Best Barbecue Restaurants in East Los Angeles

13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Smoke City Char Bar restaurant

1. Smoke City Char Bar

4.2

Awesome(58)

Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Arts District

Booked 2 times today

Welcome to the Smoke City Char Bar, an oasis in Downtown LA's Arts District. Featuring gorgeous interiors and comfortable patio seating (dog friendly!), Smoke City Char Bar is an excellent selection for Craft Smoked Meats, BBQ, Local Drafts and Specialty Craft Cocktails. Located just across the street from the landmark Arts District Brewing Co (set your GPS to 899 Traction Ave), free 2 hour validated parking is available in the Aliso Parking Lot (access on 3'd Street). Don't miss our happy hour: Thurs - Sun from 4pm - 6pm.

A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Montebello restaurant

2. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Montebello

4.0

Excellent(57)

Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Montebello

Booked 5 times today

Time counts at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. Since our humble beginnings back in 1978, we've continued to refine our brewhouse experience to make BJ's a place where you can make the most of any meal. We want BJ's to be a place where the moment you leave is the moment you plan on coming back. We pride ourselves in our craft and attention to detail. Our guests come here for our award-winning handcrafted beer. They come here for the Southern California twist we've put on the Chicago-style deep dish pizza. And they come here for our Pizookies®, our world-renowned dessert. But above all we know people come here to make their good times better. So in many ways we haven't just crafted a brand, but a mindset. And our guests are the reason for this. And it's because of them we're continually striving to make sure every moment they choose to spend with us counts. Welcome to BJ's, a restaurant with a Brewhouse soul.

A photo of Craft by Smoke and Fire - Pasadena restaurant

3. Craft by Smoke and Fire - Pasadena

4.2

Awesome(646)

Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Pasadena

Booked 25 times today

At Craft by Smoke and Fire in Pasadena, the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with each meticulously crafted dish. This restaurant stands out not just for its food but for creating a memorable dining experience that touches the soul. Guests rave about the "incredible and overflowing family platter" and the "to die for" brisket, highlighting the quality and creativity of the menu. The ambiance is described as perfect for both lively family gatherings and cozy, romantic dinners. With enthusiastic reviews about their attentive service and exceptional dishes, Craft by Smoke and Fire is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Contemporary American cuisine in Pasadena.

A photo of Craft by Smoke and Fire - LA Live restaurant

4. Craft by Smoke and Fire - LA Live

3.4

Very Good(32)

Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Downtown

Booked 10 times today

Craft by Smoke and Fire in LA Live, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, stands out as a beacon of American cuisine. This lively spot offers a soulful dining experience, with dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in American culinary traditions. Patrons rave about the "drool-worthy BBQ," "amazing brisket," and inventive "mac n cheese burrito," highlighting the quality and creativity of their offerings. The ambiance is consistently described as fun and welcoming, with reviews praising the "great atmosphere and service." As one diner puts it, Craft by Smoke and Fire is the place "where craft cocktails meet mouthwatering American classics," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of America.

A photo of Genwa Korean BBQ DTLA restaurant

5. Genwa Korean BBQ DTLA

4.6

Exceptional(30)

Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

Experience the pinnacle of Korean BBQ at Genwa Korean BBQ DTLA, nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Los Angeles. This culinary gem stands out with its high-quality meats and an impressive array of "banchan" Korean side dishes that elevate the dining experience. Praised for its state-of-the-art smokeless grills, diners can enjoy a variety of meats cooked right at their table without the lingering smoke odor. Genwa has been celebrated as one of the top spots for Korean BBQ, even earning a spot on LA Weekly's 10 Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Los Angeles in 2012. Reviewers consistently rave about the "amazing" food and "excellent" service, with one noting, "the best way to enjoy Korean BBQ" thanks to their attentive staff. Whether it's the spicy pork, ribeye steak, or the succulent Wagyu beef, every dish is a testament to Genwa's commitment to quality and authenticity in every bite.

A photo of Gus's BBQ - South Pasadena restaurant

6. Gus's BBQ - South Pasadena

4.7

Exceptional(2046)

Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • South Pasadena

Booked 31 times today

Nestled in the heart of South Pasadena on historic Route 66, Gus's BBQ stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a mouthwatering blend of Southern comfort and traditional Midwest flavors since 1946. Celebrated for its authentic, wood-smoked BBQ, Gus's provides a culinary experience that's both deeply rooted in tradition and bursting with innovation. The Los Angeles Times praised Gus's for dishes “so good that we found ourselves eating more than we’d imagined,” and Sunset Magazine ranked it among the top 10 BBQ restaurants on the west coast. Whether it's the succulent meats or the cast iron skillet cornbread, every bite at Gus's is a testament to American culinary excellence, served up with a side of genuine Southern hospitality. This legendary spot not only promises delicious meals but also an atmosphere filled with warmth, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic American fare.

A photo of Craft by Smoke and Fire - Arcadia restaurant

7. Craft by Smoke and Fire - Arcadia

4.3

Awesome(376)

Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Arcadia

Booked 12 times today

Craft by Smoke and Fire in Arcadia is a culinary gem for those seeking top-tier Contemporary American cuisine. This vibrant spot not only offers a tantalizing menu but also a soul-satisfying dining experience, as noted by a diner: "The brisket quesadillas were delicious and the Baldwin burger was fantastic and well seasoned." Guests consistently praise the innovative dishes and the high-quality ingredients, making every meal a delightful journey of flavors. Another reviewer raved, "The food was amazing, so many good selections. The drinks were awesome!!" Craft by Smoke and Fire stands out for its commitment to excellence in both food and service, ensuring a memorable dining adventure for everyone.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town restaurant

8. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town

4.4

Awesome(1660)

Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Pasadena

Booked 67 times today

At Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Pasadena, CA, the allure of authentic Japanese barbecue takes center stage, offering a culinary journey that's both delightful and unique. Celebrated as the "#1 Japanese BBQ brand in the world," this restaurant lets diners become chefs, grilling premium meats right at their tables. The quality of the barbecue is consistently praised, with reviews highlighting the "high quality meat" and the "amazing" experience. Standout dishes like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib are must-tries, ensuring every visit is both flavorful and memorable. Perfect for any gathering, Gyu-Kaku offers an atmosphere where "food and experience, a 10!" come together for a magical dining experience.

A photo of Genwa Korean BBQ Mid Wilshire restaurant

9. Genwa Korean BBQ Mid Wilshire

4.7

Exceptional(51)

Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Beverly / Fairfax / La Brea / Third St.

Booked 17 times today

Savor the unparalleled quality of Genwa Korean BBQ in the bustling Beverly/Fairfax area of Los Angeles, where the art of Korean barbecue is taken to new heights. Renowned for its premium meats and an extensive array of banchan, Genwa offers a truly authentic experience, underscored by their innovative smokeless grills that promise a fresh environment without the lingering smell of smoke. It’s no surprise that LA Weekly hailed it as one of the 10 Best Korean BBQ Restaurants. Customers rave about the "incredible quality meats" and the "amazing variety on banchan," making every meal a lavish feast. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, Genwa delivers a memorable dining experience with its exceptional service and sumptuous flavors, making it a must-visit for barbecue aficionados.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA restaurant

10. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA

4.8

Exceptional(146)

Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Little Tokyo

Booked 15 times today

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Downtown Los Angeles offers a uniquely authentic barbecue experience that stands out in the vibrant Little Tokyo neighborhood. Known for its engaging "cook-your-own" style, the restaurant allows diners to become chefs at their tables, grilling premium meats to perfection. Patrons rave about the quality and flavor of offerings such as the "must-try" Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib, highlighting the "delicious and well-seasoned meats" that provide a mouthwatering experience. The setting is not only stylish and upscale but also conducive to a magical dining atmosphere, perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Coupled with attentive service and a convivial ambiance, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ delivers an unforgettable dining delight, making it a top destination for barbecue enthusiasts.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
Cynthia
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Fourth time coming here, it was my best friends birthday so we were celebrating! Waited a little over 10 mins for someone to help our table, ordered flights and appetizers which was overall excellent! Deviled eggs and spinach artichoke dip is always a must here. I personally had the southern fried chicken with brisket and it was delicious! Got my cream corn and Mac n cheese for my sides and they never disappoint. Ordered a cornbread to go but it was a little dry :( , our waitress was the best and they even gave us a cornbread as complimentary for attending us late. Thank you , we’ll be back!
More info
Gus's BBQ - South PasadenaPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• South Pasadena
•
4.7
H
HiramVIP
Los Angeles •3 reviews
4.0
Dined on 17 Dec 2024
Love the food, drink menu changed, new drinks not so great
More info
Craft by Smoke and Fire - PasadenaPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Pasadena
•
4.2
SR
SamR
Los Angeles •18 reviews
4.0
Dined on 15 Dec 2024
Great location. Our Brisket topped salad and brisket tacos were excellent. The coconut shrimp starter was unadorned. Looking around kitchen seemed to have issues with timing. Service was spotty. Great location before game/event.
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Craft by Smoke and Fire - LA LivePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Downtown
•
3.4
K
Kathy
Los Angeles •20 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 Nov 2024
It was a busy Saturday evening and I was so glad I made a reservation through Open Table. We only had to wait about 5 minutes. The food was great and was served in a timely matter after we ordered. Our server was also very nice and efficient. He came y the table often to inquire if everything was ok. We had a great experience.
More info
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - MontebelloPrice: Moderate• American• Montebello
•
4
OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on 14 Jul 2024
We ordered the smoked watermelon appetizer, California Ciabatta sandwich with salad, cornbread, and burnt ends Mac & cheese. It was all delicious. Our friends ordered tri tip and Salmon with crispy Brussels. They loved it aa well. Our server was very friendly. We’ll definitely come back!
More info
Smoke City Char BarPrice: Expensive• Barbecue• Arts District
•
4.2

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East Los Angeles

Barbecue

Best Barbecue Restaurants in East Los Angeles

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. Smoke City Char Bar

2. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Montebello

3. Craft by Smoke and Fire - Pasadena

4. Craft by Smoke and Fire - LA Live

5. Genwa Korean BBQ DTLA

6. Gus's BBQ - South Pasadena

7. Craft by Smoke and Fire - Arcadia

8. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town

9. Genwa Korean BBQ Mid Wilshire

10. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA

See what locals rave about

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