Santa Cruz's Best BBQ [Updated 2025]

As the sun sets over the coast and the smell of smoke wafts through the air, there's something magical about sinking your teeth into a perfectly smoked rib or a tender brisket. I've ventured through the streets of Santa Cruz, sampling the mouthwatering offerings from twelve of the top BBQ spots in town.

With a passion for flavor and a discerning palate honed from years of culinary exploration, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the juiciest bites and the sauciest secrets. Whether you're a local or just passing through, trust me—this foodie adventure will have you craving BBQ like never before!

Back Nine Grill & Bar

Highlights
Delicious BBQ options
Beautiful outdoor ambiance
Generally good service
Prior attractive happy hour
Accessibility challenges

Back Nine Grill & Bar in Santa Cruz is a hidden gem for BBQ enthusiasts like myself. Nestled in a picturesque setting, it boasts a beautiful outdoor ambiance that's perfect for enjoying a meal under the Californian sky. As soon as I walked in, a tantalizing aroma of smoked meats danced around me, promising a feast for the senses.

The menu is a dream for any BBQ lover, featuring a variety of delicious options that are sure to please. I must highlight their ribs—falling-off-the-bone tender and smothered in a rich, smoky glaze that left me craving more. The service was generally good, with friendly staff eager to share recommendations and ensure my dining experience was top-notch.

Another perk is their former vibrant happy hour, which was a delightful way to unwind. However, I did face some accessibility challenges getting to the venue, which could make it tricky for some. Nevertheless, the food alone is worth the trip.

In conclusion, Back Nine Grill & Bar stands out in Santa Cruz’s culinary landscape. If you're seeking a relaxed dinner with fantastic BBQ, this place is definitely worth checking out!

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Crow's Nest Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic views from restaurant
Accommodating and friendly staff
Delicious calamari appetizer
Phenomenal steak offerings
Reasonable prices for location

Crow's Nest Restaurant delivered a delightful culinary experience that extended far beyond just their barbecue offerings. With fantastic views of the harbor, it was hard to resist snapping a few photos before diving into the menu. The accommodating and friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles, setting a cheerful tone for the evening.

I started my meal with their delicious calamari appetizer, which was perfectly tender and complemented by a zesty dipping sauce that had me hooked immediately. But it was the phenomenal steak offerings that truly stole the show. Grilled to perfection, each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate—the kind of experience that makes you want to savor every mouthful.

What truly impressed me was the reasonable pricing for a location boasting such stunning views and quality food. It's a rarity to find a place that combines a breathtaking atmosphere with fantastic culinary creations without breaking the bank. If you're looking for the best BBQ in Santa Cruz, don't overlook Crow's Nest. It’s a special spot where delicious flavors meet a picturesque setting, making it a must-visit for food lovers!

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The Water Street Grill

Highlights
Intimate candlelit atmosphere
Friendly and attentive staff
Flavorful and delicious food
Excellent dessert presentation
Consistently highly recommended

The Water Street Grill truly captured my affection during my search for the best barbecue in Santa Cruz. Stepping inside, I was warmly welcomed into an intimate candlelit atmosphere that set the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. The friendly and attentive staff added to the charm, ensuring my dining experience was as delightful as the delicious dishes that were about to grace my table.

As I dove into their BBQ selection, every bite was a flavor explosion, showcasing the skills of the chefs who clearly take pride in their craft. The smoked meats were tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by house-made sauces that danced on my palate. I must say, the food here is no ordinary affair; it’s both flavorful and artfully presented, making each dish a feast for the eyes as well.

And what would a visit be without dessert? The desserts were visually stunning, finishing off my meal on a high note of sweetness. I left The Water Street Grill with a full belly and a heart warmed by great food and excellent service. If you’re searching for the best BBQ in Santa Cruz, look no further—this place is a standout gem!

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Sesame Korean Grill

Highlights
Delicious bulgogi and bibimbap
Friendly and accommodating service
Fresh and tasty kimchi
Good value for Korean cuisine
Nice atmosphere

At Sesame Korean Grill, my taste buds embarked on an unforgettable journey through the savory delights of Korean cuisine. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and accommodating staff who made me feel right at home.

What truly stood out was their delicious bulgogi—tender slices of marinated beef, grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor; it's a must-try for any fan of BBQ. The bibimbap added a vibrant medley to my plate, with fresh veggies and a perfectly fried egg artfully arranged atop a bowl of rice. Each bite was a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

To accompany my meal, the kimchi was the star of the show, offering that perfect tanginess that only the freshest preparations can deliver. It was so tasty that I could have eaten it all day.

Best of all, the value for the quality of food was impressive—definitely worth every penny. The atmosphere provides a cozy vibe that invites you to linger, making Sesame Korean Grill a delightful destination for friends and family alike. For anyone seeking the best BBQ in Santa Cruz, this spot deserves a top mention!

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Hula's Island Grill

Highlights
Excellent food and drinks
Quick and attentive service
Unique Hawaiian flavors
Charming coffee presentation
Family-friendly atmosphere

Hula's Island Grill is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of Santa Cruz, where Hawaiian flavors dance joyfully on your palate. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted by a charming atmosphere that instantly whisked me away to a tropical paradise. The décor, paired with the laid-back vibe, creates an inviting backdrop for a memorable meal.

The menu is packed with spectacular options, but what truly stood out to me was their use of unique Hawaiian flavors. I savored their smoky barbecue chicken, perfectly cooked and bursting with rich, smoky goodness. Each bite was a celebration, enhanced by zesty marinades that echoed the spirit of the islands.

Moreover, I was thoroughly impressed by the quick and attentive service. My server was not just friendly but also well-versed in the menu, making the experience even better. To sip on something refreshing, I opted for one of their signature drinks, presented so charmingly that it felt like a work of art.

In all, Hula's Island Grill beautifully marries excellent food with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a top contender in the Santa Cruz BBQ scene. I left with a full belly and a smile, eager to return for more!

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Mission St. BBQ

Stepping into Mission St. BBQ was like entering a smoky paradise! The aroma of tender meats wafted through the air, instantly making my mouth water. I indulged in their brisket—it was so perfectly smoked, it practically melted in my mouth. The zesty barbecue sauce added a delightful kick that elevated every bite. Their sides, especially the mac and cheese, were rich and comforting, perfectly complementing the main dish. The casual vibe and friendly staff made the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re in Santa Cruz and craving authentic barbecue, this spot is an absolute must-visit!

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Gobi Mongolian BBQ

At Gobi Mongolian BBQ, the vibrant atmosphere instantly drew me in. The unique concept of creating your own stir-fry with fresh ingredients and a variety of sauces is an adventure in itself! Watching the chefs expertly grill my creation over a blazing hot grill was mesmerizing. The blend of flavors was exceptional, with each bite delivering a delightful punch. I especially loved the tender beef and the crispy veggies! If you’re seeking a BBQ experience that’s both interactive and tasty, Gobi is a must-visit. Cheers to a memorable meal that left my taste buds dancing!

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Cole's Bar-B-Q

At Cole's Bar-B-Q, I discovered a barbecue paradise that dances on the taste buds! The smoky aroma hits you like a warm hug as you step inside. I savored the fall-off-the-bone ribs, generously slathered in their signature sauce—sweet, tangy, and just a hint of spice! The pulled pork was equally delightful, boasting a tender texture that melted in my mouth. The friendly staff added a charming touch to the vibrant atmosphere, making every bite feel like a celebration. If you're on the hunt for bbq bliss, look no further—Cole's is an absolute gem in Santa Cruz!

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Aptos St. BBQ

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, Aptos St. BBQ feels like a warm hug as soon as you step inside. The smoky aroma wafting through the air sets the stage for an unforgettable feast. I indulged in the tender pulled pork—each bite a symphony of flavor and juiciness. And let's not forget the sides; the coleslaw was the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere only enhance the experience. If you're on a quest for mouthwatering BBQ in Santa Cruz, Aptos St. BBQ should definitely be on your radar—it's a delicious celebration of comfort food!

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Aloha Island Grille

Tucked away in Santa Cruz, Aloha Island Grille offers a delightful twist on traditional BBQ. With a menu bursting with tropical flair, I savored their teriyaki chicken plate, which was perfectly marinated and grilled to smoky perfection. The sides, especially the island-style rice and mac salad, added an exquisite touch that transported my taste buds straight to Hawaii. The atmosphere resonated with a laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot for casual gatherings. If you're craving BBQ with a fun spin, Aloha is definitely worth a visit—each bite is a delicious luau for your palate!

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Hindquarter Bar & Grille

My visit to Hindquarter Bar & Grille was a delightful culinary adventure! The moment I stepped in, the aroma of smoked meats welcomed me like an old friend. I couldn’t resist the tender brisket—oh my goodness!—it practically melted in my mouth. Their house-made BBQ sauce strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, elevating every bite. The cozy, rustic vibe sets the stage for a relaxed meal, and the staff are as friendly as they come. If you’re seeking a laid-back BBQ experience with top-notch flavor, look no further than Hindquarter—it’s a true Santa Cruz gem!

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Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz

Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz may be best known for its delicious pizzas, but don’t let the Italian title fool you – this place knows how to smoke meat! Their BBQ chicken pizza is a flavor fiesta, featuring tender smoky chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and a medley of fresh toppings that dance on your palate. The crust is perfectly crisp, adding a delightful crunch to the experience. While I was there, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made it feel like a community gathering spot. For a unique twist on BBQ, Woodstock’s is an absolute must-try in Santa Cruz!

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