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The 15 Best Barbecue Restaurants in San Francisco

Looking for some delicious barbecue options in San Francisco? Look no further! Whether you're a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, San Francisco has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

From laid-back spots serving up traditional Southern barbecue to trendy restaurants putting a modern twist on the classic dishes, there is something for every barbecue lover in the city.

So, if you're in the mood for some mouth-watering barbecue, check out our list of the top barbecue restaurants in San Francisco and find the perfect spot to indulge in some smoky, savory goodness.

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of barbecue restaurants in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 15 local options side by side

City Smoke House, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • Delicious BBQ catering for special events with easy communication and timely delivery

  • Top-notch ribs, brisket, and pulled pork packed with flavors that leave customers craving for more

  • Quality food including huge hamburgers, sweet and sour pickles, and amazing ribs and brisket

  • Phenomenal brisket, mac & cheese, and burgers along with caring and kind service

City Smoke House

5.035 reviews
1000 Van Ness Ave Suite 10003-A, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

City Smoke House is a renowned barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services catering to all your needs, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for their mouth-watering comfort food and quick bites, City Smoke House is a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.

Customers rave about their exceptional food and outstanding service. Some key points from their reviews include:

Whether you are looking for a casual dining experience or planning a special event, City Smoke House is the place to be. Indulge in their delectable offerings and treat your taste buds to a savory experience like no other!

Pete's Bar-B-Que, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • Customers love the BBQ chicken and ribs combo plate, baked potato, and pasta salad.

  • Many enjoy the modern yet soulful vibe of the place.

  • One of the best rotisserie chicken spots in the Bay Area.

  • Great for families, offering nostalgic memories and delicious food.

Pete's Bar-B-Que

4.5449 reviews
2399 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Pete's Bar-B-Que is a popular barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for their delicious BBQ chicken, ribs, and combo plates, customers drive long distances just to dine here. The authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for all types of diners.

Drew's Barbecue, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Generous portion sizes and flavorful ribs

  • Delicious mac & cheese and sides

  • Friendly service and welcoming atmosphere

Drew's Barbecue

4.727 reviews
101 Hahn St, San Francisco, CA 94134, United States

Drew's Barbecue is a barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. This spot is popular for its lunch and dinner options, perfect for solo dining. Customers can enjoy comfort food in a casual atmosphere.

The menu at Drew's Barbecue includes mouthwatering options like ribs, chicken, and hot links served with delicious sides such as Mac & Cheese, Baked Beans, Green Beans, and Potato Salad. Customers can either takeaway their food or dine-in to savor the flavors.

Customer reviews rave about the tasty dishes and generous portions. Here are some key points summarized from their feedback:

If you are in the Bay Area, don't miss the opportunity to try out Drew's Barbecue for an authentic and satisfying BBQ experience!

Baby Blues BBQ, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Delicious and flavorful meats, juicy and tender

  • Great selection of sides like cole slaw, potato salad, and cornbread

  • Fun atmosphere and friendly service

  • Generous portions and delicious in-house made sauces

Baby Blues BBQ

4.4791 reviews
3149 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Baby Blues BBQ is a popular barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service and sporty atmosphere, making it a great spot for lunch, dinner, and even solo dining.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Baby Blues BBQ. Here are some key points from their reviews:

With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 791 reviews, it's no wonder Baby Blues BBQ is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. If you're craving some mouthwatering barbecue in a cozy and casual setting, this is the place to be!

Hardwood Bar & Smokery, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Brisket sandwich and catfish sandwich are flavorful and filling.

  • Brisket is delicious and smoky, doesn't require BBQ sauce.

  • The all-in-one platter is excellent, perfect for sharing.

  • Curly fries and queso are must-try items on the menu.

Hardwood Bar & Smokery

4.4429 reviews
680 8th St #170, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Hardwood Bar & Smokery is a popular barbecue restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for its fast service and sporty atmosphere, it is a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customers rave about their experience at Hardwood Bar & Smokery.

Whether you're craving classic barbecue dishes or looking for a trendy and casual spot to enjoy great food, Hardwood Bar & Smokery is the place to be. Visit their website for more information and to place your order.

4505 Burgers & BBQ, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Customers enjoy the different offerings and sides available, such as brisket and delicious sides.

  • Although the menu has limited BBQ options in SF, customers still recommend the ribs and burgers.

  • Happy hour is a favorite due to the variety of options and affordability.

4505 Burgers & BBQ

4.33,227 reviews
705 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

4505 Burgers & BBQ is a popular barbecue restaurant in San Francisco that offers a range of delicious options for customers. The restaurant provides service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers appreciate the fast service and the fact that it is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

With a rating of 4.3, based on 3227 reviews, it's clear that 4505 Burgers & BBQ is a go-to spot for those craving quality BBQ in a casual and trendy atmosphere. Customers mention their favorite dishes, like the Frankaroni and hot links. So, if you're in the mood for delicious barbecue with a laid-back vibe, this is the place to be!

Camp BBQ, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Customers praise the great selection of meat on the menu and the delicious flavors.

  • Many guests appreciate the friendly and accommodating service provided by the staff.

  • Visitors enjoy the cozy and inviting atmosphere inside the restaurant.

Camp BBQ

4.381 reviews
4014 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Camp BBQ is a cozy Japanese restaurant located in San Francisco, CA, known for its high-quality meat and friendly staff. With a rating of 4.3 based on 81 reviews, it's a popular spot for lunch and dinner.

The restaurant offers a variety of service options including takeaway and dine-in. They are known for their fast service and popular for both lunch and dinner. Camp BBQ is wheelchair-accessible and provides a casual atmosphere for guests to enjoy. So, if you're looking for the best BBQ in San Francisco with excellent quality meat and a welcoming vibe, Camp BBQ is the place to be!

Smile BBQ, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Great local breakfast and lunch spot with average taste and portion

  • No-nonsense mom and pop establishment serving tasty diner fare

  • Simple place with great prices and delicious BBQ chicken

  • Outstanding food and atmosphere for a fantastic lunch experience

Smile BBQ

4.335 reviews
2619 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Smile BBQ is a beloved barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco. Customers rave about the delicious food and charming old-school atmosphere. The place is popular for breakfast, lunch, and solo dining, offering comfort food, quick bites, and small plates. The restaurant provides dine-in and takeaway options, making it convenient for all patrons.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • Grilled Korean Barbecued Steak and fresh salads were delicious.

  • The friendly team and excellent management received commendations.

  • Customers enjoyed the grilled barbecue and found it delicious.

  • Even first-timers ended up loving the flavors of Korean dishes.

Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House

4.2320 reviews
4611 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House is a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services to its customers. Whether you prefer delivery, takeaway, or dine-in options, this restaurant has got you covered. Known for its fast service, it is a popular spot for both lunch and dinner outings.

Customers have left glowing reviews about the restaurant. Some highlight the delicious Korean dishes like Grilled Korean Barbecued Steak, fresh salads, and Kim Chee. Others appreciate the excellent management and friendly team working at the restaurant. The grilled barbecue is a standout favorite, and even those new to Korean cuisine end up loving the flavors.

Aceking BBQ, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • The environment is antique and cool, but the food can be a bit salty and dry. Limited interactions with staff, but they are responsive when needed.

  • Great place for Chinese BBQ, with contactless ordering and delicious skewers like chicken hearts, lamb, and chicken gristle.

  • Reasonably priced with a variety of payment options including Venmo and Zelle. Automatic 18% gratuity for parties over four.

  • Small cozy space with friendly servers, perfect for late-night snacks. Popular choices include beef, chives, and mushroom skewers.

Aceking BBQ

4.2107 reviews
1820 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Aceking BBQ is a popular spot in San Francisco known for its delicious Chinese-style barbecue offerings. The restaurant offers a range of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service and the variety of skewers available.

Some key points from customer reviews:

If you're in the mood for flavorful skewers and a casual dining experience, Aceking BBQ is the place to be!

Clement BBQ, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • OMG, tried their roast pork and it is out of this world delicious, crispy skin, juicy, so good! Will be coming back.

  • On days when being in the kitchen is a chore, Clement BBQ is a lifesaver. Great deal. Two meals and done. No leftovers.

  • Portions here are generous with a variety of popular Chinese entrees to choose from. Affordable prices make it a convenient spot for quick takeout Chinese food.

  • Delicious authentic Chinese comfort food at affordable prices. A must-visit spot for those craving homemade flavors.

Clement BBQ

4.249 reviews
617 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Clement BBQ is a well-known barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of dining options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. Customers rave about their delicious roast pork, generous portions, and affordable prices.

Visit Clement BBQ for a casual dining experience with mouthwatering offerings that won't break the bank!

Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Smoked fried chicken is very tasty, full flavored, and not too salty.

  • Ribs fall off the bone and are very tender.

  • Service is good, with a bit cramped dining room, so getting everything to-go is recommended.

Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint

4.1718 reviews
576 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint is a popular barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers appreciate the fast service, fireplace, and rooftop seating at this establishment. They are known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Buckhorn Grill, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Staff, location, and food were all great.

  • Delicious tri-tip steak, generous portions, daily deals for better value.

  • Hamburger patty and house salad were delicious, but the price was higher than other places.

  • Delicious salads and sandwiches, ample portions, good value for money.

Buckhorn Grill

4.0386 reviews
845 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Buckhorn Grill is a popular barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers praise the restaurant for its fast service and it is known for being popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining. The atmosphere is described as casual and is considered family-friendly and great for tourists. The extensive menu offerings include Alcohol, Beer, Comfort food, Quick bite, Small plates, Vegetarian options, and Wine.

Beque BBQ Grill, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • Great KBBQ All You Can Eat experience with good food and fast service

  • Very satisfying with delicious marinated pork, bulgogi, beef belly, and spicy chicken

  • Affordable all you can eat Korean BBQ with a variety of meat options

  • Mediocre banchan, excellent bulgogi, and marinated pork

Beque BBQ Grill

4.0354 reviews
1825 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Beque BBQ Grill is a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a wide range of services, including Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. The restaurant is popular for both Lunch and Dinner, providing fast service for all customers.

Customer reviews highlight the quality of the food and service at Beque BBQ Grill:

With a solid rating of 4.0, Beque BBQ Grill is a must-visit destination for Korean barbecue enthusiasts in the San Francisco area.

Buckhorn Grill, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • Great place for a quick lunch with a recommendation for the tri-tip hamburger.

  • Unlimited free sauces, delicious grill, and sweet potato fries at reasonable prices.

  • Good food with fresh meat, friendly staff, quick service, and good portion sizes.

Buckhorn Grill

4.0283 reviews
135 4th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Buckhorn Grill is a renowned barbecue restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Known for their fast service and delicious offerings, they provide a variety of options for their customers. Whether you're looking for delivery, takeaway, or dine-in experience, Buckhorn Grill has got you covered.

Customers have raved about their experience at Buckhorn Grill, highlighting a few key points:

So, if you're in the mood for some mouthwatering barbecue options, head over to Buckhorn Grill for a delightful dining experience!

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1City Smoke House 5.035
#2Pete's Bar-B-Que 4.5449
#3Drew's Barbecue 4.727
#4Baby Blues BBQ 4.4791
#5Hardwood Bar & Smokery 4.4429
#64505 Burgers & BBQ 4.33,227
#7Camp BBQ 4.381
#8Smile BBQ 4.335
#9Wooden Charcoal Korean Village Barbecue House 4.2320
#10Aceking BBQ 4.2107
#11Clement BBQ 4.249
#12Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint 4.1718
#13Buckhorn Grill 4.0386
#14Beque BBQ Grill 4.0354
#15Buckhorn Grill 4.0283

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Map of Barbecue Restaurants in San Francisco

Whether you're a local looking for a new spot to enjoy some barbeque in San Francisco, or a visitor wanting to experience the diverse culinary scene of the city, this map is your ultimate guide. From traditional Texas-style brisket to Korean-inspired ribs, there's something for every BBQ lover to savor in the Bay Area. Explore the map below to find your next delicious meal!

How to pick Barbecue Restaurants in San Francisco

  1. Variety of barbecue options.
  2. Different styles of barbecue.
  3. Outdoor seating available.
  4. Takeout and delivery options.
  5. Live music and entertainment.

Common questions

What are some popular barbeque spots in San Francisco?

One of the most popular barbeque spots in San Francisco is 4505 Burgers & BBQ, known for its delicious smoked meats and unique side dishes. Another favorite is Memphis Minnie's BBQ Joint, offering a variety of classic Southern barbeque dishes. For those looking for a more upscale barbeque experience, Hi-Lo BBQ is a great choice, with a trendy atmosphere and innovative menu. Lastly, CatHead's BBQ is a favorite among locals for its tender brisket and flavorful sauces.

What types of barbeque cuisine can I find in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, you can find a variety of barbeque cuisines ranging from traditional Southern-style barbeque to more modern and innovative dishes. Some popular barbeque styles you can try include Texas-style brisket, Kansas City ribs, Carolina pulled pork, and Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs. Many San Francisco barbeque restaurants also offer unique twists on classic dishes, such as smoked tofu or vegetarian options for those looking for a plant-based alternative.

Are there any food trucks in San Francisco offering barbeque?

Yes, there are several food trucks in San Francisco that specialize in barbeque cuisine. One popular food truck is The Rib Whip, known for its flavorful ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. Another favorite is Phat Matt's BBQ, which offers a variety of smoked meats and tasty sides. Food trucks are a great way to enjoy barbeque on the go in San Francisco, with many trucks offering catering services for events and parties.

What are some tips for finding the best barbeque in San Francisco?

When looking for the best barbeque in San Francisco, it's important to consider the quality of the meats, the authenticity of the flavors, and the overall dining experience. One tip is to read reviews and ask for recommendations from locals who are familiar with the barbeque scene in the city. Additionally, don't be afraid to try new and unique barbeque dishes that you may not have had before. Exploring different styles and flavors can lead to discovering hidden gems and new favorite spots in San Francisco.

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