Sacramento may be known for its farm-to-fork movement, but the city also boasts an impressive barbecue scene. From tender brisket and smoky ribs to perfectly grilled chicken and homemade sides, the BBQ in Sacramento is a must-try for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving Texas-style brisket, Memphis dry-rub ribs, or Carolina pulled pork, there’s a BBQ joint in Sacramento ready to serve up mouthwatering dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places for BBQ in Sacramento, what makes each spot unique, and why this city is a hidden gem for barbecue lovers.
Top BBQ Spots in Sacramento
1. Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse
Location: 1322 V St, Sacramento, CA 95818
Urban Roots is a favorite among BBQ lovers and craft beer enthusiasts. This smokehouse delivers top-notch barbecue with a California twist, featuring classics like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs smoked to perfection. Their house-made sauces and fresh sides, like mac and cheese and collard greens, make for a complete BBQ experience. Pair your meal with one of their locally brewed beers for the ultimate Sacramento BBQ outing.
2. Tank House BBQ & Bar
Location: 1925 J St, Sacramento, CA 95811
Located in Midtown, Tank House BBQ & Bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere, strong cocktails, and delicious smoked meats. Their brisket and St. Louis-style ribs are among the best in town, and their outdoor patio makes it a great spot to enjoy BBQ with friends. Don’t forget to try their famous BBQ fries, loaded with meat, cheese, and tangy sauce.
3. Roxie Deli & Barbecue
Location: 3340 C St, Sacramento, CA 95816
Roxie Deli is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best BBQ sandwiches in Sacramento. While they’re famous for their tri-tip sandwiches, they also offer delicious slow-smoked meats, including brisket and pulled pork. Their no-frills approach focuses on flavor, and their generous portions keep customers coming back for more.
4. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Location: 6628 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 (just outside Sacramento)
For those who love Southern-style BBQ, Lucille’s is a must-visit. Their slow-smoked meats, homemade biscuits, and selection of BBQ sauces bring a taste of the South to Sacramento. Their baby back ribs and BBQ chicken are customer favorites, and their sweet tea is a perfect complement to any meal.
5. MacQue’s BBQ
Location: 8101 Elder Creek Rd, Sacramento, CA 95824
MacQue’s has been a Sacramento BBQ institution for years, serving up authentic Southern barbecue with a rich, smoky flavor. Their BBQ sauce is legendary, and their beef links, ribs, and chicken are cooked to perfection. If you’re looking for a true mom-and-pop BBQ experience, MacQue’s is the place to go.
What Makes Sacramento’s BBQ Scene Unique?
1. Diverse BBQ Styles
Unlike other regions that stick to one style of BBQ, Sacramento’s scene is a mix of influences from Texas, Memphis, Kansas City, and the Carolinas. This variety means you can find everything from smoky beef brisket to tangy vinegar-based pulled pork, all within city limits.
2. Farm-to-Fork Freshness
Sacramento’s farm-to-fork culture extends to its BBQ scene, with many local joints using high-quality, locally sourced meats and ingredients. This ensures fresh, flavorful dishes that stand out from traditional chain BBQ spots.
3. Local Craft Beer Pairings
Many BBQ spots in Sacramento, such as Urban Roots, incorporate local craft beer into their menus, offering the perfect pairing for smoky, rich barbecue dishes. Whether you prefer an IPA, a lager, or a stout, you’ll find a beer that enhances your BBQ experience.
Must-Try BBQ Dishes in Sacramento
- Brisket: A BBQ staple, slow-smoked and seasoned for maximum flavor.
- Tri-Tip: A California specialty, especially popular in Sacramento’s BBQ scene.
- St. Louis-Style Ribs: Smoked and coated with either a dry rub or a tangy sauce.
- Pulled Pork: Tender, juicy, and often paired with slaw on a sandwich.
- BBQ Chicken: Perfectly grilled and coated in a flavorful BBQ sauce.
Conclusion
If you’re craving smoky, flavorful barbecue, Sacramento has a lot to offer. From classic brisket and ribs to unique BBQ sandwiches and farm-fresh ingredients, the BBQ in Sacramento scene is diverse and delicious. Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to BBQ joint or a visitor wanting to experience the best smoked meats in town, these top spots won’t disappoint.
Ready to satisfy your BBQ cravings? Head to one of these fantastic BBQ restaurants in Sacramento and enjoy a meal packed with flavor!