5 Best Barbecue Joints in Napa, California to Try

Napa is the heart of California Wine Country, celebrated worldwide for its vineyards and Michelin-starred restaurants.

But locals know that beneath the surface of chardonnay and farm-to-table fare, Napa’s got a quietly booming barbecue scene.

Here, pitmasters bring together the bounty of NorCal farms and ranches with deep Southern tradition and a wine-country twist on smoky flavor.

Don’t expect to see just one style: in Napa, brisket, ribs, tri-tip, and inventive house-made sausages all find their perfect pairings—sometimes right alongside a glass of local cabernet.

1. Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ

A downtown mainstay, Bounty Hunter is equal parts wine bar, whiskey lounge, and slow-smoked meat haven.

Try their signature Beer Can Chicken or St. Louis-style ribs slathered in house sauce, best enjoyed with a flight of Napa reds or a local IPA.

The vibe is relaxed and rustic—barrel tables and friendly staff make you want to linger.

2. The Q Restaurant & Bar

This upscale but unpretentious joint blends Memphis and California barbecue traditions.

The pulled pork and beef ribs are favorites, seasoned with house rubs and smoked to perfect tenderness.

The Q’s creative sides—like collard greens with garlic and decadent mac and cheese—are essential.

With a solid bourbon list and posh comfort, it’s a Wine Country standout.

3. Napa Valley BBQ

A casual local favorite serving up Texas-style brisket, massive smoked turkey legs, and tangy, spicy house-made sauces.

The no-frills setup is all about the meat: pitmasters take pride in their wood-fired methods and generous portions.

Locals rave about the brisket sandwich and loaded BBQ nachos.

4. Red Rock Cafe

Open since 1984, Red Rock is an easygoing, neighborhood roadhouse.

The menu hits hard with Western tri-tip, slow-cooked brisket, and saucy ribs. Portions are big and the outdoor patio is a plus.

Try their spicy BBQ chicken and grab a craft beer from a NorCal tap.

5. Smokin’ Ewe BBQ

A lesser-known gem, Smokin’ Ewe pops up at local events, breweries, and farmers markets.

As the name hints, they specialize in smoked lamb, alongside traditional pork and beef.

Their smoky lamb sandwiches and creative, wine-country-inspired sides (think roasted root veggie salad) make this one a unique stop on the Napa barbecue map.