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BBQ spots in San Francisco

The craving for smoky, tender ribs from a proper barbecue joint is impossible to ignore.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
City Smoke House image 1
City Smoke House image 2
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Barbecue restaurant

Historic Cadillac showroom hosts a family-owned barbecue catering service known for generous portions and homemade tangy-sweet-spicy sauce. Events feature fall-off-the-bone ribs and melt-in-your-mouth brisket, creating a lively atmosphere where food brings people together. Delivery is punctual and appreciated at diverse gatherings, from corporate lunches to weddings.

Ribs come fall-off-the-bone tender with a smoky flavor. They are so soft they barely need a fork to eat.

Smoked meats come with a homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. The catering delivers consistently well-prepared barbecue that satisfies large groups.

People are saying

"The brisket here is juicy, smoky, and melts in your mouth."

"The pulled pork here is flavorful and left me speechless."

"The ribs here are fall-apart tender and smoky."

Good to know

1

City Smokehouse caters exclusively to corporate events and is not open for dine-in.

2

Contact City Smokehouse directly to discuss catering options for your event.

3

They provide generous portions, often resulting in leftovers for gatherings.

02
Let's Eat BBQ and More image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old school barbecue joint with big vinyl booths and a smoky aroma fills the air. 70's Soul and Funk music plays, creating a laid-back vibe. Family-run spot offers traditional barbecue flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.

Ribs come out tender and well-seasoned, matching up with classic barbecue staples like smoked brisket and house-made sausages. Execution stays flawless across dishes, including links and chicken.

Offers California-style BBQ with a mix of Southern and Northern flavors. The medium spice barbecue has a nice zing without being too hot. Plates come with a cold beer option at this family-owned spot.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the tastiest I've had in decades."

"The service here is amazing, and the ribs are good."

"This brisket is like the down-home BBQ my uncle used to make."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of barbecue plates and cold beer.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quicker transactions.

03
NORTHERN CHINA BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious barbecue restaurant offers authentic Northern Chinese skewers and late-night dining with chill Cantonese and Mandarin music. The atmosphere balances stylish, clean decor with a comfortable, lively vibe where conversations range from quiet to spirited.

Juicy and savory BBQ pork ribs stand out alongside the lamb ribs, which have a slightly salty but very good flavor. Skewers like Pork Ribs Meat Skewer and lamb add variety to the rib offerings.

Authentic Chinese flavor shines through the perfectly seasoned and juicy meats cooked over charcoal. The northern-style barbecue offers an incredible and juicy experience with a clear air of excellence.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese BBQ here to be the best I've ever had."

"The iron pot dishes and skewers are huge, smoky, and flavorful."

"The pork ribs were spiced and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 11pm, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Street parking is available, but finding a spot can be challenging.

3

You can request to pay through an app, but payment is processed by a server.

04
Pete's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

No-frills barbecue spot with a modest, clean space and a loud refrigeration hum in the background. Atmosphere feels like an old-school lunchline with a focus on handmade, high-quality BBQ and succulent ribs and chicken. Limited seating and cash-only policy add to the straightforward, authentic vibe.

Ribs come succulent and tender, pulling right off the bone without being over-smoked or dry. They pair well with delicious sauce and sides like coleslaw and baked potato.

High-quality ribs and unique BBQ sauces stand out here. The BBQ chicken and ribs combo comes with a baked potato and pasta salad, offering a satisfying, no-frills meal with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I found Pete's ribs to be an absolute must-have experience."

"The food here is some of the best and most satisfying I've ever had."

"This BBQ is the best I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Pete's Bar-B-Que only accepts cash payments; bring cash to avoid a 3% card fee.

2

Brisket is available only on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

The cheapest meal costs $14, with drinks bringing the total to $17.50.

05
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Garlic ribs stand out with a flavor that recalls Guangdong. BBQ ribs appear in combo plates alongside fried rice and lumpia, offering a sweet and sour twist and top-notch preparation.

BBQ pork and roast duck stand out with authentic flavors similar to those found in China. The roast chicken and roast pork also deliver solid, flavorful options alongside perfectly cooked rice.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"The BBQ pork here is amazing, truly outstanding."

"These grape pork ribs are sticky and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

06
ABSteak by Chef Akira Back image 1

Basement setting features dark wood walls, candle-lit tables, and luxurious gold tableware creating an elegant Korean steakhouse atmosphere. Smokeless grills built into tables allow for interactive dining without smoke or stuffiness. Stylish decor and a private dining room add to the upscale, intimate vibe.

Snow Flower Kkotsal wagyu short rib has perfect marbling and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Combo A includes boneless short rib, beef brisket, and marinated galbi, all with rich, savory flavors.

High-end Korean BBQ features Marinated Galbi with a sweet, savory, and tender marinade. The experience delivers a next level take on traditional flavors with a delicious and refined approach.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ food here is exceptional, especially the Wagyu."

"The BBQ service was top-notch, with staff grilling tableside."

"These Korean BBQ ribs are a must-try, filling a significant gap."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is available in front of the restaurant until 6pm in the commercial zone.

3

The restaurant is located one floor below street level, so be prepared for stairs.

07
Smokin Dโ€™s BBQ SF image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot with on-site smoked meat creates a cozy, chill atmosphere reminiscent of Texas. Limited seating encourages takeout, attracting those who appreciate authentic Texas-style BBQ with bold, salty flavors.

Ribs come well seasoned and tender with a Texas-style flavor that is not too fatty. St Louis Ribs pair well with bread and butter pickled onions and cucumbers, and full racks satisfy hearty appetites.

Barbecue features a Texas twist with modern Asian touches, offering beef ribs and brisket that satisfy even picky eaters. Pricing stays reasonable for the quality served.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is tender and perfectly cooked."

"I thought the BBQ here was totally authentic Texas style."

"The brisket was so soft and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only, with limited seating available.

2

Pricing is reasonable for the quality, with meals around $200 for a family.

3

Bao buns are available only from Friday to Sunday.

08
Arquet Restaurant image 1

Open kitchen with front-row view of the hearth creates an engaging dining experience. Spacious interior blends modern elegance with warm, inviting decor and offers stunning waterfront views including the Bay Bridge. Atmosphere is lively and bustling, suited for those who enjoy vibrant settings.

Short ribs melt in your mouth with tender texture. Spare ribs offer rich flavor alongside BBQ steamboat oysters and rack of pork.

BBQ steamboat oysters stand out as a must-order with their rich flavor. The menu also features a rack of pork and short rib, adding hearty options to the BBQ selection.

People are saying

"The food at this dinner spot is phenomenal and creative."

"The short ribs just melted in my mouth."

"The BBQ oysters were delicious and worth ordering."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often fully booked until late evening, so plan ahead.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes, which may not justify the price.

3

The restaurant does not serve complimentary bread with meals.

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