All Things Orange County

The 5 Best BBQ Restaurants in Orange County

The 5 Best BBQ Restaurants in Orange County

The smoky aroma, the sizzling sounds of BBQ with the promise of delicious, savory food make barbecue restaurants a beloved staple of American dining culture. But what is it that makes us love BBQ restaurants so much?

BBQ is an inherently social food. It brings people together around a shared experience. The casual and relaxed atmosphere of a BBQ restaurant encourages conversation and community-building. It’s a place where you can catch up with friends and family, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy a night out with good food and good company. BBQ is a distinctly American cuisine. 

Beyond the social and cultural aspects, there’s no denying that BBQ is just plain delicious. The slow-cooking process infuses meat with flavor and tenderizes it to mouth-watering perfection. Whether it’s brisket, ribs, pulled pork, or chicken, the smoky, savory taste of BBQ is hard to resist. And while traditional BBQ sauces and rubs vary by region, there’s something for everyone when it comes to BBQ flavor profiles. In Orange County we’re lucky enough to have different styles of BBQ from all across the country right here in OC.

These local restaurants offer a level of expertise and skill that’s hard to replicate, keeping fans and patrons coming back for more. Pitmasters and chefs spend years perfecting their craft and mastering the art of low-and-slow cooking. At BBQ restaurants, you can enjoy the fruits of their labor without having to invest in expensive equipment or devote hours to the cooking process. It’s a treat to sit back and enjoy expertly cooked BBQ that’s been prepared with care and attention to detail. Loved for their social atmosphere, nostalgic charm, delicious food, and expert cooking. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, there’s something about the smoky, savory flavor of BBQ that keeps us coming back for more. So the next time you’re looking for a casual, enjoyable dining experience with friends and family, consider a visit to one of these 5 Hot BBQ Restaurants in Orange County right now.

SAUCED

1535 W Katella Ave, Orange, CA 92867

This fan favorite has multiple locations all across California. In addition to the meat combos, multiple sauces and sides they also offer Happy Hour prices and Axe throwing at their Orange location. Book axe throwing here!

HERITAGE BBQ

31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Heritage BBQ is arguably the best BBQ in Orange County. Period. The Texas style BBQ menu changes daily. Expect a line at this BBQ restaurant because the food is well.. its worth waiting for. Closed Monday and Tuesday they are open Wednesday through Sunday until they sell out. 

BEALES TEXAS BBQ

16400 E Pacific Coast Hwy Unit 130, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Open 7 days a week. This authentic Texas BBQ has mouths watering. Their brisket is amazing. Savor every bite of slow cooked goodness. Click here to see the menu.

BEACH PIT BBQ

30065 Alicia Pkwy A, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

1676 Tustin Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Beach Pit is slow cooked 14 hr BBQ. Not your average BBQ restaurant they offer something for everyone including some amazing salads.. yes salads. Their slow cooked turkey spinach salad will have you coming back again and again.  There is something for everyone from mouthwatering ribs, to pulled pork sandwiches, wraps and everything in between and with not one but two locations in Orange County its a short drive away.  Don’t forget to order their amazing banana pudding for dessert! Click here to see the full menu.

BLAKES PLACE

2901 E Miraloma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806

Blakes has been an Anaheim favorite for 25 years. Slow cooked ribs, tri- tip brisket and sandwiches are fan favorites. Don’t forget a slice of Texas toast. Take a look at the full menu here.