Brunswick stew is as quintessentially Virginia as peanuts or blue crab. Whether cooked with chicken or rabbit, its biggest fans aren’t afraid to travel far just for a great bowl.

If you’re new to the Brunswick stew scene, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming.

MORE: A Taste of the Commonwealth

Thankfully, Dogwood readers know the best spot – even if they don’t all agree on exactly what that is. This fall, hundreds of readers recommended dozens of supper clubs from every corner of the state. Here are the most frequently-mentioned stops in each region: 

Best Brunswick Stew in Richmond: Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue

According to our readers, Buz and Ned’s isn’t just home to the best Brunswick stew  in Richmond; it’s the best in all of Virginia, and the top vote-getter across all regions. 

Where: 8205 W Broad St.

Yelp Review: “I’m drooling just thinking about it!” -Sarah H.

Honorable mentions: SMoHK RVA BBQ, Carter’s Pigpen Bar-B-Que (Mechanicsville)

 

Best Brunswick Stew in NoVa: Red Hot & Blue

If you’re searching for the best Brunswick stew in the DMV, look no further than Red Hot & Blue, which has multiple Fairfax locations. They go all-out with the protein in their stew, tossing in pulled pork, shredded chicken, and Texas brisket!

Where: 4150 Chain Bridge Rd. or 10940 Fairfax Blvd.

Yelp Review: “The Brunswick stew and fried okra were delish!” -Valerie S.

 

Best Brunswick Stew in Virginia Beach: Beach Bully BBQ

You might not associate the beach with Brunswick stew, but there are several great options. According to our readers, the best in all of Hampton Roads comes from Beach Bully.

Where: 601 19th St.

Yelp Review: “Old school BBQ goodness! Great location with friendly staff.” –Kristen S.

Honorable mention: Smokey Bones

 

Best Brunswick Stew in Southwest Virginia: BBQ Exchange

One in three Southwest Virginia readers agree: The BBQ Exchange is the place to be, at least if you want the best Brunswick stew around.

Where: 102 Martinsburg Ave. (Gordonville)

Yelp Review: “I would highly recommend the Brunswick stew. It was some of the best I’ve had.” -Will F.

Honorable mention: Risin’ Smoke (Sadly, they no longer serve Brunswick stew, but our readers sure did love it!)

 

Bonus: The Best Brunswick Stews in Williamsburg

Turns out, our Williamsburg readers are especially passionate about Brunswick stew! Lots of local spots earned write-in votes, and we want to highlight the two most popular:

Old City Barbecue: 700 York St.

Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que: 447 E Rochambeau Dr.