Top 26 BBQ restaurants in San Francisco
San Francisco is a city known for its culinary diversity, and BBQ restaurants in San Francisco are no exception. These eateries offer a wide range of mouth-watering, slow-cooked meats, from tender brisket to succulent ribs, all with a unique California twist. Whether you're a local or a visitor, BBQ restaurants in San Francisco are a must-try for any meat lover. So fire up your appetite and get ready to indulge in some of the best BBQ the city has to offer!
- 1. 4505 Burgers & BBQ
- 2. City Smoke House
- 3. Baby Blues BBQ
- 4. Pete's Bar-B-Que
- 5. Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint
- 6. Smile BBQ
- 7. YakiniQ Korean BBQ
- 8. Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House
- 9. Drew's Barbecue
- 10. Top SF BBQ
- 11. K-Elements BBQ
- 12. Camp BBQ
- 13. Yummy BBQ Kitchen
- 14. Buckhorn Grill
- 15. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- 16. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
- 17. Buckhorn Grill
- 18. International Smoke San Francisco
- 19. Hogwash
- 20. Smokin' Warehouse Barbecue
- 21. Aceking BBQ
- 22. Clement BBQ
- 23. Wexler's
- 24. Hardwood Bar & Smokery
- 25. AK BBQ
- 26. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
1. 4505 Burgers & BBQ
Hickory wood-fired smoker, locally-sourced meats, and casual, inviting atmosphere

BBQ restaurants in the Bay Area are known for offering high-quality meat and unique sauces, making them a popular choice for many. However, some reviewers have noted issues with undercooked ribs and an overseasoned crust in certain establishments. The sandwiches served in these BBQ joints, particularly the pulled pork, have received positive feedback for their balanced smoky flavor and tenderness. However, some reviewers have found the brisket to be a bit dry and the ribs lacking in sufficient sauce.
In summary, while BBQ is a popular option in the Bay Area, there are some concerns about the quality of the ribs and the level of seasoning in certain places. On the other hand, the pulled pork sandwiches have been praised for their excellent balance of smokiness and tenderness. However, the brisket can be inconsistent and dry, and some customers feel that the ribs need more sauce to enhance their flavor and moistness.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
Relate link
2. City Smoke House

TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
3. Baby Blues BBQ
Offers a wide variety of BBQ styles, including Texas, Memphis, and Carolina, in a casual and lively atmosphere.

The food at this establishment is described as delicious, but some guests find fault with the portion sizes, which they consider small, and the prices, which they view as too high. Moreover, there have been complaints about dry meats and a lack of sauce.
On the other hand, the BBQ offerings receive high praise, particularly the ribs, which are described as both delicious and tender. The sausage selection is also noteworthy, with Merguez (lamb) sausages available. The BBQ sauces are another highlight, with guests rating them highly.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
Relate link
4. Pete's Bar-B-Que
Family-owned since 1966, cash-only, with a lively atmosphere and communal tables.

This restaurant provides delicious and tangy BBQ at affordable prices. The menu offers a variety of options, and the sauce is a standout. The meats are highly flavorful, and when combined with the sides, they are sure to satisfy your appetite.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is casual and has a unique character with classic 49ers posters from the 80's. This blue collar establishment offers a lot of value for your money, making it an excellent choice for those looking for great food without breaking the bank.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegan Options
Relate link
5. Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint
Authentic Memphis-style BBQ in the heart of San Francisco

The food at this establishment is known for its juicy and soft texture, boasting a delicious taste that guests love. The restaurant's ribs are particularly popular, consistently receiving high praise from visitors.
The brisket stands out for its juiciness and exceptional bark, while the ribs are smoky and succulent. Pulled pork is another menu item that does not disappoint, with its delightful flavor and tender texture. Both paragraphs highlight the establishment's commitment to quality and taste, emphasizing the popularity of its ribs and other delicious menu items.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
6. Smile BBQ

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
Relate link
7. YakiniQ Korean BBQ
All-you-can-eat option, modern interior design, professional service

YakiniQ is a popular all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue (KBBQ) restaurant located in Japantown. It is a great option for large groups looking for a place to eat. The menu features a variety of meats, with galbi being the standout option, offering a delicious and flavorful taste that is sure to satisfy.
The service at YakiniQ is commendable, with staff who are attentive and kind, making for an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant offers an AYCE option for $32.99 per person, although this does not include any side dishes. Despite this, the quality of the meats and the overall dining experience make YakiniQ a great choice for KBBQ lovers.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
8. Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House
Authentic Korean BBQ experience with traditional wood charcoal grilling

Camp BBQ is known for its Japanese Yakiniku style BBQ, which is highly recommended for the high-quality ingredients they use. The staff at Camp BBQ is friendly and adds to the overall positive experience of the guests.
K-Elements BBQ also offers a great BBQ experience, with guests praising the helpful, kind, and efficient service. However, some guests have mentioned that the staff could be more polite, suggesting there may be room for improvement in their customer service approach.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
9. Drew's Barbecue

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
10. Top SF BBQ
Housed in a historic building with a colorful mural

Top SF BBQ is a highly-rated barbeque restaurant located in San Francisco, California, with a 3.3 star rating and 108 reviews. The restaurant is well-known for its savory smoked meats and traditional sides, providing a taste of Southern-style barbeque in the heart of the city. With a comfortable and informal dining atmosphere, Top SF BBQ is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Chinese-influenced barbeque menu at Top SF BBQ features a range of mouth-watering meats, such as tender pork spareribs, juicy beef brisket, and succulent roasted duck. Classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and mac and cheese complete the meal and offer a nod to traditional barbeque fare. The restaurant is open daily from 4:30 PM to 12 AM, making it an ideal destination for both early and late-night cravings. Diners can easily reach Top SF BBQ by calling (415) 571-8201 or stopping by 2311 Clement St in San Francisco.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
11. K-Elements BBQ
All-you-can-eat option, table-side grilling, vegetarian-friendly

The servers at K-Elements BBQ are known for being helpful and friendly, creating a pleasant dining experience for customers. The restaurant offers affordable prices, with kids meals around $20 and adult meals around $30.
K-Elements BBQ serves delicious and unlimited Korean food, including various side dishes like noodles and fries. The atmosphere is clean and modern, with loud music and a vibrant interior design. Dining customers have 90 minutes to enjoy the all-you-can-eat offerings.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
12. Camp BBQ
Family-owned business since 1982, using traditional BBQ techniques

Camp BBQ in San Francisco offers a unique dining experience, designed to evoke the feeling of a Japanese camping trip BBQ. The owner has paid great attention to detail in creating this atmosphere, making it a standout restaurant. The menu features standard yakiniku fare, with an emphasis on Kobe beef, ensuring high-quality and delicious dishes.
During my visit, I was impressed with the service and the variety of meat options. I tried the kalbi chuck, ox tongue, squid, and mixed veggies, and all were cooked to perfection. The portion size was generous, making it a great option for a satisfying meal. The quality of the meat and vegetables was exceptional, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
13. Yummy BBQ Kitchen
Serves traditional Southern-style BBQ, Has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere

We stumbled upon a delightful hidden gem while exploring the locality. The staff welcomed us warmly, and the food served at this establishment was exceptional. We sampled a variety of dishes, all of which were delectable.
I personally ordered roasted goose to go. The meat was incredibly juicy, and the skin had a satisfying crispy texture. This dish was perfectly seasoned, resulting in an incredibly satisfying flavor. Additionally, the owner displayed great kindness and warmth during the interaction.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
Relate link
14. Buckhorn Grill
Features a vibrant bar scene with local beers on tap

Reviewers have varying opinions about the staff at this establishment. Some appreciate the friendly and welcoming service they received, while others had a negative experience with a rude manager and poor customer service skills.
The food offerings at this location have been met with mixed reviews. Many comment on the good taste of the dishes, with specific praise for the salad and side options. However, there are also critiques of certain menu items, such as the steak sandwich, which has been described as dry by some reviewers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
15. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Authentic Japanese yakiniku, sleek and modern design

The first time visiting a Japanese BBQ restaurant, Gyu-Kaku, proved to be a fantastic experience. For lunch, an all-you-can-eat (AYCE) menu was chosen, offering a variety of dishes to try. The meal started off with a house salad and miso soup, followed by a grill filled with vegetables, including zucchini slices, mushrooms, shishito peppers, and corn kernels. Several meats were also provided, such as chicken basil, pork belly, filet, beef tongue, and beef ribs. To balance the meal's richness, kim chi and steamed rice were served on the side.
Overall, Gyu-Kaku proved to be a great chain restaurant. The San Francisco location was more impressive than the one tried in Hawaii. For the main course, wagyu for three people was ordered and shared among four. The meal came with delicious garlic noodles and a selection of sides. A few extras were ordered but luckily forgotten, resulting in a satisfying and filling meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
16. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Authentic Hawaiian BBQ, Sustainable sourcing, Locally brewed beers

The service provided by this establishment is generally described as efficient and reliable. Some guests have gone a step further to commend the staff for their friendliness and cordiality. The cleanliness of the establishment has also been highlighted as a positive aspect.
In terms of cost, opinions are mixed. While some guests consider the prices to be reasonable, others find them to be on the expensive side. However, there are also guests who praise the value for money that the establishment offers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Breakfast
Relate link
17. Buckhorn Grill
Uses organic and locally sourced ingredients, offers a happy hour menu, and has a warm and cozy atmosphere

The food at this establishment has received mixed reviews. Some customers have raved about the taste of the offerings, particularly the salad and sides. However, there has been some criticism toward the steak sandwich, with some reviewers complaining that it is dry.
Despite the mixed feedback on certain dishes, there are two standout items on the menu. The burgers have been well-received by customers, indicating that they are a safe and delicious choice. Additionally, the tri tip has proven to be a popular selection, suggesting that it is a high-quality and flavorful cut of meat.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
18. International Smoke San Francisco
International BBQ fare, sustainable sourcing, creative cocktails

Ribs were the main focus of the meal, with differing opinions on their quality. One set of ribs was described as tough, lacking any smoky flavor that is often associated with barbecued ribs. On the other hand, there were ribs that were highly enjoyed, as they were tender and full of flavor.
The tender and flavorful ribs were a highlight of the meal for many. Unfortunately, the opposite was true for some, who found the ribs to be tough and lacking any hint of smokiness. This discrepancy in the quality of the ribs made for a varied dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
Relate link
19. Hogwash
Uses high-quality ingredients, Authentic Southern BBQ, Homey experience

The beer selection at this bar is excellent, offering a wide variety that is sure to satisfy any beer lover. With 30 taps to choose from, there is no shortage of options. The food menu is more limited, mainly consisting of sandwiches, but the homemade sausage is a standout and worth trying. The vegetarian option is also a solid choice.
If you're wondering whether the city needs another gastropub, the answer is yes in the case of Hogwash. This bar distinguishes itself with its impressive 30-tap system featuring high-quality beer. The homemade sausage is another highlight, making it worth a visit. Overall, Hogwash is a great addition to the neighborhood, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
20. Smokin' Warehouse Barbecue
Serves alcohol, Offers catering, Has outdoor seating

An outstanding location for barbecue enthusiasts, this establishment, which is tucked away in a strip mall, offers an exceptional dining experience. Upon arriving at around six in the evening, the place was not crowded, and the service was exceptional, treating diners with great hospitality. The prices were reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a casual dinner.
This small business is a hidden gem that truly embodies the phrase 'the best food in California can be found in some random strip mall.' The food served in this establishment is delicious, and customers are highly encouraged to give it a try. With its great taste and affordability, this restaurant is undoubtedly a must-visit place for anyone who loves quality food in a relaxed and unpretentious setting.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
21. Aceking BBQ
Family-owned business since 2009, Serves Asian-style BBQ

The noodle dish offered is both sour and spicy, providing a unique and authentic taste. It is served in a clean restaurant, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The food receives a rating of 5, highlighting its exceptional quality.
Two specific dishes that stand out are the beef skewers and the stir fry glass noodle. The beef skewers are juicy and well-cooked, indicating the skill and expertise of the chef. The stir fry glass noodle is another recommended dish, offering a different texture and flavor that complements the spicy noodle dish. Overall, the menu offers a range of delicious options for diners to enjoy.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
22. Clement BBQ
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
Relate link
23. Wexler's
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
24. Hardwood Bar & Smokery
In-house smoked meats, unique whiskey selection, and communal seating

The BBQ restaurant prides itself on serving delicious and flavorful food that keeps customers coming back for more. The meat is slow-cooked and smoked to perfection, resulting in a tender and savory taste that is hard to resist. The menu offers a variety of BBQ dishes, from pulled pork and beef brisket to ribs and chicken.
On the other hand, the drink menu is intentionally limited, but the drinks that are available are strong and well-received by customers. The restaurant focuses on providing a few high-quality options, such as craft beers, wines, and cocktails, rather than overwhelming customers with too many choices. This approach allows the restaurant to ensure that every drink they serve is of the highest quality, enhancing the overall dining experience for their customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
Relate link
25. AK BBQ

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
26. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Family-owned and operated for over 80 years, using traditional pit-smoking techniques.

If you're in search of delicious BBQ, this location is highly recommended. The pulled pork sandwich is a must-try, featuring succulent meat with a distinguishable smoky flavor and a BBQ sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
This San Francisco BBQ spot is renowned for its exceptional ribs, which boast a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture. Along with their mouthwatering dishes, the eatery provides friendly and efficient service, ensuring a delightful dining experience for patrons.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems