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Top picks in Costa Mesa

Barbecue spots

Barbecue that prioritizes the slow-smoked process over the convenience of a quick meal.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated May 2026
01
Delanya's Smokin' Hot Texas BBQ and More... image 1
Delanya's Smokin' Hot Texas BBQ and More... image 2
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Barbecue restaurant showcases authentic Texas BBQ with tender brisket and flavorful smoked chicken. Atmosphere suits events with perfectly cooked catering delivered hot and ready. Vegan options like jackfruit tacos add variety to traditional offerings.

Food features authentic Texas BBQ with many organic options. Warm peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream stands out as a delicious dessert.

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

"This food is the best BBQ 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

Restaurant offers Korean fried chicken known for being crispy and juicy with a smoky flavor. Dining area maintains a clean, casual vibe with calm atmosphere. Portions are well-sized and prices reasonable, attracting those who appreciate quality and value.

Food arrives impressively fast and stays consistently excellent. Korean dishes stand out with amazing flavors and good quality.

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 food here is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly cooked."

"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 in a food court with several Japanese eateries creates a communal atmosphere. Charcoal-grilled beef tongue offers authentic, smoky flavor with tender, juicy texture. The environment combines Showa-era Japanese street style with a cozy, lively vibe.

Food here matches Sendai quality with authentic Japanese dishes. The charcoal grilled gyutan stands out with perfectly cooked beef tongue and balanced sides.

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 tongue bento box food was delicious and tender."

"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 restaurant with red booth seats and grills built into tables creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like being back in Japan. The environment is smoky and oily due to tabletop grilling, adding to the authentic experience. Early arrival is common because of limited space and no reservations.

Food features top-quality tongue sliced thin like Japanese cuisine, a rarity in the US. The dishes consistently deliver amazing flavors with exceptional service enhancing the dining experience.

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 food here, especially the meats, is always amazing."

"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
Westend image 1
Restaurant

Small space with southern gothic style and quirky interior features dark lighting and numerous decorative lights. Energy rises as local young professionals arrive and a DJ plays live music, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers enclosed dining with games, adding a relaxed, social vibe.

Southern-inspired dishes come from scratch and pair well with a variety of beer, wine, and craft cocktails. The fully enclosed outdoor patio offers umbrella-covered tables for dining.

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."

"I cannot stop thinking about the burger food I had."

"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.

06
Beach Pit BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor patio with warm, cozy atmosphere and folksy back porch invites relaxed dining. Small indoor seating complements the open-air setup featuring pig statues and rustic decor. The vibe stays pleasant and welcoming, ideal for casual meals with family or friends.

Food comes out fast and stays moist and flavorful. Outdoor dining adds a pleasant touch to the experience.

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 smoked turkey here is so juicy and tender."

"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.

07
Manpuku image 1
Yakiniku restaurant

Small, modern space combines industrial chic design with a cozy, intimate atmosphere featuring low lighting and a traditional Japanese-style seating area. The environment stays smoke-free, keeping clothes and hair free of odors common in BBQ spots. It attracts diners seeking a quiet, pleasant setting ideal for dates or small groups.

Food offers authentic yakiniku flavors with outstanding quality and freshness that closely match dining experiences in Japan.

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

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

"The food here is fantastic, especially the umami rice."

"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.

08
Holรฉ Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

Food features dang good BBQ with a friendly waiter who shares popular dishes. Seating suits groups and families for a relaxed meal.

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 found the smoked food here to be amazing and yummy."

"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
Harper Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open space combines modern industrial design with indoor and outdoor seating creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual, with a lively buzz. A bar offers draft beers, complementing the relaxed setting.

Food here stands out for its great quality and consistent flavor. Dishes deliver solid taste without fuss.

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."

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

"I thought the food here was great and flavorful."

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.

10
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian barbecue spot offers generous portions and a clean, comfortable setting with limited seating. The vibe is quiet and laid-back, suited for quick meals or takeout. Food quality varies, but barbecue ribs and Kahlua pork stand out as popular choices.

Food comes in generous portions with inexpensive prices. Service stays quick and friendly even on busy days, keeping orders moving smoothly.

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 food here is really tasty and delicious."

"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.

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Costa Mesa, California

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