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BBQ and mashed potatoes in California

Authentic BBQ that pairs with mashed potatoes made from scratch, not the instant powder that usually fills the side dish slot.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
KingChang-La image 1
KingChang-La image 2
KingChang-La image 3
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Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant with celebrity autographs decorating walls and a modern yet cozy interior. Atmosphere stays lively and comfortable, with staff grilling meat at the table and managing hotpots for a relaxed experience. Space includes private booths and offers valet parking for convenience.

Offers a comprehensive Korean BBQ menu including grilled beef intestines and tender, flavorful short ribs. Serves a varied selection that appeals to both veterans and first-timers of Korean BBQ.

Refillable side dishes include mashed potatoes that stand out for their delicious flavor. The mashed potatoes are popular enough to be ordered multiple times during a meal.

People are saying

"The short ribs here are juicy and prime."

"The BBQ meat here is high-quality and well-marinated."

"I loved the mashed potatoes; they were so good I got multiple refills."

Good to know

1

KingChang-La celebrates birthdays with a song and sparkler.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

A few pieces of meat can cost up to $60 per person.

02
Bushfire Kitchen - Brea image 1
American restaurant

Bright, clean space with family-friendly casual atmosphere and a dog-friendly patio. Menu offers healthy, shareable dishes with unique flavors and a welcoming vibe. Busy on Friday nights, it balances comfort with a well-designed interior.

BBQ tri-tip sandwich stands out for its moistness and rich flavor. Plates like the BBQ chicken bowl with jasmine rice and roasted veggies offer a solid, satisfying meal.

Garlic mashed potatoes appear frequently paired with meats like tri-tip and peri peri chicken, offering a creamy texture and rich flavor. Seasonal dishes also feature mashed potatoes as a base, complementing items like chipotle braised beef and butternut squash.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the empanadas and surf & turf, is bursting with flavor."

"I loved the garlic mashed potatoes with my tri-tip bowl."

"The BBQ tri-tip sandwich is so moist and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-5 pm with 50% off beer and wine.

2

The restaurant gets very busy on Friday nights, expect longer wait times.

3

They offer many gluten-free and plant-based options on the menu.

03
lalc Smoked BBQ & Seafood image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small dining area with simple decor creates a cozy, beach shack vibe. Atmosphere stays clean and inviting but can get loud inside. Known for exceptional BBQ sandwiches and well-seasoned sides, it draws a crowd looking for quality smoked meats and seafood.

Oak wood smoking gives the meat a distinct flavor that shines through without being overwhelmed by sauce. Ribs fall off the bone and come with a Carolina-style BBQ sauce, while sandwiches like the Angus tri tip dip and pulled pork offer unique twists on BBQ classics.

Mashed potatoes come as a classic side with hearty dishes like shredded beef and tri-tip. They blend well with rich meats and add a creamy texture to family-style meals featuring chicken, brisket, and pulled pork.

People are saying

"The barbecue here is perfectly cooked and tender."

"The BBQ here is perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The mashed potatoes were a magical blend with the tri-tip."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with plenty of street and meter options nearby.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of organic food options on the menu.

3

Brussels sprouts are available on the dinner menu starting at 3 pm.

04
Meme's Texas BBQ Smokehouse image 1

Small, cozy space with an open kitchen creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels unassuming and mom-and-pop, attracting BBQ enthusiasts who appreciate authentic Texan flavors. Affordable prices and well-prepared smoked meats stand out amid a casual, take-out-focused environment.

Barbecue features well-cooked meats like brisket and chicken sandwich with loaded mashed potatoes and potato salad that stands out. Prices stay affordable while delivering solid flavor and quality.

Loaded mashed potatoes come with bacon bits and have a delicious flavor. They pair well with BBQ dishes like chicken sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, hot, fresh, and delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and pulled pork, is tender and flavorful."

"The BBQ brisket here is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is primarily a take-out place with limited dine-in options.

3

Payment is required before receiving food; cash and cards are accepted.

05
W Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Tiny Brazilian steakhouse offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a warm, inviting vibe reflecting Brazilian spirit. The place supports a small family business and features a big screen for game nights. It lacks a liquor license, so guests bring their own drinks.

Brazilian barbecue features 8 to 10 cuts of meat, all delicious and well above average for the price. Quality and flavor stand out compared to other Brazilian BBQ spots nearby.

Sides include mashed potatoes served alongside stroganoff, canned corn, black beans, white rice, and salad. Mashed potatoes come as part of an unlimited offering with other sides.

People are saying

"The Steakhouse meats were so tender and full of flavor."

"The Brazilian BBQ here is delicious and high quality for the price."

"The steaks here are savory, juicy, and seasoned perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 for 90 minutes in the building, and you need to validate your ticket.

2

As of June 16, 2025, the restaurant does not have a liquor license, so guests need to bring their own alcohol.

3

They allowed me to bring my own wine without a corkage fee.

06
Rio Picanha Steakhouse image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Brazilian steakhouse offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with a contemporary twist and a large, beautiful interior. Guests enjoy a full salad bar alongside tableside service of select meats, creating a relaxed yet lively dining experience suitable for groups and families.

Brazilian BBQ here features real BBQ meats cooked to perfection with a rich variety of cooked foods, vegetables, salads, fruits, breads, soups, and desserts in an all-you-can-eat buffet style.

Mashed potatoes come with mushroom gravy and garlic roasted style. They pair well with beef stroganoff and stand out as a top choice among side dishes.

People are saying

"You can try many types of steak with the red and green light system."

"The BBQ meats here are cooked perfectly and flavored well."

"The mashed potatoes here were delicious, especially with mushroom gravy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect limited menu items available during peak hours.

3

The restaurant charges dinner prices even for afternoon visits.

07
Love Chicken and Ribs image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers spacious seating with both indoor and outdoor options, including diner-style booths and barstools. Atmosphere feels warm and nostalgic, with a clean and welcoming vibe. Known for top-notch beef ribs and chicken, it draws a crowd seeking quality barbecue in a relaxed setting.

Fall-off-the-bone meat and tangy barbecue sauce define the ribs and chicken here. The BBQ beef ribs stand out as especially flavorful and tender.

Creamy mashed potatoes come with gravy that is balanced, not too salty or watery. They appear as a classic side alongside generous portions of BBQ chicken and ribs.

People are saying

"I thought the beef ribs were really good and off the bone."

"The lunch combo here is a hit, offering a generous amount of food for the price."

"I thought it had the best chicken and ribs BBQ."

Good to know

1

Love Chicken and Ribs is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

2

The new location is bigger and has better parking.

3

The prices are high, with 3 bones, mashed potatoes, and fries costing over $30.

08
Copper Hill BBQ image 1
Restaurant

Small dining space with rustic vibe and cute decor offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and relaxed, often hosting families and casual diners. Known for authentic smoked brisket and a well-organized, clean setting.

Tender ribs come with a really good BBQ sauce. The smoked BBQ offers a wide range of flavors that satisfy many tastes. Large orders like the "Texas Takedown" serve groups well with generous portions.

Creamy mashed potatoes come in a generous portion that is larger than most. They pair well with traditional coleslaw and other classic sides.

People are saying

"The brisket and tri-tip here are succulent and tender."

"The BBQ here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"I thought the mashed potatoes were delicious and creamy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

Expect large portion sizes, often enough for leftovers.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other BBQ places in the area.

09
The Smoking Ribs image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smoky aroma fills a small, dimly lit dining room with casual, friendly atmosphere. The place feels home-like and busy but controlled, offering tender, flavorful ribs and brisket that often sell out early. It has a low-key vibe reminiscent of a sports bar without the sports focus.

Quality meat and generous portions stand out with amazing flavor in the ribs and brisket. The spicy barbecue sauce adds a strong kick that complements the dishes well.

Mashed potatoes come out creamy and sometimes remind of boxed style. They pair well with sides like green beans and brisket, offering a solid, simple option.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the brisket and beef ribs."

"I thought their BBQ was the best I had tried in years."

"The mashed potatoes here are nice and creamy."

Good to know

1

They run out of brisket by 1-2 pm, so arrive early.

2

The last seating is at 9:30 PM sharp.

3

The parking lot is across the street from the restaurant.

10
Sauced BBQ & Spirits image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Large open space combines multiple TVs showing sports with arcade games and axe throwing areas. Atmosphere is loud and energetic, often filled with noisy groups and children playing. Outdoor seating and playground add to the active, family-friendly vibe.

Smokey southern BBQ fills the air with four house sauces to choose from. Brisket and pulled pork stand out with great flavor and a huge selection of barbecue dishes.

Garlic mashed potatoes stand out with rich flavor and creamy texture. Sides like baked beans and sweet corn succotash often accompany the flavorful mashed potatoes.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with flavor and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is delicious, especially the moist corn muffins."

"The mashed potatoes here are so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm with various food and drink specials.

2

Wednesday offers $1 wings and $8 whiskey during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

11
Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse San Diego image 1

Rotating meats sliced tableside create a unique dining experience in a spacious, modern setting with a full bar offering standout piรฑa coladas served in pineapples. The atmosphere stays relaxed and family friendly, with a clean and inviting environment that accommodates large groups comfortably.

Barbecue meats come perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender with options like Tri Tip, lamb, and spicy BBQ chicken. All-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue offers a variety of flavorful choices.

Creamy mashed potatoes appear regularly as a side, served alongside dishes like steak and chicken. They come with other traditional Brazilian sides and buffet options, offering a smooth texture and comforting flavor.

People are saying

"The salad bar had a wide variety of options."

"The BBQ here is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"I thought the mashed potatoes were delicious and creamy."

Good to know

1

Expect no wait time during weekday dinner hours.

2

Parking is easy and plentiful near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers over 18 different meats, including beef, chicken, seafood, lamb, and pork.

12
Steve's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small spot with classy but relaxing atmosphere and live music creates a welcoming, local vibe. Lighting is bright, making battery-powered candles barely visible. The place offers tray pass service during cocktail hour and busses after dinner, blending casual BBQ with upscale touches.

Smoked BBQ brisket stands out with its incredible juiciness and buttery texture. The BBQ dishes pack a big kick and include favorites like BBQ mac and cheese that appeal to all ages.

Loaded mashed potatoes come with smoked bacon and cheese bits. They appear alongside ribs, chicken, and mac and cheese in meals.

People are saying

"This BBQ is the real deal, maybe the best in Southern California."

"The ribs and brisket at these Date Spots are so juicy."

"The mashed potatoes were cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Prices are above average for BBQ, with some items increasing by 20% recently.

3

Happy hour is all day on Wednesday and Thursday with discounted drinks.

13
JD's Mission Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse combines cowboy-themed decor with a small-town, hole-in-the-wall vibe and live music on weekends. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with a mix of festive and laid-back energy. Tables and layout show some rough edges, but the focus remains on hearty, flavorful steaks.

Quality barbecue features tangy sauce served on the side to control flavor. The atmosphere matches a rural BBQ spot and ribs avoid being overly sauced.

Garlicky and flavorful mashed potatoes come with meals here. They pair well with dishes like medium rare ribeye and roasted corn.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly with superb flavor."

"I found the filet mignon covered in a unique sauce to be a true masterpiece."

"The BBQ ribs here fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is popular; arrive early or make reservations.

2

The restaurant serves only beer and wine; no hard alcohol is available.

3

Expect no wait times for seating at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday nights.

14
Broken Spirits Distillery image 1

Exposed brick walls and moody lighting create a speakeasy and hipster honky-tonk vibe with an open floor plan and outdoor patio. The atmosphere buzzes with rock music at a perfect level, blending lively energy and cozy comfort. Sports play on TV screens while guests enjoy innovative cocktails and flavorful food in a welcoming space.

Smoked meats like Snake River Farms Kurobota Pork and brisket feature prominently, often paired with Japanese Miso BBQ sauce or a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Dishes include a BBQ chopped salad and a tri-tip quesadilla with a smoky BBQ drizzle and grilled cheese.

Very creamy and filling, the mashed potatoes have the right amount of herbs to boost flavor. They pair well with dishes like tri tip and Brussels sprouts.

People are saying

"The American Food brisket here is so tender and flavorful."

"The brisket BBQ here is tender, flavorful, and amazing."

"The mashed potatoes were so creamy and filling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm and daily from 9pm to close.

2

During happy hour, buy one cocktail and get the second one free.

3

On Fridays before 6pm, enjoy buy one, get one free drinks.

15
Black Pork image 1
Restaurant

Casual eatery with diverse menu featuring tacos, Cuban sandwiches, and smoked dishes. Quiet atmosphere with a dog-friendly outdoor patio and cute pig-themed decor. Food highlights include juicy burgers and flavorful empanadas.

Barbecue features marinated pork shank with adobo and a house BBQ sauce. Ribs come drenched in a very sweet sauce that some find unpleasant.

Smooth mashed potatoes with parmesan cheese offer a flavorful side. They often come paired with sautรฉed vegetables or dishes like ribeye steak and pork belly skewers.

People are saying

"The American Food here is flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"I found the BBQ here to be delicious."

"The mashed potatoes here are smooth and flavorful with parmesan."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $3 each.

2

Black Pork is mainly suitable for takeout or outdoor seating.

3

There was plenty of street parking available at lunchtime.

16
Burdell image 1
American restaurant

Rustic dรฉcor with vintage charm and stained glass windows creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Funky music and a nostalgic vibe complement the comfortable, casual yet classy setting. Soul food flavors stand out amid a relaxed, stylish environment.

Boiled peanuts and BBQ shrimp stand out with a buttery, spicy sauce that feels more like a velvety bisque than traditional barbecue. The BBQ lamb ribs and tomato salad add solid variety alongside soft biscuits.

Mashed potatoes come with house-made butter that makes them stand out. They pair well with dishes like rabbit and chicken and are cooked just right alongside greens.

People are saying

"The American Food's duck was intensely flavored, almost unrecognizable."

"The BBQ whole shrimp was cooked to perfection with a yummy, spicy sauce."

"The mashed potatoes with house-made butter were unreal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Expect to pay around $30-50 per person for a meal.

3

The restaurant can get crowded during Sunday lunch hours.

17
Texas Roadhouse image 1
Steak house

Country-themed steakhouse features rustic decor with wooden floors and memorabilia. Atmosphere is loud and crowded yet warm and fun, often filled with lively entertainment and sports on TV. Known for hot buttery rolls and well-prepared steaks, it draws a bustling crowd without reservations.

Steaks and BBQ chicken come cooked to perfection with moist, flavorful meat. Slow-cooked ribs feature a unique blend of seasonings and a signature BBQ sauce that adds a sweet, rich taste.

Mashed potatoes come loaded or classic, served alongside steaks, ribs, and sandwiches. They taste delicious and pair well with various dishes like country fried steak and pulled pork.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and awesome."

"The BBQ ribs here really do fall off the bone."

"I liked the mashed potatoes; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 1-2 hour wait on busy weekend nights.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounts on select appetizers.

18
Stonefire Grill image 1
American restaurant

Modern and rustic design shapes a spacious dining area with patio seating that echoes lively sounds. Warm and inviting atmosphere suits families and groups seeking a quick, good meal with a varied menu. Self-service for drinks and utensils adds to a casual, energetic vibe.

Tri-tip stands out with a medium cook, light seasoning, and no sauce. Ribs come with a sweet mesquite honey flavor and shine without heavy sauce. BBQ chicken sandwich features fresh toppings and good chicken.

Garlic mashed potatoes come with a solid, creamy consistency and a strong garlic flavor. The cheesy garlic mashed potatoes disappear quickly, showing they are popular and well-made.

People are saying

"The staff here is amazing and the service is great."

"You have to try their amazing and creamy Carrot Cake."

"The BBQ tri-tip was super tender and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers discounts for students, military personnel, and law enforcement.

3

Catering services are available for events like weddings and anniversaries.

19
Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que image 1

Barbecue restaurant with family-friendly BBQ energy and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Walls display historic pictures and cool art themes, creating a casual, lively vibe. Patio offers a spot for people watching, while multiple TVs play games silently in the bar area.

Pulled pork, chicken, and ribs stand out with tender tritip served alongside various BBQ sauces including a notable Memphis style in a raccoon bottle. The BBQ consistently delivers delicious flavors and pairs well with a tritip sandwich.

Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes come with rich gravy. They pair well with ribs and chicken in family meals.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the beef ribs, is meaty and satisfying."

"The BBQ food here is delicious."

"The mashed potatoes and gravy were both excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 off beer pints from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

3

Lucille's serves Thanksgiving-style dinner on Thanksgiving Day.

20
Brew Hawg BBQ & Root Beer Co. image 1

Small strip mall spot with minimal seating and a cozy, chill vibe featuring country music and laughter. The atmosphere feels like a hidden gem for barbecue lovers seeking quick-serve options. The place stands out for its original barbecue and casual, take-out focus.

Authentic barbecue shines with excellent, tasty flavors in a small, hidden spot. Takeout consistently delivers great, original BBQ with solid customer service.

Garlic mashed potatoes come as a common side and pair with BBQ dishes like ribs and brisket. Portions can be small, often served alongside cornbread and mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is tender and flavorful."

"I thought the mac and cheese was delicious and melted in my mouth."

"I loved the garlic mashed potatoes."

Good to know

1

Brew Hawg BBQ & Root Beer Co. primarily operates as a take-out eatery.

2

Parking is available but shared with other businesses, which can get crowded.

3

Expect a wait time of no more than 10 minutes for your order.

21
Red's Barbecue & Grillery image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with an excellent patio for dining. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxed, not corporate or overly loud. Regulars enjoy tender, flavorful ribs and a vibe where people connect naturally.

Barbecue beef ribs stand out for being very meaty and flavorful. The BBQ chicken and ribs offer consistently great tasting meats with outstanding quality and service.

Mashed potatoes come as a side option paired with sandwiches and entrees. They have a smooth texture and are served alongside other classic sides like mac n cheese and beans.

People are saying

"These beef ribs are meaty and exceptional."

"The BBQ beef ribs were the best I've had."

"I found the rolls and mashed potatoes to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times for pickup during peak hours.

2

Parking is ample, but carpooling is recommended to avoid issues.

3

The restaurant has faced food safety issues recently.

22
Cork & Batter Roadhouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Wide open seating with loud, lively atmosphere and smoky air near the patio smoker creates a rough, energetic vibe. Pool tables and a full wrap-around bar with TVs add a Texas-style chill feel, while separate rooms offer quieter dining options.

Family style BBQ platter offers a delicious variety of meats. The barbecue stands out for its amazing flavor and quality.

Mashed potatoes come with seasonings and rich gravy that enhance their flavor. They pair well with smoked turkey, brisket, and ribs, making them a solid side choice.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the ribs, is amazing and delicious."

"The BBQ here is amazing, and the service is super friendly."

"The mashed potatoes and gravy were excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.

3

Live music starts at 9:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

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