Best of 20 BBQ restaurants in Oakland
Oakland, a city known for its vibrant food scene, is home to a variety of BBQ restaurants that tantalize the taste buds of both locals and visitors. From traditional Southern-style to Korean-style BBQ, these establishments in Oakland offer a wide range of mouth-watering options. Come and explore the smoky flavors and delicious meats at the BBQ restaurants in Oakland.
- 1. Smokin Woods BBQ
- 2. Everett & Jones Barbeque - Broadway
- 3. World Champion Smokehouse & Market
- 4. Genny's Fire Pit
- 5. Stay Gold Deli
- 6. Ohgane Oakland
- 7. Everett & Jones Barbeque - MacArthur
- 8. Roderick's BBQ
- 9. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
- 10. iLava Hawaiian Barbecue
- 11. Rue Rue's BBQ
- 12. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
- 13. Ruby Q Smoke Fusion
- 14. Elves BBQ & Soul Food
- 15. Horn Barbecue
- 16. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- 17. Smoke Berkeley LLC
- 18. Don Blanc
- 19. Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish
- 20. D & A BBQ
1. Smokin Woods BBQ
Family-owned business with homemade BBQ sauces

Smokin Woods BBQ is well-known for its delicious brisket and ribs, served with a savory BBQ sauce that keeps customers coming back for more. The atmosphere of the establishment is described as pleasant and relaxed, with a good range of alcoholic beverages available. Many guests have positive things to say about the friendly and helpful staff.
However, there are some criticisms of the service at Smokin Woods BBQ. Some guests have described it as slow and non-existent, with a lack of customer service. Despite these complaints, others have had a positive experience with the staff, praising them for their friendliness and reliability. Overall, while there may be some inconsistencies in the service, Smokin Woods BBQ is generally well-regarded for its tasty BBQ offerings and pleasant atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Everett & Jones Barbeque - Broadway
Family-owned since 1973, Central Oakland location

The speaker is dealing with a difficult situation in their relationship. They have been acting in ways that are hurtful to their girlfriend, such as letting an old crush and a new flirtation stay at their house, and eventually having an affair. Despite their intentions to work on the relationship, they found themselves unable to stay committed. They describe having a meal with the Jones's, a place known for "soul food," and ordering a two-way, or two meats on their plate, as a moment of comfort in a tough time.
The speaker also describes attending a luncheon on a Saturday. The restaurant is in a bustling area and was crowded. They were grateful for the reservation, and were seated quickly. The food options were limited and the salad with chicken they ordered was disappointing. The bland chicken and unappetizing barbecue dressing did not impress them. They suggest sticking to the restaurant's soul food options instead.
In both scenarios, the speaker is looking for comfort and a sense of satisfaction but only found it partially in the food. The problem in their relationship is still on their mind and it's affecting their overall mood and satisfaction.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
3. World Champion Smokehouse & Market
In-house smoked meats, local sourcing, and family-friendly atmosphere

World Champion Smokehouse & Market is a hidden gem for food lovers, offering exceptional food and service that makes it a must-visit destination, despite its unassuming location. The smokehouse has been serving up delicious meals for years, but it was only recently that I had the chance to try it out.
During my visit, I ordered the beef links meal, and I was not disappointed. The portion was generous, with multiple links served on a plate accompanied by sides. The taste was incredible - the meat was incredibly smoky and full of flavor. I left feeling satisfied and impressed by the quality of the food and the friendly service. Overall, I would highly recommend World Champion Smokehouse & Market to anyone looking for a great meal in the area.
TOPICS
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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4. Genny's Fire Pit
Family-owned BBQ spot with a fire pit

If you're a BBQ lover, this place is a must-visit. Their ribs, brisket, and rib tips are particularly noteworthy, with many customers raving about the perfectly cooked meat and delicious BBQ sauce. The service is also friendly and adds to the overall positive experience.
When you visit, be sure to save room for dessert. The restaurant offers mouth-watering options such as banana pudding, peach cobbler, and crumble. These sweet treats are the perfect ending to a satisfying BBQ meal. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this BBQ is definitely worth checking out for its tasty food and welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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5. Stay Gold Deli
Features a lively atmosphere with a pinball arcade and live music events

Stay Gold Deli is a new addition to the Oakland food scene, offering a variety of sandwich options, including vegan choices, and sides. They also serve Bicycle iced coffee and will soon offer beer in their dog-friendly beer garden. The deli features a fun atmosphere, with foosball and pool tables available in the back.
I have tried Stay Gold Deli through Doordash and have been pleased with their meat sandwich offerings, such as the Brisket Sandwich and Riblet. The prices are reasonable except for the pinball machines which cost $1 per game. The staff is friendly, and I look forward to seeing how the deli operates after their soft opening.
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TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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6. Ohgane Oakland
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is a popular choice for those seeking a unique dining experience, and one standout option features a large rectangular grill and attentive staff who provide excellent service. Customers particularly enjoy the steak and mini octopus dishes, which are favorites among patrons. However, it's worth noting that this restaurant comes with a higher price tag than some other Korean BBQ establishments.
Despite the high cost, this Korean BBQ restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious options that make it worth the splurge for many. While the prices may be steep, the service is consistently good, which adds to the overall dining experience. However, those looking for a more affordable meal may want to consider other options.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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7. Everett & Jones Barbeque - MacArthur
Family-owned business with homemade sauce since 1973

Everett & Jones Barbeque on MacArthur generally offers a satisfying BBQ experience, with a delicious smoky and sweet flavor in their brisket, especially when paired with their medium sauce. The lunch portions are generous, and the potato salad is a tasty side. However, there seems to be inconsistencies with the food quality, as one customer had a disappointing experience.
The customer, who is a long-standing fan of E&J BBQ, was excited to see a new location in their neighborhood. But their first experience may be their last. They ordered the link lunch portion with medium sauce, but the sauce was tangy and nearly as red as spaghetti sauce, which they found unappetizing. The potato salad was bland, similar to hospital food, and overall, the meal was described as slightly gross. This negative experience contrasts with the usually delicious offerings of Everett & Jones Barbeque.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Suburban
8. Roderick's BBQ
Family-owned with award-winning recipes and traditional smokers

Roderick's BBQ, located in Oakland, California, is a thriving restaurant that has gained a positive reputation for providing an outstanding dining experience. The eatery's diverse menu features a variety of classic barbecue dishes, including succulent ribs, flavorful tri-tip, and perfectly cooked BBQ chicken.
Among the menu's standout items are the signature seasoned french fries and the nostalgic Kool-Aid. The french fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a uniquely flavorful seasoning that complements the dish. The Kool-Aid, a sweet and tangy beverage, is described as a delightful trip down memory lane, transporting diners back to their childhoods.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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9. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Offers a taste of Hawaiian culture in Oakland

The food at this establishment is generally regarded as good quality, with many guests praising the large portion sizes. Some guests have specifically mentioned the chicken katsu and spicy chicken as standout dishes. The BBQ chicken and katsu are also popular choices among diners.
While many guests have enjoyed their meals and found them to be better than other Hawaiian BBQ options, there are some who have expressed disappointment with their experience. It seems that opinions may vary depending on the individual's personal preferences and past experiences with Hawaiian BBQ. Overall, however, the food offerings appear to be a positive aspect of this establishment.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. iLava Hawaiian Barbecue
Offers a unique dining experience with a traditional Hawaiian Imu pit

This article features a glowing review of a favorite restaurant where the food is consistently delicious and highly satisfying. The reviewer, who is from Hawaii, goes so far as to compare the restaurant's offerings favorably to the food they get back home.
The restaurant's cuisine is a standout, with the reviewer particularly impressed by its quality and taste. For those who appreciate delicious food, this restaurant is a must-visit. The reviewer's high praise suggests that the restaurant is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a top-notch dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Rue Rue's BBQ

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Suburban
12. Dickey's Barbecue Pit

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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13. Ruby Q Smoke Fusion

Where the ribs are so good you'll want to wear them as a hat and the BBQ sauce is so delicious you'll want to bathe in it. Read more! 02.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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14. Elves BBQ & Soul Food
Committed to community involvement, Family-owned and operated

Elves BBQ & Soul Food is known for its delicious fried chicken, potato salads, and BBQ ribs. The staff is pleasant, hardworking, and maintain a positive attitude, contributing to a great dining experience. Guests appreciate the prompt service and agree that the prices are reasonable. The restaurant has recently come under new management, which has elevated the service and culinary offerings.
My experience at Elves BBQ & Soul Food was positive, thanks to the fantastic service and delicious food. The setup is efficient, making it easy to order takeout. The salmon, shrimp, chicken, and pasta dishes were all well-seasoned and generously portioned, leaving me satisfied. The ingredients were fresh and of high quality, enhancing the flavor of each dish. The restaurant's focus on takeout orders has not sacrificed the quality of the food or service, making it an excellent option for those seeking convenient and tasty meal options.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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15. Horn Barbecue
Long lines and wait times, but worth it for the quality of the meat

If you're looking for a delicious and unique dining experience in Oakland, consider visiting #214 of 1,338 Restaurants, a popular Barbecue spot. This restaurant is known for its perfectly cooked mac-n-cheese, pork sandwiches, and BBQ ribs, making it a great place to switch up your usual meal. In addition to their savory dishes, they also offer a variety of sweet treats such as banana pudding, bread pudding, and banana dessert.
Whether you're in the mood for wine, beer, or a cocktail, this Barbecue spot has got you covered. They also offer great non-alcoholic beverage options such as lemonade, juice, and coffee. With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is the perfect place to gather with friends or family and enjoy a delicious meal. Located at 2534 Mandela Pkwy, Oakland, CA 94607-1727, they are open in 43 minutes and offer hours to accommodate your schedule. Don't miss out on the opportunity to taste their delicious offerings.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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16. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Authentic Japanese Yakiniku experience, All-you-can-drink options

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is a great destination for couples and families looking for a delicious meal. The restaurant offers a variety of meal options for 2, 4, or 6 people, with generous portions that leave customers satisfied. The seating is comfortable, and the staff is friendly and welcoming, making it a perfect place for a relaxed dining experience. Many customers, including myself, have visited multiple times and plan to return.
According to consumer reviews, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is highly rated with an average score of 4.27 out of 5. Out of the 61 opinions shared, 85% of customers rated the restaurant at 4 or above. Customers have praised the restaurant's delicious food, friendly service, and enjoyable atmosphere. Based on these reviews, visitors can expect a positive dining experience at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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17. Smoke Berkeley LLC
Uses sustainable and eco-friendly practices, Family-owned business

Smoke Berkeley BBQ, a popular restaurant in Emeryville, has received reviews from Yelp users who have shared their experiences with the establishment. The food served at Smoke Berkeley BBQ has been generally praised for its taste and quality. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the staff members appeared unhappy and burnt-out during their visits, which negatively affected their dining experience.
In addition to the staff's morale, the cleanliness of the restaurant has also been called into question by some Yelp reviewers. A few have noted that the place has not been deep-cleaned in years, which is a potential health hazard and detracts from the overall dining experience. If the owner takes steps to improve employee morale and thoroughly cleans the restaurant, Smoke Berkeley BBQ has the potential to further enhance its reputation and provide an even better experience for its customers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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18. Don Blanc
Family-owned and operated, offering catering services

Don Blanc offers a dining experience that excels in both the quality of their meat and the accompanying dishes. The ban chan, or side dishes, and doenjang jjigae, a soybean paste soup, are particularly noteworthy and complement the main course nicely. The service at Don Blanc is top-notch, providing the perfect balance of friendliness, efficiency, and attentiveness without being intrusive.
The staff at Don Blanc are known for their friendly demeanor and attention to detail. One of the standout elements of the meal is the soup, with options like kimchi soup and beef short rib soup providing delicious and comforting choices. The soup, along with the high-quality meat, contributes to an overall satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
19. Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish
Live music on weekends, Full bar available, Established in 1980

The pulled pork served at Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish is a delicious option for any meal. The restaurant's menu offers a variety of other tasty choices as well, making it an excellent location to try something new and exciting for your taste buds. If you're unsure what to order, don't hesitate to ask the waitstaff for assistance. They are well-versed in the menu items and can help you make a selection that fits your dietary needs and preferences.
In addition to their delicious food, Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish also provides attentive and friendly service. The knowledgeable waitstaff can guide you through the menu, recommending dishes that are both healthy and enjoyable. With their help, you can discover new and exciting flavors while also ensuring that you're making a healthy choice. Whether you're in the mood for pulled pork or something else entirely, Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish is the perfect place to expand your culinary horizons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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20. D & A BBQ

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Affordable Nightlife