Finding the best BBQ in Los Angeles feels a bit like chasing the city’s legendary sunsets—everyone has an opinion, and every neighborhood guards a local secret. As someone who has zigzagged across LA in search of the perfect smoky bite, I’ve tasted brisket that’s almost poetry and ribs that leave your hands sticky in the best way. LA’s BBQ scene is as varied as the traffic, and every spot on this list has earned a place through real flavor and unforgettable atmosphere.
This guide doesn’t play favorites. Instead, it serves you a plate of standout spots where barbecue means much more than sauce and smoke. Every spot here promises something crave-worthy, from classic Texas-style to Korean barbecue with clever LA twists. If you’re ready to dive into the city’s best, each name ahead tells its own story, and there’s one waiting to become your new go-to.
Where to find the best bbq in Los Angeles, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Los Angeles, CA:
- Baby Blues BBQ
- Genwa Korean BBQ
- Bludsos BBQ
- Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong
- Boneyard Bistro
- Busy Bee
- Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas Bar-B-Que
- The Bear Pit Bar-B-Q Restaurant
- Gaucho Grill
- Sticky Rice
1. Baby Blues BBQ
Baby Blues BBQ feels like a Southern porch party tucked away in Venice. It’s the kind of spot where you catch the aroma before you see the neon sign. My last visit started with the smoked chicken—the kind you dream about later—and didn’t end until I tackled a stack of meaty beef ribs.
What sets Baby Blues BBQ apart is its blend of Memphis and Texas traditions. Everything arrives with thoughtful sides, generous portions, and a mood that’s pure LA casual. The vibe is relaxed, but the barbecue means serious business.
Go for the St. Louis ribs or the pulled pork sandwich. Both come tender, juicy, and full of smoke. The jalapeño corn muffin brings everything together for a sweet, spicy finish.
2. Genwa Korean BBQ
Genwa Korean BBQ is where a night out turns into an event. Located on Wilshire, it’s sleek but always feels inviting, whether I’m with friends or family. My last visit was a banchan feast—no fewer than twenty tiny plates landed on the table, each one a flavor surprise.
What truly makes Genwa stand out is the combination of expert service and top-tier meats, all grilled right at your table. Their smokeless grills let you enjoy the action without worrying about smoky clothes. The staff guide you, ensuring you never burn a bite.
I always recommend the premium beef short rib and marinated chicken. The beef is rich and buttery, while the chicken picks up just the right amount of char. Pair these with a mountain of banchan for a perfect LA BBQ night.
3. Bludsos BBQ
Bludso’s BBQ on La Brea has earned a cult following, and for good reason. Kevin Bludso’s Texas roots come through in every bite, making this spot a must for anyone who appreciates authentic Southern-style barbecue. My last meal here featured a lineup of smoky classics—simple, generous, and packed with flavor.
The restaurant pulses with energy, whether you’re perched at the counter or grabbing takeout. Bludso’s stands out for its slow-smoked meats and steadfast commitment to big, bold flavor. The service is friendly, and you can taste the family pride in every dish.
If you only try one thing, make it the beef brisket. It arrives impossibly tender, with a peppery crust and deep smoke throughout. Pair it with collard greens or their classic potato salad for the full experience.
4. Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong
Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong is the kind of lively Korean BBQ spot where the energy matches the sizzle of the grill. My latest visit was a blur of laughter and the comforting sound of meat hitting hot metal. Here, the experience is half the fun, and the rest is pure flavor.
Baekjeong takes pride in top-quality cuts and an interactive experience. Staff handle the grilling with skill, turning prime cuts at just the right moment. Tables come alive as platters arrive, each bite more savory than the last.
Go for the prime boneless short rib and seasoned chicken. They’re the signature picks, and offer a mouthwatering balance of tenderness and smokiness that sets Baekjeong apart in LA’s crowded BBQ scene.
5. Boneyard Bistro
Boneyard Bistro is the San Fernando Valley’s answer to big city barbecue, blending classic smokehouse flavor with a cool, neighborhood feel. On my last visit, the buzz of conversation mixed with the scent of hickory drifting from the open kitchen. It’s an easy spot to settle in with friends or family for a long, satisfying meal.
The charm of Boneyard Bistro is its creative take on barbecue. The menu features tried-and-true staples balanced with inventive sides. Everything, from the décor to the drinks, feels curated but never fussy.
You cannot miss the smoked beef ribs or the BBQ chicken. Both showcase a deep, smoky character and come off the bone perfectly. Pair with their tangy coleslaw for the ideal bite.
6. Busy Bee
Busy Bee is the definition of a hidden gem in San Pedro. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule, with the feel of an old-school neighborhood market. My first trip was for a quick lunch, but the flavors made me linger longer than planned.
This spot stands out because it keeps things simple, focusing on quality ingredients and straightforward barbecue done right. There’s no flash—just tender smoked meats and friendly, no-nonsense service.
The BBQ chicken plate and the brisket sandwich are local legends. Both are juicy, piled high, and packed with bold flavor. Order a side of their house-made potato salad for a classic LA BBQ experience, no fuss required.
7. Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas Bar-B-Que
Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas Bar-B-Que is pure nostalgia, from the kitschy sign outside to the comforting smoky scent inside. My first bite of their barbecue was a lesson in tradition—rich, tender, and served in generous portions.
This spot stands out for its deep roots in Texas-style barbecue, still family-owned and still focused on slow-smoked flavor. You sense the old-school pride with every plate—a rare thing in LA’s fast-paced dining scene.
The must-order here is the beef brisket or BBQ chicken. Both arrive sliced thick, smoky, and fork-tender, showing Dr. Hogly Wogly’s love for classic recipes. Their homemade sides, like tangy coleslaw, round out the experience.
8. The Bear Pit Bar-B-Q Restaurant
The Bear Pit Bar-B-Q Restaurant is a throwback in all the right ways. Walking in, you’re greeted by wood-paneled walls and the unmistakable aroma of hickory smoke. My most recent meal took me straight to the classics—no frills, just satisfying barbecue that hits the spot.
This place stands out for sticking to its roots, serving up wood-smoked meats and their legendary house-made BBQ sauce. The setting is casual, but the flavors carry plenty of character, and the hospitality feels genuine.
Order the beef brisket plate or the BBQ chicken. Both showcase The Bear Pit’s legacy, with meat that’s tender and infused with smoke. Don’t miss their classic sides—they round out the experience with just the right touch of nostalgia.
9. Gaucho Grill
Gaucho Grill brings a slice of Argentina to Brentwood, blending classic asado traditions with a welcoming California vibe. My first time here, the open-fire grill lured me in, and the taste of expertly grilled meats kept me coming back. The warmth from the staff makes every meal feel like a celebration.
The menu focuses on Argentinian-style barbecue, with every cut seasoned and cooked to smoky, juicy perfection. There’s a sense of craft that shows in every plate, from the grill marks to the house-made sauces.
For a real treat, order the bife de chorizo (sirloin steak) or the grilled chicken. Both capture that unmistakable grill flavor. Their chimichurri adds a bright, herbal kick and ties the whole meal together.
10. Sticky Rice
Sticky Rice is proof that great barbecue can have a Southeast Asian twist. Nestled inside Grand Central Market, this spot offers something different—flavors that are bright, bold, and deeply satisfying. My meal started with curiosity and quickly turned into a love affair with Thai-style grilled goodness.
Sticky Rice stands apart with its focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients and authentic Thai techniques. The open kitchen lets you watch every dish come together right before your eyes. The vibe is casual and lively, making it perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed lunch.
If you want a true taste, order the gai yang (grilled chicken) with sticky rice. The chicken is smoky, juicy, and marinated just right, served alongside rice that soaks up every rich flavor.
More Things to Try in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What BBQ styles can I find in Los Angeles?
LA’s BBQ scene covers a lot of ground, with authentic Texas, Memphis, Korean, and Argentinian styles all having a home here. You’ll find smoky classics, grilled specialties, and global flavors from established favorites to innovative newcomers.
Where can I find halal-friendly BBQ in Los Angeles?
Several BBQ and Korean BBQ spots offer halal options or clearly mark their menus. Always check with the restaurant ahead of time, as availability may change.
Is LA BBQ good for vegetarians?
Plenty of BBQ spots in LA offer vegetarian-friendly sides (think cornbread, collard greens, and coleslaw), and some places feature grilled veggie mains and innovative plant-based proteins. Korean BBQ restaurants, in particular, usually have many veggie banchan and grilled veggie options.
Do I need a reservation for popular BBQ restaurants?
It’s smart to make a reservation, especially for weekend dinners or large groups. Some spots also offer takeout for a low-key BBQ fix at home.
What’s the difference between LA-style BBQ and other BBQ styles?
LA BBQ tends to be a mix of regional traditions, reflecting the city’s diversity. Expect to see everything from slow-cooked brisket to kalbi on the grill, plus creative twists unique to LA’s food scene.