KANSAS - Joe's Kansas City BBQ is a popular barbecue destination. Their signature barbecue is smoked and charred meats served with potato salad, spicy slaw, dirty rice, and fries. This BBQ spot offers a lot, and its smoked and charred chicken is delicious. They've also been featured on television programs such as Man vs. Food and Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern.
In the hallowed halls of Kansas City barbecue, few names command as much reverence as Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. And within this legendary establishment, one sandwich reigns supreme: The Z-Man. This iconic creation, a symphony of smoked brisket, cheese, and crispy onion rings, is more than just a menu item; it's a Kansas City institution and a must-try experience for any serious barbecue enthusiast. This article delves into the delicious details of the Z-Man Sandwich and the remarkable story of the restaurant that brought it to fame.
Deconstructing the Icon: What Makes the Z-Man Special?
The Z-Man Sandwich is a masterpiece of barbecue artistry, combining complementary flavors and textures:
- Slow-Smoked Beef Brisket: The heart of the sandwich is tender, flavorful brisket, slow-smoked to perfection in the classic Kansas City style.
- Smoked Provolone: A generous layer of melted, smoked provolone cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy richness.
- Crunchy Onion Rings: Two signature, crispy onion rings provide a satisfying textural contrast.
- Sweet & Spicy Glaze: A proprietary (and delicious) sauce or glaze ties everything together.
- Kaiser Roll: All piled high on a toasted Kaiser roll.
From Gas Station Pit to Barbecue Royalty: The Joe's KC Story:
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que boasts one of the most unique origin stories in the barbecue world.
- Oklahoma Joe's Origins: The restaurant began its life as Oklahoma Joe's, operating out of an unassuming corner gas station in Kansas City, Kansas.
- Founders Jeff & Joy Stehney: Founded by Jeff and Joy Stehney, whose competition barbecue team (Slaughterhouse Five) had already won numerous prestigious BBQ championships, the restaurant quickly gained a cult following.
- Name Change: They later embraced their home city fully, renaming the establishment Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que.
- Anthony Bourdain's Blessing: The late, great Anthony Bourdain famously included Joe's on his list of "13 Places to Eat Before You Die," catapulting the already popular spot to international fame.
A Kansas City Tradition:
Joe's embodies the spirit of Kansas City-style barbecue, a tradition dating back to the early 1900s and pioneers like Henry Perry. This style is known for its slow-smoked meats (especially beef and pork ribs), often slathered in thick, sweet, and tangy tomato-based sauces.
Beyond the Original Gas Station:
The success story continues today.
- Multiple Locations: Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que now operates multiple locations, bringing their acclaimed barbecue to a wider audience.
- Kansas City BBQ Store: In 2006, they launched the Kansas City BBQ Store, a retail outlet offering their smoked meats, sides (like corn bake and salads), sauces, rubs, and even hosting cooking demonstrations.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a true American success story, rising from a humble gas station counter to become a nationally recognized barbecue powerhouse. The Z-Man Sandwich, its most famous creation, perfectly encapsulates the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients, expert smoking techniques, and irresistible flavor combinations. A pilgrimage to Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que for a taste of the legendary Z-Man is an essential experience for anyone seeking the authentic heart of Kansas City barbecue.