Some people search for the hottest wings or a perfect brisket, but in Long Beach, finding the best BBQ is a true adventure. I remember my own first dive into the city’s barbecue scene—smoke from a nearby pit led me to a line of people, the aroma teasing with each step. From that day on, I realized Long Beach’s BBQ spots hold their own flavor stories. Whether you want Texas-style beef or something sweet and smoky, you’ll bump into joints serving soulful, slow-cooked plates worth every bite.
Choosing the right spot takes more than luck. Over the years, I’ve sampled dry rubs that wake you up, sauces more balanced than chess masters, and sides that actually give the BBQ a run for its money. This list isn’t a random collection. Each name earned its place for distinctive taste and steady quality. If you want to skip the lines and skip the letdowns, stick around. Your next favorite BBQ in Long Beach might be right here in this guide.
Where to find the best bbq in Long Beach, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Long Beach, CA:
- Naples Rib Company
- Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar B Que
- Johnny Rebs’ True South
- Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
- Robert Earl’s Bbq
- Lacquered Restaurant
- Louisiana Charlie’s
- The Corner 10th’s BBQ
- Tony’s Barbecue and BBLNGKNTM
- Greenfield ChurrascarÃa Long Beach
1. Naples Rib Company
Naples Rib Company has a reputation that stretches far beyond Belmont Shore. On my visit, the aroma hit me before I even stepped out of the car—proof enough that something good was happening inside. The atmosphere feels comfortable and unhurried, with booths made for messy, memorable meals among friends or family.
What you get here is classic, confident barbecue. Their Baby Back Ribs are the kind you daydream about—tender, smoked, brushed with just enough sauce to keep things interesting. The Slow Roasted Tri-Tip is another house favorite, sliced thick and served smoky, with every bite proof of careful cooking.
For groups, the Banquet Room makes celebrations effortless. If you’re flying solo or catching a game, the bar side works just as well. For anyone chasing down the top BBQ in Long Beach, Naples Rib Company is the one to beat.
2. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar B Que
Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar B Que feels like a Southern road trip—even when you’re just a few miles from the Pacific. My first plate here was overflowing, and the steady hum of happy diners told me I had picked a winner. Southern hospitality runs deep at Lucille’s, from the friendly staff to the retro decor that’s hard not to love.
What keeps people coming back is the smoked meats—distinctly tender, richly flavored, and served with a gentle char. Try the beef brisket or the BBQ half-chicken; both arrive juicy and cloaked in a spice-laced crust. The house-made sauces allow you to tweak the flavor to your taste.
When you want sides, their cheese grits and freshly baked biscuits are soul food, plain and simple. For a relaxed, satisfying BBQ fix in Long Beach, Lucille’s is an easy choice.
3. Johnny Rebs’ True South
Walking into Johnny Rebs’ True South feels like stumbling onto a raucous roadside supper down South. My first visit, I left with smoky flavors lingering long after the meal. The staff treats you like family, and every corner of the dining room buzzes with upbeat, casual charm.
This spot’s claim to fame is authentic BBQ with depth. The smoked turkey is a standout—moist with that perfect kiss of oak, and smothered in tangy sauce. The pulled chicken sandwich lands just right, nestled in a pillowy roll, full of satisfying textures.
If you want a side to remember, the collard greens set the standard. Johnny Rebs’ makes Southern BBQ in Long Beach feel both homey and exciting, bite after bite.
4. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que on 2nd St. stays packed, and for good reason. Once you’re greeted by the smell of wood smoke drifting out the door, you know your craving is about to be satisfied. I like that the vibe never tries too hard—it’s easygoing and genuinely warm. No frills, just good barbecue and Southern-style comfort.
The BBQ chicken here is always a safe bet—juicy, seasoned all the way through, and finished on the grill for a hint of crisp. Their St. Louis ribs deliver that satisfying bite: smoky, tender, and generous with the dry rub. Sides like creamy cole slaw and garlic mashed potatoes round out your plate.
This place stands out because the food matches the hype. If you’re after reliable, flavorful barbecue in Long Beach, Lucille’s is a staple.
5. Robert Earl’s Bbq
Robert Earl’s BBQ is the spot locals whisper about when the topic turns serious—where to find true barbecue in North Long Beach. My meal here started with hungry anticipation and ended with that rare satisfaction you only get from a perfectly balanced plate. The smoke is deep, and the flavor is honest, from the first bite to the last.
The standout is the beef brisket—succulent, deeply marbled, with bark that speaks to hours of loving care. Their smoked chicken falls apart with a nudge and carries just enough spice to keep things lively. The mac and cheese is creamy in all the right ways, earning its place alongside the mains.
This is not just a barbecue eatery; it’s a local institution. For classic, no-pretense BBQ, Robert Earl’s is a must-stop in Long Beach.
6. Lacquered Restaurant
Lacquered Restaurant stands out for its East Broadway spirit—a blend of ambition and homestyle comfort. My first visit was a surprise. With each bite, you realize everything is made with intent and care; there’s no cutting corners. Organic chicken and non-GMO ribs headline a menu built on honest, scratch cooking.
The BBQ chicken, lacquered with fragrant spice, is juicy and crisp—nothing about it tastes rushed. The non-GMO pork ribs show balance: tender, with a glaze that leans more savory than sweet, truly distinct in Long Beach.
Sides like Vietnamese slaw add brightness against the rich meats. Lacquered delivers inventive BBQ with a nod to clean, flavorful food that feels both modern and rooted in tradition.
7. Louisiana Charlie’s
Louisiana Charlie’s has the kind of breezy, waterfront charm that lures you in from the Shoreline Village boardwalk. My favorite visit involved a sunlit patio seat, the sound of boats in the background, and a plate that tasted straight out of the bayou. This spot brings Southern comfort right to the heart of Long Beach.
The smoked chicken is a highlight—juicy, with a spice rub that lingers, layered onto the meat instead of just sitting on the skin. Pair it with collard greens or smoky red beans and rice for a complete Southern BBQ feast. Portions run generous, never stingy.
With friendly service and standout sides, Louisiana Charlie’s makes it easy to linger and savor real BBQ flavor—minus the plane ticket to New Orleans.
8. The Corner 10th’s BBQ
The Corner 10th’s BBQ doesn’t lean on flash—it’s the sort of place you find by following your nose before you spot a sign. I stumbled in for a late lunch once, and the relaxed, neighborly feel was a breath of fresh air. This spot is about real barbecue, done right, with no shortcuts.
What stands out is the smoked chicken, which pulls apart with little effort and hits the sweet spot between smoky and juicy. The BBQ turkey is another winner—tender, not dry, holding up well to their tangy house sauce.
If you’re after sides, the beans are a must. The Corner 10th’s BBQ offers unpretentious, deeply satisfying BBQ that speaks for itself in every bite.
9. Tony’s Barbecue and BBLNGKNTM
+1 562-426-8717
Tony’s Barbecue and BBLNGKNTM may fly under the radar, but fans know it’s a Long Beach staple for slow-smoked comfort. My stop here was all about the aromas—smoke, spice, and something that felt like Sunday dinner at home. This spot thrives by keeping things simple and doing them well.
The must-try item is the BBQ chicken, expertly smoked and brushed with just enough house sauce to leave your fingers sticky and your appetite satisfied. Their turkey sandwiches are hearty, full of flavor, and a clever pick if you’re not in the mood for bones.
Tony’s offers an everyday kind of BBQ—unfussy, consistently tasty, and always reliable when you crave pure barbecue flavor.
10. Greenfield ChurrascarÃa Long Beach
Greenfield ChurrascarÃa Long Beach puts a Brazilian twist on the city’s BBQ reputation. My first time here, the sizzling skewers seemed endless—a real parade of flavors from the open grill to the table. It’s an experience for anyone who thinks variety is the spice of life.
The spotlight falls on the grilled chicken and beef—each slice delivered straight from the skewer, still piping hot and seasoned perfectly. The salad bar offers a fresh counterpoint, but let’s be real: you’re here for the smoky meats.
If you crave hearty, table-side barbecue with global flair, Greenfield ChurrascarÃa delivers every time. It’s where serious appetite meets serious food, in unmistakably Brazilian style.
More Things to Try in Long Beach, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What BBQ styles can I find in Long Beach?
Long Beach’s BBQ scene offers everything from classic Texas brisket and St. Louis ribs to Southern smoked chicken and even Brazilian-style grilled meats. You’ll also find creative fusion spots blending American and global flavors.
Are there halal-friendly BBQ options in Long Beach?
Some restaurants may offer halal-friendly options, but it’s best to call ahead. Many BBQ joints focus on beef, chicken, and turkey dishes, so there are choices if you avoid haram items.
Which Long Beach BBQ spots are great for large groups?
Naples Rib Company stands out with a spacious banquet room for celebrations. Many others, like Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar B Que, have roomy seating and can accommodate families or big parties with ease.
Where can I try unique or non-traditional BBQ in Long Beach?
Lacquered Restaurant and Greenfield ChurrascarÃa both put a fresh spin on BBQ, with scratch cooking and global influence. The city also has a few spots fusing BBQ with Cajun or Asian flavors for something memorable.
Is BBQ in Long Beach available for takeout?
Yes, most BBQ restaurants in Long Beach offer takeout, so you can enjoy ribs, brisket, or chicken from home or the beach. Check their websites or give them a call for details and any special takeout deals.