5 Best Barbecue Joints in Chula Vista, California to Try

Chula Vista, nestled between San Diego and the Mexican border, is a city with vibrant diversity—especially in its food scene.

Barbecue here brings together SoCal sunshine, Baja flavors, and a hint of smoky Southern tradition.

You’ll see tri-tip, smoked carnitas, restaurant-bar hybrids, and family pitmasters doing things their own way.

The result? Some of the region’s most creative and relaxed BBQ: easy on the dress code but serious about the ‘cue.

1. Coop’s West Texas Barbecue

This family-run gem is a destination even for BBQ lovers trekking down from LA—thanks to pitmaster Brad “Coop” Cooper’s devotion to real-deal Texas ‘cue.

The brisket is peppered (and smoked) to perfection, the ribs are tender with a slight tug, and sausages are made in-house.

Sides like smoked beans and mac ‘n’ cheese round out the plate, but the brisket tacos—soaked in pan drippings—show off that Chula Vista fusion flavor.

2. Abbey’s Real Texas Bar-B-Q

Don’t let the shopping center location fool you—this is the real thing, with a Texas-sized smoker out back and a menu loaded with tender baby backs, sliced beef, hot links, and jalapeño cornbread.

The smoky aroma greets you at the door, and the friendly, family-run vibe means you’ll leave stuffed and smiling.

While it leans classic, Abbey’s serves BBQ breakfast burritos, pulled pork nachos, and Tex-Mex mashups during weekends and game days.

3. Smokin’ J’s BBQ

Located on busy Broadway, Smokin’ J’s adds even more flavor to Chula Vista’s already spicy culinary map.

They’re famous for smoked chicken, brisket, and ribs that hit the counter still glistening from the pit.

Try the loaded BBQ fries topped with chopped brisket, jalapeños, and house cheese sauce—a local favorite.

Don’t sleep on their banana pudding or daily-changing fruit cobblers for dessert.

4. Phil’s BBQ (nearby in San Diego)

A San Diego legend with a short hop up the 5, Phil’s BBQ is a SoCal institution.

Expect long lines (they move fast!) for meaty beef ribs, mesquite chicken, and saucy pulled pork sandwiches.

The BBQ sauce—with a tart, peppery tang—has developed a cult following, and the gigantic onion rings are a must-order side. Family-friendly, high-energy, and reliably delicious.

5. Tacos El Gordo (for Tijuana-style adobada)

While not your traditional barbecue, locals often cite Tacos El Gordo as a must for anyone who loves smoky, slow-roasted meats.

Their adobada (marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit) offers a cross-border BBQ experience that’s deeply rooted in Baja California tradition.

Pair with house-made salsas and a Mexican Coke for the true Chula Vista flavor fest.