Poor House Bar-B-Q

Poor House Bar-B-Q

971 US-4, Canaan, NH 03741, United States

+1 603-523-2116

Barbecue restaurant
(146)
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About This Place

Nestled along the scenic US-4 corridor in Canaan, New Hampshire, Poor House Bar-B-Q stands out as a genuine southern-style barbecue haven with a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements its mouthwatering menu. Known for its classic American barbecue fare, this charming spot delivers generous plates loaded with smoky, tender meats and indulgent sides that delight the senses and satisfy hearty appetites.

At the heart of Poor House Bar-B-Q’s appeal is its expertly crafted barbecue cuisine. Customers rave about the pulled pork—slow-cooked to perfection until irresistibly tender and juicy, paired beautifully with tangy sauces that balance sweet and smoky notes. The pork ribs are a standout, boasting a rich, smoky flavor and a fall-off-the-bone texture that invites you back for more. Don’t miss the Maple Brisket Mac & Cheese, a rich, creamy celebration of comfort food with a subtle maple twist that leaves a lasting impression on every palate.

Complementing the meats are thoughtfully prepared sides that elevate the dining experience. The cornbread offers a warm, slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory meats, while the baked beans and mac and cheese provide hearty, flavorful accompaniments, each spoonful bursting with smoky depth and homestyle goodness. For those seeking balance, the Caesar salad delivers crisp freshness, and the apple crisp dessert wraps up the meal with a cozy, sweet finish.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Poor House Bar-B-Q is consistently highlighted by patrons for its friendly, attentive staff and welcoming vibe—perfectly suited for family outings or a casual meal after a day of hiking in the nearby mountains. Outdoor seating adds an extra layer of charm, allowing guests to soak in the fresh New Hampshire air while savoring expertly seasoned fries and flavorful barbecue classics. It’s particularly pet-friendly, with staff often delighting pups with fresh cold water, enhancing the sense of home-away-from-home hospitality.

No barbecue experience is complete without a great drink, and Poor House Bar-B-Q’s creative cocktail list impresses with a diverse lineup—whether you prefer the zesty “Texas Mule,” the refreshing “Gin Rickey,” or the classic “Whiskey Sour.” Each cocktail complements the smoky richness of the food, adding a spirited and balanced touch to the meal.

The combination of expertly smoked meats, delicious sides, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere creates a dining experience that resonates with locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re craving a perfectly sauced brisket sandwich, fall-apart ribs, or homemade smash burgers, Poor House Bar-B-Q promises a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and bursting with authentic flavor.

With glowing endorsements from visitors describing it as “THE best BBQ we’ve ever had” and a must-visit gem tucked in the mountains of New Hampshire, it’s clear that Poor House Bar-B-Q doesn’t just serve food—it serves memories. If you find yourself near Canaan, this spot should be at the top of your culinary itinerary.

Contact: 971 US-4, Canaan, NH 03741 | Phone: +1 603-523-2116

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Quick bite Small plates Spirits
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups Tourists
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    Closed
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 09:30 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Kerri Haynes
    1 month ago

    First of all running into this place right after our hike on Mount Cardigan was perfect Friendliest staff especially to our pups brought them fresh cold water Outside seating was great Food and drinks perfect The fries were cooked perfectly and seasoned The brisket sandwich with extra bbq sauce amazing Thank you we will be back

  • Don Schaffer
    1 month ago

    I am a big BBQ fan and this place is a gem! The Maple Brisket Mac& Cheese was outstanding! All of my wife's dishes were top shelf including the French Fries. Would highly recommend!

  • helen Ann
    2 month ago

    First time for us, but wont be a last!!! Honestly we had difficulty in picking our meals, everything sounded so good!!! I ended up with the 2 meat combo, ribs and pulled chicken. My sides were the apple baked beans and slaw. He got half rack of ribs, baked spud and slaw! Our server was helpful in describing sides, vinegar slaw etc. As we waited for our food, we saw enormous plates of food for other diners. Those that were leaving all had take home boxes! Alas our food came!!! Ribs were a dry rub, with a dish of sauce. Beans were sweet and so flavorful. The slaw was equally as good!!! Now for the meats!!!! Omg the ribs were nicely done, juicy and extremely tender and did fall off the bone! The pulled chicken was juicy and tender and just so good!!! But honestly, the ribs had my focus!! Cornbread was sweet and tied in wonderfully!!! He sat eating quietly, which meant he only came up for air!!! He devoured the ribs, and sides!!! We both laughed when our server asked for dessert!!! Yes we both took home boxes of food we couldnt finish as other customers did. We both enjoyed our meal so much, we took pics to send to our friends for future visits!!! We will be back again, to savor more dishes!!! So nice to have a class act bbq in this area!!!

  • kelsie turner
    3 month ago

    The food is amazing!!! Everything I’ve had is so good. Best wings and smash burger all homemade! The staff are so friendly and even the drinks are good price for today’s world and there very good!! It’s worth the drive!

  • Lex W.
    3 month ago

    My husband, best friend, and I have traveled and eaten all over the country, and this place has been THE best BBQ we've ever had! The service was immaculate, and PHIL.The man, the myth, the sauce boss, has truly outdone himself. We greatly appreciated the conversation, compliments, and the sauce! An absolute gentleman and scholar. This is a true gem in the mountains of New Hampshire. It's a must go!

  • Eric Backstrom
    4 month ago

    Ample parking, lots of seating, the bar top, details and decor are quite nice. I had Emily as a bartender, she's very attentive, high energy and very kind. The food arrived very quickly, all three times I put an order in. Taste is great! I had brisket Mac n cheese, a single meat dinner (brisket, corn bread, apple beans) delicious. Emily then suggested a home cooked carrot cake. How can a guy say no to that? May of been the best I ever had! Had one 20oz ipa and the bill was about 80 with the tip. It's a treat, not a daily venture for me.

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