Few cravings hit quite like the urge for BBQ by the beach. Gulf Shores does it right, where the air smells faintly of hickory and the only debate you’ll have is whether ribs or pulled chicken should top your plate. I still remember my first bite of tender brisket here: sunlight, slow smoke curling from a pit, and that perfect snap of tangy sauce. It’s an experience that sticks with you, outshining even the Gulf waves—though, you’ll find both are impossible to resist.
Finding the best BBQ spots in Gulf Shores can feel a bit like chasing secrets only locals know. There’s a certain magic in flaky cornbread, coleslaw with a twist, and pit masters who take their time. Around here, every plate tells a story, and every bite is worth savoring. Whether you’re a brisket devotee or hunting for melt-in-your-mouth chicken, you’re in the perfect place to begin your search.
Where to find the best bbq in Gulf Shores, AL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Gulf Shores, AL:
- Hog Wild
- Ribs & Reds
- Sassy Bass Beachside Grille
- Big Daddy’s Grill
- Buford’s Smokehouse BBQ
- Tequila Mexican Restaurant
- The Beach House
- Woodside Restaurant
- El Toro Mexican Restaurant
- Margarita Loca Bar & Grill
1. Hog Wild
Hog Wild draws you in before you even step out of your car. The aroma of slow-cooked meat hanging in the coastal air means you’re in the right spot for serious BBQ. My first trip here started with a plate of their smoked chicken—moist and full of flavor, just the kind that stays with you long after the meal.
This spot stands out for its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to quality. The pitmasters serve everything fresh, and their barbecue sauce cuts through the richness with just enough tang. If you’re in doubt, aim for the pulled chicken sandwich or the smoked turkey plate. Both dishes capture Hog Wild’s signature approach: tender, smokey, and never rushed.
With options for gluten-free diners and a consistently warm welcome, Hog Wild sets itself apart as a go-to for both locals and visitors. Don’t skip their house-made sides—they might be the sleeper hit of your meal.
2. Ribs & Reds
At Ribs & Reds, you find comfort and flavor in equal measure. My last dinner there ran long, filled with good company and the kind of BBQ that makes you forget about your phone. This spot feels like the kind of place families return to again and again.
The ribs here are what put them on the map. Smoky, tender, and brushed with just enough house sauce, every bite feels crafted with care. The pit crew has a knack for coaxing flavor into every cut—especially the chicken, which comes off the grill juicy and clean.
Try the ribs or smoked chicken plates; both spotlight what Ribs & Reds does best: hearty, classic BBQ with no shortcuts. Round it out with their tangy slaw or roasted veggies—they’re more than just sides; they’re part of the story.
3. Sassy Bass Beachside Grille
Sassy Bass Beachside Grille brings a playful vibe to Gulf Shores, pairing the beach’s laid-back energy with true Southern BBQ. I wandered in after a long day in the sun, immediately drawn to the sound of laughter and the scent of wood smoke drifting from the kitchen.
What makes Sassy Bass stand out is its fresh approach. Their BBQ is all about big, smoky flavors, but the sides are just as memorable. The smoked chicken platter steals the show—each bite is juicy, well-seasoned, and finished with a subtle char. The pulled turkey is another highlight, offering a lighter yet still flavor-packed alternative.
Grab a plate, tuck in, and save room for their creative veggie sides. You’ll leave with both your hunger and curiosity satisfied.
4. Big Daddy’s Grill
Big Daddy’s Grill sits right on the water, inviting you to linger a bit longer than planned. It’s a spot I first found by following the locals—always a good sign—and it quickly became a go-to for BBQ with a view.
The energy here is casual and welcoming, but what sets it apart is the way their BBQ shines alongside Gulf breezes. The smoked chicken plate stands tall, with rich, deep flavor and a satisfying texture. Pulled turkey is another favorite, smoky yet delicate, and piled high just the way you hope it will be.
Pair your BBQ with house sides, and don’t rush the meal. Big Daddy’s knows how to keep things simple, flavorful, and memorable—a combination that wins every time.
5. Buford’s Smokehouse BBQ
(251) 948-7444Call
At Buford’s Smokehouse BBQ, the promise of smoky, slow-cooked classics kicks in before you even reach the parking lot. I stopped in on a whim once, drawn by the scent of barbecue drifting from Highway 59—a decision that turned a hungry afternoon into a real treat.
What marks Buford’s as special is its no-frills attitude and straight-up focus on well-crafted BBQ. The smoked chicken is a standout: juicy, seasoned with a purpose, and finished with just the right hint of smoke. Locals rave about the pulled turkey too, stacked high and flecked with char marks from the pit.
Grab your meal to go, or find a seat and linger. Either way, you’ll get a memorable taste of Gulf Shores’ smoky side.
6. Tequila Mexican Restaurant
(251) 968-0044Call
Tequila Mexican Restaurant adds a vibrant twist to Gulf Shores BBQ. My first visit was a happy accident—I was hunting for something different, and the colorful dishes and lively energy here did not disappoint. The blend of authentic Mexican flavor and barbecue technique is a welcome surprise.
This spot stands out because it’s so much more than a standard grill. The smoked chicken tacos merge tender BBQ with the warmth of house-made tortillas and fresh toppings. For something heartier, the grilled chicken platter is generous, smoky, and beautifully seasoned, reflecting careful attention in every bite.
Pair your meal with classic sides like rice and beans, and you’ll discover that BBQ in Gulf Shores sometimes wears a spicy, south-of-the-border disguise.
7. The Beach House
The Beach House sits cool and casual on West Beach Boulevard, where Gulf breezes mix with the scents of the grill. My visit started with sunset views and ended with a plate I still think about—comfort BBQ meets a coastal state of mind here.
What really sets The Beach House apart is how it blends classic smoke with a Gulf Shores twist. Their pulled chicken sliders steal the show—tender, smoky, with a touch of their house sauce. The grilled chicken platter offers the char and tenderness you hope for at any barbecue spot, but with a fresher, lighter spin that matches the shoreline mood.
If you want a BBQ meal that feels relaxed but deliberate, find a table here and watch the sun dip behind your plate. The Beach House delivers simplicity and flavor, no extra fuss required.
8. Woodside Restaurant
Woodside Restaurant is the kind of spot where you feel anchored by oak trees and warmed by slow-cooked aromas. My visit followed a walk through Gulf State Park, and nothing hit the spot quite like their signature BBQ. This place feels both rustic and refined, the perfect retreat from the everyday beach bustle.
The highlight here is the smoked turkey plate. It’s aromatic, juicy, and pairs beautifully with their roasted veggies or potato salad. The grilled chicken is also a strong contender, with a gentle smokiness that speaks to the care put into every dish.
Woodside stands out for its friendly atmosphere and thoughtful menu, where even the simplest dishes hold their own. The BBQ is a satisfying reward after a day outdoors.
9. El Toro Mexican Restaurant
El Toro Mexican Restaurant brings a bit of fiesta into Gulf Shores BBQ. On my last visit, I was greeted by the cheerful buzz of families and the comforting scent of grilled meats—this spot has a knack for merging tradition with a Gulf twist.
El Toro stands out by leaning into Mexican BBQ with confidence. The grilled chicken fajitas deliver smoke and sizzle in every bite, with peppers and onions adding a fresh lift. Their smoked chicken tacos are another local favorite, packed with flavor and finished with house salsas that brighten the plate.
If you’re searching for BBQ with a little color and spice, El Toro’s mix of bold sauces and perfectly charred meats fits the bill. Don’t miss their fragrant rice and beans as a satisfying sidekick.
10. Margarita Loca Bar & Grill
Margarita Loca Bar & Grill serves up BBQ with a lively, beachside twist. I stopped in during a weekend escape, drawn by the buzz of friends catching up and the aroma of grills working overtime. It’s the kind of spot where the vibe is as inviting as the menu.
Margarita Loca stands out for combining Mexican flair with Gulf Shores staples. The smoked chicken tacos are a must-try: their seasoning and char reflect both tradition and a sense of fun. Another top pick is the grilled chicken platter, where fresh ingredients meet a careful hand at the grill.
With bold flavors and a playful menu, it’s easy to find something new each time you visit. For an extra touch, add a side of grilled veggies or zesty rice—they bring out the best in the BBQ.
More Things to Try in Gulf Shores, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top BBQ spots in Gulf Shores, AL?
Local favorites include Hog Wild, Ribs & Reds, Big Daddy’s Grill, Down South Barbeque, and Moe’s Original BBQ. Each has its own signature twist on classic BBQ, so you’ll find something memorable at every stop.
Are there halal or pork-free BBQ options in Gulf Shores?
Yes, many restaurants offer pork-free BBQ options like smoked chicken, turkey, and beef. Always check with the staff to confirm how dishes are prepared and if they meet your dietary needs.
What BBQ dish should I try in Gulf Shores?
Pulled chicken and smoked turkey plates are standouts. Brisket, when available, is also a local favorite. Don’t skip the house-made sides; they’re a big part of the Gulf Shores BBQ experience.
Do BBQ restaurants in Gulf Shores offer gluten-free options?
Many BBQ spots like Hog Wild offer gluten-free choices. It’s a good idea to ask when you order, as menus update frequently.
Can I get BBQ takeout or delivery in Gulf Shores?
Absolutely. Most BBQ places offer takeout, and some partner with delivery services. Check restaurant websites or give them a call to see your options.