in this 100-plus-year-old building. A sheetmetal wolf design glows with neon backlighting while a border mural shows off local pride.
- There's more outdoor seating than indoor, with a sunny patio and an open air garage.
- Check out the smokers in the back. I asked nicely, and they showed me their meat.
Stop by: Open lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday, lunch only on Sunday. Closed Monday.