When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Rang Tang Craft Barbecue

Why Rang Tang Craft Barbecue is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rang Tang Craft Barbecue stands out as an exceptional spot to gather with friends and family for a deeply satisfying barbecue experience in Boulder County, Colorado. Known for their commitment to ethically sourced, regeneratively raised meats, this Longmont-based food truck offers a menu that celebrates the art of slow-smoked barbecue prepared with finesse and respect for the environment. Their smoked meats, including 14-hour smoked beef brisket, housemade cold-smoked sausages, smoked and confited beef chuck burnt ends, and smoked pulled whole hog dressed in a lightly spicy Carolina vinegar sauce, are cooked over local oak and fruitwoods using a classic offset smoker. This traditional method infuses their meats with a rich, smoky flavor that combines taste and tenderness, making it a perfect spot for BBQ enthusiasts. Beyond the food, Rang Tang emphasizes sustainability by using pasture-raised pork, organic local vegetables, and avoiding seed oils and GMOs. Their mobile operation appears at multiple venues such as farmers markets and local events, creating fun and relaxed environments ideal for social meetups, corporate catering, family gatherings, weddings, and large celebrations. The attention to sustainable sourcing coupled with decadent flavors offers a unique culinary experience that combines ethical considerations with indulgence, making it a welcoming and memorable place to meet up and enjoy quality barbecue together.
Here's what people think of Rang Tang Craft Barbecue
As of recent, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue holds a 4.6-star rating based on 50 reviews.
User reviews for Rang Tang Craft Barbecue generally reflect a highly positive dining experience, contributing to their solid 4.6-star rating from 50 reviews. Enthusiasts frequently praise the quality of the smoked meats — highlighting the flavorful, tender beef brisket and the uniquely prepared whole hog barbecue. Many reviewers appreciate the care taken in sourcing meats ethically and sustainably, which aligns with the food’s freshness and taste. Positive feedback also mentions the friendly and professional service and the appealing atmosphere when the food truck is present at various Boulder markets and community events. Customers remark on the distinctive smoky flavors achieved through careful use of local oak and fruitwoods and the expertise in barbecue techniques that elevate the taste beyond typical fast food barbecue. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally note limited menu variety at times, or the inconvenience of food truck accessibility depending on their schedule. A few customers mention longer wait times during busy periods, likely due to the labor-intensive slow smoking procedure. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overwhelming consensus is that Rang Tang Craft Barbecue delivers a delicious, high-quality meal worth the wait, with a clear passion for ethical sourcing and barbecue craftsmanship. Overall, the positive reviews strongly indicate that this is a distinct and highly recommended choice for barbecue lovers seeking both flavor and responsibility in their dining experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
You Enjoy Life
Are you kidding me with this food! It is the real deal. I've had a lot of bbq in my day and you can tell when it is actually smoked with true fire. Everything was delicious and I say that as someone who almost never eats out, we make just about everything ourselves. To taste something of this high quality reminds me that there are people out there doing good by food.
Jasmine Joga
y'all should be ashamed. i paid $30 for a few pieces of brisket and a sausage with slaw. waited there for nearly an hour before asking if i could just cancel my order, as i was working an event nearby, but the guys in the truck just rushed my order to the front instead. it was disappointingly dry and flavorless—the casing on the sausage was extremely tough too. i understand that they use very high quality beef, which would justify the price, but i would rather buy $30 worth of factory-farmed brisket than feel buyer's remorse for dry grass-fed meats that ended up ruining my day. and it wasn't even hot :( just lukewarm, dry meats. i also think it's ridiculous to make people wait for 45 minutes or more for a plate at a food truck. it's not a sit down restaurant and isn't the idea of bbq to have slow-cooked meats ready ahead of time? so i'm not really sure what exactly i was waiting for, but i wish i saved my money and time and went literally anywhere else in the market. also, my friend wanted to order the meatballs, but they were sold out despite the sign still being up. maybe take two seconds to remove the sign or write 'sold out' so your customers know what to expect. we waited about 15 minutes in line, so she had to quickly pivot to the mac and cheese when it was time to order. it wasn't a problem since she liked it, but we both found it a tad inconsiderate. don't make your customers wait for bad overpriced bbq if you can't be prepared with your portions ahead of time—it's just bad business. everyone knows the market gets busy, so i kind of find it hard to believe that they 'got slammed with orders'. just don't give these guys your money because they clearly don't respect bbq or their customers' time. rancid vibes all around. go support the vietnamese food stand instead; you'll wait a bit in line, but will be handed a fantastic banh mi and a lime mojito in under a minute for less than $15. and then you can get on with your life because you have more important things to do than wait for bad brisket.
Alexander Thomson
The best and highest quality BBQ in the area. LR is the 🐐. BBQ suited for everyone!!
Samantha Kloss
really delicious and I love the regenerative raised meats and no seed oils I’ve been wanting to try this forever. It was slightly small portions for $30; however, really good! Glad this place exists!
Andrew Schneider
Some of the best BBQ I've had in this area. Great service. Love the slaw and pulled pork. The price was outrageous, but I'm willing to pay for the high quality ingredients.
How to reach Rang Tang Craft Barbecue
None
Website: None

Why Rang Tang Craft Barbecue may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you’re looking for a vibrant and inviting spot to gather with friends or family, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue stands out as an excellent choice. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from 50 reviews, it’s clear that this barbecue joint has won over many palates and hearts alike. The atmosphere at Rang Tang is more than just a place to eat; it is a warm, casual venue where everyone can relax and enjoy premium barbecue in a friendly, communal environment. The terrific food paired with accommodating service creates an experience that’s perfect for socializing and celebrating. The location contributes significantly to this convivial vibe—it’s housed within a charming food truck park with ample outdoor seating. Imagine sitting under the open sky with your group, sharing some of the best brisket and sides around, surrounded by vibrant chatter and laughter. Whether you want to catch up with old friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a laid-back evening out, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue offers a distinctly welcoming setting that encourages connection through excellent food and good times.
What unique activities and features make Rang Tang Craft Barbecue perfect for group meetups?
Rang Tang Craft Barbecue is not just about the food; it offers an experiential backdrop ideal for group gatherings. One of the key draws is its setting in a lively food truck park, which means there’s a unique communal energy and variety nearby, allowing groups to explore different tastes if desired. This outdoor dining atmosphere invites casual mingling and is perfect for groups of all sizes, giving you plenty of room to spread out or come close. The menu focuses on southern-style craft barbecue, featuring signature dishes like their deeply satisfying brisket, burnt ends, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and beans—comfort food that encourages sharing and conversation. Because the food is made from pasture-grazing local meats and seasonal produce, each dish has a wholesome, fresh flavor that keeps everyone coming back. Additionally, the staff is known for being extremely accommodating and quick, which means large groups won’t be left waiting long. This combination of outstanding food, authentic flavors, and attentive service, all set in a vibrant outdoor venue, makes Rang Tang an ideal spot for groups looking to enjoy a memorable meal together.
How does Rang Tang Craft Barbecue cater to diverse dietary preferences in a group setting?
When meeting up with a diverse group, dietary preferences and restrictions can often complicate the food choices, but Rang Tang Craft Barbecue makes it easy. It’s recognized as a gluten-free friendly restaurant, making it highly accessible to guests who need to avoid gluten but still want to enjoy rich and delicious barbecue. This attention to dietary needs extends beyond just gluten, as their use of natural, farm-sourced ingredients tends toward fresh, clean foods without unnecessary additives—appealing to health-conscious diners. The sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw provide vegetarian-friendly options that pair beautifully with the meat offerings, so even guests who don’t eat meat have satisfying choices. Because the menu combines traditional barbecue classics with an emphasis on quality and whole ingredients, Rang Tang ensures that every member of your group can find something delicious without feeling limited. This thoughtful approach to menu inclusivity creates a welcoming environment that respects everyone’s needs, reinforcing why it’s an excellent place for friend groups or families with varying tastes.
What is special about the food and cooking philosophy at Rang Tang Craft Barbecue?
Rang Tang Craft Barbecue’s culinary philosophy centers around serving authentic, mouthwatering Southern-style barbecue enriched by a commitment to sustainability and quality. Their brisket and other meats are sourced from local farms practicing regenerative agriculture, meaning the animals are pasture-raised in ways that improve ecosystem health. This attention to where and how the meat is raised results in richer flavors and a more satisfying texture, giving the food a depth that sets Rang Tang apart from standard barbecue spots. The cooking itself is done with traditional low-and-slow smoking methods, which transform the local meats into tender, smoky masterpieces that are the highlight of the menu. Signature dishes like the brisket sandwich have become fan favorites because of their complex flavor profiles and perfectly balanced seasoning. The sides are just as thoughtfully prepared—from creamy mac and cheese to crunchy, vinegary coleslaw—completing the meal with wholesome heartiness. This dedication to craft and care is what makes Rang Tang not just a restaurant but a destination for barbecue enthusiasts and social groups alike.
Why does the outdoor setting of Rang Tang enhance the meetup experience?
Location and atmosphere play a pivotal role in any group meetup, and Rang Tang Craft Barbecue leverages its outdoor setting to great effect. Located in a charming, clean food truck park, the space has an inviting, casual vibe that encourages socializing and a relaxed pace. The outdoor seating area allows groups to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine during the day or a pleasant evening breeze after sundown, contributing to an uplifting dining experience. Plenty of room means large parties can be comfortably accommodated without feeling cramped, and the open layout encourages mingling with other patrons if you so desire, making it great for community-oriented gatherings. This environment also makes it easier to host a variety of group activities, from casual celebrations to informal meetings, because the space is flexible and visually appealing. In short, the outdoor setting makes the experience at Rang Tang feel more festive and communal, perfect for friends or families looking to enjoy great barbecue without the confines of indoor dining.
How does Rang Tang’s customer service contribute to an ideal outing with friends?
Excellent customer service is critical when dining with a group, and Rang Tang Craft Barbecue consistently garners praise for its attentive and friendly staff. Reviews often highlight the quick service and the team’s willingness to accommodate group needs, such as special orders or alterations. This level of care is essential in keeping everyone’s experience smooth and enjoyable, especially when you have diverse tastes or dietary restrictions within your party. The staff’s enthusiasm for the food and commitment to making each guest feel welcome adds a personal touch that transforms a simple meal into a memorable outing. Their efficient handling of orders ensures that wait times are minimized, so the focus stays on enjoying the meal and company rather than logistics. Because the Rang Tang team prioritizes guest satisfaction, group members leave feeling well cared for — an important factor in choosing a venue for social outings or family get-togethers.
What makes Rang Tang Craft Barbecue an authentic and memorable barbecue destination?
Beyond just food and service, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue offers an authentic taste experience rooted in a deep appreciation for Southern barbecue traditions combined with modern sustainable practices. Founded with the mission to highlight pasture-raised meats and local produce, Rang Tang brings values of environmental stewardship alongside culinary expertise. This authentic commitment is evident in every bite, appealing to barbecue fans who seek genuine flavors crafted with care. The use of heritage smoking techniques and a focus on community creates a welcoming vibe that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Social media buzz, such as featured posts sharing the brisket sandwich experience, helps build a community around the brand, adding to its cultural cachet. By blending tradition, sustainability, and community spirit, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue stands out as a destination that is not only about enjoying great food but also about celebrating connection and shared values—making it a perfect rallying point for groups seeking a memorable meal and atmosphere.
How can Rang Tang Craft Barbecue accommodate celebrations or special events?
If you are planning a special event or celebration with friends or family, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue can be a standout choice thanks to its flexibility and welcoming environment. The spacious outdoor seating combined with its location at a food truck park provides a festive backdrop suitable for birthdays, reunions, casual office gatherings, or any informal party. Catering options are also available, which allows you to extend the Rang Tang experience to private venues or larger groups, ensuring that the signature flavors and quality reach wherever you celebrate. The menu’s crowd-pleasing items—such as burnt ends, brisket sandwiches, and hearty sides—are ideal for sharing and feeding groups with varied tastes. The staff’s accommodating nature means special requests or dietary accommodations are handled gracefully, which reduces stress when coordinating a group event. With its delicious food, lively atmosphere, and ability to support group celebrations smoothly, Rang Tang Craft Barbecue is a top contender for anyone seeking a barbecue gathering with friends or family that’s both delicious and effortlessly enjoyable.