As a food industry expert, I have had the pleasure of trying out numerous BBQ restaurants in Orange County, CA. And let me tell you, this sunny California county has no shortage of options when it comes to BBQ. From traditional Southern-style BBQ to fusion BBQ with a twist, there is something for every palate. So, if you're a BBQ lover like me, keep reading as I share my top picks for the best BBQ restaurants in Orange County.
The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon
When it comes to restaurants in Orange County, CA, The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon is a must-visit.Located in Anaheim, this upscale restaurant offers a unique blend of BBQ and fine dining. Their menu features dishes such as smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all cooked to perfection over a wood fire. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the sides are just as delicious. Don't miss out on their famous mac and cheese or their cornbread with honey butter. The Ranch also has an impressive selection of cocktails and a vast wine list to complement your meal.
The ambiance is rustic yet elegant, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a date night. Be sure to make a reservation as this restaurant is popular and tends to fill up quickly.
Bad to the Bone BBQ
If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, head over to Bad to the Bone BBQ in San Juan Capistrano. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering BBQ since 1998. Their menu features all the classic BBQ dishes such as ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, but they also have some unique items like their BBQ nachos and BBQ stuffed potatoes. Their meats are slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.Don't forget to try their homemade BBQ sauces, which are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que is a popular chain restaurant with locations all over Orange County. However, don't let its chain status fool you; this restaurant serves up some of the best BBQ in the county. Their menu features a variety of BBQ styles, including Memphis, Texas, and Carolina. You can't go wrong with any of their dishes, but their baby back ribs and pulled pork are customer favorites. What sets Lucille's apart from other BBQ restaurants is their extensive menu.In addition to BBQ, they also offer Southern-style dishes such as fried chicken and jambalaya. And don't forget to save room for their famous bread pudding for dessert.
Heritage Barbecue
If you're a fan of Texas-style BBQ, then Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano is a must-visit. This restaurant started as a pop-up and quickly gained a cult following for its mouth-watering brisket and ribs. Now with a permanent location, Heritage Barbecue continues to impress with its perfectly smoked meats and delicious sides. Their menu is simple, but everything on it is executed to perfection.The brisket is tender and juicy, and the ribs have just the right amount of smokiness. Don't miss out on their loaded baked potato casserole or their famous banana pudding for dessert.
Meat Up BBQ
Located in Placentia, Meat Up BBQ is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best BBQ in Orange County. This family-owned restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Their menu features all the classic BBQ dishes, but they also have some unique items such as their BBQ tacos and BBQ mac and cheese. Their meats are slow-cooked over oak wood, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.And don't forget to try their homemade sauces, which are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Meat Up BBQ also offers catering services, making it a great option for your next event or party.
Conclusion
Orange County, CA is home to some of the best BBQ restaurants in the state. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Southern-style BBQ or something with a twist, there is a restaurant for you. From upscale dining to casual spots, this county has it all.So next time you're craving some delicious BBQ, be sure to check out one of these top restaurants in Orange County.
