Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Diego

Barbecue sandwich spots

A barbecue sandwich is the only thing that will satisfy a craving for something messy, smoky, and substantial.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated
01
Banh Mi Express image 1
Banh Mi Express image 2
Banh Mi Express image 3
View all

Small, clean restaurant offers dine-in seating for about 20 in a warm and comfy environment. Sandwiches feature crispy, soft bread with fresh veggies and generous meat portions, served hot and fresh. Early hours cater to nearby offices, with affordable prices and ample parking.

Grilled BBQ pork stands out in the banh mi sandwiches. Options include grilled chicken and beef, served fresh and often paired with Vietnamese iced coffee.

Sandwiches feature crispy banh mi bread and come with grilled BBQ pork, chicken, or beef options. Prices stay under $8, and the grilled BBQ pork sandwich stands out for its flavor.

People are saying

"This banh mi is exactly how it should be."

"The sandwich bread is fresh, crispy outside, and soft inside."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available near the restaurant.

2

The sandwiches cost under $8 each, with iced Vietnamese coffee around $5.50.

3

The restaurant opens early, catering to nearby office workers.

02
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 1
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 2
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 3
View all

Small sandwich shop with outdoor sidewalk seating creates a homey, simple atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with kind staff and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Popular for high-quality roast beef sandwiches that draw fans of East Coast style subs.

The Super Beef roast beef sandwich stands out with tender meat paired with homemade horseradish and barbecue sauce. The BBQ sauce serves as a perfect accompaniment to the beef and cheese on fresh bread.

Roast beef sandwiches stand out with a perfect balance of moistness and messiness. East coast style and BBQ roast beef options offer super delicious and varied flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the roast beef sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The roast beef barbecue here is tender, thin-sliced, and rare."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.

2

Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

03
Rockets Pizza and Subs image 1
Rockets Pizza and Subs image 2
Rockets Pizza and Subs image 3
View all

Casual pizza restaurant with a laid-back vibe and fun, friendly staff creates an easy-going atmosphere. Attached comic book and game shop adds a unique twist to the experience. Known for quality ingredients and New York style pizza with unique toppings.

Every sandwich features quality ingredients and generous portions, especially the tender beef in the Chicago Beef sandwich. Sliced peppers add a mild kick that keeps flavors interesting without overwhelming.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be great, packed with tender beef."

Good to know

1

They offer a free slice of pizza and knots with each purchase.

2

They stop taking orders 30-40 minutes before closing.

3

They have a different slice of the day every day.

04
Pho46 & Banh Mi image 1
Pho46 & Banh Mi image 2
Pho46 & Banh Mi image 3
View all

Small mom and pop Vietnamese restaurant offers clean, peaceful atmosphere with a super authentic vibe. The space feels comfortable and relaxing but has a basic interior. Known for budget-friendly prices and fresh, flavorful pho and banh mi, it attracts those seeking quality at low cost.

BBQ pork stands out with rich flavor across dishes like spring rolls, rolls, and banh mi. The BBQ chicken banh mi and pork chop with sunny side up egg add variety to the barbecue options.

Bahn Mi Tofu sandwich offers a good balance of flavors. It stands out among other options like Pho46 & Banh Mi known for their Banh Mi sandwiches.

People are saying

"The Barbecue pork here is so full of flavor."

"The Banh Mi sandwich had crispy bread and flavorful fillings."

Good to know

1

The prices at Pho46 & Banh Mi are budget-friendly, making it a great option in San Diego.

2

Parking is easy and convenient near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

05
Bale French Sandwich Mira Mesa image 1
Bale French Sandwich Mira Mesa image 2
Bale French Sandwich Mira Mesa image 3
View all

Grab-and-go sandwich shop with a strictly business vibe and minimal seating. Offers affordable, flavorful Banh Mi sandwiches with generous portions and fresh ingredients. Small space focuses on quick service rather than dining in.

The #5 BBQ pork Banh mi stands out as a favorite, served alongside egg rolls and sesame balls. Both BBQ pork and beef Banh mi sandwiches offer solid options with rich flavors.

Vietnamese sandwiches stand out with fresh bread and generous fillings including a variety of proteins and veggies. The cured pork sandwich is a favorite, and sandwiches come in a perfect 6-inch size for one person.

People are saying

"I thought their Banh Mi sandwiches were the best I'd ever had."

"I found the BBQ pork Banh Mi sandwiches delicious and packed with meat."

Good to know

1

There is no option to dine in at this restaurant.

2

All Banh Mi sandwiches are priced under $6.50.

3

They offer a lunch set with a banh mi and egg rolls for a great deal.

06
Saffron Pizza Kitchen image 1
Saffron Pizza Kitchen image 2
Saffron Pizza Kitchen image 3
View all

Dining space feels cozy and quiet with a warm, family-oriented vibe. Guests enjoy delicious pizza with generous toppings and appreciate 100% halal options. The atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, making it easy to relax and enjoy a meal.

Chicken sandwiches come fresh and stay tasty. Options include buffalo chicken and cheesesteak sandwiches that pair well with Persian-style pizzas.

People are saying

"I found the chicken sandwich here absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The cheese pizza slice and veggie garden salad cost $17.22.

2

All food comes out within 10 minutes, including pizzas and salads.

3

Saffron Pizza Kitchen offers halal options on their menu.

07
Saigon Sandwiches & Coffee Tea House image 1
Saigon Sandwiches & Coffee Tea House image 2
Saigon Sandwiches & Coffee Tea House image 3
View all

Small sandwich shop with cozy seating and a traditional, remodeled interior offers a quiet, takeout-focused atmosphere. Popular for authentic Vietnamese sandwiches and smoothies, it draws a steady crowd despite limited dine-in space.

BBQ pork sandwiches deliver exact quality and flavor expected. Options include BBQ pork and chicken banh mi, often recommended by the owner.

Vietnamese sandwiches come very large and packed with fresh ingredients. The BBQ pork sandwich offers great flavor and quality, and sandwiches often come with bread sticks and spicy chili oil.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are big and delicious."

"I found the banh mi to be the best I’d ever had."

Good to know

1

Saigon Sandwiches & Coffee Tea House accepts both cash and card payments.

2

Sandwiches cost about five or six dollars, with BBQ pork at $7.99.

3

They offer a buy 2, get 1 free promotion on sandwiches.

08
Ba Le French Sandwich Shop image 1
Ba Le French Sandwich Shop image 2
Ba Le French Sandwich Shop image 3
View all

Tiny mom and pop sandwich shop with cash-only policy and minimal seating. The air fills with the aroma of toasted bread, creating an authentic Vietnamese banh mi vibe. Known for crispy yet fluffy bread and traditional, flavorful fillings, it draws those seeking genuine, affordable sandwiches mainly for takeout.

BBQ pork and chicken fill the Banh mi sandwiches with extra meat available on the pork option. The BBQ pork tastes like a classic version, while the BBQ chicken is a family favorite.

Banh mi sandwiches stand out here, especially the #1 Special and BBQ pork (Banh Mi Thit nguong). Vegetarian options with mock meat also taste good, and a deal offers the 6th sandwich for just $1 after buying five.

People are saying

"The BBQ pork banh mi is packed with flavorful, thickly sliced meat."

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best I had."

Good to know

1

The shop accepts only cash payments.

2

Parking is tough because of the neighboring businesses.

3

The shop only offers takeout service.

09
Bull's Smokin' BBQ image 1
Bull's Smokin' BBQ image 2
Bull's Smokin' BBQ image 3
View all

Western-themed saloon with old saloon-style swing doors and a dog-friendly shaded patio offering free beef rib bones. Atmosphere feels rustic and chill, inviting relaxation with a friendly, welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating allows enjoyment of nearby live music in a casual setting.

Outstanding brisket stands out with three distinct sauces: regular, hot, and sweet. The BBQ consistently delivers a great meal that satisfies cravings for authentic barbecue flavors.

Beef brisket sandwiches come with a generous portion and no sauce added, letting you control the spice level with sauce on the side. Pulled pork and Carolina barbecue sandwiches offer great flavor and variety.

People are saying

"The brisket and pulled pork here are phenomenal."

"The brisket sandwich here is amazing."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 8:15pm, despite advertised hours until 9pm.

2

Street parking is the only option available.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly with a patio area.

10
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 1
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 2
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 3
View all

Small butcher shop with outdoor counter seating and a smoker trailer emitting strong aromas. Atmosphere feels like a casual bro hangout with high-quality meats and a focus on takeout sandwiches. Limited seating encourages quick visits, often with a wait for popular items.

Roast beef and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches stand out for their quality and flavor. Turkey sandwiches come loaded with high-quality meat and horseradish sauce adds a nice kick to some options.

People are saying

"I thought the turkey sandwich was the best I'd ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The deli offers great quality meat and delicious sandwiches until 5 PM.

2

It's important to consider the wait time, which can easily be 40 minutes to an hour.

3

There isn't much seating at The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli.

11
Cali Baguette Express image 1
Cali Baguette Express image 2
Cali Baguette Express image 3
View all

Vietnamese eatery with quaint, welcoming vibe and mom-and-pop charm offers spacious seating inside and outdoors, including community picnic tables. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, focusing on fast, fresh, and satisfying meals. Large, affordable banh mi sandwiches stand out as a signature feature.

BBQ pork comes out piping hot and is a standout with excellent flavor. The BBQ pork banh mi, especially with added pate, is a popular choice alongside lemongrass beef options.

Full-sized Banh Mi sandwiches come on fresh, crunchy baguettes for under $10. They pack in meat and fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and jalapenos, with options like BBQ pork and pate.

People are saying

"I loved the Banh Mi sandwiches with their moist, chewy crumb."

"The bread here is made fresh daily and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Sandwiches are priced between $7 to $9, making them affordable.

2

Expect a wait time if you don't call ahead for pickup.

3

Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary needs.

12
The Balboa image 1
The Balboa image 2
The Balboa image 3
View all

Dive bar with vintage decor and laid-back vibe offers a friendly atmosphere with arcade games and pool tables. Music and lighting create a relaxed, unpretentious setting that attracts a younger crowd. Several TVs and wood seating tables support casual hangouts and game watching.

Chicken sandwich stands out as spectacular and delicious, often noted as very good. Sandwiches come à la carte with fries or sides charged separately.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken sandwich was very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM, Tuesday to Friday.

2

During happy hour, burgers cost $8 for a 1/3 lb. single cheeseburger.

3

Monday's burgers are $8 all day for dine-in only.

13
Louisiana Charlie's San Diego image 1
Louisiana Charlie's San Diego image 2
Louisiana Charlie's San Diego image 3
View all

Outdoor seating with waterfront views creates a relaxed, lively atmosphere filled with live music and New Orleans vibes. The space offers alfresco dining in a courtyard setting or a small covered patio, attracting a busy crowd that adds to the energy.

Smoked meat features strong seasoning, not just sauce. The brisket sandwich is filling and authentic, showcasing solid barbecue technique.

Spicy chicken sandwiches deliver a hotness that sneaks up with a strong chicken flavor. Pulled pork and barbecue brisket sandwiches offer great, rich taste. Poboy sandwiches like shrimp and catfish come fresh and hot with Cajun fries on the side.

People are saying

"The barbecue brisket sandwich was really, really good."

"I loved the spicy chicken sandwich; the flavor was delicious."

Good to know

1

Louisiana Charlie's San Diego does not accept cash or tap payments.

2

The sitting area is dog friendly.

3

Large portion sizes make meals very filling.

14
Bubba's Smokehouse BBQ (inside Society) image 1
Bubba's Smokehouse BBQ (inside Society) image 2
Bubba's Smokehouse BBQ (inside Society) image 3
View all

Fast-casual smokehouse inside a large, lively bar with multiple pool tables and plenty of TVs. Atmosphere is loud and energetic, with a welcoming vibe created by the owner. Seating is ample, and games like pingpong and shuffleboard add to the active environment.

Baby back ribs, pulled pork, and BBQ beans stand out with authentic Tennessee and Texas flavors. Corn bread and potato salad complement the delicious, authentic barbecue served by attentive staff.

The signature sandwich, The Bubba, stands out with its fresh bread. Expect a wait, as the chicken sandwich takes about 40 minutes to arrive.

People are saying

"Bubba started smoking meat, blessing my life with flavor."

"The brisket sandwich was tender and tasty."

Good to know

1

They are currently takeout only.

2

Bubba's moved from La Jolla to Rancho Bernardo.

3

I was advised to call in or order online and pick up my order.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide