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Top Ten San Diego BBQ Joints

Posted On : 4/21/2011 by Kyle Kelley

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America’s finest city might be almost a thousand miles away from what the rest of the world considers to be the best BBQ, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t equipped to give them a run for their money. Oddly enough, San Diego has several delicious authentic BBQ joints that are arguably just as good, if not much better, than their counterparts in the deep South. Trust us, we know what we are doing here in San Diego.

Smoked, baked or braised, any way you cook it there is no wrong way to do BBQ. Fall-off-the-bone meats decorated with signature sauces is the kind of hearty, comforting meal that most people inherently crave. These local experts have been doing BBQ right for years and are more than willing to let you try out their family recipes. Just make sure there are enough napkins on the table to take care of some of the messier family members.

Discover ten of our favorite San Diego BBQ joints that are finger-licking good.

Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ in La Jolla
Opened by two Navy buddies early in 2009, Bubba’s has quickly turned into one of the most popular BBQ joints in San Diego. Located right next to the La Jolla coast, enjoying fine BBQ with an ocean view is an experience that is difficult to compete with. With meat coming in fresh from local vendors, everything tastes fresh and is complimented wonderfully by the tangy signature sauce. The full menu and catering information are found at bubbassmokehousebbq.com.

Phil’s BBQ in Midway
We all knew it was coming and here it is. Phil’s is easily the most revered and recognizable BBQ in all of San Diego county. Locals agree, this is as close to authentic southern BBQ as we can get out here on the California coast. Winning awards and garnering plenty of attention from television shows is all in a days work from this inspired BBQ. Order its signature rubs and sauce and learn more about Phil's BBQ.

Bar-B-Que House in Ocean Beach
Free delivery, large booths and a massive catering makes Bar-B-Que House an easy choice and a great place to get your hands dirty with a group of friends. Just off of the Ocean Beach shore, the expert grill masters here have absolutely mastered the art of beef, pork, ham and chicken. With plenty of beers on tap, you will never want to leave. Information regarding the menu and upcoming special events are found at bbqhouseob.com.

Black Jack BBQ in Chula Vista
Although this small roadside stand can seem unconvincing from the outset, be assured that Black Jack knows exactly what he is doing. Simple sides like mashed potatoes and corn on the cob have always made for the best pairings with barbecue, and Black Jack BBQ is no different. Try the rib meal with two sides and a biscuit for a satisfying lunch that will definitely keep you satisfied.

Coop’s West Texas Barbeque in Lemon Grove
Lemon Grove residents are lucky that Coop’s West Texas has made sure to spread its love of barbecue to its neighborhood. While the location is rather unassuming, the flame spattered windows are sure to give you an idea of what to expect. This is authentic, picnic style BBQ that is packed up and ready to be enjoyed wherever you may be. Pay online and take a gander at the menu on coopsbbq.com.

Smokin’ Joe Barbeque and Delivery in Alta Vista
Bringing over the signature spice blends and unique barbecue style of Memphis over to us on the West Coast, Smokin’ Joe’s is known for its ribs and pulled pork. Heaping helpings are served up all throughout the day to locals who seem like they can never have enough. Explore this new restaurant and we bet that you will go home with an extra order of cornbread before leaving. Get the down low at smokinjoedelivery.com.

BBQ 81
Unlike any other of the barbecue spots on this list, BBQ 81 is a traveling catering company that is well equipped to upgrade any of your private events. Plates, napkins and utensils are included so you will not have to worry about creating too much of a mess at home. BBQ 81 will set up its grills, impressing your entire guest list and making passerbys jealous over the intriguing smell. Catering information and rates are found at barbeque81.com.

Huffman’s Barbeque & Catering in National City
The amount of food patrons are able to order here for only a handful of cash is absolutely astounding. Classics like fried okra, sweet potato pie and corn bread make their way to accompany the tender barbecued meats. Huffman’s offers the classic taste of the south, available for anyone in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Croom’s Catering & BBQ in Chula Vista
If you get lost on the way to Croom’s, feel free to roll down the windows and follow your nose to the restaurant. While the barbecue will always take the center stage, don’t forget to indulge you sweet tooth with a few cookies or one of the many custom cakes. A complete list of services alongside the full menu is available at croomscatering.com.

Barbecue Pit in National City
With two locations in the San Diego area, National City and El Cajon, BBQ is now widely available in nearly every local neighborhood. The shame? They can’t all be as good as The Barbecue Pit. This place has been owned and operated locally since 1947, making it one of the oldest local BBQ joints to get a rack of ribs. Strong believers in the Texas style Pit Barbecues, you can count on your meat falling off the bone and melting in your mouth. More information on the restaurants can be found at thebarbecuepitrestaurant.com.

Are we still missing one? Leave a comment below to share your favorite San Diego BBQ spots with us.

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