Top 22 BBQ restaurants in San Jose
San Jose is a vibrant city in California that offers a wide range of culinary experiences, and BBQ restaurants in San Jose are no exception. These establishments provide a unique blend of traditional and contemporary BBQ styles, using locally sourced ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes. From juicy briskets to tangy sauces, BBQ restaurants in San Jose cater to all tastes and preferences, making them a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
- 1. Sam's Bar-B-Que
- 2. South Winchester BBQ
- 3. Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
- 4. Sauced BBQ & Spirits
- 5. Mesquite and Oak
- 6. Smoking Pig BBQ - San Jose Coleman
- 7. Jon Jon's
- 8. Armadillo Willy's Texas BBQ
- 9. Mac Park BBQ
- 10. Gen Korean BBQ House
- 11. J C's Bar-B-Q
- 12. The ART of BBQ- Catering
- 13. Yakini Q SJ
- 14. CJ BBQ
- 15. Skewerzz Pinoy BBQ
- 16. Hawaiian BBQ
- 17. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
- 18. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
- 19. Sunny Island BBQ
- 20. Bar•B•Q
- 21. Sam's BBQ Diner
- 22. William BBQ
1. Sam's Bar-B-Que
Sticky sweet sauce, slow-smoked meats, famous Bay Area BBQ spot

The first destination is a renowned barbecue location where the food and service have consistently been excellent throughout the years. The couple often orders the half-pound chuckburger with cheddar, steak fries or potato salad, and this time was no exception as they tried the quarter-pound beef hotdog on a french roll with chili beans, potato salad, and garlic bread. They were delighted with their order and expressed gratitude towards the staff for making them feel welcome. This territory is well-known for its trains, blues, and barbecue, coming highly recommended.
Another individual frequently orders the Ribs-and-Chicken combo, which includes a generous amount of delicious meat, two sides of choice, and a thick slice of garlic bread. The serving is so abundant that eating it all at lunchtime may lead to a food coma, but it's an ideal choice for a relaxed Friday meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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2. South Winchester BBQ
Family-owned and operated since 1989, homemade sauces

South Winchester BBQ is a reputable restaurant known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious barbecue. They offer a wide variety of meats and sides, but what really sets them apart is their in-house BBQ sauce, which is a customer favorite. Prices are also affordable, making it a great spot for a delicious and affordable meal.
The restaurant has recently opened a new location, much to the delight of one satisfied customer who has been going to their other restaurants for years. They rave about the quality of the BBQ and are excited to have a location in their own town. In addition to the BBQ, the restaurant also offers a great selection of beers, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Cheap Eats
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3. Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
Offers a friendly, casual atmosphere with catering and delivery services available.

The mac and cheese remains my top choice for a side dish at this establishment. Another standout is the bread pudding, which is so delicious that it could inspire greed in even the most restrained dessert lover. However, the serving of ice cream that comes with it for takeout could be larger.
As for the main course, this restaurant is known for having some of the best ribs in San Jose. The quality of the food is matched by the level of service, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The overall experience of dining here evokes a sense of American culture and tradition.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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4. Sauced BBQ & Spirits
Features a spacious and modern industrial interior with a large patio

BBQ meats at this establishment have been described as lacking in moisture and flavor, but the sauces provided are generally regarded as a bright spot. The atmosphere is pleasant, with a pub-like setting that adds to the overall experience.
Service is an area that has received mixed reviews, with some diners praising the staff for being friendly, efficient, and attentive, while others have criticized it for being slow, poor, and lacking in attentiveness. It appears that the quality of service can vary greatly, which may impact the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Mesquite and Oak
Family-owned business since 1946 with secret recipe BBQ sauce

The taste buds are experiencing pure joy, with the brisket being the star of the show. Its tender texture, which falls apart with ease, is a culinary delight. The beans and potato salad were also well-received, praised for their complementary flavors. To round off the meal, the corn bread was a perfect addition, providing a fresh and satisfying finish.
High-quality and flavorful food is consistently served, with the brisket sandwich earning particular acclaim. The smoky taste elevates each dish, while the freshness of the ingredients speaks to their quality. Overall, the dining experience is a definite win, leaving a lasting impression of delicious and expertly crafted meals.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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6. Smoking Pig BBQ - San Jose Coleman
Family-owned and operated BBQ restaurant with homemade sauces and a commitment to sustainability

BBQ food is known for its delicious taste, richness, and high quality. However, some guests have noted that the chicken can be drier compared to other BBQ restaurants. On the other hand, the sandwiches are also highly regarded for their flavor and moistness. Some reviewers have praised the meat, while others have mentioned that the bun can be burned at times.
The pulled pork sandwich, in particular, has received mixed reviews. While some have enjoyed its chunky texture, others have found it to be too much. Despite these minor issues, the BBQ food overall is still highly praised and enjoyed by many. The flavor and quality of the food continue to be the main draw for guests.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
7. Jon Jon's
Family-owned and operated, uses traditional BBQ techniques, slow-smokes meats for 12-14 hours

Jon Jon's is a well-regarded BBQ restaurant that provides quick and efficient service along with delicious food. The restaurant's menu features standout ribs, chicken, and brisket that are sure to delight any BBQ lover. Jon Jon's is also an excellent choice for large groups, offering a friendly and casual atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The restaurant's BBQ selection is impressive, with the ribs and brisket being the most notable dishes. The ribs are cooked to perfection, with a tender interior and a slightly charred exterior that provides a satisfying crunch. The brisket is equally impressive, with a rich flavor that comes from slow-cooking the meat to perfection. The homemade BBQ sauce is a must-try, with a unique flavor that complements the meat perfectly. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a great meal, Jon Jon's is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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8. Armadillo Willy's Texas BBQ
Live music on weekends, full bar with local beers

The food served was delicious and well-received by everyone in my team. In particular, I wanted to express my gratitude to the delivery driver who helped me on Wednesday. Our experience with them was very positive.
Regarding the cost, there were mixed opinions among the guests. Some considered the prices to be reasonable, while others found them to be expensive. However, it is important to note that the quality of the food and the convenience of the delivery service were appreciated by many.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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9. Mac Park BBQ
Uses all natural hardwood for smoking, homemade sides

MacPark BBQ is a Bay Area establishment that specializes in serving up authentic Texas BBQ using locally sourced meats. The turkey, brisket, ribs, and other meats are carefully seasoned and cooked to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What sets MacPark BBQ apart is their exceptional customer service. While the food is undeniably delicious and true to southern BBQ, it's the attentive and friendly service that keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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10. Gen Korean BBQ House
All-you-can-eat options, charcoal-grilled dishes, unique side dishes

The quality of the food served at the establishment is outstanding, and a particular highlight for many is the opportunity for kids to cook their own meals. The standard meal package provides excellent value for the overall experience.
In terms of service, opinions are mixed. Many diners have reported excellent and efficient service, with servers who are attentive to their needs. However, there have been some complaints about slow service and difficulty in getting the attention of servers when needed.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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11. J C's Bar-B-Q
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years

J C's Bar-B-Q is a renowned restaurant known for its savory barbecue dishes, including hot links, pork ribs, and chicken or rib sandwiches. The potato salad is also highly acclaimed, making it a well-rounded menu of delicious comfort food. Despite the steep prices, frequenters find the quality of the food and service to be worth the expense. In fact, the service is often described as five-star, with the owner's dedication to the business being a notable highlight. However, there is room for improvement in terms of customer service on the phone. Regardless, J C's Bar-B-Q continues to be a local favorite, with its bomb barbecue being the main attraction.
For those craving ribs, J C's Bar-B-Q is the place to be. While the restaurant may be small and unassuming, it packs a punch when it comes to flavor. The beef ribs are particularly noteworthy, though the pork ribs are also a hit. The secret to their success lies in their tangy and savory sauce, which is available for purchase separately. Overall, J C's Bar-B-Q is a hidden gem for rib lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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12. The ART of BBQ- Catering
Competition-quality BBQ, uses high-quality ingredients and unique rubs and sauces

The ART of BBQ Catering is a highly-rated BBQ catering service with a 4.5 star rating. They are open seven days a week, including Monday through Sunday.
I have personally tried many BBQ joints in the area, but none compare to The ART of BBQ. Their selection of meats is extensive and top-notch, making it a true haven for meat lovers. In addition to their excellent meats, their sides are also impressive and add to the overall deliciousness of their offerings. If you're in need of BBQ catering, The ART of BBQ is highly recommended. Writing about their food has even made me hungry for more!
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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13. Yakini Q SJ
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, using traditional BBQ techniques

The Korean BBQ experience was overall enjoyable, thanks to the friendly staff and reasonable prices. The meat, including beef brisket, beef tongue, and beef belly, tasted authentic and delicious. The restaurant quickly changed the grills more than five times, ensuring freshness and quality for every dish.
If you're looking for an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ place in South Bay, this is the spot. The meat options are high-quality and plentiful, with a diverse menu to satisfy any craving. Sean and his team provided excellent customer service, making the dining experience enjoyable and memorable. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a great Korean BBQ meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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14. CJ BBQ
Authentic Korean BBQ with tabletop grills

The BBQ Pork Rib Sandwich is a highly recommended dish that has gained popularity due to its perfectly cooked meat and delicious sauce. The sauce, in particular, is known for its tangy and sweet flavor that complements the juicy ribs.
This famous BBQ sauce is a staple in the local community, with many praising its unique taste. Those who have tried the dish recommend asking for extra sauce to fully enjoy the tangy and sweet flavors that have become synonymous with the sandwich.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. Skewerzz Pinoy BBQ

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Cheap Eats
16. Hawaiian BBQ
Offers both dine-in and takeout options, unique Hawaiian atmosphere, friendly and attentive staff

The woman who served us was very kind and friendly. She made our dining experience enjoyable. However, the burger I ordered was disappointing. It was not very tasty and quite hot to eat. On the other hand, my friend's pineapple chicken dish was delicious and well-cooked.
The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh and made-to-order food, which is commendable. There was no long wait for our food, which was great. Moreover, the dining area was comfortable and welcoming. Another highlight of the place is the donut shop that they have, which is a bonus for donut lovers. The macaroni salad served here is particularly noteworthy and tastes incredible.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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17. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Authentic Hawaiian BBQ, wide selection of proteins to choose from, self-serve food stations

The BBQ offered is well-cooked and has a delightful flavor that guests enjoy. Popular choices among customers include the Hawaiian BBQ mix, chicken combo, and macaroni salad. These options have consistently satisfied visitors with their taste and quality.
On the other hand, the seafood plate stands out as well-prepared and flavorful, while the grill meats could use more seasoning to enhance their taste. Unfortunately, the vegetables served have a bitter aftertaste, which may not appeal to all guests. Efforts could be made to improve the seasoning of the grill meats and the taste of the vegetables to provide a more enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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18. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Authentic Hawaiian BBQ, Fresh Ingredients, Generous Portions

Tasty and high-quality food is a key draw for customers at Ono Hawaiian BBQ. The Island Fire Chicken, in particular, stands out for its delicious balance of heat and sweetness.
The reviewer was in the mood for Hawaiian BBQ and decided to try Ono Hawaiian BBQ. They were impressed by the Island Fire Chicken, which offered a satisfying blend of spice and flavor.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. Sunny Island BBQ
Live music on weekends, full bar, kid-friendly

The salad option is a popular side dish at the restaurant, but opinions on the pasta salad vary. While some guests enjoy the flavor, others believe it needs improvement in terms of taste and variety.
The BBQ served at the restaurant has received positive feedback, with some reviewers praising it as superior to other Hawaiian BBQ establishments. However, there are inconsistencies in the food quality, as some guests have received BBQ that was charred and drier than desired. Despite these occasional issues, the BBQ is generally well-regarded.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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20. Bar•B•Q

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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21. Sam's BBQ Diner
Family-owned diner with a cozy atmosphere and a passion for BBQ.

Sam's BBQ Diner is a lesser-known restaurant that offers authentic Filipino cuisine, making it a unique find for many food enthusiasts. The diner's staff are known for their welcoming and friendly demeanor, which adds to the homey atmosphere. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in the quality of the food served.
While some dishes receive high praise for their taste, others are criticized for being too oily, salty, or even appearing old. One reviewer, in particular, noted that a dish they ordered was too salty, indicating potential issues with the seasoning or preparation of the food in certain cases. Therefore, while Sam's BBQ Diner has its charms and unique offerings, it may be worth noting the inconsistent food quality before planning a visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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22. William BBQ

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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