About John's Bar-B-Q
Tucked away in Okemah, Oklahoma, John's Bar-B-Q is a local favorite that captures the true essence of slow-smoked, Southern-style barbecue. Located at 21 W Coplin St, this laid-back diner brings together comfort food and down-home hospitality in a way that keeps folks coming back for more.
The heart of the menu lies in its Pulled Pork and Brisket, two standout dishes that have become synonymous with John's Bar-B-Q. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or grabbing a takeaway box, the smoky aroma hits you the moment you walk through the door. The meat is always tender, perfectly seasoned, and pairs beautifully with John’s BBQ Hot or Mild Sauce, a signature blend that adds just the right kick or smooth finish, depending on your spice preference.
Looking for something a bit more filling? The Pulled Pork Sandwich with Beans is a must-try. Stacked high with juicy pork and served with hearty sides, it's a meal that satisfies on every level. Guests also rave about the Coleslaw & Beans That Went with Turkey Dinner-a flavorful combination that proves even the sides here are crafted with care.
Vegetarian options might be limited, but the Baked Potato with Butter is a simple yet satisfying choice. It's warm, fluffy, and makes a great addition to any meat-heavy plate.
The restaurant itself offers a quiet and relaxed seating environment, making it ideal for a low-key evening. For those traveling with furry companions, dogs are welcome outside-a small but thoughtful touch. Whether you're dining in or taking it to go, the experience is consistently warm and welcoming.
Reviews often highlight the consistency in flavor and portion sizes, and with services that cater to both quick meals and leisurely dinners, John's Bar-B-Q has secured its spot as a top-tier location in Okemah’s restaurant scene.
Location
Opening Time
Restaurant Services
Service options
- Drive-through
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Assistive hearing loop
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Seating
- Table service
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed outside
John's Bar-B-Q Gallery
Customer Reviews
“ OMG, I can't stop licking my fingers. This BBQ sauce is so good, I think I can event it it with my morning toast. As soon as we got into the parking lot, the smell of the smoker was already mouthwatering. The brisket is melting in your mouth, and if you add the coleslaw and hot BBQ to the sandwich, it's just a perfect bit, with the lightly sweet baked beans on the side and a cold cold beer, and I don't even have yo do the dishes, that's what I call a perfect lunch. ”
“ I have driven past this place many many times for the last year finally tried. It went in and got a half a pound of brisket some of the moist best tasting brisket I’ve ever had. I’m so mad at myself that I did not stop in there sooner and the barbecue sauce is spicy is so good ”
“ Everything on the menu is delicious. Best baked beans I've ever had in my life. Great BBQ sauce. I tried the brisket, burnt ends and smoked turkey and it was all amazing. Truckers yall ought to be giving this place your business every chance you get. Also the sweet tea was extremely good too. ”
“ Glad we stopped in and tried John’s. The loaded baked potato with brisket was excellent. We also had the hot links, baked beans, and smoked turkey. The turkey breast had the perfect amount of smokey flavor and it was unbelievably juicy. I also really enjoyed their house bbq sauce and sweet tea (it’s not too sweet like some places). We’ll stop again and try some different meats the next time we’re driving across Oklahoma. The photo of the loaded baked potato doesn’t do it justice. It was huge. ”
“ John’s BBQ has been around for as long as I can remember. We eaten there for years and we’ve never stopped to post a review. So here’s my honest review. I absolutely love their loaded baked potato with brisket. It’s not sliced brisket chopped up. No, it’s chunks of tender, juicy brisket piled up on a huge potato, drizzled with sour cream, and sprinkled with green onions and shredded cheese. This is my go to but we also love the ribs, burnt ends, and the pizza. Honestly, I guess we’ve tried it all. In all the years we’ve eaten there they have proved to be consistently on point. Always delicious. ”
“ This is hands down my favorite BBQ in Oklahoma. It's a very casual spot but the brisket, ribs and turkey are phenomenal. The sweet tea too! John and the crew are always friendly so you should definitely swing by and get you some. ”
“ I really never write reviews, but definitely, this place was a 5 star. I was traveling by on the I-40 and came across this place. The food was delicious and on point! I got the 5 Rib Dinner and 2 meat (of your choice) combo dinner with baked potato. The food had a lot of flavor and was really juicy. The baked potato was bigger than my hand. The service was great and very welcoming. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who is in the area. ”
“ Amazing BBQ! With a lot of history. The coleslaw was also amazing. Oh and the Pizza!! They don’t skimp on ingredients. I think it weighs like 4 pounds! I ordered a loaded potato. It was delicious. And huge. The biggest potato I’ve ever seen. They have a drive thru pick up window which makes it so convenient when you are in a hurry. Service is always so friendly. ”
