CNS-
California is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and cutting-edge culinary scene, but one thing that’s often overlooked is the state’s exceptional BBQ.
Whether you’re in search of smoky brisket, tender pulled pork, or a perfectly charred rack of ribs, California has some of the best BBQ spots you’ll find on the West Coast.
From urban hotspots to off-the-beaten-path gems, here are 11 must-try BBQ joints in California that promise the ultimate grilled experience.
1. Gus’s Bar-B-Q (Los Angeles)
A staple in the LA BBQ scene, Gus’s Bar-B-Q has been serving up flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth meats since 1946. Their hickory-smoked ribs, brisket, and signature hot links are a local favorite. The casual atmosphere and generous portions make it a great spot for BBQ lovers looking to experience some classic Southern-style flavors with a California twist.
2. The Salt Lick BBQ (Dripping Springs)
While technically located in Texas, The Salt Lick has expanded its influence and brought its legendary BBQ to California. This spot has gained a reputation for its massive cuts of meat, from tender brisket to smoky pork ribs, all cooked over an open pit for that perfect charred finish. With its rustic vibe and delicious sides, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving true Texas BBQ in California.
3. Pappy’s Smokehouse (Sacramento)
If you’re looking for a traditional BBQ experience in Northern California, Pappy’s Smokehouse in Sacramento should be on your list. The slow-cooked meats, including their famous St. Louis ribs, are perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to try their mouth-watering burnt ends and house-made sauces, which add an extra layer of goodness to their already incredible BBQ.
4. The Tri-Tip Grill (Santa Maria)
Located in the heart of California’s central coast, Santa Maria is known for its signature tri-tip steak. The Tri-Tip Grill serves this regional specialty with perfection, offering a smoky, tender cut of beef that’s grilled over an open flame. For a true Santa Maria BBQ experience, pair your tri-tip with classic sides like baked beans, garlic bread, and fresh salsa.
5. Reel ‘Em In Café (San Pedro)
Located in San Pedro, Reel ‘Em In Café is a hidden gem that combines seafood with BBQ. Known for their delicious grilled fish, they also serve some of the best BBQ in the area. The pulled pork sandwich and BBQ chicken are crowd favorites, offering a great balance of sweet and smoky flavors. If you’re looking for something different, try their BBQ fish tacos – a unique twist on California BBQ.
6. Brisket in the Hood (Los Angeles)
A food truck with a cult following, Brisket in the Hood is bringing authentic Texas-style BBQ to the streets of Los Angeles. Their smoked brisket is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, complemented by their famous house-made BBQ sauce. The food truck can often be found at local events, so be sure to check their social media for locations.
7. Big Jim’s (Bakersfield)
New York State Faces Its First Large-Scale Food Alert of 2025
For fans of slow-cooked, perfectly smoked meats, Big Jim’s BBQ in Bakersfield is a must-visit. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth brisket and famous BBQ chicken, Big Jim’s serves up high-quality BBQ with a generous helping of homemade sides like coleslaw and cornbread. It’s a local favorite for anyone craving hearty, satisfying BBQ in Central California.
8. Phat Matt’s BBQ (Berkeley)
A true BBQ institution in the Bay Area, Phat Matt’s BBQ in Berkeley is famous for its tender, flavorful meats and laid-back vibe. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork and spicy BBQ chicken, Phat Matt’s doesn’t skimp on flavor. Their signature side of mac and cheese is a fan favorite and pairs perfectly with any dish. It’s a perfect spot for a casual meal or takeout after a day of exploring Berkeley.
9. J&R’s Steakhouse (San Francisco)
J&R’s Steakhouse offers a unique BBQ experience in San Francisco with a focus on premium meats and expertly grilled steaks. Their BBQ offerings include juicy ribs, pulled pork, and perfectly cooked brisket, all seasoned to perfection and served with tangy sauces. If you’re in the city, J&R’s is the place to go for a true Texas BBQ experience in the heart of the Bay Area.
10. Bludso’s BBQ (Compton)
Bludso’s BBQ in Compton is a legendary spot known for its smoky, flavorful meats. The restaurant, which originally started as a family-run business, has built a loyal following over the years. Their brisket, ribs, and turkey are a standout, slow-cooked to perfection and served with mouthwatering sides like cornbread and collard greens. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, Bludso’s BBQ is a must-try for anyone in the Los Angeles area.
11. Holy Smoke BBQ (Santa Barbara)
Holy Smoke BBQ in Santa Barbara brings a unique approach to traditional BBQ, infusing local flavors and seasonal ingredients with smoky, wood-fired meats. Known for their flavorful pork ribs, brisket, and BBQ chicken, the restaurant offers a cozy environment with great service. The laid-back atmosphere and carefully crafted BBQ make it an ideal stop for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality smoked meats in a relaxed setting.
Why California BBQ?
While states like Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee may dominate the BBQ scene in the U.S., California has found its own niche by blending various regional BBQ styles with local ingredients and culinary innovations. From the coastal flavors of Santa Maria tri-tip to the smoky, tender meats of Central and Southern California, the Golden State’s BBQ scene offers something for every kind of BBQ lover.
Whether you prefer the traditional slow-cooked meats of the South or a modern, California twist on classic BBQ, these 11 joints offer some of the best BBQ in the state. So, fire up your taste buds and get ready for an unforgettable BBQ experience that’s as diverse and unique as California itself.