Editor’s note: Call ahead to see whether the restaurant you’d like to visit for BBQ is currently offering indoor dining, patio dining, take-out or delivery––and plan accordingly.
Got a craving for a messy BBQ meal with all the amazing sides like gooey mac ‘n’ cheese and creamy cole slaw? We know where you can get the best BBQ at the best BBQ restaurants in San Diego. From fall-off-the-bone deliciousness and the most tender brisket to kids meals and secret sauce, we’ve found a BBQ joint that’s right for you. Scroll down and check out our round-up of 7 BBQ hot spots in San Diego to enjoy with your family.
A trip to Phil's BBQ is an iconic San Diego family tradition. Messy but worth it, try the mesquite grilled baby back ribs, beef ribs, or chicken made with Phil’s secret sauce. There are plenty of sides to choose from: fresh-cut fries and potato salad to corn on the cob and steamed veggies. For littles, the "Ticklers" menu offers a smaller portion of BBQ chicken or ribs.
Whether it’s the pulled pork sandwich, tri-tip or pork ribs, you’ll find tasty BBQ at Park 101. Kids can roam around or plop down on the astroturf, play the giant Connect Four game or bean bag toss, plus dogs are allowed too! There's open-air seating, cozy fire pits and a kids menu with choices like BBQ pork sliders. Bonus: kids get free cotton candy once they finish their meal.
If you enjoy hickory-smoked BBQ, then this is your spot. Meats are smoked up to 13 hours, and the BBQ is served piping hot, tender, and delicious. From Iowa baby back ribs to the mouth-watering pulled pork sandwiches, you’ll have plenty of sweet-tasting options. Further, add-in house-made sides like the signature coleslaw, potato salad or ranch beans for a finishing touch. Even more, there's a menu for half-pints from which littles can order BBQ ribs, a grilled cheese sandwich and more. Kid entrees come with french fries or fresh fruit.
This cute neighborhood spot serves up local faves like BBQ burnt pork belly ends with mac n’ cheese or perfectly cooked brisket. Also, from the kids menu, the mini porker with waffle fries is a winner. You’ll find great service and family fun.
8622 Lake Murray Blvd. San Diego, CA 92119 Online: thepioneerbbq.com
Craft brew and BBQ? Grab a seat at Iron Pig Alehouse. We recommend the pulled pork sammie served on a brioche bun with slaw––or the baby back ribs entree comes with two sides like seasoned fries and southern greens and Texas toast. Even more, littles have their own menu with choices like buttered noodles or 1/2 BBQ sandwich.
This Cohn Restaurant serves up baby back ribs with a choice of two sides. We love the onion rings, collard greens, creamed corn, and, who can resist the mac n' cheese? There's a cool kid play area (for ages 10 and younger) that keeps the littles busy. Also, you can sit and have your pick of over 36 beers on tap while your sidekick plays nearby. Plus, free soft serve anyone?
Hankering for a basket of warm cornbread? Then, head over to Felix’s BBQ. Whether it’s the baby back ribs, brisket, tri-tip or pulled pork, it all tastes good. Also, it’s sides options galore with braised cabbage, black-eyed peas, mac n’ cheese, and more. The meat is tender and the sauce is sweet and smoky. What’s more, the kids menu has a range of choices from spare ribs and catfish nuggets to peanut butter and jelly and grilled cheese. Fries included, dig in!
3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. Oceanside, CA Online: felixsbbq.com
À la carte works on date night, but when you’re feeding your crowd, sometimes it’s better to minimize the ordering mayhem. From tacos to tofu, we’ve picked our favorite family style meals that you can carry-out from Atlanta’s best restaurants. Keep reading for the more on these magical mealtime bullets, below.
Shh. Don't tell anyone, but you can pick up a lobster taco take-out kit (feeds four) for $24. Not into shellfish? No worries. Choose from a taco pack or a roasted chicken pack, both served with salsa verde, chips and your choice of 3 sides for $39.50.
3802 Roswell Rd. NE Buckhead 678-871-8226 Online: bartaco.com
Also available at Inman Park and West Midtown locations
Who says pizza delivery has to just be the pie? Go all-in with Blue Moon Pizza's four-course family pack, which includes an appetizer, salad, entree, and dessert for a family of four for $40.
325 E. Paces Ferry Rd. Buckhead 404-814-1515 Online: bluemoonpizza.com
Also available at Marietta, Sandy Springs, and Smyrna locations
Healthy and delicious, this North Buckhead spot serves up inspired salads, build-your-own bowls, lots of Gluten-free options, and quick pick pantry and fridge staples in their restaurant. And, they offer family meals, designed from their existing menu items, for four or eight people.
3872 Roswell Rd. North Buckhead 404-855-2240 Online: brackskitchen.com
Just when you think cruising through the drive-through at Chick-fil-A couldn't get any easier (or more pleasant), they go and do this: Build Your Own Family Meals are bundles of menu items that allow you to quickly build out a meal to serve four people (or more) by mixing and matching 13 different menu options. And guess what? You can get it carry-out, delivery, or pre-pay for easy drive through pickup.
You can pretty much make a family meal by ordering a couple of entrees from Gu's and sharing them; however, you can't go wrong by ordering Hungry Gu's, which includes a full order of pork dumplings, spicy crispy beef, stir-fried string beans, and chicken fried rice. And for vegetarians, you can adapt this for a full order of veggie dumplings, stir-fried string beans, spicy dried eggplant, and spring rolls.
Yes, you can take out the Tollhouse Pie, but if you're feeding a crowd, grab one of their family meals for four (you can eat the pie on the way home, and no one will know). Choose from a roasted chicken, brisket, casserole, meatloaf, and other family meals, which includes a salad, two sides, entree, and cookies.
Tuk Tuk's 3-course Family Menu serves up to 6, with incredible Thai goodness and generous helpings. Choose one appetizer, one soup or salad and two entrees for $80.
1745 Peachtree St. Suite Y Brookwood 678-539-6181 Online: tuktukatl.com
One of the best things to come from 2020? Family-style platters from our favorite DC restaurants. One of the cheapest options? BBQ. And while you won’t have to put in the work (most of these restaurants boast 8+ hours of smoking), you will be left with lots of sticky fingers! Get out the finger bowls and wet wipes, these dinners are worth the mess. Read on for the best bbq family meals in the DC area.
When this black-owned business first opened, The Thrillist named it one of the 15 best new BBQ restaurants in the country. That buzz has only grown; today, this BBQ joint has created an almost cult-like following with their DC-style of smoked meats. Got a large crew? Check out the DCity All-in-Feast ($99). Featuring a pound of ribs, a pound of brisket, one dozen smoked wings and 5 large sides, no one is leaving the table hungry. They also sell meats by the 1/4 pound, half pound and full pound. The mac here is a must!
COVID-19 Update: Orders are available for no contact pick ups.
203 Florida Ave NW Washington DC . 20001 202.733.1919 Online: dcitysmokehouse.com
For an easy family meal, order meats by the 1/2 pound at this BBQ joint. Orders include Texas toast and pickles. For hungry families, consider the Feed the Fam platter which includes a a half pound of brisket, a half pound of chopped pork, one pound of pork ribs and tips, a half chicken PLUS four large sides. FedPig also runs Fedwich from Kramer Books in Dupont Circle. Order from a number of sandwiches not available at the Adams Morgan restaurant (bonus: you can order books as a side). If this restaurant isn't already on your radar as a fam fav, it will be now: it consistently earns praise as one of the best cheap eats by the Washingtonian.
COVID-19 Update: Both Federalist Pig and the new pop-up, Fedwich, offer no-contact pick ups & delivery.
If meat eaters and vegans co-exist in your house, check out the pit masters at this Adams Morgan restaurant. They sling smoked tofu along with vegan wings, vegan spare ribs and a Beyond Burger worth venturing out for. They have family favorites, like a smoked chicken, and platters large enough to feed 5 or more. Don't forget to add dessert to your order; their sweet potato donuts are a must. Insider tip: you can also get their famous cocktails to go.
COVID-19 Update: Smoke & Barrel is now taking indoor reservations at a limited capacity. Masks are required. They also offer pick up & delivery.
This Anne Arundel county restaurant often runs out of their famous, award-winning wings, so get here early if you want to grab plates. Their fresh BBQ is smoked for 12 hrs. daily over pecan wood. A must-try is their smoked fried chicken; this is not your average chicken finger platter. After being pecan wood-smoked for 3 hours, the chicken is flash fried. Picky eaters under 12 will find the usual suspects: mac & cheese, grilled cheese, hamburgers and more. We bet your budding foodie will want to order off the main menu here.
COVID-19 Update: The Hideaway is open for indoor seating (at 50% capacity per the Governor’s order), outdoor seating, takeout and delivery.
This Baltimore outpost serves authentic Texas-style BBQ that uses white oak wood in its smoker. You can buy meat by the 1/2 pound here, including pulled pork, brisket and ribs. We recommend the whole smoked chicken ($18) for family dinners.
COVID-19 Update: Curbside pick up & delivery are available. Woodrow's is now serving in a limited capacity outdoors; reservations are suggested.
You can get food & drinks to-go at this Baltimore restaurant where sides take center stage (think four-cheese mac, pickled jalapeños, cornbread and collard greens). Their 18-hour cooked pulled pork put them on the map, but their vegan pulled jackfruit is worth a try for those that like to go meatless on Mondays.
COVID-19 Update: The patio is now open. You can still get your food delivered (or request a no contact pick up).
1601 Union Ave. Baltimore, MD 21211 443-948-5590 Online: bluepitbbq.com
VIRGINIA
Willard's Real Pit BBQ
iStock
If you're looking to feed a group, Willard's has platters available to serve families of 4 (The Feedbag, $57.99), 6 (The Supper, $95.99) and 8 (The Feast, $119). If these oversized portions look too large for your table, Willard's also offers a Snack Pack for 8 ($37.99), which will easily feed a family with tots for days. If this joint is a drive for you, be sure to pick up their sauces and rubs at the store so you can replicate their dishes at home!
COVID-19 Update: Available for pick up & delivery within a 5 mi. radius.
4300 Chantilly Shopping Center Chantilly, VA 20151 703 488 9970
Meat is more fun to eat when it comes on a stick! Pork belly skewers ($5.99) a hit with adults and kids alike. Grab a spoon because the house made sauces are the star of many dishes. A Blackberry Whiskey BBQ sauce features near-by Corcoran Vineyard's Blackjack Blackberry Wine and Purcellville's own Catoctin Creek Distilling's Roundstone Rye Whiskey. Don't forget to get some scoops before you go at the Tipped Cow Creamery next door.
COVID-19 Update: The dining room is now open and features live music on Fri. & Sat.
251 N 21st St. Purcellville, VA 20132 540-751-9425 Online: monksq.com
If you’ve ever ended up with charred sausages for dinner, here’s “how to BBQ right” lesson #1—BBQing and grilling are two different beasts. The first uses low indirect heat (smoke) to cook slowly, the second uses direct high heat (hot embers) to cook quickly. Once you’ve got that down, the rest is just practice and experimentation. To help you out this season, we gathered up essential tips and tricks for your next cookout. Scroll down to see them all.
Use a Charcoal Grill for BBQ
If you are doing a proper BBQ (think brisket, ribs, sausage), don't use an electric grill. The very best pitmasters will tell you that part of the flavor comes from the smoke itself.
About that smoke? It's so important that pitmasters will also soak their wood chips in water for an hour or more before starting the grill. That increases the smoke, which, in turn, increases the flavor.
Cleaning the grate will prevent food from sticking to the grill and is a good thing to do if you're using a public BBQ. You don't need any fancy kit, just a pair of tongs and balled up aluminum foil. This takes a little less elbow grease if the grill is warm. Food 52 has the details. Another tip is to clean the grill with half an onion on a BBQ fork which has the added bonus of adding flavor to the food.
DIY Food Warmer
Emily Myers
Plenty of gas grills come with warming racks, but you can rig up a DIY food warmer on a charcoal grill using a few empty tin cans and a cooling tray or grill on top. The extra distance from the flames makes this a good spot to warm the hot dog and burger buns or keep finished food warm. If the grill is covered, it can also be a spot to cook corn or other food that won't drip juices on the rack below.
Getting the perfect cuts via a meat subscription service will help you cultivate your pitmaster skills. If you’re not quite ready for regular protein delivery, there are other services like Grill Masters Clubthat supply boxes of inspiration in the form of sauces, rubs, marinades, wood chips and recipes.
There are plenty of options for DIY fire starters which means you can avoid using chemical lighter fuels. Check out this video from Rebecca Tan who uses melted birthday candles and cardboard as well as suggesting a teaspoon of sugar to get the flames going. Or pop charcoal in a cardboard egg box for a portable option that comes to us from Sew Many Ways—this is a great idea if you're using a public grill and want to transport the charcoal without a mess. Or check out this egg-box-lint-wax combo for the committed recycler.
Some propane tanks have a gauge to tell you how much you have left but if you're not sure or there's no gauge, you can bring a cup of water to a boil and pour it over the side of the tank (not the top). You can then feel the tank and the hot part is empty and where it is cool will show you the propane level. Check out this clip on YouTube for the specifics.
Ember Cooked Potatoes
Emily Myers
Cooking food right on the embers of a charcoal fire can save room on the grill, and potatoes cook nicely like this, wrapped in tin foil, shiny side on the inside. Try this technique with yams, potatoes, corn, eggplants and even apples. Wrapping potatoes like this will give a softer skin and should take about 45 minutes. Test for doneness by pressing on the wrapped potato with a gloved hand. Get tips from Get Out With The Kids.
For some foolproof cooking, Fire and Flavor has come up with cedar wraps that allow you to use steam, smoke, or fire to cook seafood, meat or veggies. Plus, they add an aromatic flavor to the food. While foil might have less flavor, the same principle applies—cook up zucchini, beans, peppers and corn in foil packets, and you have lightly steamed and delicious veggie sides.
If you've bought a pineapple for dessert, don't throw away the off-cuts—you can use them to add flavor to grilled chicken. This pineapple rind chicken recipe has all the flavors of summer, and you can use the rest of the pineapple to make a salsa or fruit salad. Find the recipe at The Typical Mom.
Grill an egg in half a bell pepper and you have a veggie treat in an edible bowl. The bottom of the pepper will be charred black, but you can just peel off and eat. Check out the recipe at One Smiley Monkey.
Cast-iron pans can hold up to the heat of the direct flame and work well for cooking veggies that might slip through a grill. Try cooking sliced onions, peppers and zucchini. You can also heat tortillas this way if you want to make fajitas.
Take your grilled hot dogs to the next level by skewering them and then spiral cutting them! This super easy cooking method gives you more surface area to caramelize, plus the sausages cook quicker to feed those hungry bellies. Amy at to Bellyfull has the step by step instructions.
Got a craving for a messy BBQ meal with all the amazing sides like gooey mac ‘n’ cheese and creamy cole slaw? We know where you can get the best BBQ at the best BBQ restaurants in San Diego. From fall-off-the-bone deliciousness and the most tender brisket to kids meals and secret sauce, we’ve found a BBQ joint that’s right for you. Scroll down and check out our round-up of 7 BBQ hot spots in San Diego to enjoy with your family.
A trip to Phil's BBQ is an iconic San Diego family tradition. Messy but worth it, try the mesquite grilled baby back ribs, beef ribs, or chicken made with Phil’s secret sauce. There are plenty of sides to choose from: fresh-cut fries and potato salad to corn on the cob and steamed veggies. For littles, the "Ticklers" menu offers a smaller portion of BBQ chicken or ribs.
Whether it’s the pulled pork sandwich, tri-tip or pork ribs, you’ll find tasty BBQ at Park 101. Kids can roam around or plop down on the astroturf, play the giant Connect Four game or bean bag toss, plus dogs are allowed too! There's open-air seating, cozy fire pits and a kids menu with choices like BBQ pork sliders. Bonus: kids get free cotton candy once they finish their meal.
If you enjoy hickory-smoked BBQ, then this is your spot. Meats are smoked up to 13 hours, and the BBQ is served piping hot, tender, and delicious. From Iowa baby back ribs to the mouth-watering pulled pork sandwiches, you’ll have plenty of sweet-tasting options. Further, add-in house-made sides like the signature coleslaw, potato salad or ranch beans for a finishing touch. Even more, there's a menu for half-pints from which littles can order BBQ ribs, a grilled cheese sandwich and more. Kid entrees come with french fries or fresh fruit.
This cute neighborhood spot serves up local faves like BBQ burnt pork belly ends with mac n’ cheese or perfectly cooked brisket. Also, from the kids menu, the mini porker with waffle fries is a winner. You’ll find great service and family fun.
8622 Lake Murray Blvd. San Diego, CA 92119 Online: thepioneerbbq.com
Craft brew and BBQ? Grab a seat at Iron Pig Alehouse. We recommend the pulled pork sammie served on a brioche bun with slaw––or the baby back ribs entree comes with two sides like seasoned fries and southern greens and Texas toast. Even more, littles have their own menu with choices like buttered noodles or 1/2 BBQ sandwich.
This Cohn Restaurant serves up baby back ribs with a choice of two sides. We love the onion rings, collard greens, creamed corn, and, who can resist the mac n' cheese? There's a cool kid play area (for ages 10 and younger) that keeps the littles busy. Also, you can sit and have your pick of over 36 beers on tap while your sidekick plays nearby. Plus, free soft serve anyone?
Hankering for a basket of warm cornbread? Then, head over to Felix’s BBQ. Whether it’s the baby back ribs, brisket, tri-tip or pulled pork, it all tastes good. Also, it’s sides options galore with braised cabbage, black-eyed peas, mac n’ cheese, and more. The meat is tender and the sauce is sweet and smoky. What’s more, the kids menu has a range of choices from spare ribs and catfish nuggets to peanut butter and jelly and grilled cheese. Fries included, dig in!
3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. Oceanside, CA Online: felixsbbq.com
BBQ, barbeque, barbecue—however you spell it, there’s no disputing it is more than just a way of cooking, it’s an entire culture. Whether you’re looking for fall-off-the-bone deliciousness, authentic whole-hog pit smoked fare or some fusion and veggie alternatives, there’s a joint that’s right for you. We’ve rounded up the most awesome, kid-friendly BBQ restaurants in the country, now all you need to do is try to include a few in your summer travel plans. Scroll down to see them all.
Five years ago, Texan Jack Timmons set about bringing his hometown flavors to the Pacific Northwest, and the giant smoker outside tells you that you're in for a treat. An oversized plush giraffe welcomes little ones and for parents wanting to avoid a long wait, Jack's takes reservations. The menu boasts incredible brisket and full flavor sausage as well as sides of mac ‘n’ cheese, potato salad and coleslaw. It comes top of the list in our roundup of Seattle-based BBQ joints to treat dad on Father's Day.
3924 Airport Way S. Seattle, WA 98108 (206) 467-4038
Offering tender smoky ribs, generous sides, perfectly sliced brisket, a tangy sweet sauce and seasoned fries, Joe's certainly lives up to the hype. A favorite of celeb-chef Anthony Bourdain, there are three locations, and the original one still operates out of a neighborhood gas station at the corner of 47th Avenue and Mission Road in Kansas City. Expect a line of hungry 'cue fans most times of day but take comfort—it moves pretty fast. This is a joint that welcomes everyone, even vegetarians—smoked mushrooms replace brisket in their Portobello Z-man.
3002 W 47th Ave. Kansas City, KS 66103 (913) 722-3366
11950 S. Strang Line Rd. Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 782-6858
11950 S. Strang Line Rd. Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 782-6858
The name comes from the Texan 'Podnah' for partner, which was the nickname for Rodney Muirhead's grandfather. Tapping into his Texan roots, Muirhead set up Podnah’s Pit a decade ago. The crew fires up the pit at 5 a.m. every morning to prepare honest, slow-smoked meats over oak hardwood. While the staff are committed to Texan-style 'cue, they also make a mean Carolina-style pulled pork. For other kid-friendly BBQ options in Portland, check out this list from our archives.
1625 NE Killingsworth St. Portland, OR (503) 281-3700
Satisfy your BBQ cravings for salt, fat and spice with some of the best flavors in St. Louis. Bogart's Smokehouse is super quaint and has an old-time feel with picnic tables and seating indoor and out. Staff is friendly, and the food is top notch—pick from ribs, pulled pork, brisket, turkey, pastrami or burnt ends and pair with sides of fire and ice pickle, deviled egg potato salad or beans.
Bogart's Smokehouse 1627 S 9th St. St. Louis, MO 63104 (314) 621-3107
This roadside BBQ joint is set up in a train carriage off Highway 1 in Pacifica. It's hard to ignore the delicious smells as you pass by or the line of hungry patrons. The best cuts are often sold out by their 8 p.m. closing time so get there early or call ahead to make sure they have what you want. It's a grab-and-go establishment and service is pretty fast. Once you have your order of tender brisket, juicy ribs or full flavor sausage, the idea is to head to the beach to tuck in.
North Carolina isn't short of great BBQ joints, and The Pit is one of them. It has great service and proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked 'cue. Set in a 1930's meatpacking warehouse, it's a step up from the family style roadside joints. The pigs they smoke are all locally farmed and sustainably raised, and they also offer Texas-style brisket, baby back ribs, barbecue turkey, fried chicken and a not-to-be-missed barbecue tofu dish. Another bonus at The Pit is valet parking!
When you're in need of some smoky meaty goodness in Virginia and DC, Rocklands is the place to go. There are three locations: Arlington, Alexandria and D.C. that have been serving customers for nearly 30 years. None of the restaurants are too fancy—their version of "al fresco" dining is a few picnic tables out front, and the menu provides a feast of slow-smoked flavor that's guaranteed to keep hunger at bay.
25 S. Quaker Lane Alexandria, VA 22314 (703)778-9663
3471 Washington Blvd. Arlington, VA 22201 (703) 528-9663
2418 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 333-2558
The hulking great smokers at DAS BBQ are so beloved they have names—Poncho and Lefty. You can watch the pitmasters at work in a windowed smokehouse, and the food served is a unique twist on Georgia and Texas 'cue. Brisket, sausage and pulled pork are all smoked to perfection, and there are some not-to-missed sides, including the creamed jalapeno corn and, of course, mac and cheese. There's plenty of seating inside and out and, for kids, check out the $5 sammie slammer (aka a jumbo slider with chips or a side).
Leave it to L.A. to come up with a slightly sophisticated hipster-ish take on BBQ. Maple Block Meat Co' serves creative drinks, must-have sides and meats by the pound that will satisfy that need for salt and smoke and sweet flavors. You'll be spoilt for choice between perfect ribs and brisket, moist cornbread, spicy sauce, full flavor sides and homemade cream sodas.
3973 Sepulveda Blvd. Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 313 6328
World champion and award winners for their BBQ and their rubs (which you can buy to take home) this Crown Center spot for BBQ is a local's favorite. Not only can you get some of the most delish BBQ in the area here, you can also sign up for BBQ classes to learn their insider secrets.
Here you'll get fall-off-the-bone unbelievable deliciousness and homemade sauces to die for. Blue Ribbon has been consistently serving what they call 'swine dining' for 22 years. All the meat is cooked at low temperatures for long periods of time over oak and hickory hardwoods, inspired by the roadside joints that dot the American south. There are three locations in Arlington, West Newton and Dedham, each one with its own unique retro feel.
908 Massachusetts Ave. Arlington, MA 02476 (781) 648-7427
1375 Washington St. West Newton, MA 02465 (617) 332-2583
342 Washington St. Dedham, MA 02026 (781) 312-2583
The pulled pork is the favorite here. So good, according to the staff, "y'ull slap yo' mama." Try the pork with the slaw on top or go for the smokey goodness of BBQed ribs, chicken or burgers. The menu allows for little piglets under 8 to eat $5 drumsticks, Baby BBQ or a PBJ sandwich. There are also tamales, nachos, shrimp and for folks from Georgia, Brunswick Stew. The place is small so be sure to book ahead. It has an old-time feel, the walls covered in commemorative pictures, license plates, and signage.
2290 South Germantown Rd. Germantown, TN 38138 (901)754-5540
The open pit at Salt Lick in Driftwood is where the magic happens. Most open fire pits fall foul of safety codes so this one, built in the sixties, is pretty unique. Dry rubbed ribs and brisket slow cooked and caramelized over oak and pecan shells set you up for BBQ bliss. Family style plates for $25 offer all-you-can-eat beef brisket, sausage, pork ribs, potato salad, coleslaw and beans. There's also a children's family style plate for a third of the price and kids under 3 eat free. Driftwood is huge, so you're guaranteed seating. They have a second location at Round Rock and outlets at Austin and Dallas, Fort Worth airports.
18300 Fm 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 (512) 858-4959
3350 E Palm Valley Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78665 (512) 386-1044
Phil's BBQ tops the list of a burgeoning BBQ scene in the San Diego area. Phil's has four family-friendly spots, plus outlets at Petco Park baseball field and the airport. Each serves mesquite grilled baby back and beef ribs, chicken and sandwiches. Lines can get long, which is a testament to the food and friendly atmosphere. Phil's is known for its fast-casual dining style and its top-secret recipe for BBQ rubs and sauces.
750 Sports Arena Blvd. San Diego, CA (619) 226-6333
579 Grand Ave. San Marcos, CA (760) 7591400
9816 Mission Gorge Rd. Santee, CA (619) 449 7700
17051 West Bernardo Dr. Rancho Bernardo, CA (858) 312 6161
The BBQ at Q39 is fall off the bone, melt in your mouth good. All the plates are made to share, and all BBQ plates are served with a side of apple coleslaw, beans or potato salad which can also be subbed for fries or veggies. The decor is pared down industrial, and there's an open kitchen. The team behind Q39 have won awards for their tender meat, and pitmaster Rob Magee brings his training as a chef to the restaurants, making each spot fun and contemporary, rustic and friendly but urban, contemporary and impeccably clean.
Q39 Midtown 1000 W 39th St. Kansas City, MO 64111 (816) 255-3753
Fans of The Firehouse say the BBQ here can’t be beaten. The portion sizes are generous, the servers are attentive, the food is well priced, arrives quickly and tastes delicious—oh, and there's a vintage fire engine to greet you when you come in the door. Aside from the tasty ribs, brisket, chicken and pulled pork, there are also salads, burgers, sandwiches, and soups.
627 W Walnut St. Johnson City, TN 3760 (423) 929-7377
Kitchen Table has moved inside Goosetown Tavern, which has had some folks confused, but once you've worked that out and placed your order, you'll find the food full of flavor and the burnt ends especially popular. The pork is well seasoned, and there's a whole section of the menu dedicated to Kansas City-style 'cue as well as burgers, salads, grilled chicken and a selection of traditional sides.
Even before the ferry service made Hometown Bar-B-Que easier to get to, this mecca in Brooklyn's Red Hook has been able to draw a crowd. On the menu, there's killer brisket, ribs, and pulled pork (plus burnt ends if you're lucky). As well as the traditional fare, there's some fusion food reflecting the neighborhood's diversity. Check out the lamb belly Bahn, Korean sticky ribs, Jamaican jerk ribs and pastrami. The sides aren't an afterthought either, there's buttery cornbread, tasty mac and cheese and baked beans. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights means the place is hopping on the weekends.
The Big Daddy of BBQ joints, 17th Street Barbecue, is owned and operated by legendary pit master, Mike Mills and his equally talented daughter, Amy. The ribs really are that good. The bark is smoky and loaded with flavor from their rub (known as magic dust), and the meat near the bone is the light pink color of perfection. Everything on the menu is delicious and the service is second to none. The Mills' run two 17th St. locations in southern Illinois and two Memphis Championship Barbecue dine-in, drive-thru and take-out restaurants in Las Vegas.
2700 17th St. Marion, IL (618) 998-1114
32 N 17th St. Murphysboro, IL 62966 (618) 684-3722 Online: 17bbq.com
4379 N. Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas, NV (702) 644-0000
2250 E. Warm Springs Rd. Las Vegas, NV (702) 260-6909
BBQ: it’s not fancy. It’s messy, meaty, with plenty of sides like cornbread to soak up all the extra sauce. You’ll definitely need to dunk the kids in the bath when you get home, because they might be happily covered with their meal by the end. Even if your kid isn’t an avid carnivore, there’s lots of yumminess to be found at Portland’s best BBQ joints, like Mac-n-Cheese, biscuits, and there are even vegan options. Read on for more!
In oft-overlooked Sellwood, Reverend’s hides some excellent bbq at excellent prices. The kids menu offers a small bbq plate for $4.95 with one side, and the goodness doesn’t stop there.
Adult bbq plates come with plenty of meat options, their sides options include the delicious, griddled polenta with creamed corn. With their long daily happy hour from 3-6pm, the whole family can chow down easily.
Around for almost 15 years now, the woman-owned Russell St BBQ has made its name in Portland, even expanding to a second location on Belmont last year. The platters are generous and delicious, and the ambiance is friendly and casual. BBQ options cover ribs, pulled pork, chicken, smoked sausage, and even tofu doused in sauce! The sides include all the classics: greens, beans, mac n cheese, cornbread and more. Share a platter with the kids, or let everyone pick their own-- you’re all going home happy.
Southern Kitchen 325 NE Russell St. Phone: 503-528-8224
One of Portland’s best, Podnah’s (Texan for “partner”) is Texas BBQ done right. The crew gets started smoking at 5am to get things ready by dinnertime, and the flavors ring true. Choose from three homemade sauces (House BBQ, Carolina Mustard, and Carolina Vinegar), and an array of meat. Kids will love a smorgasbord of sides to chow down on, and don’t forget the Texas Frito Pie!
Location: 1625 NE Killingsworth St. Phone: 503-281-3700 Online: podnahspit.com
This Lake Oswego joint offers up great BBQ with a beautiful outdoor patio! Get the family dinner to feed 4 people with bbq, 2 sides, cornbread and dessert. There’s no specific kids menu, but plenty of kid-friendly sides and messy, messy meat! What more could you need?
17730 Pilkington Rd. Lake Oswego, OR 503-635-7427 Online: pineshedribs.com
If you find yourself out in wine country, stop by downtown Newberg for lunch at Storr’s Smokehouse. Brisket, pulled pork, chicken wings, and ribs await-- or try them all with the Gran Daddy! Kids might be most excited, though, by their homemade ice cream. Be sure to take home a pint for later.
Shh, don’t tell. This is not meat. (Ok, you might actually want to warn your meat-loving friends). This all-vegan deli and food cart offers a combo plate with tempeh, tofu, soy curls, and chikn. Don’t scoff, though! Douse all that in delicious sauce, and throw in hushpuppies and remoulade with a side of chow chow, and everyone might just lick their plate clean.
Homegrown Smoker Vegan BBQ Cart 4233 N Mississippi Phone: 503-227-3823
Homegrown Smokehouse & Vegan Deli 1628 SW Jefferson Phone: 971-330-0324 Online:homegrownsmoker.com
Nestled in one of the best food cart pods in the city, Road Runner BBQ comes swinging with some of the best Southern BBQ! The slim menu offers an array of meats with a choice of four sides, or sandwiches. The friendly service will charm your kids, and the outdoor seating areas allow for plenty of wiggles and noises.
Making mac n cheese with queso is always the way to a kids’ heart. The whole family can share the Total Shebang with three meat choices, like beef brisket, ribs, or sausage, or for individual tastes you can get tacos or sandwiches. And if the kids only want more cheese, just get them chips and queso. You’ll find Matt’s on N Mississippi near Prost.
Bonus points to this bottled sauce for do it yourself goodness!
Campbell’s BBQ restaurant was a mainstay of Old Portland, and now the grandson of owner’s Felton and Mary has revived the family recipes. Bring the goodness (and messiness!) home this summer with their perfectly balance sauces and spice rubs. Find them at New Seasons, Green Zebra Grocers, and select farmer’s markets.
You’ve driven by it a million times and thought, what is that place? Why are there so many cars parked there? I wonder if the food’s good? It’s a familiar drill, the place that looks like a dive but really has the kind of cuisine that makes your taste buds soar. You say you’ll check it out sometime, but you never do because what if the food’s not good or it’s not fit for families? Well, we’ve done the work for you and found some of the best kid-friendly dives in town. Here are five dining spots that might not look like much, but the kitchen holds a world of flavor, and they love it when you bring your kids!
Photo: Donburi
Donburi Good things come in small packages and if you blink you might miss this teeny tiny Japanese gem with just 14 stools around an open kitchen. But you don’t want to miss it, especially if your kids have jumped aboard the Japanese-lovin’ food train. The menu features a handful of delicious donburi rice bowls with savory toppings that are big enough for two, seriously cheap, and terrifically tasty. Think ramen noodles, but way more fresh and flavorful.
Duke’s Counter It might be small and look like a pub, but Duke’s menu is big on flavor and fond of kids. Conveniently located directly across the street from the National Zoo, you can combine pandas and pancakes to make it a one big happy day. This sister restaurant to Duke’s Grocery in Duponthas the unique feel of a classic greasy spoon, mixed with a sleek, avant-garde café. The menu, which changes daily, is just as unique with everything from simple burgers and BLTs to the fanciermarinated pork loin, avocado toast and quinoa salad. There’s also a daily kid-friendly menu, with choices such as mac and cheese, fish and chips, grilled cheese, burgers, and our favorite:the Nutella Press, which features bananas, toasted marshmallows and Nutella on a multigrain bun. Yum! And if you need to sip a chardonnay or chianti after trekking through the zoo all day, there’s plenty of that too.
Shouk You might be inclined to dismiss this place as kid-unfriendly because it’s strictly vegan, but trust us, you won’t long for the meat or the dairy. This fast-casual joint located in Mt. Vernon Triangle is a quick walk from kid favorites like the Building Museum and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Choose from delicious pitas such as black beans with sweet potato, red pepper, tomato, arugula and spicy harissa; or fennel with potato, red pepper and pistachio pesto. There’s even a breakfast pita stuffed with a veggie omelet, chopped salad and crushed avocado. There’s also plenty of fancy salads to choose from, such as the Shouk salad with roasted veggies, pistachios and tahini vinaigrette, or you can keep things simple with the Shouk burger or a pizza pita. Whatever you choose, it’s all 100% plant-based and whatever-your-diet-is friendly.
655 K St., NW 202-652-1464
Online: https://shouk.com/
Bub and Pops An appearance on the show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives should clue you in that Bub and Pops is DC’s best-loved dive eatery where celebrity chef Jon Taub and his sidekick Arlene Wagner turn delicious food into fun dining with a comforting, no-nonsense style. The daily menu features soups, salads, and mouthwatering sandwiches, such as slow braised beef brisket with gouda and veal jus, ora 4-cheese hoagie with aged provolone, gouda, Bulgarian feta, and pecorino romano. The beef or chicken cheese steaks are guaranteed kid-pleasers. Don’t forget to order some of the house-made pickles.
Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque Many barbeque hounds say you simply can’t find good barbeque in D.C., but Sloppy Mama’s, the newest stall to join D.C’s Union Market, might prove them wrong. Born from a popular local food truck, and the secret behind the barbeque at Solly’s Pub on U Street, Sloppy Mama’s at Union Market keeps it simple with sandwiches and platters of mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, or ribs, and an array ofsavory sides – baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad and pickles. You’re in luck if you prefer barbeque sauce with a kick, but kids want something tangy and sweet, because there are four house-made sauces to choose from, including a spicy cherry cola sauce called Cherry Bomb. A perfect choice for the kids is the grilled pimento cheese sandwich with added pork or brisket.
Considering all of the restaurants popping up in and around Chicago this summer, ice cream isn’t the only thing your kids will be screaming for. While we have a new retro soda fountain shop to go wild for, there’s also barbecue, kid-friendly salads, teriyaki … and more barbecue. Your next family dinner date starts now.
photo: Piggyback Tavern
Piggyback Tavern
Summer is the season for barbecue. Which would explain all the new ‘cue spots popping up around here. Forest Park’s much-loved Piggyback Tavern is one, and it’s expanding to the Loop. The new Piggyback is a fast-casual riff of the original, showcasing the slow-cooked, hardwood-smoked meats it’s known for in a comfortable, quick-service environment. Kids and adults alike can go wild customizing their barbecue dishes for lunch. Options include pulled pork and brisket in the form of sandwich, bowl, plate or salad, bedecked with optional sauces like Zesty, Mustard or Smokey Sweet. For sides, there’s jalapeño cheddar cornbread, mac ’n’ cheese and collard greens. Another nice touch here is the barnyard motif, bringing a welcome taste of the countryside to the heart of the city via wood tables, barn wood walls, vintage lighting and pig-inspired artwork. Get ready to pig out!
Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill
Piggyback isn’t the only meat Mecca in expansion mode these days. Orlando-based Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill made its Chicagoland debut in Mount Prospect’s Randhurst Village, marking the company’s 66th location in the country. The new location showcases the hand-rubbed, house-smoked dishes the company has built an empire out of, so you can rest assured it will be delish. The menu covers a pretty impressive cross-section of America’s regional barbecue traditions, too, offering a little something for every craving. There’s St. Louis ribs, Texas-style beef brisket and Memphis dry rub, to name a few. Additionally, youngsters can feast on smoked wings, build-your-own burgers and other finger-licking delicacies. The restaurant is enormous, complete with a roaring fire pit, lending the feel of a boisterous backyard barbecue party.
164 Randhurst Village Dr.
Mt. Prospect
847-305-1799
Online: smokeybones.com
photo: Be Leaf
Be Leaf
All that barbecue calls for a little reprieve in the form of a wholesome salad or grain bowl. While not necessarily on the same scream-inducing levels as ice cream, kids will certainly take a liking to the vibrant chef-driven dishes on deck at Be Leaf, the Loop’s newest fast casual dining outlet. Working with local farmers to ensure the freshest in locality and seasonality, Be Leaf produces some of the best tasting greenery your kids will ever taste. It’s especially inviting with its build-your-own menu options and the quirky “Decision Tree,” a wall-mounted menu maze of sorts that takes guests on a tour of food options and descriptions. Diners young and old can accent their greens of choice — kale, arugula, mesclun, romaine, spinach, quinoa, farro — with add-ons like grapefruit, caramelized onions, bacon, tofu, sweet potato falafel and steak. So even if it starts off healthy and light, you can easily turn it into summery comfort food. The space is as green as the food, outfitted with planter walls, produce-packed baskets, flowers and other elements designed to echo a countryside farm.
29 N. Upper Wacker Dr.
Downtown
312-877-5399
Online: beleafsalad.com
GLAZE Teriyaki
In the heat of summer, the grill reigns supreme. It helps when said grill is manned by an alum of the Culinary Institute of America. Chef Dennis Lake leads the charge at GLAZE Teriyaki, a Seattle-style fast casual joint that’s heating up Lakeview with its first Chicago outpost. Using locally sourced, organic ingredients, Lake cooks up a menu befitting summertime cookout dreams, complete with char-grilled chicken, hanger steak, pork loin, wok sautéed vegetables and salmon. What helps sets GLAZE apart from the home grill is its signature teriyaki sauce, made fresh daily with an addictive mix of smoky, caramel-y flavors, and notes of garlic, ginger, pineapple and apple. Every entree also has a gluten-free version available, which is a nice touch. The casual restaurant has a laid back, homey feel with an open kitchen, communal tables, reclaimed wood benches, exposed brick walls and Japanese-style vintage fabrics.
3112 N. Broadway St.
Lakeview
773-697-3580
Online: glazeteriyaki.com
photo: Fuller House
Fuller House
This family-friendly pub-style eatery in Hinsdale features a wide array of people-pleasing dishes that run the gamut from brick oven pizza to jumbo pretzels. The restaurant has family in its blood, owned and operated by siblings Sam Vlahos and Patricia Vlahos-Segretto, who worked to compile a comfortable, neighborhood-oriented pub that families could flock to on the regular. And flock they will when they get a taste of the house-brined pickles, the brisket tacos, the prime burgers, the roast chicken and the cookie skillets. The two-story restaurant is warm and inviting, featuring a facade of exposed brick, barrels from local distilleries, salvaged oak and refurbished wood beams sourced from a defunct Chicago church. High-tops and banquettes comprise seating on the main floor, while a curved staircase weaves to a lively balcony area with an illuminated wine wall and a second floor dining room packed with traditional tables.
Spinning J
What’s old is shiny and new again, thanks to the arrival of Humboldt Park’s eagerly awaited and highly scream-worthy Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain. Americana nostalgia is the name of the game at this corner spot, glistening with the type of comfy, glossy cushioned seats typically reserved for bygone diners and ice cream parlors. True to form, the dessert menu screams comfort, from the vibrant housemade soda drinks to the farm-fresh pies brimming with local, seasonal fruits like blueberries and cherries. This is the ice cream shop we’ve all been yearning for this summer.
1000 N. California Ave.
Humboldt Park
872-829-2793
Online: facebook.com
Where do you like to take the kids out for dinner? Let us know in the Comments below!
There’s a free family-friendly party happening every Sunday afternoon at the intersection of at least six subway lines in downtown Brooklyn. It’s got live music, face-painting, mini cupcakes to decorate, a padded floor and lots of blocks both big and small. Plus: cowboy hats and bubbles! What’s the catch? Well, the host, Hill Country Barbecue, would probably like you to buy some grub and a brew — but you were probably going to do that anyway, right? Read on to get the lowdown.
The Deal
Hill Country BBQ set up shop at 345 Adams back in January of 2014. The mini chain (it’s got locations in Manhattan and Washington, D.C. as well) specializes in dry rub barbecue smoked and prepared on the premises and served by the pound in butcher paper a la Central Texas style. The restaurant feeds nearby office workers during the week, and people in search of live music, beer and BBQ at night. In an effort to serve the many families in the area, the eatery introduced “Fam Jam”— a monthly Sunday afternoon kid-friendly event— to its offerings in the fall of last year. And as of this January, the party’s gone weekly.
What it Is
Essentially, a four hour, low-grade family-friendly freakout in the very best way. A local alt-country band such as The Three Gentlemen (made up of groovy looking Brooklyn dads/professional musicians, of course) plays both original tunes and covers (i.e. Wes Anderson-approved “Ooh La La” by Faces, for example) from a cozy stage, while kids play with blocks, giant LEGOs, and shakers on a floor temporarily padded with colorful foam squares.
In one corner, Face Painting by Shelly makes kids into superheroes, animals and mystical creatures, in another, partiers decorate their own mini cupcakes and blow bubbles. Meanwhile, cowboy hat-wearing kids of all ages stack blocks of various shapes and sizes in a central play space. On the periphery, parents eat barbecue and drink beer.
The good news is that unlike many NYC gathering spaces, Hill Country is Texas-sized: it’s big, with soaring ceilings and lots of open space. In fact, the “Fam Jam” takes place on the second floor, overlooking the main dining space.
What’s to Eat
Obviously, barbecue: ribs, brisket, turkey, chicken, etc. Non meat eaters aren’t totally out of luck: Hill Country also serves cheddar mac ‘n’ cheese, a market salad, cole slaw, green bean casserole, and more. You can also skip entrees altogether and do dessert; offerings include Blue Bell Ice Cream, PB&J cupcakes and floats. The bar serves all kinds of southern-influenced cocktails and beer. Plus: if you’ve been meaning to try Mexican Coke, they’ve got it. (Our recs: the ribs, brisket and mac ‘n’ cheese, as well as the salad for some greens.)
All food is ordered and served from a counter on the main floor with a menu card servers give you when you sit down, and the waiters take care of drinks.
Tips if You Make the Trip
Depending on the day, things can get crowded. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m., and getting there on the early side will help ensure you snag a table; the restaurant will also accept reservations. However, regular turnover makes it fairly easy to find a spot, and by 3 p.m. there’s typically lots of room to sit — and play. The face painting is a nice perk, but be forewarned that the wait can be long; again, get on the list early. Note that the staff is refreshingly low-key about pushing food and drink, so don’t feel you have to buy a country feast to partake. Also: you can leave your stroller near the door on the first floor. Yahoo!
