Newport Beach BBQ and Beer Guide
Nothing pairs better with a warm Newport Beach day than a cold beer and some smoky BBQ. And for those who don’t consider themselves grill masters, we’ve compiled a list of the best local BBQ joints in Newport Beach! Prepare to sink your teeth into everything from a rack of ribs to smoked brisket and beyond. And to wash it all down? An ice-cold beer, of course! Here are our favorite spots for some good old-fashioned BBQ and brews.
Must-Order Beer: Walk over to Newport Landing for a beer after!
Must-Order BBQ: Louisiana Hot Links
Balboa Bar-B-Que is a casual local gem located in the historic Balboa Fun Zone. After you’ve worked up an appetite kayaking, parasailing or riding the Ferris wheel, head over for some pulled pork, BBQ beans and ribs. Balboa Bar-B-Que even serves its own housemade sauces, including BBQ, Sweet N’ Spicy and Original!
Must-Order Beer: Firestone Walker 805
Must-Order BBQ: Famous Baby Back Ribs
With an interior reminiscent of a San Francisco-style saloon, it’s no wonder The Alley is a popular spot for some smoky goodness. This hotspot has been a staple in Newport Beach since 1986 and is known for its classic American cuisine. Stop by for one of their daily specials; on Mondays, you can enjoy their Famous Baby Back Ribs, and on Tuesdays, you can dig into Tri Tip!
Must-Order Beer: Pacifico
Must-Order BBQ: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich
Renowned for its fresh seafood, steaks, pupus and world-famous Mai Tais, this waterfront establishment will transport you to the tropics—no plane ticket necessary. And while Billy’s certainly nails the “Aloha” vibes, the restaurant’s selection of BBQ bites is second to none. We recommend the Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich for lunch, and for dinner, the half-rack of slow-roasted baby back ribs served with french fries and coleslaw.
Must-Order Beer: Lagunitas IPA
Must-Order BBQ: Pulled Pork Hush Puppies
Elevated Southern classics come to life at this industrial-chic hotspot! Bosscat Kitchen & Libations specializes in over-the-top comfort food, featuring plates like Pulled Pork Hush Puppies, Sugar Barrel Steak, Whiskey Brussels and more. Prepare to feast!
Must-Order Beer: Honey Blonde Ale
Must-Order BBQ: Texas Tornado BBQ Sandwich
With both indoor and outdoor seating, Helmsman Ale House is the perfect place for a midday beer and some pub grub. Start off with a pint of the Honey Blonde Ale and the Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread, then move onto mains like the Beef & Brisket Burger, Texas Tornado BBQ Sandwich or Tri Tip Tacos.
Must-Order Beer: Pick up a few craft beers from Lido Bottle Works’ bottle shop!
Must-Order BBQ: Spicy Brisket
On Bristol Street is actually a haven for smoked and slow-cooked meats. RIBBRO BBQ serves up meats by the pound, including pork ribs and spicy brisket, tasty sandwiches and BBQ combo platters. Opt for their pulled pork sandwich, which comes with a side of slaw, or order their rib platter, which comes slathered in their housemade BBQ sauce.
Other Hotspots for a Pint:
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
