Top 10 Best BBQ Los Angeles
BBQ in Los Angeles: A Flavorful Adventure
The BBQ Buzz in LA
Get ready to sink your teeth into the BBQ scene in Los Angeles! This city has quietly become a hotspot for barbecue lovers, offering a mouth-watering mix of smoked meats inspired by family recipes from all over the globe. With a blend of fresh faces and old favorites, LA’s BBQ scene is smokin’ hot right now. Even if LA isn’t the first place you think of for BBQ, it’s been making waves over the past decade. There are 14 top-notch BBQ joints and six local pop-ups that have earned a spot in guides like The Infatuation.
| BBQ Type | Notable Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Traditional | Bludso’s BBQ, The Memphis Grill |
| Texas-style | Moo’s Craft Barbecue, Zef BBQ |
| Fusion | Smoke Queen Barbecue, Domestic BBQ |
A Smorgasbord of BBQ Delights
What’s really exciting is the variety of BBQ styles you can find in LA. Pitmasters are mixing it up, using family recipes that bring in flavors from different cultures. This means you can find BBQ in all sorts of places, from backyard pop-ups to garage setups. It’s a tasty adventure waiting to happen.
Take Moo’s Craft Barbecue in Lincoln Heights, for example. They serve up Texas-style BBQ with a killer lineup of pork ribs, smoked turkey, pulled pork, and their signature brisket. And don’t even get me started on the sides—mac and cheese and dill-heavy potato salad are just the beginning (The Infatuation). The range of BBQ styles, from classic to creative, makes LA a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for the best BBQ in Los Angeles.
Dive into the unique BBQ options that showcase the city’s rich cultural mix. Whether you’re craving smoky brisket or tangy ribs, LA’s BBQ scene has got you covered. Don’t miss out on some of the best eats in Los Angeles, including best tacos los angeles and best fried chicken los angeles.
Top BBQ Joints in Los Angeles
Alright, BBQ lovers, let’s talk about the best spots in LA to get your smoky, savory fix. Each place has its own vibe and flavors, making the BBQ scene here something special. Ready to get hungry? Let’s go!
Zef BBQ in Simi Valley
Zef BBQ is a game-changer! Their menu is packed with goodies like smash burgers, beef ribs, curry noodles, and even smoked Spam musubi. The lines can get crazy long, and they sell out fast, so get there early or you’ll miss out! For more info, check out Eater LA.
| Menu Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Smash Burgers | Juicy, fresh-off-the-grill burgers that are a must-try. |
| Beef Ribs | Tender, flavorful ribs that everyone raves about. |
| Smoked Spam Musubi | A savory twist on a classic, this one’s a winner. |
The Memphis Grill in North Hollywood
The Memphis Grill is my go-to for that Tennessee BBQ goodness. Their pulled pork, brisket, and ribs are out of this world. They’re even planning to expand the menu, so there’s always something new to try! If you want that authentic Southern taste, this is your spot. More details at Eater LA.
| Menu Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Pulled Pork | Smoky and rich, perfect on its own or in a sandwich. |
| Brisket | So tender it melts in your mouth. |
| Ribs | Fall-off-the-bone goodness that BBQ fans will love. |
Domestic BBQ in La Puente and Covina
Domestic BBQ is a meat lover’s paradise. They offer everything from burgers and ribeyes to tea-smoked duck breast, brisket, tri-tip, and St. Louis-style pork ribs. There’s something for everyone here. Check out their menu at Eater LA.
| Menu Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Tea-Smoked Duck Breast | Smoky, tender duck that’s a unique treat. |
| Tri-Tip | Perfectly seasoned and grilled, a California classic. |
| St. Louis-Style Ribs | Hearty ribs that will fill you up. |
Moo’s Craft Barbecue in Lincoln Heights
Moo’s Craft Barbecue started as a backyard pop-up and now it’s a beloved spot in Lincoln Heights. Their brisket and sausage links are top-notch, and they even have LA-specific sides like esquites. For more on this gem, head to Eater LA.
| Menu Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Brisket | Juicy and packed with flavor, a BBQ essential. |
| Sausage Links | Perfectly seasoned and grilled. |
| Esquites | Mexican street corn salad that adds a local twist. |
These BBQ joints are just a taste of what LA has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to hit up these spots for some of the best BBQ around! For more food inspiration, check out the best food in Los Angeles.
Must-Try BBQ Joints in LA
If you’re on the hunt for the best BBQ in Los Angeles, these spots are where the magic happens. Each one has its own vibe and flavors that keep me coming back for more!
Bludso’s BBQ
Bludso’s BBQ is a local legend. Known for its Texas-style smoked meats, this place serves up mouthwatering dishes in a chill sports bar setting. With spots on La Brea and a roomy restaurant in Santa Monica, it’s a BBQ lover’s paradise. The brisket? Oh man, it’s tender and bursting with flavor. Check out more about this iconic spot on Eater LA.
Smoke Queen Barbecue
Smoke Queen Barbecue started as a pandemic pop-up and quickly became a favorite of mine. Since opening its brick-and-mortar spot in Garden Grove in 2024, it’s been a hit. They use three massive 1,000-gallon steel smokers to cook their signature meats. The glazed pork belly char siu and prime brisket are out of this world, but the gochujang beef ribs, available only on Sundays, are what I dream about. For more info, visit Eater LA.
Maple Block Meat Company
Maple Block Meat Company is another gem that never disappoints. With a second location in Grand Central Market, this place has even impressed the folks at Texas Monthly magazine. Their barky brisket and tender ribs are my go-tos. Each bite is a flavor explosion that captures the true essence of BBQ. Dive into more details on Eater LA.
Banana Pudding at Zef BBQ
I can’t forget the banana pudding at Zef BBQ. Served in quart deli containers, it’s the perfect sweet finish to any meal. The balance of sweetness and texture is just right, making it the ideal complement to Zef’s incredible brisket and beef ribs. Treat yourself to this delightful dessert for a complete BBQ experience. For more dessert options, check out best desserts Los Angeles.
These spots are just a taste of the BBQ scene in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for the best food in LA, you won’t want to miss these must-visit places!
Mouth-Watering BBQ Sides in LA
When I’m chowing down on BBQ in Los Angeles, the sides are what make the meal unforgettable. Here are some of my top picks that you absolutely gotta try!
Baked Beans at Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas BBQ
The baked beans at Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas BBQ in Van Nuys are a game-changer. They’re thick, sweet, and the perfect sidekick to their famous brisket. These beans add a cozy, hearty touch to any BBQ plate.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Texture | Thick and sweet |
| Best Pairing | Brisket |
Bacon Deviled Eggs at Boneyard Bistro
Next up, you gotta try the bacon deviled eggs at Boneyard Bistro. They take the classic deviled egg and crank it up with crispy bacon, smoked jalapeños, and a dash of Sriracha. Each bite is a flavor explosion, making these eggs a must-have.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unique Ingredients | Bacon, smoked jalapeños, Sriracha |
| Flavor Profile | Rich and spicy |
Cucumber Salad at Max City BBQ
For something on the lighter side, the cucumber salad at Max City BBQ is a winner. This refreshing side pairs perfectly with baby back ribs or brisket, offering a tangy pickle flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Refreshing and tangy |
| Best Pairing | Ribs, brisket |
Mac and Cheese at Spring Street Smokehouse BBQ
No BBQ feast is complete without a big helping of mac and cheese from Spring Street Smokehouse BBQ in Chinatown. It’s creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying, with top-notch noodles and cheese, topped with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of black pepper. This dish is the ultimate comfort food.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy and rich |
| Topping | Breadcrumbs and black pepper |
These sides not only make your BBQ experience better but also highlight the tasty and varied food scene in Los Angeles. If you’re searching for the best food in Los Angeles, don’t miss out on these amazing sides next time you’re enjoying some BBQ!
