When it comes to BBQ in New Orleans, nothing compares to creating the perfect plate that balances smoky meats with flavorful sides. At Central City Barbecue, the art of building a plate is more than just filling it up—it’s about crafting a complete dining experience that celebrates the traditions and creativity of Southern cooking. From brisket to ribs, and from mac and cheese to Brussels sprouts, every choice matters when it comes to flavor and satisfaction.
Choosing Your Star Meat
The centerpiece of any great plate is the meat. Our Central City BBQ New Orleans menu offers a variety of pit-smoked favorites, each prepared with care and patience. For a hearty option, the Prime Brisket is hard to beat. Its tender texture and deep smoky profile make it a classic that pairs beautifully with both creamy and tangy sides.
For poultry lovers, Smoked Chicken and Smoked Turkey are lighter alternatives that still pack rich, savory flavor. They’re versatile proteins that work well with almost any side dish, making them excellent choices for guests who prefer balance on their plates. And of course, weekend visitors can’t miss our Beef Ribs, which are available in limited quantities and provide bold, unforgettable flavor.
Pairing with Comfort Sides
Once you’ve chosen your meat, the next step is pairing it with sides that enhance—not overpower—the dish. The Mac and Cheese is a customer favorite for good reason: its creamy texture and rich flavor complement smoky brisket or beef ribs perfectly. For something with a bit more freshness, the Crispy Brussels Sprouts add crunch and a touch of brightness to balance heavier cuts.
Southern traditions also shine through in dishes like Sweet Corn Spoonbread, which offers a gentle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory smoked turkey or chicken. The Pit House Beans are another classic, rich with flavor and designed to stand alongside any meat without stealing the spotlight.
Balancing Flavors for the Perfect Bite
The secret to building the perfect BBQ in New Orleans plate is balance. Pair smoky meats with sides that introduce contrasting textures or flavors. For example, a brisket plate feels complete when paired with creamy mac and cheese and crisp Brussels sprouts—giving you rich, smooth, and crunchy textures all in one meal. Meanwhile, smoked chicken shines alongside tangy coleslaw and hearty beans, creating a combination that’s light yet filling.
Think of your plate as a story, with each component adding a chapter: the meat provides depth, while the sides bring supporting notes of freshness, sweetness, or spice. Together, they create a harmonious whole that makes every bite satisfying.
Don’t Forget Starters and Desserts
While meats and sides form the heart of the plate, starters and desserts can elevate the entire dining experience. Begin with Brisket Bombs or Smoked Rib Tips to awaken your taste buds before diving into the main event. Then, end on a sweet note with a dessert like Banana Pudding Bread Pudding or a warm Brownie. These additions ensure your meal feels like a complete journey, from start to finish.
Building Plates for Groups
The Central City BBQ New Orleans menu is also designed for sharing. Our two- and three-meat combo plates allow you to sample multiple flavors in one sitting, making them perfect for family-style dining. When paired with a spread of sides—like spoonbread, coleslaw, and mac and cheese—these plates become a feast that satisfies everyone at the table.
Group dining is especially rewarding in September, when cooler evenings make gathering around hearty meals even more enjoyable. Whether you’re eating in or taking it to-go, our plates bring the joy of BBQ in New Orleans right to your table.
Why Pairing Matters
Pairing meats and sides isn’t just about taste—it’s about creating an experience that celebrates the best of BBQ in New Orleans. By balancing smoky, savory meats with sides that offer texture and contrast, every meal becomes more than food; it becomes a reflection of the culture and flavor traditions that make New Orleans cuisine truly special.
Ready to build your perfect plate? Visit Central City Barbecue today and explore the many options on our Central City BBQ New Orleans menu.
