Gardena’s barbecue scene feels a bit like a hidden backyard party you’re lucky enough to stumble upon. Tucked between bustling boulevards and quiet corners, the city serves up a grill game that caters to old-school purists and those looking to branch out. There’s a charm in places where the smoke hits you first and the menus skip the pretense—just good meat, smoky sauces, and sides that know their role.
Digging through Gardena’s BBQ joints has been a delicious adventure. A lunchtime bite at Jay Bee’s convinced me that ribs don’t need a lot of talk—they just need to fall off the bone. Swapping tables for grill-your-own at a Korean spot brought the sort of sizzle you’ll feel in your marrow. If you want skillfully barbecued meats and not a whiff of haram, you’re in the right spot. The list ahead pulls together different styles, honest reviews, and the key details so you can plot your next meaty mission with total peace of mind.
1. Jay Bee’s House of Fine Bar-B-Que
Jay Bee’s House of Fine Bar-B-Que sits modestly on Avalon Blvd, but its flavors are anything but subtle. This isn’t a glitzy eatery; it’s the kind of local spot where the scent of slow-cooked meat hits you in the parking lot. My first visit was all about simplicity—no fuss, just a smile, and a tray loaded with smoky goodness.
Jay Bee’s is famous for its beef ribs and chicken, both crafted with a secret rub and an unwavering devotion to old-school barbecue. The ribs arrive tender, smoky, and clinging to just enough sauce to make you want more. I recommend ordering a rib and chicken combo; you get the best of both worlds, and the portions are generous.
Sides keep things classic: beans, coleslaw, and a slice of white bread to mop up the sauce. There’s nothing fussy here—just honest barbecue done right every single time.
2. Yellow Cow Korean BBQ
Yellow Cow Korean BBQ gets lively at dinner—think the sound of grills, friendly chatter, and plates of marinated meats arriving faster than you can clear them. My visit turned from dinner to event as the tabletop grill fired up, and the scent of sizzling bulgogi filled the air.
This spot wins for freshness and variety. The standout here is the beef bulgogi: thinly sliced, marinated just right, and quick to caramelize into bites you chase with each round. I found the short ribs (galbi) tender and irresistible, with smoky edges that delivered on depth.
Don’t skip the banchan, the array of side dishes—pickled veggies, crunchy salads—which make each bite an adventure. If you’re craving interactive dining and rich Korean flavors, Yellow Cow is an easy choice.
3. Jaybee’s Bar-B-Q
+1 310-532-1064
Jaybee’s Bar-B-Q sits right next to its more famous counterpart, but it deserves its own recognition. Step in, and you’ll notice a no-nonsense setup with the kind of smoky aroma that pulls you straight to the counter. My first order was beef links, handed over with a nod and a paper bag already soaked through with sauce.
Jaybee’s shines with its beef links and beef brisket—both juicy, smoky, and loaded with punchy flavor. The brisket especially has a tender bite that soaks up their signature sauce, which is both tangy and just a little bit sweet.
Sides like the potato salad and baked beans round out the meal, adding creamy comfort or a slight kick where needed. If you’re craving an old-school barbecue experience without pretense, this is the spot to stop and linger.
4. Moon BBQ
Moon BBQ brings together cozy diner vibes and a menu packed with sizzling Korean barbecue favorites. My first dinner here kicked off with laughter, a grilling lesson from the friendly staff, and the irresistible sound of marinated beef meeting hot metal.
The standout is their LA galbi—cross-cut beef short ribs, richly marinated and perfectly caramelized on the grill. Each bite captures a little sweetness and a subtle smokiness you keep reaching for. Their bulgogi also holds its own: tender, flavorful, and served with a good balance of vegetables.
Banchan arrives in lively, colorful waves, and brings with it a welcome crunch and acidity that rounds out the meaty mains. For those chasing melt-in-your-mouth BBQ with a personal touch, Moon BBQ won’t disappoint.
5. Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Ono Hawaiian BBQ packs the flavors of the islands into simple, generous plates, right off Redondo Beach Blvd. My first stop was when a craving led me in for lunch, and I was greeted by the aroma of grilled meats and the unmistakable sound of rice scooping into takeout boxes.
The chicken is the main draw, especially their BBQ chicken—tender, char-grilled, and marinated for a real flavor punch. Pair it with the kalbi beef if you’re ready for some extra richness; both come with a mountain of rice and macaroni salad.
This spot stands out for quick service, hearty portions, and flavors that hit sweet and savory at the same time. When you need filling and flavorful Hawaiian-style BBQ, Ono checks every box.
6. Top BBQ & Noodle
Top BBQ & Noodle brings a unique twist to Gardena’s barbecue scene by serving up classic Asian-style barbecue alongside savory noodle bowls. My introduction here was on a rainy day, and nothing hit the spot like a bowl of brisket noodle soup followed by smoky, sliced beef on rice.
The barbecue beef brisket is a clear standout—smoky, sliced thin, and tender with a subtle, flavorful char. The soups and rice plates balance comfort and boldness without overpowering your palate.
Order the barbecue combo plate if you want to sample different styles in one sitting. The sides, especially the pickled vegetables, add a refreshing bit of crunch between bites. Top BBQ & Noodle makes fusion food feel natural and satisfying.
7. Furusatl
+1 310-323-8600
Furusatl channels the spirit of a laid-back Japanese grill house, making it a favorite when you crave yakiniku without the fuss. My first evening here was calm, almost meditative, with friendly staff guiding me through cuts of beef I hadn’t tried before.
The standout here is the beef tongue, sliced thin and char-grilled until the edges are crisp and smoky. The careful grilling gives you that golden bite of umami without drowning it in sauce. I also recommend the tender beef short rib, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Simple dipping sauces and a few sides—think pickled vegetables and rice—let the quality of the meat do all the talking. If you’re after understated excellence and a relaxed setting, Furusatl hits the mark.
8. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is your ticket to islands-inspired comfort food, tucked right on Redondo Beach Blvd. A quick weekday lunch turned into a mini escape with their sweet, smoky aromas drifting into the lot. At L&L, the vibe is casual, with friendly staff who can serve up familiar favorites in no time.
The BBQ chicken plate deserves a mention—char-grilled and glazed, with just the right touch of sweetness. Pair it with the beef short ribs for extra depth and hearty satisfaction, all layered on sticky rice and creamy macaroni salad.
Portions here go further than you think, and the flavors bridge tangy, savory, and a little tropical bite. When you’re hungry and longing for hassle-free Hawaiian BBQ, L&L covers all the bases.
9. Bull BBQ
Bull BBQ sits along Western Ave, and though it’s easy to miss, it’s worth seeking out for a straightforward barbecue fix. My first meal here felt like a secret that locals want to keep to themselves; the space is unpretentious, but every plate is packed with care.
The sliced beef brisket stands front and center—charred on the edges and rich with smoky depth. There’s also a grilled chicken option that holds its own, juicy and lightly brushed with their house sauce.
Order the combo plate if you’re feeling indecisive; you get to sample their top meats against a backdrop of warm rice and tangy coleslaw. Bull BBQ delivers satisfying, clean flavors for anyone chasing honest barbecue.
10. BBQ Chicken
BBQ Chicken along Artesia Boulevard is not your run-of-the-mill chicken shack. From my first bite, it was clear: they treat fried and grilled chicken with real precision. The kitchen knows how to balance flavorful marinades and crisp textures, creating a menu that feels both comforting and new.
The golden fried chicken is the draw here—crunchy outside, juicy inside, and seasoned for real impact without going overboard. For grilled fans, the char-grilled chicken is equally impressive, with a smoky kick and a hint of sweetness that lingers just long enough.
Don’t overlook their sides—rice bowls pair with the chicken for a satisfying, balanced plate. BBQ Chicken manages to elevate simple comfort food with a memorable twist in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best spots for BBQ in Gardena, CA?
Gardena has a strong lineup, from the smoky classics at Jay Bee’s House of Fine Bar-B-Que to interactive grills like Yellow Cow Korean BBQ and fusion favorites at Top BBQ & Noodle. It’s easy to find both traditional and international barbecue styles all in one city.
Are there halal or haram-free BBQ options in Gardena?
Plenty of BBQ spots in Gardena focus on beef and chicken. If you need assurance, call ahead to check on specific cooking practices or ingredient sources.
What BBQ dishes is Gardena best known for?
Beef ribs, brisket, Korean-style short ribs (galbi), BBQ chicken, and fusion dishes are top picks. Many restaurants serve big combo plates, so you can sample several specialties at once.
Do BBQ restaurants in Gardena offer takeout?
Absolutely. Most BBQ places here serve generous takeout portions—perfect for a backyard feast or a quick lunch.
Are there good BBQ spots in Gardena for groups?
Korean BBQ places like Moon BBQ or Yellow Cow are great for groups, thanks to shared grills and lots of sides. Several Hawaiian-style spots have family trays and combos.
Is there vegetarian-friendly BBQ in Gardena?
While menus lean toward meat, some places offer grilled veggies, tofu, and hearty sides. Always check with the restaurant for their current vegetarian options.
What are the usual sides served with BBQ in Gardena?
Expect macaroni salad, rice, coleslaw, baked beans, and pickled vegetables to show up alongside your mains. Korean BBQ includes banchan, which are small, flavorful side dishes.