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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

BBQ in San Jose

BBQ that focuses on the slow, traditional process instead of the quick-service approach.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated May 2026
01
Mina's Korean BBQ image 1
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Korean restaurant

Small, casual Korean restaurant with a warm, home-owned atmosphere and friendly staff. Food arrives quickly and features authentic dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi with fresh kimchi made daily. Limited seating and busy lunch hours create a lively, bustling environment.

Food delivers authentic Korean flavors with no nonsense. Dishes taste great and truly genuine.

Korean BBQ Short Ribs come fully cooked, not grilled at the table. The food is delicious and the prices are good.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served in large portions."

"I found the food to be great and authentic."

"The Korean BBQ short ribs were so delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant primarily serves takeout, which is ideal for quick meals.

02
Pho Bel Air image 1
Pho restaurant

Pho restaurant offers authentic pho with high-quality ingredients and a fast casual vibe supported by a pop music playlist. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly, with a clean and inviting space that can get a little loud during peak times. It serves as a convenient late-night option with quick service and easy parking.

Pho features fresh vegetables and a tasty broth that captures the essence of traditional recipes. The overall experience feels genuinely authentic and true to Vietnamese cuisine.

BBQ chicken comes in generous portions and tastes yummy. BBQ pork appears in dishes like pho, egg rolls, and vermicelli with shrimp.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has really good broth and noodles."

"The BBQ chicken was yummy and the portion generous."

"The pho here is authentic and tasty with fresh vegetables."

Good to know

1

Pho Bel Air is open until 11pm, making it convenient for late-night diners.

2

Expect a wait time of less than 10 minutes for takeout, even when crowded.

3

Parking is ample and easy to find near the restaurant.

03
Bigspoon korean bistro image 1

Small Korean restaurant offers a homey vibe with a family-friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors. The space feels down-to-earth and cozy, filled with conversation and laughter rather than music. It serves traditional dishes in a clean, humble setting that feels like sharing a meal with friends or family.

Authentic Korean dishes come straight from home-style recipes, served by an elderly Korean woman. The menu balances traditional flavors with options for younger tastes, making it a solid spot for genuine Korean cuisine.

Beef short ribs and spicy chicken BBQ come with rice and Korean sides. Lunch specials include tofu soup paired with BBQ for $17.99. BBQ dishes pair well with stir fry and seafood options.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Korean and tastes like home cooking."

"I found the Korean food here to be pretty authentic."

"The Korean BBQ short ribs were delicious, I wish there were more."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and free in the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect lengthy wait times for seating and service on weekends.

3

A bill for two people usually ranges between $35 and $50.

04
Com Tam Dat Thanh image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Low-key strip mall restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese broken rice dishes with flavorful grilled pork and seafood. Atmosphere feels relaxed and lively, with self-serve chili and sauce on tables. Less crowded than similar spots, it serves generous menu combinations including vegetarian options.

Vietnamese dishes here deliver authentic flavors and traditional preparation. The menu focuses on classic recipes that represent genuine Vietnamese cuisine.

Pork has a slightly sweet flavor with a charred BBQ taste. Shrimp stays juicy and plump when grilled. The BBQ beef pairs well with fried shrimp cake and rice.

People are saying

"This Vietnamese food's pork chop is larger than at other places."

"I thought the pork chop broken rice here was the best."

"The BBQ pork here is packed with flavor and has a nice charred taste."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $15 to $20 for a small portion of rice and sides.

2

The restaurant specializes in broken rice dishes with various grilled sides.

3

Self-serve sauce and chili are available on the table for customization.

05
Phin Cafe - Blossom Hill Road | San Jose image 1

Small cafe with wood accents and real plants creates a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Space feels cozy and mellow, attracting people looking for a peaceful spot to relax or meet. Seating is ample, supporting casual visits despite occasional crowding.

Coffee features authentic Vietnamese style with Coconut Coffee and Egg Coffee offering the right sweetness. Sandwiches and food maintain an authentic flavor throughout.

BBQ dishes feature BBQ pork with generous portions and rich flavor. The BBQ banh mi and spam musubi offer tasty options that pair well with pandan coffee and tropical fruit tea.

People are saying

"Their unique coffee flavors like ube and egg coffee are delicious."

"The BBQ pork sandwich had a lot of meat and tasted delicious."

"I loved the authentic Vietnamese coffee, it had the right sweetness."

Good to know

1

It gets busy around 10am on Sundays.

2

The wait time is about 30 to 45 minutes.

3

Phin Cafe is laptop friendly with free wifi and ample outlets.

06
Red Chili | Thai & Vietnamese - San Jose image 1

Small, cozy space with bright, clean design and limited seating creates an intimate atmosphere. Fast casual setup focuses on takeout and catering, with dishes served in to-go containers even for dine-in. Menu offers authentic Thai flavors with some unique items, attracting locals who appreciate flavorful, well-prepared food.

Thai food features authentic northeastern flavors with excellent curry that avoids sweetness. The dishes are consistently flavorful and true to tradition when prepared by the aunty in the kitchen.

Thit nuong comes out perfectly cooked and packed with flavor. The menu features a BBQ Combo with Chicken and White Rice and BBQ Short Ribs that stand out for their taste.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here authentic and delicious."

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"The BBQ short ribs were some of the most delicious I ever had."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers; use Safeway across the street.

2

Red Chili operates as a fast casual restaurant with a focus on takeout.

3

Dishes range from $15 to $19, with large portions and reasonable prices.

07
Mr. SiuMai image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, modern space with bright lights and self-order kiosks creates a clean, cozy atmosphere. Noise levels vary, with a relaxed vibe that feels like casual takeout dining with seating. Dim sum offerings focus on authentic Cantonese flavors with some standout dishes.

Dim sum here offers authentic Cantonese flavors with dishes like signature SiuMai that taste fresh and true to southern China traditions.

BBQ Char Siu features fine cut meat with a tasty filling that avoids any rough or junky texture. Baked BBQ pork buns and Siu Mai also stand out with solid flavors and good quality.

People are saying

"The dim sum here, especially the siu mai and egg tarts, is delicious."

"I loved the turnip cake and sponge cake here."

"I found the dim sum here to be authentic and tasted very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially on weekends due to nearby crowds.

2

The prices are $6 for 3 pieces of siumai, which is considered high for a casual spot.

3

There are 2 self-service kiosks for ordering, or you can order with staff if paying cash.

08
Olioli Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small Hawaiian restaurant with cozy indoor seating and old school island posters creates a bright, clean, and inviting atmosphere. Music matches the Hawaiian vibe, and the space feels spartan but well-kept. Customers come late into the night, drawn by affordable prices and generous portions.

Food shows close to authentic Hawaiian flavors compared to typical chains. Dishes reflect island-style cuisine but do not fully match traditional Hawaiian authenticity.

BBQ beef stands out with high-quality meat and rich flavor. Large portions come at a fair price, especially the chicken lunch plate and garlic shrimp. Service is friendly and fast.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken and kalua pork were delicious and generously portioned."

"This lunch spot is legit, just like back in Hawaii."

"The Hawaiian plates here taste so authentic, better than chains."

Good to know

1

Olioli Hawaiian BBQ is a takeout place with no tables, only a couple of chairs outside.

2

You can order at your table or at the front counter, but there's a service fee for table orders.

3

Expect large portion sizes, about 1.5 times larger than typical BBQ places.

09
Pho Kim Long image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious Vietnamese restaurant with modern upscale decor and outdoor dining options. Atmosphere is loud and lively, often crowded but not cramped. Offers a unique DIY spring roll experience with table-side grilling.

Dishes feature authentic Vietnamese flavors with consistent noodles and rice plates. The shrimp paste sauce stands out for its genuine taste and servings are generous.

Vietnamese BBQ features pork chops, pork BBQ, and BBQ chicken served with rice plates or vermicelli noodles. Grilled fish and BBQ shrimp appear but in smaller portions.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, tastes amazing."

"I loved the grilled fish, you make your own wraps with it."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited since it's shared between all the restaurants in the plaza.

2

Pho Kim Long only accepts cash payments.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours; arrive early to avoid waiting.

10
Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small family-run spot blends Hawaiian BBQ with authentic Henan Chinese cuisine in a warm, clean setting. The place fills up quickly, offering huge portions and a mix of classic and regional dishes. Owners maintain a friendly, attentive atmosphere despite the hole-in-the-wall vibe.

Classic Hawaiian BBQ stays true while adding American Chinese dishes and authentic Chinese cuisine. The 肉夹馍 and 凉皮 stand out as authentic offerings.

Sticky rice comes with the BBQ meat platter. The pig and cabbage dish has a kiawe smoke flavor. Mac salad pairs well with the BBQ dishes.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and among the best I've ever had."

"The teas here were delicious and felt like dessert."

"The roujiamo and liangpi here are truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a great lunch special combo available only during lunch hours.

2

The dishes are peanut-free, making it safe for those with peanut allergies.

3

The portions are large, often enough for two meals.

11
Cơm Tấm Thiên Hương image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers spacious outdoor patio with a tropical vibe and cozy, bustling atmosphere. Crowds gather quickly, creating a lively, noisy environment with fast-moving servers. Known for authentic rice-based dishes, it draws many who appreciate genuine Vietnamese flavors.

Vietnamese broken rice and broth show deep beef flavor and authentic taste. Dishes like #51 deliver fulfilling, genuine flavors.

BBQ dishes feature moist chicken with balanced flavor and melting short ribs. Plates often include juicy pork chops paired with rice and sides like fried shrimp cake and fresh salad.

People are saying

"I found the broken rice here to be truly phenomenal."

"The broken rice here is delicious and tastes super authentic."

"The BBQ pork chop here is always on spot."

Good to know

1

Expect a waitlist of over 20 minutes during peak lunch hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The restaurant does not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

12
Duc Huong Sandwiches image 1

Sandwich shop operates as a take-out only spot with no seating and a pickup window for orders. Lines often stretch outside, creating a busy, crowded atmosphere with a steady flow of sandwich lovers. Known for best banh mi, it draws consistent crowds despite a run-down appearance.

Sandwiches here deliver authentic Vietnamese flavors with fresh ingredients and traditional preparation. The menu focuses on classic recipes that capture the true taste of Vietnam.

Grilled pork BBQ stands out as the most delicious option. Sandwiches include BBQ pork, spicy Korean pork, and grilled pork with egg cooked omelette style.

People are saying

"I thought the banh mi sandwiches were the best I'd had."

"The grilled pork BBQ sandwich is seasoned perfectly."

"I found the Vietnamese sandwiches here to be the most authentic."

Good to know

1

They have a buy 4 get 1 free promotion.

2

The restaurant is take out only.

3

Expect long lines on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

13
Jade Cathay Chinese Restaurant image 1

Space features well-spaced tables with traditional Chinese decor and tablet ordering for convenience. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming despite some cafeteria-like elements and bright lighting. Dim sum stands out as a notably authentic and popular offering.

Dim sum offers authentic Hong Kong style with a focus on high-quality Chinese dishes. The food carries a genuine taste that reflects traditional preparation and flavors.

Baked BBQ pork buns stand out with soft, fluffy exteriors and a rich, sweet-savory char siu filling. Chicken Feet and BBQ Pork Rice Noodle also feature as notable dishes in the BBQ selection.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is incredible, especially the juicy siu mai."

"The BBQ pork buns were fluffy with a rich, sweet-savory filling."

"I found the authentic dim sum here to be incredible and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a free parking lot with plenty of spaces available.

2

Self-service ordering and payment make visits convenient and fast.

3

Dim sum costs between $8-9 each, with all-day service available.

14
bb.q Chicken North Park Plaza image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Korean fried chicken with crispy, flavorful wings and well-balanced Tteokbokki. Interior feels clean and cozy, suitable for dine-in or takeout, though space is limited. Atmosphere can be lively with loud music and occasional disruptions.

Offers authentic Korean fried chicken with Korean BBQ seasoning that stands out in the US. Consistently delivers a genuine taste of Korean flavors.

BBQ chicken stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. Meals often include multiple pieces paired with sides of rice for a filling experience.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic Korean fried chicken here extra crispy and juicy."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until 7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for freshly cooked food.

3

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid long wait times.

15
Back A Yard Caribbean Grill image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Brightly painted murals create a vibrant Caribbean atmosphere inside a cozy, clean space. The vibe stays super chill with Caribbean music setting a welcoming tone. The place feels like a backyard barbecue with authentic flavors and inviting aromas.

Authentic Jamaican food shines through with jerk chicken and goat curry that capture true Caribbean flavors. The taste stays close to traditional recipes found in Jamaica.

BBQ Chicken and Ribs combo offers moist, tender meat with a sauce balancing sweetness and tanginess. Options include goat, ox tail, jerk chicken, salmon, BBQ pork, and steak served with a spicy sauce that complements the flavors.

People are saying

"The jerk chicken here is so flavorful, juicy, and tender."

"I found authentic jerk chicken with a taste that impressed me."

"The BBQ chicken and ribs were perfectly cooked and tender and moist."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during lunch hours due to fresh food preparation.

2

Food takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare for larger groups.

3

They charge for drinks, including water, which is no longer free.

16
The Skewer Bar image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, crowded space with neon lights and themed decor creates a lively atmosphere filled with loud music and energetic chatter. Frequented by those who enjoy authentic Chinese BBQ skewers, it offers a cozy vibe despite the noise and close seating.

Skewers come out extremely fresh and cooked just right. BBQ stinky tofu stands out as authentic and true to traditional flavors. This spot nails the Chinese BBQ experience with genuine taste.

Offers authentic Chinese BBQ with standout items like BBQ stinky tofu and whole eggplant. Known for great BBQ skewers and a solid introduction to Chinese barbecue flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese BBQ skewers here were the best."

"This Chinese food spot's BBQ skewers are a must-try, especially the beef tendon."

"I found the skewers and BBQ stinky tofu to be so authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect long queues and cramped seating during peak hours.

2

Many menu items are often out of stock, so check availability.

3

Ordering is easy via QR code; submit orders online.

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San Jose, California

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