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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Barbecue

You are looking for serious barbecue that stands on its own merits.

Based on 493 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Delanya's Smokin' Hot Texas BBQ and More... image 1
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Enjoy tender brisket and smoked chicken with rich barbecue sauce. Catering arrives hot and ready, perfect for events. Vegan diners appreciate jackfruit tacos adding variety to classic Texas BBQ.

Tender BBQ chicken and excellent barbecue sauce stand out here. The BBQ Beef Brisket and pulled pork offer rich, flavorful options with responsive service for catering events.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ brisket was some of the best I've ever had."

"The pulled pork here is so juicy and smoky."

"The brisket here is so tender and smoky, it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available for private events with advance booking.

2

Vegan options are offered alongside traditional barbecue dishes.

3

The owner has over 30 years of experience in barbecue catering.

02
bb.q chicken Costa Mesa image 1

Korean fried chicken shines with crispy, juicy bites and a smoky flavor. Dining feels clean and casual with a calm vibe. Prices stay reasonable while portions satisfy, making it a great spot for BBQ chicken lovers.

Korean BBQ chicken stands out with a memorable flavor that compares well to other known spots. Meals focus on BBQ chicken and deliver a satisfying experience.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean fried chicken here was the best I ever had."

"The BBQ chicken here is perfectly cooked and juicy."

"The barbecue chicken here is perfectly cooked and juicy."

Good to know

1

The online order portal may not reflect current store hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The dining area is well-maintained and clean.

03
Gyutan Tsukasa U.S.A image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open-space seating creates a lively, communal vibe with Showa-era Japanese street style. Charcoal-grilled beef tongue delivers authentic smoky flavor and tender texture. BBQ here rivals Tokyo with its freshness and rich taste.

Charcoal-grilled beef tongue stands out with its freshness and rich flavor. The BBQ here offers a taste that rivals versions found in Tokyo.

People are saying

"The beef tongue soup was delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The beef curry here is rich, savory, and so good with rice."

"The barbecue beef tongue is tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and expect a wait of 30-45 minutes on weekends.

2

The price range is US$20-30 per person for a meal.

3

There is limited seating in the food court, which can lead to standing while eating.

04
Anjin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tiny, cozy spot with red booth seats and grills at tables offers a warm, authentic vibe. Guests enjoy interactive grilling with top-quality meats, making the barbecue experience stand out. Early arrival is smart due to limited space and no reservations.

Quality of the meat stands out with great meats and a strong focus on the meat BBQ experience. Guests can barbecue their own meal, adding an interactive element to the dining.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese BBQ here to be delicious."

"The soup here is split into smaller bowls for you."

"I found the Japanese Barbecue here to be good."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts at 5pm, and there is usually a wait shortly after opening.

2

Arrive early to put your name down as they don't take reservations.

3

Expect to wait about 45 minutes if you arrive at peak times.

05
Beach Pit BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor patio creates a warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining. Barbecue features smoked meats with rich flavor and a meat platter offering great value. Friendly staff enhance the pleasant, welcoming vibe for casual meals.

Smoked meats come with great flavor and a meat platter offers good value. Friendly staff add to the experience, and the barbecue stays consistent and delicious every visit.

People are saying

"Christian's friendly and attentive service made the BBQ experience great."

"The outdoor seating here is really nice, especially at sunset."

"The service here is so friendly and attentive, it really enhances the experience."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, with only four spaces available on-site.

2

There is ample and safe parking within walking distance or across the street.

3

Outdoor seating is available during early weekday lunch hours.

06
Harper Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open space blends modern industrial design with indoor and outdoor seating for a laid-back vibe. Smoked beef cheeks shine as a barbecue favorite, while the bar serves draft beers that match the casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

Smoked beef cheeks stand out as a favorite bite over brisket. The quality of the meat drives the barbecue experience here. Pork steak gets notable attention as an underrated cut.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing and totally worth a try."

"The potato salad here is served warm with a unique twist."

"I thought the barbecue here was really good and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early or consider street parking options.

3

Prices can be high, with meals for two averaging around $100.

07
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian barbecue spot serves sweet smoky ribs and Kahlua pork in generous portions. Seating is limited but the setting stays clean and comfortable. Quiet, laid-back vibe suits quick meals or takeout perfectly.

BBQ mix combo comes fresh to order with short ribs and BBQ chicken that offer a sweet, smoky flavor. The BBQ beef tends to be a bit dry, while the ribs and chicken deliver a satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken was a sweet, smoky hug."

"The chicken katsu here is delicious and a great value."

"The Barbecue portions are huge and ridiculously tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions; one combo can easily feed two people.

2

Parking is plentiful in the commercial center.

3

On Tuesdays, enjoy a deal for mini katsu and a drink for $11-$12.

08
Holรฉ Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke and barbecue aroma fill the air with standout tri tip and shrimp in mustard sauce. Neon signs and TVs create a sports-friendly vibe. Seating suits groups and families, plus a comfy patio space adds to the relaxed feel.

Barbecue aroma hits immediately upon entering. The tri tip cooked medium and shrimp with mustard barbecue sauce stand out. Sausage and BBQ wings deliver strong flavors. Only one delicious BBQ sauce is offered, with hopes for a spicy addition.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"I experienced the best happy hour in town, with mind-blowing menus."

"The brisket melted in my mouth; it's the best decision."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

09
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Yakiniku restaurant

Small, modern space blends industrial chic with cozy, low-lit seating. Smoke-free grills keep clothes fresh, while staff provide friendly service and tips. Perfect for quiet dates or small groups seeking Japanese BBQ in a pleasant setting.

Smoke-free grills keep clothes and hair free of odors. Staff offer friendly service and solid tips on how to barbecue. This spot serves Japanese BBQ with consistent quality and draws a steady crowd.

People are saying

"I tried the prime ribeye and it was nicely marbled and delicious."

"The Japanese BBQ here is fantastic, especially the meat quality."

"The Japanese Barbecue meat quality here is fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferred due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The meal costs $55 per person after tax.

3

Parking is limited due to other popular businesses in the area.

10
Westend image 1
Restaurant

Small space with southern gothic style and quirky lights sets a unique mood. Barbecue offers flavorful drinks but meat can be older. Live DJ and young crowd create an intimate lively atmosphere while the outdoor patio adds a relaxed social vibe.

Barbecue features fresh appearance but the meat tends to be older. Drinks pair well with the flavorful barbecue.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, is amazing."

"You have to try the beignets; they're soft, golden pillows."

"I found the barbecue here to be absolutely fantastic."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely disorganized; nearby supermarket offers additional parking.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

A DJ is expected to start soon, adding to the evening's atmosphere.

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Costa Mesa, California

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