Let’s be honest: Huntington Beach is better known for surfboards than smokers. But tucked between those sun-bleached piers are barbecue joints that’ll make you forget you’re in Orange County—and swear you’ve been teleported straight to Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re chasing fall-off-the-bone ribs, seeking brisket that melts on the tongue, or just want to drown in tangy sauce, this guide has your fix. And if you’re craving tri-tip? We’ve got a guide for that, too.
Mo Ran Gak Restaurant
$$ | (714) 638-1177 | WEBSITE
Forget the trendy Korean BBQ spots with the modern interiors and the Instagram-worthy plating. Instead, head to Mo Ran Gak, a no-frills Garden Grove joint that looks like a time capsule from the 90s, all year round. So you might be surprised that they have excellent Korean BBQ, and some of the best cold noodles in Huntington Beach (Hwe NangMyeon and Mool NangMyeon).
Post up at a table where the server cooks right in front of you, order some drinks, and get the set menu, side dishes, or steamed egg, too. Just note that there’s always a line, especially on weekends.
K-Grill
$ | (714) 894-9120 | WEBSITE
Since setting up shop in Huntington Beach, this little local eatery has developed a loyal neighborhood following—and that following should definitely include you. Besides offering healthy, made-to-order meals, K-Grill will grill up a variety of proteins and veggies on the spot. Everything is fresh and well-seasoned, like the excellent salmon and grilled shrimp.
The California plate is also a winner, and a lesson in balance—just crisp salad, flavorful protein, and perfectly cooked veggies on a single plate. It’s what a satisfying, healthy lunch aspires to be.
Sea Salt at the Beach
$ | (714) 887-3369 | WEBSITE
Sea Salt at the Beach is a lively beachfront restaurant that calls itself a barbeque spot, but is actually a great ocean-view drinking establishment in disguise. There are perfectly simple foods that come with the expected (tasty bites, adult beverages) and the unexpected (free live music on Saturdays). The atmosphere is intimate and awesome, with the stage and sound system complementing the enjoyable tunes.
And for the music-averse, there’s an excellent dog-friendly policy and clean restrooms so welcoming and pleasant, they’re singlehandedly doing their part to create a killer vibe.
Ribbro BBQ
$ | (949) 681-0108 | WEBSITE
Any meal that requires both a bib and a roll of paper towels is a good one, but it’s particularly memorable at Ribbro BBQ. This Korean-American fusion barbecue joint offers a signature three-meat platter, or you can build your own with standout options like pork ribs, brisket, and barbecue chicken.
All the meats are smoked perfectly and bursting with flavor, so follow your cravings—especially if they’re pointing you toward the “Korean BBQ fusion” sauce (a blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes) plus sides like mac and cheese and corn bread. There are plenty of sandwich options too, with the pulled chicken being a highlight.
Maui Hawaiian BBQ
$ | (714) 557-5018 | WEBSITE
Head straight for the chicken katsu at Maui Hawaiian BBQ in Huntington Beach. That’s where you’ll find a plate of perfectly cooked, seasoned chicken that’ll make you want to give the crispy coating a standing ovation, the tender meat a gold medal, and the creamy curry sauce a permanent spot on your table. Oh, and there’s also generous portions of BBQ chicken and seafood, too.
Just be ready to enjoy some comfort—savoring the mac salad takes some appreciation for simplicity, acceptance of its straightforward flavor, and being OK with maybe wanting to add a little extra seasoning yourself.
Beale’s Texas BBQ
$$ | (562) 588-3070 | WEBSITE
Beale’s Texas BBQ is on a stretch of Huntington Beach teeming with barbecue joints. You might wonder: What makes this Texas-style spot stand out? Is it because it’s family-run and welcomes special orders with a smile? Or is it the cozy, welcoming ambiance and the efficient, friendly staff who provide extra BBQ sauce? Yes to all of the above.
But our love for this place is primarily because of the incredible meats—like tender brisket that falls apart at the touch, or ribs with a smoky crust that gives way to juicy perfection. Bring your hungriest crew to one of Huntington Beach’s best barbecue restaurants and get to work gnawing and savoring.
Holé Smokes BBQ
$$ | (714) 677-0531 | WEBSITE
Holé Smokes BBQ is a barbecue joint that shares its SoCal spirit with the sunny Huntington Beach crowd. This spot caters to beachgoers, families, and anyone else looking for a satisfying, no-fuss meal. But Holé Smokes feels more laid-back, with pups welcome on the patio, a steady stream of customers for lunch and dinner, and a typically bustling outdoor area.
And yes, you can enjoy all the classics, but this isn’t the time for hesitation—go all in on the smoke, whether that’s tender brisket, or hot links and pulled pork. And, since this is technically a barbecue haven, dabble in the sides. There’s a 100% chance you won’t leave without devouring the cornbread soaked in butter, so don’t hold back.
Old Crow Smokehouse – Huntington Beach
$$ | (714) 536-0381 | WEBSITE
Old Crow Smokehouse, a popular spot that’s been around a while, is a solid BBQ smokehouse in the Huntington Beach mall. Get the brisket sandwich and sweet potato fries—then the tri tip, baby back ribs, and mac n cheese for good measure. The ribs are available and also decent, but they’re more of a supplement to the brisket and tri tip. Plan on dealing with mall parking unless it’s a Saturday night with live music to hang around at the outdoor tables instead.
Tsuru Ichi Wagyu
$$$$ | (714) 884-3750 | WEBSITE
Tsuru Ichi Wagyu doesn’t only do steak, but the premium wagyu beef on their menu will be some of the best you’ll have in Huntington Beach. The tender, flavorful cuts from the whole cow course practically dissolve in your mouth, leaving only a rich, buttery finish behind. And the generous appetizers—the fresh salad, cold meats, and delicate salmon—paired with sides like seaweed and egg soup will forever ruin ordinary steakhouse starters for you.
The yuzu ice cream, with its perfect balance of tartness and crispy cornflakes, is a revelation. It’s worth it.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
$$ | (714) 842-8333 | WEBSITE
Not only does this Japanese BBQ spot have the best tabletop grilling we’ve encountered in Huntington Beach, but it’s also a blast. The spacious restaurant has lively music and a full bar—order a not-too-sweet sake cocktail. Along with the aforementioned meats (like toro beef or the yaki-shabu beef) the menu has other delights. There are plates of spicy jalapeño edamame and a rich, savory beef sukiyaki bibimbap served with a little fried egg on top.
We’d like to think it’s beckoning us to order more food.
New Duong Son BBQ
$ | (714) 901-1600 | WEBSITE
New Duong Son BBQ is an excellent takeout spot that brings delicious Chinese barbecue from traditional recipes to our city’s barbecue-loving California shores. The menu stays consistent, but you can expect tender pork ribs, flavorful roast duck with delicious honey-glazed char siu pork, and other classic dishes like roast pig and lunch combos. They’re currently the resident barbecue joint at their Huntington Beach location, open daily, and are known for selling out of popular items by lunchtime.
Red Peak Mongolian Grill
$ | (714) 462-6361 | WEBSITE
This Mongolian grill spot in Huntington Beach is a clean, peaceful place from the owners behind a family-friendly operation focused on value and satisfaction. As with those principles, there’s no overthinking required for a successful meal at Red Peak Mongolian Grill—although it ideally includes loading up your bowl with their variety of veggies and proteins.
Treat the ingredients bar like a canvas, and whether you choose fries, chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or dumplings, then select sauces before the cook grills everything together with minimal vermicelli noodles sprinkled with sesame, it’s consistently tasty and filling. This casual, welcoming spot is popular, so expect a family-like atmosphere as regulars enjoy their visits.
Sookdal
$$ | (714) 590-1588 | WEBSITE
At this point, Sookdal is synonymous with quality pork, excellent service, and spacious tables. This Korean BBQ spot rounds out the trifecta. The restaurant focuses on pork (of course) and there’s the added bonus of eating in a space that feels clean and bright. You’ll see a steady parade of meat platters go by, but don’t let them distract you from ordering the tender and flavorful pork belly with melted cheese.
Besides the food, the biggest draw of Sookdal might be the impressive variety of pickled side dishes and one of the most comfortable dining experiences in Huntington Beach.
Santa Maria Bbq and Catering
$ | (657) 244-3803 | WEBSITE
Santa Maria BBQ and Catering is one of those places that you probably know about but don’t often choose for dinner. The Huntington Beach restaurant is basically the barbecue equivalent of a steakhouse, and you’re most likely not planning on dropping that kind of money regularly. But it’s still really good, and it’s always a reliable place to take the family. Load up on tri-tip and ribs, or really anything involving barbecue sauce.
Also consider sitting near one of their four flatscreens for a more casual setting.
Shinobu Japanese BBQ
$$$ | (714) 799-7227 | WEBSITE
Even though Shinobu Japanese BBQ sits in a Huntington Beach strip mall, it’s one million times more zen than your typical smoky barbecue joint. This Japanese spot specializes in all-you-can-eat grilled meats, but the simple protein cuts—like the NY strip and pork belly, or the bacon-wrapped shrimp special—are what shine here.
Clean lighting feels like you’re perpetually eating in a well-ventilated space, and the tidy atmosphere makes for a cozy environment that’s perfect for happy hour snacks or a weeknight feast.
Beach City Deli & BBQ
$ | (562) 676-6753 | WEBSITE
Beach City Deli & BBQ’s menu showcases classic American deli fare like Italian subs and cold sandwiches, but it also highlights their specialty barbecue offerings, particularly the lamb dip and brisket sandwiches. That’s why you’ll find things like the Thanksgiving dinner with succulent turkey alongside the Torpedro and The Guido. Everything is satisfying, so the best approach is to visit with friends to sample as many items as possible.
Genghis Khan Mongolian BBQ
$ | (714) 379-0994 | WEBSITE
Genghis Khan Mongolian BBQ is a welcoming family-run spot in Huntington Beach that’s been serving up Mongolian barbecue for years. And Genghis Khan is all about build-your-own bowls, so you’ve got to be ready for exactly that when you visit, which is kind of the deal when it comes to crafting your own meal from fresh ingredients. The all-you-can-eat meat bowls are their specialty, but the wontons with sweet and sour mustard sauce, quality veggies, and fresh noodles are all excellent choices.
Cham Soot Gol
$$ | (714) 590-9292 | WEBSITE
Originally from Garden Grove, Cham Soot Gol has officially become a Huntington Beach classic, too. This location does a great job of highlighting its signature all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ within an otherwise traditional KBBQ menu. You’ll find all the Korean sides you’d expect (there’s a good variety of banchan), along with high-quality meats like brisket and bulgogi. Cham Soot Gol makes a great case that attentive service and complimentary ice cream is the best way to do Korean BBQ.