Best of 28 BBQ restaurants in San Diego
San Diego is a foodie's paradise, and its BBQ restaurants are no exception. These establishments offer a wide variety of mouth-watering, slow-cooked meats, from tender brisket to juicy ribs. Whether you're a local or a visitor, checking out the BBQ restaurants in San Diego is a must. With their unique flavors and welcoming atmospheres, they're sure to leave a lasting impression. So fire up your appetite and get ready to explore the best BBQ restaurants San Diego has to offer!
- 1. Phil's BBQ
- 2. Bowlegged B.B.Q
- 3. Bull's Smokin' BBQ
- 4. Wood Ranch
- 5. Abbey's Real Texas BBQ
- 6. Pioneer BBQ
- 7. Del's Hideout
- 8. BBQ House Bar & Grill
- 9. Phil's BBQ
- 10. Corbin's Q
- 11. Phil's BBQ
- 12. Smokin J's BBQ
- 13. Buga Korean BBQ Restaurant
- 14. Nanay's Best BBQ
- 15. Kim's Bar-B-Que
- 16. Tsuruhashi Japanese BBQ
- 17. The Pig's Gig BBQ
- 18. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
- 19. 356 Korean BBQ & Bar
- 20. Bubba's Smokehouse BBQ
- 21. Lil Alex BBQ
- 22. El Barbecue
- 23. Smokin J's BBQ & Tap House
- 24. Fisher's
- 25. Space Kat BBQ
- 26. Cali BBQ
- 27. Randy Jones Grill - Petco Park
- 28. Felix’s BBQ With Soul
1. Phil's BBQ
Massive portions, long lines but fast service, lively atmosphere.

The beef ribs at this establishment are a standout option, with a delightful and fragrant flavor that makes for a satisfying dinner. Accompanying sides like coleslaw, onion rings, and fries add to the meal's appeal.
If you find yourself in San Diego, this BBQ location is a must-visit. The knowledgeable server was particularly helpful for first-time visitors, guiding us to a combo meal of ribs and wings. The sauces are rich, flavorful, and perfectly sticky, while the meat was so tender it nearly fell off the bone. This BBQ experience is not one to miss.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Dinner
2. Bowlegged B.B.Q
Live music on weekends, Hand-chopped sausage, Made-from-scratch sides

Bowlegged BBQ, a family-owned and operated restaurant in South San Diego, is famous for its East Texas style BBQ known for its tender, "fall off the bones" quality. The menu features a variety of delicious options, including perfectly cooked pork ribs, grilled chicken, and smoked brisket. Along with the main dishes, tasty sweet potato pie, peach cobbler, and lemon pie are available for dessert.
The restaurant offers a wide range of drinks, from good beer, wine, and bitter to great lemonade, coffee, and juice. The hospitality of the place is highly dependent on the competent staff, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The modern decor and relaxed atmosphere, along with affordable prices, make Bowlegged BBQ a great spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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3. Bull's Smokin' BBQ
Uses local ingredients, slow-smoked meats, outdoor seating

The sandwich selection at this establishment includes pulled pork, beef brisket, andouille sausage, and BBQ chicken. The smoked salmon filet and brisket sandwich were particularly noteworthy, although the portions are not overly large. The front counter staff was friendly and welcoming, with one employee even offering tastings to the customers in line and at their table.
One of the standout dishes was the peach cobbler, which sadly couldn't be fully enjoyed due to feeling already full. The man who worked in the back of the establishment was especially kind and generous with providing samples of food to customers. It's unfortunate that a limit on consumption prevented fully enjoying all of the delicious offerings available.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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4. Wood Ranch
In-house smoked meats, craft beers, happy hour specials

Wood Ranch is a well-known BBQ restaurant that provides a diverse and delicious menu, including excellent salads, various BBQ options, and tasty garlic rolls. The appetizers, particularly the spinach artichoke dip, have been highly praised for their exceptional flavor. The food is prepared with great care, resulting in generous portions that leave customers more than satisfied.
The staff at Wood Ranch is commended for their professionalism and personable demeanor, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The eatery's popularity can be attributed to its commitment to providing high-quality food and excellent service, making it a standout choice for BBQ and American cuisine enthusiasts. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, providing an excellent backdrop for any occasion.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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5. Abbey's Real Texas BBQ
Slow-smoked meats, Homemade sides

The brisket platter was ordered for delivery and arrived hot and fresh, with a generous portion size. The coleslaw that accompanied the platter was also enjoyable. Overall, the delivery experience was impressive and the food was of excellent quality.
In terms of the food itself, the Texas-style BBQ did not disappoint. The ribs were cooked to perfection, with a tenderness that allowed them to fall off the bone. The sides were also delicious, with the potato salad being a particular standout. I would highly recommend this BBQ restaurant to anyone looking for authentic Texas-style BBQ.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Pioneer BBQ
Family-owned business with a friendly atmosphere and commitment to traditional BBQ techniques

BBQ establishments are renowned for their tender and juicy meats, with the brisket often drawing comparisons to those served in top BBQ joints in Texas. The accompanying sauce has been described as delicious by some guests, although others have expressed that it is lacking in some way. In addition to the brisket, the smoked turkey and ribs on offer are also tender and juicy, with ribs that are so tender they fall off the bone.
The value provided by the special deals at these BBQ establishments is excellent, with meals available at a reasonable price point, often under $30. The service is friendly and professional, with staff who are accommodating and provide a high level of customer service. In summary, these BBQ establishments offer delicious and tender meats, with great value deals and professional and accommodating service, making for a enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
7. Del's Hideout
Scenic canyon location, family-owned and operated since 1954

San Diego residents have a new hotspot for a fun night out, Del's Hideout. This newest addition to the Cohn Restaurant Group (CRG) is located off Interstate 8 on Adobe Falls Road and offers a unique dining experience that combines automation with a family-friendly neighborhood eatery serving Texas-Style BBQ, salads, bowls, and 36 beers on tap.
At Del's Hideout, customers can place their main order at the walk-up counter and then use push-button devices at their tables to order additional food and drinks. The restaurant also features 16 flat-screen TVs and retro arcade games, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a night out with friends or family.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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8. BBQ House Bar & Grill
Offers a variety of BBQ sauces, vegetarian options, and a heated patio.

Kathy K and Maghen T both enjoyed their visits to the restaurant, with Kathy praising the BBQ bank sandwich and Maghen complimenting the consistently delicious BBQ and tasty sides. The BBQ bank is a unique twist on a Cubano sandwich, with Kathy highlighting the addition of Chipotle sauce and the perfect amount of heat it adds to the cole slaw. Maghen also mentioned the exceptional friendliness and accommodating nature of the staff, contributing to a positive dining experience for a big party.
The restaurant left a lasting impression on both Kathy and Maghen, with Kathy raving about the wonderful BBQ bank sandwich and Maghen expressing that everyone in her big party left satisfied and happy. The combination of delicious food and excellent service made for a memorable experience for both individuals. The BBQ and sides were consistently delightful, with Kathy noting the perfect pairing of the Chipotle sauce and cole slaw. The friendly and accommodating staff further elevated the restaurant's atmosphere, making it a place that Kathy and Maghen would recommend to others.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Phil's BBQ
Features a lively scene with live music and outdoor seating

The ribs at this establishment were cooked to perfection, with a tangy sauce that was not too spicy. The portions served were generous, making it a filling meal for those with a good appetite. However, the 29.99 rib meal with fries was a bit of a disappointment. Despite the menu promising 10-12 bones, only 10 small ribs were served, making it seem like a less generous serving than advertised.
While the ribs were decent, they did not quite live up to the expectations set by the menu. The smallest rack of ribs was served, which was surprising given the promise of 10-12 bones. The sides, such as the fries, were good and complemented the meal. Therefore, it's recommended to manage expectations when ordering the rib meal and be prepared to receive a smaller portion than advertised.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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10. Corbin's Q
Serves dinner seven days a week, full bar available

The best barbecue I have ever tasted can be found at this unnamed location, serving up fresh and sizzling hot meals that are simply unbeatable. The restaurant offers a selection of three delicious sauces to complement their barbecue dishes.
During my first visit, I had the pleasure of trying the Tri-tip and pulled pork sandwiches, and I can confidently say that this establishment ranks among the top BBQ places in San Diego. The friendly staff and mouthwatering dishes make for a truly enjoyable dining experience. I look forward to returning soon.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. Phil's BBQ
Family-friendly atmosphere, popular happy hour

Phil's BBQ, a San Diego staple, has received rave reviews from a recent satisfied customer. The food served at Phil's was nothing short of extraordinary, with the beefy ribs being the standout dish. The customer cannot stress enough how delicious the ribs were and how worth it the meal is.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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12. Smokin J's BBQ
Family-owned and operated, using traditional Southern BBQ techniques

The Secret Garden is a worthwhile destination, with three known locations offering a satisfying experience. I recently visited one of their restaurants for lunch, drawn by their unique menu. The food was excellent - I enjoyed a cheese sandwich with delicious, tender brisket. The establishment's homemade ketchup and BBQ sauce, along with SWELL soda, added to the meal's uniqueness. The welcoming staff provided excellent service, even addressing our food allergies with care.
Eating at the Secret Garden was a safe and enjoyable experience. We visited on a weekday after the lunch rush and were seated right away. The restaurant's atmosphere was cozy yet unpretentious, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. I was pleased with how seriously they took food allergies, providing a safe dining environment for all. The Secret Garden's combination of delicious food and attentive service has left a lasting impression, and I look forward to visiting again on my next trip to San Diego.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Dinner
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13. Buga Korean BBQ Restaurant
All-you-can-eat options, AYCE lunch and dinner

The meats at this KBBQ restaurant were always fresh and there was an extensive selection to choose from. The service was outstanding, with the staff consistently checking in to take orders for more raw meats to cook. This establishment is easily one of the best KBBQ places visited, with efficient service and well-seasoned marinated meats that had a balanced flavor and were not overpowering.
This KBBQ restaurant offers high-quality and fresh meat options and a wide variety to select from. The service is noteworthy, as the staff is attentive and regularly ensures that customers have enough raw meats to cook. It is certainly one of the top KBBQ places tried, featuring excellent service and skillfully seasoned marinated meats, which have a harmonious and pleasing taste that is not too overpowering.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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14. Nanay's Best BBQ
Family-owned Filipino BBQ restaurant

Nanay's Best BBQ is a small, family-owned business that specializes in delicious Filipino barbecue. The restaurant is well-known for its BBQ pork and garlic rice, which leaves customers feeling extremely satisfied and full. The staff at Nanay's Best BBQ is friendly and adds to the overall positive atmosphere of the restaurant.
Two menu items that should not be missed at Nanay's Best BBQ are the lechon and longanisa. The portions served are generous, allowing customers to get a true taste of the authentic Filipino cuisine. In addition to the tasty food, the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make Nanay's Best BBQ a great spot to enjoy a meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. Kim's Bar-B-Que
Family-owned, unique marinades, and traditional grilling style

The first speaker expresses their admiration for a particular place, urging people to give it more recognition and love, as they believe it deserves it. They praise the affordability of the prices and the quality of the food, and would recommend it to others. However, they mention that the location is poorly advertised and quite hidden, which may be contributing to its lack of recognition.
The second speaker shares their positive experience with the food at this place, highlighting the delicious taste of the barbecue ribs and their lack of need for sauce. They approve of the reasonable pricing and find the area to be clean. Overall, they consider it to be a good value for the cost.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Suburban
16. Tsuruhashi Japanese BBQ
Authentic Teppanyaki grill, Fresh seafood flown in from Japan

Tsuruhashi is a top-rated Japanese Style BBQ restaurant in San Diego, known for its high-quality meat, including the renowned Kobe Beef. The restaurant offers a unique and authentic Japanese BBQ experience, with a variety of interesting cuts of meat such as wagyu, tongue, and liver. For kimchi lovers, Tsuruhashi is a must-visit, with its delicious and fresh kimchi side dish. The raw liver and tongue are also major highlights, being incredibly fresh and delicious.
Servings at Tsuruhashi are generous, and the staff is both quick and friendly in their service. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Overall, Tsuruhashi is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking an authentic and delicious Japanese BBQ experience in San Diego. With its delicious food, excellent service, and inviting atmosphere, it's no wonder that Tsuruhashi is one of the best Japanese BBQ restaurants in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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17. The Pig's Gig BBQ

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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18. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Family-owned with a strong Texas BBQ heritage, catering services available

Some guests have described the service at this establishment as friendly, knowledgeable, and hospitable. They have appreciated the staff's attentiveness and willingness to help. However, other guests have had a different experience and have described the service as below average. They have found the employees to be unfriendly and unhelpful.
The BBQ at this place has received mixed reviews. Some guests have praised it for its delicious taste and the variety of sauces available. They have enjoyed the flavor and the quality of the meat. However, other guests have found the meat to be dry and in need of more sauce. Despite this, they have acknowledged the potential of the BBQ and have appreciated the effort put into its preparation.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Dinner
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19. 356 Korean BBQ & Bar
All-you-can-eat option, traditional side dishes, friendly service

The food served at the Korean BBQ restaurant was highly enjoyable, with a wide variety of options and fresh ingredients. The service was commendable, with staff providing attentive and friendly assistance throughout the evening. The ambiance of the restaurant added to the overall dining experience, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. However, the restaurant was pricier compared to other Korean BBQ spots.
Unfortunately, not all customers had a positive experience. Two individuals reported issues regarding the food - one claimed to have experienced food poisoning after consuming the restaurant's dishes, while another expressed disappointment that their child did not enjoy the Korean BBQ offerings. Despite these isolated incidents, the restaurant generally receives positive feedback regarding the quality of its food and service.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
20. Bubba's Smokehouse BBQ
Using traditional Southern BBQ techniques and recipes, catering available, large portions

Bubba's, located in California, is a restaurant that serves authentic southern-style BBQ. The pulled chicken sandwich is a standout, with its tender and juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. The fried okra is another must-try, as it is expertly fried and reaches award-winning quality.
During a recent visit, a group of four customers ordered a variety of items, including a 1/2 rack of ribs, three sliders, and two orders of tri-tip sandwiches. They found the service to be prompt and courteous, and the rolls of paper towel provided were a convenient touch for cleaning up sticky fingers. The BBQ sauce was also highly praised, adding to the overall satisfying BBQ experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
21. Lil Alex BBQ
Offers catering services and a wide variety of BBQ sauces

During my first visit to a local barbecue restaurant, I was disappointed by the beef ribs which were tough and full of gristle, despite being recommended by the host/waitress. The pull pork sandwich was the only saving grace of the meal, but it wasn't enough to warrant a return visit.
However, my recent experience with barbecue has been much more positive. Having grown up eating barbecue in Los Angeles and attending university in Texas, I consider myself a knowledgeable barbecue enthusiast. On a recent visit to my parents in San Diego, I decided to try a local barbecue spot, ordering takeout ribs and tri-tip. I was impressed by the friendly service, the delicious food, and the generous serving sizes, which made the reasonable prices even more appealing. I look forward to visiting this restaurant again.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
22. El Barbecue
Live music on weekends, Full bar with local beers and craft cocktails

El Barbecue is a hidden gem of a barbecue restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. While the location and curb appeal may not be the most appealing, the food is more than enough to make up for it. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes such as pozole, tri-tip, and the Toms Belly Wagon sandwich. All of the items tried were favorites, but the standout options include the brisket sandwich, tri-tip, smoked salmon, chunky chili, and beef ribs.
As a neighborhood-style barbecue spot, El Barbecue has become a local favorite. The restaurant offers a variety of delectable dishes that are sure to satisfy any barbecue lover's cravings. The brisket sandwich, tri-tip, and smoked salmon are just a few of the highlights on the menu, with the chunky chili and beef ribs also receiving high praise. Whether you're a fan of traditional barbecue or looking to try something new, El Barbecue has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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23. Smokin J's BBQ & Tap House
Features a spacious patio, offers happy hour specials, and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere

Smokin J's BBQ in Poway offers amazing BBQ and incredible service. A friend's recommendation led me to try this restaurant, and I was thoroughly impressed. The service was outstanding, and the atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and inviting. I ordered the 3x3, giving me the opportunity to sample some of their most popular dishes. The meat was tender and bursting with flavor, while the sides complemented them perfectly.
If you're looking for high-quality BBQ in San Diego, Smokin J's BBQ is the place to go. I'm already planning my next visit. With its delicious food and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-try for BBQ lovers in the area. The scarcity of top-notch BBQ in San Diego makes Smokin J's BBQ a valuable discovery, and I'm looking forward to satisfying my BBQ cravings here again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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24. Fisher's
Uses sustainable and locally sourced meats.

Fresh and delicious food awaits at Fisher's restaurant, with an array of wonderful options to choose from. The service is top-notch, featuring extremely attentive and helpful staff who provide great recommendations. Aside from the delicious food and excellent service, Fisher's also boasts a nice atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a night out. Plus, furry friends are welcome, and the staff provides water for them, adding to the overall welcoming ambiance.
Fisher's menu features an impressive selection of fresh seafood dishes, such as oysters, shrimp tacos, and flavorful options like salmon and sea bass. The seafood is sourced fresh, contributing to the delicious taste and quality of each dish. Overall, Fisher's is a highly recommended restaurant, offering a great dining experience complete with fantastic food, exceptional service, and a cozy atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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25. Space Kat BBQ

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
26. Cali BBQ

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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27. Randy Jones Grill - Petco Park

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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28. Felix’s BBQ With Soul

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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