Discovering Blackburns BBQ: A Taste of Authentic Florida Barbecue
Nestled in the heart of Eagle Lake, Florida, at 169 N 5th St, Blackburns BBQ stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of slow-cooked, smoke-infused American barbecue. This establishment is more than just a place to eat; it’s a culinary destination where passion for authentic pit mastery meets the warmth of Southern hospitality. For those seeking genuine, time-honored barbecue techniques far from the hurried pace of city life, Blackburns BBQ offers an experience rooted in flavor and dedication. The aroma alone, drifting from their smokers, promises a meal crafted with patience and expertise, setting the stage for a truly satisfying dining adventure.
In the competitive landscape of regional cuisine, Blackburns BBQ has carved out a distinct niche by focusing on the fundamentals: quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and the transformative power of wood smoke. They understand that great barbecue cannot be rushed; it is an art form perfected over hours, resulting in meats that are tender, deeply flavored, and perfectly textured. Whether you are a local resident familiar with their reputation or a traveler passing through Central Florida, stopping at this Eagle Lake fixture is highly recommended for anyone appreciating the finer points of smoked cuisine.
What truly sets Blackburns BBQ apart in the local culinary scene? It’s the unwavering commitment to the craft and the genuine connection they foster with their patrons. They embody the spirit of community barbecue, where every plate served carries the legacy of traditional cooking methods.
Key Highlights of the Blackburns BBQ Experience
Authentic Slow Smoking Techniques: At the core of Blackburns BBQ is their dedication to traditional, slow-and-low smoking. This method ensures that the meats—be it brisket, ribs, or pulled pork—achieve unparalleled tenderness and absorb the complex, nuanced flavors imparted by the burning wood. This patient approach is crucial for developing the deep smoke ring and rich bark that barbecue aficionados seek.
Commitment to Quality Ingredients: The foundation of exceptional barbecue starts long before the meat hits the smoker. Blackburns BBQ emphasizes sourcing high-quality cuts, understanding that superior raw materials are essential for achieving superior final results. This focus on ingredient integrity translates directly into the robust flavor profiles found in every dish they serve.
A True Local Gathering Spot: Located centrally at 169 N 5th St, Blackburns BBQ serves as a vital hub for the Eagle Lake community. It offers an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere where families and friends can gather to share hearty, satisfying meals. The environment reflects the genuine, down-to-earth nature of Central Florida hospitality.
Mastery Over Signature Sauces and Sides: While the smoked meats are the undeniable stars, the accompanying elements at Blackburns BBQ are crafted with equal care. Their selection of house-made sauces offers the perfect complement to the smoky meats, providing a balance of tang, sweetness, or heat, depending on personal preference. Furthermore, their traditional side dishes are prepared fresh daily, rounding out the full barbecue experience.
The culinary philosophy at Blackburns BBQ is refreshingly straightforward: respect the meat, honor the smoke, and serve generously. This dedication is evident in the consistency and quality that patrons have come to expect from this beloved establishment. They don't rely on fleeting trends; instead, they focus on perfecting the classics that have defined American barbecue for generations.
Visiting Blackburns BBQ is an opportunity to slow down and savor a meal prepared with true dedication. It is an experience that engages all the senses—the sight of perfectly rendered fat, the sound of satisfied conversation, the smell of hickory and oak smoke, and, most importantly, the taste of expertly crafted barbecue. For anyone exploring the culinary landscape of Polk County, this address in Eagle Lake represents a mandatory stop for authentic, soulful American cooking.
Savoring the Tradition
In conclusion, Blackburns BBQ at 169 N 5th St, Eagle Lake, FL 33839, United States, is more than just a restaurant; it is a cultural touchstone for barbecue lovers in the region. It successfully bridges the gap between rustic tradition and high-quality execution. The commitment shown by the pitmasters to the slow-smoking process ensures that every bite delivers deep, satisfying flavor. Whether you are seeking the perfect rack of ribs or a generous portion of tender pulled pork, Blackburns BBQ promises an authentic taste of Florida’s finest smoked offerings. We invite you to stop by and discover why this local gem continues to be celebrated for its unwavering dedication to the art of barbecue.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Kerbside pickup
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great dessert
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Beer
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Quick bite
Small plates
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Locals
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Has changing table(s)
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
On-site parking
Plenty of parking
Menus
STARTERS
Half NachosUS$9.99
Full NachosUS$14.99
Homemade Bbq Deviled EggsUS$2.99
Onion RingsUS$11.99
Fried MushroomsUS$11.49
OkraUS$9.99
Fried PicklesUS$9.99
Sausage LinkUS$3.49
Cornbread Basket (6)US$4.49
Garlic Toast (4)US$3.49
SANDWICH ONLY
Pulled Pork SandwichUS$8.99
Rib Bone-In SandwichUS$9.99
Brisket SandwichUS$9.99
Sliced Turkey SandwichUS$9.99
Sausage SandwichUS$9.99
Chicken Salad SandwichUS$9.99
Pulled Chicken SandwichUS$8.99
Make Sandwich a mealUS$5.99
Dinner Plates
Pulled Pork DinnerUS$16.49
Smoked Sliced Turkey DinnerUS$19.99
Smoked 1/2 Chicken DinnerUS$16.49
Smoked Link Sausage DinnerUS$19.99
Smoked Ribs DinnerUS$16.99
Smoked Sliced Brisket DinnerUS$19.99
Mrs. Teresa's ComboUS$21.99
Mr. Creig's ComboUS$23.99
Veggie PlateUS$10.49
Family Meal Deals
Family Pack For 2US$39.99
Family Pack For 6US$75.99
HOMEMADE SIGNATURE SIDES
Sweet Cole Slaw (6oz)US$3.99
Smoked BBQ Beans (6oz)US$3.99
Mimi's Corn Casserole (6oz)US$3.99
Southern Potato Salad (6oz)US$3.99
Creamy Mac 'N' Cheese (6oz)US$3.99
Smoked Seasoned Cabbage (6oz)US$3.99
Fresh Collard Greens (6oz)US$3.99
Seasoned Pole Beans (6oz)US$3.99
PINT (Sides)US$6.99
FRIED SIDES
French FriesUS$3.99
Tater TotsUS$3.99
Okra (6oz)US$3.99
Salad - upchargeUS$1.00
Signature Desserts
Banana Pudding CupUS$2.99
Fresh Pecan PieUS$3.99
Banana Pudding PintUS$5.99
Apple PieUS$3.99
Aunt Mel"s Peach cobblerUS$4.99
Pop's Smoked Wings
Five (5) Smoked Chicken WingsUS$8.99
Ten (10) Smoked WIngsUS$17.49
Twenty (20) Smoked WingsUS$29.99
Smoked Wing PlatterUS$14.49
Cravings Corral
Smoked 2-Lb Loaded Bbq PotatoUS$13.49
Loaded BBQ FriesUS$11.99
Loaded BBQ Tater TotsUS$11.99
Chicken TendersUS$13.49
Boneless WingsUS$12.99
Loaded BBQ QuesadillaUS$13.99
MAKE IT A MEALUS$5.99
FRESH SALADS
Large House SaladUS$10.99
Add Meat to Large SaladUS$6.99
Small House SaladUS$4.99
Add meat to Small House SaladUS$3.99
MERCHANDISE
Barbecue sauceUS$6.49
Keychains
Photos
Reviews Blackburns Bbq
My Opinion
16-09-2025
We just ate here, for the first time, and boy we're we impressed. From the moment we walked in the door we felt like we were family! Service was outstanding 👏
The decor is very down home patriotic. We loved seeing the 1776 flag, copies of our founding documents, and all the wood.
I ordered the ribs. They were probably the best I've ever had.
My MIL chose the brisket sandwich 😋, and my husband had the brisket baked potato 🥔 EVERYTHING was so good.
I give this place a solid 10 🌟
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
June McClosky
02-09-2025
Oh my gosh!! 1st I have to talk about the staff! The staff was hustling all around, to seat the line out the door. Since they were so busy so my husband and I took 2 open seats at the bar! That was the best choice, were immediately waited … More
Paul webb
26-08-2025
Food was great as always. Ribs seem to fall off the bone more than before. Portions were good and the mac and cheese was excellent. Our server, Sibol had the food out before I even got back from visiting the restroom. As for the atmosphere, … More
Rashelly Smith
17-08-2025
We had a wonderful time today at blackburns. We have lived in eagle lake for about 3 years and had never actually stopped to eat here but I had only heard great things about this place. And let me tell you the recommendations of my friends … More
Carolyn B
04-08-2025
After reading about Blackburns BBQ in Eagle Lake being on Florida’s top 30 list for best bar be que, we had to try it out. And we were pleasantly surprised. We tried Mr. Creig’s Combo with ribs, sliced turkey, and smoked sausage and with … More
Tiff Capers
22-07-2025
Hubby and I stopped by Blackburn’s BBQ for the first time. The ribs and chicken did not disappoint. They were tender, smoky, and full of flavor! The sides were just okay; the BBQ beans and potato salad could use a little more seasoning. The staff was friendly and worked well together. They appeared to be a great team. But overall, it’s definitely worth the visit for the meat alone. Will be back for another plate
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Diane Breinig
08-07-2025
Wow!! So happy we made the drive of nearly 90 minutes to try Blackburn's BBQ. Thank you to Charly's World for the idea! Great place for BBQ in Lakeland, FL. Our server was fantastic - Carolyn P. She was helpful with everything since it was our first time visiting and her recommendation was on point with the side she suggested, always be on Mac n Cheese! So delicious! We had Brisket, Ribs and Loaded Tator Tots. We took some to go and we got dessert to go as well! Apple pie, peach cobbler and pecan pie. Amazing place! Give it a try if you are in the area! You won't be disappointed!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Brisket or Smoked Sausage, Fried Okra, Ribs, BBQ Deviled Eggs, Tater Tots, Mac & Cheese, Brisket and Pulled Pork
Noise level
Moderate noise
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Parking is across the street from the actual restaurant.
Kid-friendliness
Yes
Wheelchair accessibility
Yes
Corina
21-06-2025
Food was so good from appetizers to main meal and the sweet tea. Was very impressed that while we were there, several times the owner came out and talked to his customers to make sure everything was satisfactory. We will be going back! More
Melissa Jackson Jordan
05-06-2025
First time visiting Blackburn's and definitely won't be the last.
From stepping in the door to our last step out the door, service was incredibly friendly, attentive and perfectly timed. … More
Jason Elliott
27-05-2025
OMG so tasty!
Ive recently moved back to Florida from Texas and have been trying to find my BBQ place. Well after tonight, I think I found it!
I had the BBQ Deviled Eggs and Mr. Creig’s Combo (the three meat combo) and dear lord it was so good. I got the brisket, turkey, and sausage with the baked beans and potato salad as sides. Let’s say, at the end, my plate was clear.
The icing in the cake was being taken care of by Claudia, she was great. Perfectly attentive, kept my drink full, and just the right amount of attentive. I know I’ll be back!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Not sure
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area
Cliff Crawford
21-05-2025
We love BBQ and always look up new BBQ restaurants when we are away from home. We discovered Blackburn's about 5 years ago when visiting LegoLand. We come back every time we are in the area. We have never been disappointed with anything … More
Z M
29-04-2025
Hard to find good BBQ places. Especially when on road. Happened to come across Blackburns and it did not disappoint! Excellent bbq with top notch service. Brisket and Chicken were amazing. Garlic toast, coleslaw and Okra with all great as … More
Rachael Stephens
28-04-2025
First time tonight for a quick dinner with my husband and the food was amazing. Sibol was the best server we could’ve asked for. She thought we would love the orange soda. 🤣 Can’t wait to come back.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Gerardo Ortiz
25-04-2025
Brandon, the owner, is a good man. He personally came over to make sure we were taken care of and enjoying both the food and the service. You can tell he truly cares about his customers. Family oriented!
Everything about Blackburn’s BBQ is top-notch! The service is some of the best I’ve ever experienced, and the BBQ is absolutely incredible. When the meat falls off the ribs before you can even take a bite. That’s how you know you’re eating quality BBQ. I highly recommend Blackburn’s BBQ to anyone who loves real, flavorful, perfectly cooked barbecue.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
kapd KapdBe
13-04-2025
**sigh** its only been a few days and I already miss BlackBurns BBQ. The place itself was amazing. PACKED. That smokey goodness hit your senses when you walk in the door. The server was amazing, attentive, knowledgeable and led me to discover some yumminess I wasnt expecting.
I has the wings "Brandon's Way" - my gosh.. so delicious. Tangy, a bit of a bite, smokeyness. I could have had another 10!
Then had the Rib Dinner plate.. Wow.
Just wow. Best bbq I had in a long time.
Look forward to going back down to Winter Haven and I'll be making a BBQ line to Blackburns.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Ribs, Rib Dinner, BBQ Ribs
Elizabeth Bertholf
04-04-2025
Came here Friday 6/6 right at open. The food was phenomenal and the service was great.
We tried the garlic bread, fried mushrooms, ribs, Mac and cheese, fries, collard greens, okra, brisket, turkey, and sausage. Everything was great. The ribs, brisket, turkey, and sausage had a great flavor. The brisket literally fell apart in my hand and it was the lean portion of the brisket which is hard to do. Would come back if in the area. Had plenty of leftovers which heated up nicely.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Angel Gonzalez
03-04-2025
If you love great BBQ, you have to check out Blackburn’s BBQ in Eagle Lake. From the moment we walked in, we could tell this was going to be something special. The aroma of smoked meats hits you instantly, and it only gets better from there!
Let’s start with the food — I ordered the 3-meat dinner and went with two portions of ribs and brisket. The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, packed with flavor, and had that perfect smoky sweetness that keeps you going back for “just one more bite.” Honestly, some of the best ribs I’ve ever had. The brisket was extremely moist and tasty, but I had been hoping for that super fatty, melt-in-your-mouth cut.
Here’s where the experience went from great to phenomenal — our server Kylie. She is an absolute superstar! Sweet, attentive, and genuinely caring, she made sure we were completely happy with everything. When I mentioned how I prefer my brisket extra fatty, she didn’t hesitate for a second — she went straight to the kitchen and came back with exactly what I was looking for: rich, moist, melt-in-your-mouth brisket perfection. That kind of service is rare these days, and Kylie nailed it.
Then Tiffany, the General Manager, stopped by to check on us, and she was just as wonderful and welcoming. A bit later, a gentleman (possibly an owner or manager) also came by and spoke with nearly every table, making sure guests were enjoying their meals. That level of care and pride really stood out — you can tell everyone at Blackburn’s truly loves what they do.
Between the incredible BBQ, the top-notch service, and the friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere, this place easily ranks among the best BBQ joints I’ve ever visited. Even though it’s over an hour’s drive for us, Blackburn’s BBQ is absolutely worth every mile.
🔥 Special shoutout to Kylie Northern — you’re a rockstar!
This spot has officially earned a top place on our go-to BBQ list.
We can't wait to come back again!
Service
Dine in
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Booth seating
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Karen B
28-03-2025
Fantastic BBQ!!! We had the BBQ Deviled Egg as an appetizer. So good! We both had Mr. Chetz dinner, 3 meats, 2 sides and a bread choice. My husband had brisket, ribs and sausage with baked beans and Mac n cheese for sides. I had the same meats with smoked cabbage and Pole beans for sides. I wanted corn bread, but they were out. So, hubby got my garlic bread. Ribs we're my favorite. Moist, great flavor and fall off the bone tender. Brisket brought in a very close second. Normally sausage is one of my favorites but these were a little spicy and chewy. I did eat one before hitting my food wall. Service was great as well as the atmosphere. This was our second time eatting here and the the 45 minute drive from our house will not keep us from visiting Blackburns BBQ again soon! Go and enjoy a delicious meal!
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Brisket or Smoked Sausage, Rib Dinner, Ribs, Smoked Sausage, Banana Pudding, BBQ Deviled Eggs, Mac & Cheese
Special events
Not sure
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Counter seating
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Parking behind building with an extra lot across the street from the parking lot. A few spots in front, but difficult to get out of when leaving due to traffic.
Kid-friendliness
Great family restaurant with kids friendly choices.
Wheelchair accessibility
Ramp for handicap accessibility.
Morgan Batliner
08-03-2025
From the moment we walked in we were greeted with not only kind and personable staff, but also by the smell of great bbq! Shoutout to Tommi our waitress, she was so personable and lovely! 12/10 customer service & bbq!! More
Tina McArthur
02-03-2025
First time visiting! My husband loves BBQ! We both had the Rib dinner with two sides and corn muffin... I had the Smoked Cooked Cabbage and Fried Okra they were both delicious 😋! My husband had Coleslaw and Baked Beans he really enjoyed … More
Reviews Blackburns Bbq