Welcome to Oz N Bones BBQ: A Taste of Authentic Smokehouse Tradition
Nestled in the heart of Colchester, Connecticut, at 43 Hayward Ave, Oz N Bones BBQ stands as a beacon for lovers of true, slow-smoked barbecue. More than just a restaurant, it is a destination where the craft of authentic American barbecue is honored daily. From the moment you step through the door, the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of hickory and oak, promising a culinary experience rooted deeply in tradition and passion. We believe that great barbecue cannot be rushed; it is a labor of love, requiring patience, premium ingredients, and an unwavering commitment to time-honored smoking techniques.
Our philosophy centers on simplicity and quality. We focus on perfecting the classics—the tender brisket, the succulent pulled pork, and the perfectly seasoned ribs—allowing the natural flavors developed through hours of slow cooking over real wood to shine through. This dedication to the process ensures that every plate leaving our kitchen tells a story of dedication, tradition, and the rich heritage of smokehouse cooking. Whether you are a lifelong barbecue aficionado or new to the world of low-and-slow cooking, Oz N Bones BBQ offers a genuine taste that resonates with the soul of American culinary artistry.
We understand that the modern diner seeks more than just a meal; they seek an experience. At our Colchester location, we strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming, relaxed, and reflective of the genuine hospitality associated with Southern and regional American smokehouses. It is a place where families gather, friends reconnect, and the simple pleasure of perfectly cooked meat takes center stage. Our commitment extends beyond the plate to ensuring every guest feels like part of the Oz N Bones family.
Key Highlights of the Oz N Bones BBQ Experience
Discover what sets Oz N Bones BBQ apart in the Connecticut culinary landscape. Our focus remains sharp on delivering unparalleled quality and an authentic atmosphere:
Authentic Low-and-Slow Smoking Process: At the core of our operation is the commitment to traditional barbecue methodology. We utilize high-quality hardwoods, meticulously controlling temperature and smoke for extended periods. This slow rendering process breaks down connective tissues, resulting in meats that are incredibly tender, moist, and infused with deep, complex smoky notes that cannot be replicated quickly. This dedication to time is our secret ingredient.
Focus on Premium, Locally Sourced Ingredients: Quality starts at the source. We prioritize selecting superior cuts of meat, understanding that the foundation of great barbecue relies on excellent raw materials. This careful sourcing, combined with our proprietary dry rubs and house-made sauces, ensures a consistently high standard across our entire menu offerings.
A True Community Gathering Spot: Located conveniently at 43 Hayward Ave, Oz N Bones BBQ aims to be the neighborhood’s favorite spot for hearty, satisfying meals. We foster an environment where the focus is on good food shared among good company. It is a place designed for comfort, conversation, and the shared enjoyment of expertly prepared barbecue classics.
Mastery of Classic Barbecue Styles: While we honor tradition, our pitmasters possess the skill to execute various regional styles flawlessly. From the deep bark on our smoked cuts to the perfect balance of tang and sweetness in our accompanying sides, every element on your plate is crafted with precision and respect for the craft.
Savoring the Tradition in Colchester, CT
Oz N Bones BBQ is proud to serve the Colchester community and visitors passing through Connecticut. We invite you to experience the difference that passion, patience, and real wood smoke can make. Forget the hurried pace of everyday life for a moment and immerse yourself in the rich, smoky flavors that define genuine American barbecue.
Our location at 43 Hayward Ave is ready to welcome you, whether you are stopping by for a quick, satisfying lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner with family and friends. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of flavor and hospitality, ensuring that your visit to Oz N Bones BBQ is memorable long after the last bite of brisket has disappeared. Come taste the tradition; come taste the dedication. We look forward to serving you the best smokehouse experience Connecticut has to offer.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
Photos
Reviews Oz N Bones Bbq
Jennifer Koss
20-06-2026
Stopped here on a Saturday adventure. Everyone was super welcoming. It smelled heavenly as soon as you got to the outdoor patio. We ordered a burnt ends sandwich, brisket, potato salad, coleslaw and the bacon Mac. Everything was delicious. We will definitely be back when in the area.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Yesenia Cajigas
05-05-2026
We were looking for something different outside our local spots. We decided to take the drive and explore. We heard about this spot and took the chance! The service was great! Since it was our first time, they provided guidance on the game. The food was amazing! Mac & cheese is a must have! Ribs, chicken, brisket, burnt ends were so good!!! The dessert looked delicious but we couldn’t fit in! I will definitely be back! 😋
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
liz rivera
22-04-2026
I definitely recommend this place to eat as soon as you walk in they greet you as a family atmosphere. The place was extremely clean and the food was delicious and decent price. Overall, excellent experience.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
ben hutchins
26-02-2026
Pulled pork, pulled chicken, brisket, and burnt ends. Bacon mac and cheese, maple cornbread, all the sauce we could dip into, however the meats didn't need any sauce to be delicious..and the bacon mac..part of me wants the recipe, the other part wants the excuse to come here more often!
Southern hospitality in Connecticut, couldn't ask for better service, or atmosphere, and the food was phenomenal!!
Best restaurant I've been to in YEARS and I go out weekly.
I'd rate it 10 stars if I could!!
Went on Thursday night, live musician was incredible.
We'll be back for sure!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Stacy D
15-01-2026
By far the best smoked food I’ve ever had. We drove about 50 mins and next time we want smoked food we will go back there. The brisket was so meaty. Mac and cheese was awesome. Loved the corn bread with the maple butter. Almost tasted like dessert. Pulled pork was delicious and loved the bbq sauces
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Shawna Oconnor
29-11-2025
My husband and I love trying new places, especially BBQ so when we heard there was a place locally we had to check it out. When we pulled in the place was so cute! We were welcomed by a very nice woman who explained how the ordering all worked. When we got the food, disappointment was an understatement. My husband and I each got burnt ends and brisket with Mac and cheese. We each took a few bites and decided to throw the rest away. The meat is not smoked. It’s either boiled or microwaved. I’ve never in my life tried something so rancid. We are both not ones to turn away food especially for what we paid. If you are reading this please save yourself the trouble and save your money and go elsewhere. If I could give the food no stars I would.
Food: 1
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3
Kate A
13-08-2025
We love having a good BBQ place so close to home! Every time we come here the food and service are top notch. Best pulled pork and ribs in CT, and the banana pudding is to die for. Normally I'm not a potato salad fan, but theirs is really good!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Combo Plate, Banana Pudding
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Aubrey Cycenas
09-06-2025
I picked up dinner to go on Wednesday night (12/10), and I was blown away by my entire experience. From the second I opened the door I was immediately greeted by staff, who were all exceptionally kind. I watched the cashier (I wish I remember her name!!) carefully check my order and then meticulously package everything in front of me, all while warmly engaging in conversation with me.
In my experience, exceptional customer service is always a prelude to exceptional food quality. And the meal did not disappoint. The ribs fell off the bone, the cornbread with maple butter is a necessity, and the bourbon banana pudding is even better than it sounds— trust me.
To the owner and staff: Please keep doing what you’re doing with passion, love, and exceptional quality— it’s what makes this place so special. I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience here, and I’m already looking forward to coming back.
Service
Take out
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Jess W
05-06-2025
Holy smokes, this place is awesome!
I got the burnt ends in a bowl with Mac n cheese and baked beans. My wife got the brisket, Cole slaw and Mac n cheese. It was really, so good.
Place was nice, we love the blues!
The staff were so nice and they all seemed genuinely happy - which I think shows in the food and the service.
I absolutely highly recommend. Great food, blues, good people, 10/10.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Lahiru Subasinghe
14-05-2025
We were looking for a spot to grab a quick bite in the area and were glad to have come across this place. A great find with some of the best BBQ options around. I had one of the best nachos I've had in a long time. The staff was incredibly friendly and walked us through the menu with helpful recommendations. Even better, the food was prepared in under 10 minutes. Excellent service — will definitely be back soon.
Service
Takeaway
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
5-8 people
Wait time
No wait
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Reviews Oz N Bones Bbq