The main attraction at any barbecue restaurant might be brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, but the meal often starts with something just as exciting—the appetizers. Choosing the best BBQ appetizers before the main course sets the stage for everything that follows, giving everyone at the table a chance to sample bold flavors, share great food, and build anticipation for the smoked meats still to come.
Whether you’re visiting a barbecue restaurant for the first time or you’re planning a meal with family and friends, selecting the right starters can make the experience even more enjoyable. From crispy favorites to smoky shareables, here’s what to order before the main course arrives.
TL;DR – Quick Guide
Looking for the best BBQ appetizers before the main course? Start with:
- 24-Hour Wings
- Coaster Nachos
- Homemade Onion Rings
- Chicken Tenders
- Chili Cheese Fries
- Buffalo Cauliflower
- Best Mac
- Garbage Fries
Ordering a few appetizers for the table lets everyone sample different flavors before the barbecue arrives.
Detailed Breakdown
Why Start with BBQ Appetizers?
Barbecue is naturally made for sharing, and appetizers help bring everyone together before the main dishes arrive.
Instead of waiting for brisket or ribs, your group can enjoy smaller plates that offer a variety of flavors and textures.
Great appetizers also:
- Keep everyone satisfied while smoked meats are prepared
- Encourage sharing around the table
- Let guests sample signature menu items
- Pair perfectly with beer, cocktails, or soft drinks
Starting with appetizers creates a more relaxed and social dining experience.
24-Hour Wings
A barbecue meal often begins with wings, and for good reason.
The 24-Hour Wings are brined, smoked, and fried for maximum flavor and tenderness before being served with carrots and celery.
Guests can choose from several sauces, including:
- Buffalo
- BBQ
- Spicy BBQ
- Carolina Gold
- Dry Rub
The combination of smoky flavor and crispy texture makes them one of the most popular appetizers on the menu.
Coaster Nachos
If you’re dining with a group, Coaster Nachos are an easy choice.
Loaded with:
- Refried beans
- Queso
- Pico de gallo
- Jalapeños
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
they can also be customized with your choice of:
- Smoked Pulled Pork
- Chicken Breast
- Street Corn
- Brisket (additional charge)
- Tri-Tip (additional charge)
They’re hearty enough to share while still leaving room for your barbecue entrée.
Homemade Onion Rings
Sometimes simple favorites are the most satisfying.
These Homemade Onion Rings feature house blonde ale beer batter and are served with chipotle ranch for dipping.
The crispy coating and tangy dipping sauce make them an excellent starter for nearly any barbecue meal.
Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders remain a favorite for guests of all ages.
Hand-breaded with a buttermilk marinade and served with carrots and celery, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.
They’re especially popular with families dining together.
Chili Cheese Fries
For guests with bigger appetites, Chili Cheese Fries are a filling way to begin the meal.
They’re topped with:
- Brisket chili
- Mixed cheese
- White onions
- Green onions
- Sour cream
The rich combination of barbecue flavors makes this appetizer feel like a meal all on its own.
Buffalo Cauliflower
Looking for a lighter option?
Buffalo Cauliflower delivers plenty of flavor with hand-breaded cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce and finished with:
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Green onions
- Chipotle ranch
It’s a great choice for guests looking for a vegetarian-friendly appetizer with a spicy kick.
Best Mac
Comfort food and barbecue go hand in hand.
Best Mac combines:
- Elbow pasta
- Cheddar
- American cheese
- Smoked gouda
- Crispy panko topping
The creamy, cheesy flavors pair wonderfully with smoked meats and are easy to share around the table.
Garbage Fries
If your table loves loaded fries, Garbage Fries are hard to beat.
They’re piled high with:
- Smoked Pulled Pork
- Queso
- BBQ Sauce
- Pickled Red Onions
- Jalapeños
Every bite delivers a combination of smoky, cheesy, tangy, and spicy flavors that make this appetizer a standout before the main course.
Pair Appetizers with Your BBQ Feast
Once you’ve finished your appetizers, it’s time for the main event.
Popular barbecue entrées include:
- Prime Beef Brisket
- Baby Back Ribs
- Smoked Pulled Pork
- BBQ Chicken Breast
- House Hot Links
- Tri-Tip
If you’re new to barbecue, check out What Should You Order at a BBQ Restaurant If You’ve Never Been to One Before? for helpful recommendations.
You can also explore BBQ 101: Tips for Enjoying Smoked Meats Like a Pro to learn more about classic barbecue styles and how to get the most from your meal.
Plan Your Perfect BBQ Meal
A memorable barbecue experience starts with great appetizers and finishes with perfectly smoked meats.
Before your visit, browse the complete menu to explore all the available starters, entrées, sides, desserts, and drinks.
If you’re staying in or planning a meal at home, you can also order online and enjoy your favorite barbecue dishes wherever you are.
Whether you’re sharing wings with friends, digging into loaded nachos with family, or sampling a little of everything before the brisket arrives, The Coaster Saloon offers plenty of delicious ways to start your barbecue meal.
Key Takeaways
- The best BBQ appetizers before the main course combine bold flavors with easy sharing.
- 24-Hour Wings, Coaster Nachos, Homemade Onion Rings, and Garbage Fries are among the most popular starters.
- Appetizers create a more social and enjoyable barbecue dining experience.
- Mixing lighter and heartier appetizers gives everyone something to enjoy.
- Pairing appetizers with smoked meats creates a well-rounded meal.
- Exploring the full menu before your visit makes it easier to plan your order.
- Online ordering lets you enjoy barbecue favorites from the comfort of home.
FAQs
1. What are the best BBQ appetizers before the main course?
Some of the best BBQ appetizers before the main course include wings, loaded nachos, onion rings, chicken tenders, chili cheese fries, and loaded fries. These shareable dishes provide a variety of flavors and textures while building anticipation for the main barbecue meal. Ordering several appetizers allows everyone at the table to sample different favorites.
2. Should I order appetizers before barbecue?
Yes. Appetizers are a great way to start a barbecue meal, especially when dining with family or friends. They encourage sharing, keep everyone satisfied while waiting for smoked meats, and let you experience more of the menu. Choosing two or three appetizers is often ideal for larger groups.
3. Which BBQ appetizer is best for sharing?
Loaded nachos, wings, onion rings, and garbage fries are all excellent choices for sharing because they’re served in generous portions and offer bold flavors. These appetizers are easy for multiple guests to enjoy together. Sharing several different dishes also creates more variety for the table.
4. Are there vegetarian BBQ appetizers?
Yes. Many barbecue restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly appetizers such as Buffalo Cauliflower and mac and cheese. Onion rings and certain fries may also be suitable depending on preparation. It’s always a good idea to review the menu or ask your server about vegetarian options.
5. Can I order BBQ appetizers for takeout?
Absolutely. Many barbecue restaurants offer online ordering for appetizers as well as full entrées. This makes it easy to enjoy wings, nachos, onion rings, and other favorites at home, whether you’re feeding yourself or sharing with friends and family.
