San Bernardino might be world-famous as the birthplace of McDonald’s and a landmark along historic Route 66—but to hungry locals, it’s also become a serious hub for authentic barbecue.
With its mixture of SoCal sunshine, desert air, and a diverse community, San Bernardino’s pitmasters blend classic Southern ‘cue with West Coast flair.
Here, tri-tip meets Texas brisket, tacos get a dose of barbecue pork, and you’ll find everything from cheerful roadside stands to full-service smokehouses.
The Hitch Burger Grill & BBQ
A Route 66 favorite, The Hitch combines the best of burgers and barbecue in a laid-back, open-patio setting.
Their smoky sliced tri-tip sandwich is the main event, but BBQ chicken, brisket, and “half-and-half” combo plates keep locals coming back.
Everything comes with a side of nostalgia and a selection of house sauces, from tangy-vinegar to thick molasses.
Their loaded baked potatoes—overflowing with pulled pork—are a local cheat meal tradition.
Bigg Dane & Beale’s Texas BBQ
Authenticity is the name of the game here: pitmaster “Bigg Dane” hails from Dallas and brings the full-on Texas brisket experience.
The beef is smoked for hours and comes properly barked, juicy, and packed with smoke flavor.
The ribs are meaty and fall off the bone, while flavorful hot links and honey-kissed cornbread round out the sides.
The friendly atmosphere, complete with cowboy hats and old-school blues, makes this spot a Texas-meets-Inland Empire institution.
Mill Creek Cattle Company
A few miles outside downtown, this roadhouse-style eatery is known for generous portions, a genuine Western vibe, and a menu packed with barbecue classics.
St. Louis spare ribs are a must, brushed with a peppery, house sauce; tri-tip gets carved tableside on weekends.
The “Cattleman’s Sampler” (ribs, brisket, wings, sausage, and pulled pork) is a feast for indecisive diners. Don’t miss out on the creamy coleslaw and sweet potato fries.
Redlands BBQ Company
Though technically just outside San Bernardino proper, Redlands BBQ is well worth the few minutes’ drive—locals flock for their hickory-smoked pork, jalapeño cheddar sausage, and perfectly rendered brisket.
Their homemade BBQ sauces offer everything from classic “sweet and sticky” to wildly spicy varieties.
Menu highlights include loaded BBQ nachos and “pit potatoes” topped with your choice of smoked meat. It’s family-run, friendly, and always has lines out the door come dinnertime.
Smokin’ Good Times BBQ (Food Truck)
San Bernardino’s food truck scene is known for variety, but Smokin’ Good Times BBQ stands out for its juicy baby back ribs, pulled pork tacos, and sweet cornbread muffins.
Smoking on hardwood right out of a big red truck, they bring barbecue to community events, breweries, and city festivals.
Check their Instagram for where to find them—devotees swear their brisket burritos and bacon-wrapped hot links are worth seeking out.
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