Bill Addison, one of our restaurant critics, looks at the best barbecue in Los Angeles. Addison calls barbecue "the epitome of American food." Whether it's ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage or potato salad you're seeking, read on.
Less- Anne Cusack / Los Angeles TimesFind out moreBludso's BBQBBQ RestaurantClosed Now11 AM – 10 PM
Bludso's is a mainstay in the L.A. barbecue scene, and for good reason. The owner ran a roadside stand in Texas and has since expanded around Los Angeles. Try the tray to get a full array of eats.
- Find out moreMaple Block Meat Co.BBQ RestaurantClosed Now11:30 AM – 10 PM
The brisket at Maple Block Meat Co. is not to be messed with. Don't forget the buttermilk biscuits.
- Calvin B. Alagot / Los Angeles TimesFind out moreMoo's Craft BarbecueBBQ RestaurantClosed Now12 – 7 PM
Andrew and Michelle Muñoz began barbecue pop-ups from their East L.A. backyard in 2017. The Central Texas maestros figured out how to smoke brisket and beef ribs into a form that nearly resembles custard. Addison calls their bbq "the best I’ve had in California."
- Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles TimesFind out moreRibTown B.B.QFood TruckClosed Now11:30 AM – 5 PM
The Black-owned pop-up on Fridays and Saturdays specializes in smoked rib tips. The cut is a glorious intersection of meat and cartilage that is a gratifying investment when cooked with precision.
- Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles TimesFind out moreSlabBBQ RestaurantClosed Now11:30 AM – 7 PM
The pit master behind Slab spent nearly 10 years perfecting his smoking technique on a Big Green Egg in his backyard before going big. Don't skip the Frito pie.
