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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

BBQ spots

BBQ that focuses on the smoke and the meat, not just the sauce hiding the lack of effort.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
EsKiNiTa image 1
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Filipino restaurant

Outdoor charcoal grills offer interactive dining with pork and chicken skewers cooked on sticks. Filipino music fills the air, creating a bustling atmosphere that feels like family. Skewers over open fire bring authentic Filipino-style BBQ to life.

Filipino-style BBQ shines with pork and chicken skewers grilled on sticks. Cooking your own barbecue adds a lively, interactive touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The Filipino street food here tastes just like home."

"It's so fun cooking your own Filipino BBQ skewers!"

"I loved the Filipino-style BBQ, especially the pork on a stick."

Good to know

1

EsKiNiTa is open from 5pm to 11pm Thursday to Saturday.

2

Karaoke nights happen on Thursdays starting at 10pm.

3

You pay by the skewer, with prices around $2 each.

02
MOM Kitchen image 1
Cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe)

Hong Kong-style cafรฉ offers a spacious layout and cozy atmosphere perfect for family gatherings. Juicy BBQ pork shines in their dishes, especially in the BBQ rice combos. Enjoy a fresh take on traditional cuisine with mellow music and good lighting.

Juicy and flavorful BBQ pork stands out here. The BBQ rice combos consistently deliver solid taste.

People are saying

"The roast duck here is so authentic and delicious."

"The food here is so classy, always hot and fresh."

"The BBQ duck here is so authentic and tender."

Good to know

1

The new location offers a larger dining space for groups and gatherings.

2

Expect some difficulty finding parking during peak hours due to nearby restaurants.

3

The restaurant provides a 20% discount on the total price for first-time visitors.

03
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1

Bright, clean space with fresh-smelling deck and nice outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe with chill music. Barbecue chicken is juicy and flavorful, served with two scoops of rice and steamed vegetables for a filling meal. Consistently good portions keep a steady crowd despite limited parking.

Barbecue chicken comes out juicy and flavorful. Bowls include two scoops of rice and steamed vegetables, offering a filling meal with options like kalua pork and BBQ beef.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always on point."

"The outdoor seating here is really nice, especially when the weather is good."

"The BBQ chicken here is so juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as card payments incur an extra $5 fee.

2

The parking lot is small and can get full quickly.

3

Expect generous portion sizes for a reasonable price.

04
Thai Burger Company image 1
Thai restaurant

Small spot offers sticky rice buns for Thai fusion burgers with a smoky BBQ pork combo and spicy chicken options. Cozy, chill vibe suits carry-out and family-run feel. Bold, homestyle flavors make meals satisfying and unique.

BBQ pork combo offers rich, smoky flavor. The Spicy Thai BBQ Chicken Burger delivers perfect spice and bold taste. The Satay bowl pairs barbecue chicken with fries for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I thought the Classic Burger was flavorful and delicious."

"You have to try the Thai tea; it's the best I've ever had."

"I found the BBQ pork combo phenomenal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant primarily serves carry-out orders.

2

They offer refills on Thai iced tea at a smaller charge.

3

The concept of using sticky rice as burger buns is unique.

05
Manna Heaven BBQ Downtown image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue shines with big flavor and a super clean setting. Robot servers and tablet ordering create a mostly automated experience. Cozy lattice grills add smoky flavors in a fun, relaxed vibe perfect for casual or special meals.

Korean BBQ here offers a generous spread with big flavor and a super clean setting. It serves a wide variety of options that make it a solid choice for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ here is amazing, especially the meats."

"The short ribs here are absolutely to die for."

"The robot server that delivers food is really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant opens at 12 PM, and there is usually no wait at that time.

3

The ordering process is efficient and involves cute robots for service.

06
Pho46 & Banh Mi image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese spot offers a peaceful atmosphere with budget-friendly prices. BBQ pork shines in dishes like spring rolls and banh mi. Fresh pho and flavorful banh mi make it a top pick for authentic, tasty meals.

BBQ pork stands out with full flavor in various dishes like spring rolls, rolls, and banh mi. BBQ chicken banh mi and pork chops with a sunny side up egg add tasty variety.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho broth, is so good."

"I loved their Banh Mi; the bread was so crispy."

"The BBQ pork banh mi is a 10 out of 10."

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.

07
bb.q Chicken El Cajon image 1

Multiple TVs play Korean shows and K-pop, setting a laid-back vibe. BBQ chicken shines with spicy wings of fire blending sweet and heat. Seating inside and out offers a cozy atmosphere for enjoying high-quality Korean fried chicken.

BBQ chicken stands out with an original spicy flavor and wings of fire that blend sweet and spicy Asian BBQ. Service supports a satisfying Korean BBQ experience.

People are saying

"I thought this fried chicken was the best I ever had."

"The rose Korean Rice Cakes with cheese are addictive."

"The spicy BBQ chicken wings here are just perfect."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 20 minutes or longer, even when not crowded.

2

Order ahead for takeout as food is made fresh.

3

Combo meals are only available for in-house dining.

08
SOT BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious Korean barbecue spot offers cast-iron cauldron grills for an authentic experience. Vibrant, casual vibe with loud music adds to the energy. Premium meats and authentic flavors shine without lingering BBQ smell on clothes.

Premium quality meats and authentic flavors define the Korean BBQ here. The BBQ aroma does not linger on clothes, and the sides complement the meats well.

People are saying

"I tasted the best Korean barbecue I have ever had."

"The Waygu Sampler Plate was delicious and melt-in-your-mouth."

"I've never had Korean BBQ this good before."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid long waits.

2

Parking can be difficult, but arriving early increases your chances of finding a spot.

3

The restaurant is not an all-you-can-eat option; meals are priced per item.

09
Champs Korean Bbq image 1
Korean restaurant

Stone flat grills offer even heat and low smoke for clean cooking. Spacious, airy dining keeps the atmosphere quiet and comfortable. Quality meats shine in the all-you-can-eat BBQ at a fair price.

Quality of meats stands out with a stone-slab preparation method. Spacious and airy atmosphere complements the all-you-can-eat concept at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The Korean Bbq here is delicious and the meat is high quality."

"The stone slab grill for the Bulgogi retained heat well and was easy to clean."

"The Korean BBQ here is delicious and the meat is high quality."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat menu has a 2-hour time limit.

2

Happy hour runs after 9 pm during the week.

3

Parking can be difficult; expect to circle for a spot.

10
bb.q Chicken Convoy image 1

Enjoy rich BBQ chicken with tender texture in a casual spot playing K-pop videos and Korean shows. The clean, well-designed space offers plenty of seating but can get warm. Friendly vibe blends Korean street culture with simple decor.

BBQ chicken stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. Lunch options highlight beautifully cooked barbecue that surpasses many other spots.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean fried chicken here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The rose tteokbokki with cheese was so good."

"I loved the BBQ chicken here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on Saturday nights, so plan accordingly.

2

The restaurant offers both takeout and dine-in service options.

3

Expect to pay around $49 for a whole chicken, which may be considered pricey.

11
Villains Brewing Company image 1

Multi-story black wood and brick building offers indoor and outdoor seating with a balcony view. Smoked BBQ brisket and grilled ribeye tacos feature bold BBQ sauce and tender meat. English pub vibes mix with villain-themed decor for a lively, unique atmosphere with plenty of TVs and a full bar.

Smoked dishes like the BBQ brisket and grilled ribeye tacos stand out for their tender texture and rich flavor. The BBQ sauce adds a bold, elevated taste that complements the meat well.

People are saying

"The brisket dishes here are so tender and flavorful."

"The beer here is good and made on-site."

"The BBQ brisket burger and nachos were amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers 50% off drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure seating.

3

All menu items are confirmed halal, catering to dietary preferences.

12
Saigon Sandwiches & Coffee Tea House image 1

Cozy shop serves authentic Vietnamese sandwiches with standout BBQ pork and chicken banh mi. Smoothies add a fresh touch. Quiet, remodeled space suits takeout well.

BBQ pork sandwiches deliver quality and flavor that meet expectations. The menu features BBQ pork and chicken banh mi, often recommended by the owner, alongside house specials.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are big and delicious."

"The Thai tea here is delicious, creamy, and smooth."

"The BBQ pork in the banh mi was really good."

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.

13
Tsuruhashi Japanese BBQ image 1
Yakiniku restaurant

Individual booths and wood paneling create a cozy atmosphere with lively energy. High-grade meats like A5 Wagyu offer an authentic yakiniku experience. Service is attentive, resembling Korean BBQ but without buffet options for sides.

Japanese BBQ here offers excellent quality meats and a service-focused atmosphere. The style resembles Korean BBQ but lacks a buffet option for customizing vegetables and sides.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and authentic."

"The BBQ meat here is delicious and high quality."

"The Wagyu steak here just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be hard to find, especially at night.

2

The restaurant is a la carte, not all-you-can-eat, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes, which may not be filling for everyone.

14
The Fire Spot image 1
Restaurant

Charcoal grills deliver authentic Korean barbecue with rich Asian spices in a lively, bustling space. Tables sit close, creating a cozy atmosphere filled with smoky intensity. Long waits show its popularity and vibrant dining experience.

Charcoal grills create a distinct authentic Korean barbecue flavor with rich Asian spices. The all-you-can-eat menu offers mouthwatering, vibrant BBQ in a lively setting.

People are saying

"The Korean food's quality meat just melts in your mouth."

"I thought it was the best Korean Barbecue in town."

"I thought this place had the best Korean BBQ."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.

15
Kebabish image 1
Restaurant

Small spot with cozy booths and an open kitchen sets a warm mood. Sizzling BBQ platter delivers rich, fresh flavors. Chandeliers add charm while music and food shows keep energy up.

Sizzling BBQ arrives hot and fresh. The BBQ platter stands out for its rich flavor and consistent quality.

People are saying

"I found the Pakistani food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

"The naan is fresh, soft, and warm from the tandoor."

"The BBQ platter here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The meat is Halal.

2

All my food came in under $50, which I found very reasonable.

3

The parking is not all that great.

16
SPOT KTV image 1
Karaoke

Karaoke venue shines with impressive soundproofing and an upbeat atmosphere. Music is mostly Asian languages, with few American songs. BBQ skewers, especially BBQ lamb, offer flavorful grilled choices that keep guests coming back.

BBQ skewers stand out for their flavor and keep people coming back. The BBQ lamb also offers a tasty option among the grilled choices.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious and tasty."

"I found the experience here to be a lot of fun."

"The BBQ skewers here are exceptionally delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke rooms cost $60 per hour with a 2-hour minimum.

2

Most songs available are in Chinese or other Asian languages.

3

Outside alcoholic drinks are not allowed on the premises.

17
Bull's Smokin' BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Western-themed saloon offers a rustic vibe with swing doors and a dog-friendly patio giving free beef rib bones. BBQ shines with outstanding brisket served with three sauces. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy live music in a chill, welcoming spot.

Outstanding brisket stands out with three distinct sauces: regular, hot, and sweet. The BBQ offers a great meal in a nice country environment.

People are saying

"The brisket and pulled pork here are phenomenal American food."

"The outdoor seating is super dog-friendly, they even provide bones."

"The brisket and pulled pork BBQ here is phenomenal."

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.

18
Bale French Sandwich Mira Mesa image 1

Grab-and-go spot shines with BBQ pork Banh Mi packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Quick service suits busy days, while egg rolls and sesame balls add tasty sides. Minimal seating keeps focus on fast, affordable meals.

The #5 BBQ pork Banh mi stands out as a favorite with its flavorful pork. Both the BBQ pork and beef Banh mi sandwiches come with egg rolls and sesame balls on the side.

People are saying

"The bread is warm, fresh, and perfectly crisp yet soft inside."

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

"I found the BBQ delicious and the prices great."

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.

19
Chung Hing image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy spot known for authentic BBQ pork and best egg foo young. Quick, attentive service keeps up with lunchtime rush despite cash-only policy. Limited parking and modest look hide great value and tasty dishes.

BBQ pork stands out with its perfect cooking and delicious flavor. Chicken wings, rice, noodles, and egg rolls also come well prepared alongside the pork.

People are saying

"The BBQ pork here is the best I've ever had."

"The Chow Mein here is cooked fresh and is delicious."

"These chicken wings are fried to perfection and well salted."

Good to know

1

Chung Hing only accepts cash; no credit cards are accepted.

2

It gets busy at lunchtime, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early if driving.

20
Olleh CONVOY Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue shines with fresh meats and an addictive egg soup. Guests enjoy interactive dining with table grills amid lively K-pop beats. Ventilation keeps air clear, making the atmosphere warm and inviting despite the smoke and noise.

Fresh meats arrive quickly and the egg soup stands out as addictive. The sides are endless, and the ventilation keeps the air clear so you don't leave smelling like barbecue.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is served with incredible speed and attentiveness."

"The BBQ here is amazing, served with such speed and care."

"I loved the marinated short ribs with a caramelized crust."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat buffet costs around $34.99 per person.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for parking and an additional hour to be seated.

3

A gratuity of $27 is automatically added to your check.

21
Society PB image 1
Restaurant

Multiple pool tables on two floors create a lively, social vibe with live music and games on TVs. BBQ ribs fall off the bone and come with sweet potato sides. The crowd grows busier toward the weekend, adding to the casual, rowdy energy.

BBQ Ribs fall off the bone and come with sides like Sweet Potato and toast. Multiple tables offer Bubba's BBQ alongside a pool setting.

People are saying

"The pool tables here are great and well kept."

"It's a lively spot to chill and socialize with friends."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to secure a table.

3

Expect longer wait times for tables on weekends compared to weekdays.

22
Massachusetts Mike's Pizzeria image 1

Small pizza spot shines with BBQ Hawaiian and BBQ chicken pizzas that balance sweet and spice. Vibrant Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mural adds charm. Staff energy and 70s dance music create a lively, welcoming vibe.

BBQ pizzas feature a balanced sauce that is neither too sweet nor too spicy. Options like the BBQ Hawaiian and BBQ chicken pizzas stand out for their strong, flavorful profiles.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"Their gluten-free food options felt safe and tasted delicious."

"I loved the Hawaiian BBQ pizza slice."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Dinner and comedy shows are available on select nights; check the schedule.

3

Parking costs $8 for two hours in the rear lot.

23
Diamond Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area shines with modern silver decor and lively chandeliers. Dim sum arrives on traditional pushcarts, featuring steamed BBQ pork buns with fresh, balanced pork filling. Soft jazz and occasional lion dances create a festive atmosphere full of energy.

BBQ pork buns feature a moist and soft bun with a balanced filling. The pork inside tastes fresh and is not unnaturally bright red. Popular items include steamed BBQ pork buns, pork siu mai, and shrimp shumai.

People are saying

"I found the dim sum here to be fantastic and freshly made."

"I loved the authentic dim sum experience with push carts."

"The baked BBQ pork buns' pork was delicious and tasted fresh."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is served all day, but cart service ends at 2 PM.

2

Live music happens on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.

3

Expect a 20% service fee for parties of 8 or more.

24
Shozen BBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic Korean barbecue with high-quality meats in a calm, quiet atmosphere. All-you-can-eat option offers great value with attentive service. Side dishes are thoughtfully prepared, making it a peaceful alternative to busy places.

Authentic family-style Korean BBQ offers an all-you-can-eat option for $32 with great meat quality. Service is attentive, and the setting is casual rather than luxurious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and tasty."

"It's a family owned place with great service."

"The owners here are so warm and attentive with their BBQ."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $32 per person.

2

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available quickly.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

25
Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious, clean space buzzes with upbeat energy and offers ample seating. Enjoy authentic Korean BBQ featuring Wagyu beef and unique intestines. Relax with options to cook food in the back, away from the grill.

Offers authentic Korean BBQ with top-notch quality and great customer service. Dishes like scallops, Wagyu beef, and BBQ intestines stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The Korean food here has amazing quality and pairs so well together."

"The Korean BBQ here has such high-quality, tender meats."

"The kimchi and japchae were so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging, especially during rush hours and weekends.

2

The restaurant is not all-you-can-eat, but prices are reasonable for meat sets.

3

The menu features a wide variety of KBBQ meats, including unique options like intestines.

26
Epic Wings image 1
Restaurant

Fast food spot with a clean vibe and fresh chicken tenders. Honey barbecue sauce offers a sweet, rich flavor that shines alongside mild and lemon pepper options. Notable breadsticks add a tasty twist to this casual dining experience.

Honey barbecue sauce stands out with its sweet and rich flavor. Tenders come coated in this sauce, alongside options like mild, lemon pepper, and sweet chili for variety.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and really tasty."

"The breadsticks here are amazing, even better than Olive Garden's."

"The bread sticks here are really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The average wait time for food is about 23 minutes.

3

Online ordering may not include all menu options, like extra hot garlic wings.

27
Aero Club Bar image 1

Small dive bar buzzes with an energetic vibe and vintage aviation decor. Walls boast a huge whiskey selection from floor to ceiling. Outdoor patio features Space Cats BBQ food truck, famous for its motherload BBQ. Classic arcade games and pinball machines keep fun alive.

A BBQ food truck called Space Cats serves up finger-lickin' good eats on the patio. The motherload BBQ stands out as a mouthwatering choice.

People are saying

"The whiskey selection here is mind-blowing, with over 1,200 unique bottles."

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

"The BBQ truck out back is finger-lickin' good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 beers and new whiskey cocktails.

2

Visiting on 'Whiskey Wednesday' offers rotating specials on rare pours.

3

Monthly pinball tournaments are held, adding a fun competitive element.

28
Cali Baguette Express image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese eatery shines with BBQ pork that's flavorful and fast. Spacious seating, including community picnic tables, invites a relaxed meal. Large, affordable banh mi sandwiches deliver fresh, satisfying bites in a simple, welcoming setting.

BBQ pork stands out with its excellent flavor and quick service, arriving hot within minutes. The BBQ pork banh mi, often paired with pate or lemongrass beef, offers a satisfying and addictive sandwich option.

People are saying

"The baguette here has a shiny crust and chewy crumb."

"The egg rolls are so crispy and good."

"I thought the banh mi bread was outstanding 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.

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