Nestled in the bustling heart of Southeast Los Angeles County, South Gate is a city powered by multicultural energy, working-class tradition, and flavors from every corner of the globe.
While tacos and carnitas reign in many family kitchens, barbecue here is a rising passion—shaped by SoCal’s love of smoky meats, Mexican-American sazón, and California creativity.
Some joints lean Southern, others offer Mexican-style barbacoa, and a few serve as weekend gathering spots for the whole community. Here’s where to find the city’s best ‘cue.
Hambone’s BBQ
A takeout legend, Hambone’s draws loyal crowds for its authentic smoked brisket, peppery ribs, and a spicy-sweet house barbecue sauce that drips off everything.
Their slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches are a SoCal lunch favorite, and regulars swear by their mac and cheese and hearty baked beans.
Family-operated, Hambone’s has an old-school vibe—serving big flavors from a tiny counter, always with a smile.
Ray’s Texas BBQ
While technically just over the border in Huntington Park, Ray’s Texas BBQ is a pilgrimage site for South Gate locals.
It’s all about Texas-style brisket here: thick bark, succulent smoke ring, served by the pound.
Try their “Rayven” sandwich—a smoky, meaty symphony on a roll—or catch their weekend beef rib special for the full Lone Star experience.
Sides like elote (Mexican street corn) show off the blend of cultures in L.A.’s barbecue scene.
Gus’s BBQ
A little further afield (but beloved all over Southeast L.A.), Gus’s is a metro-area staple bringing Southern-style barbecue to the West Coast.
St. Louis spare ribs, tri-tip, and pulled chicken are all smoked with old-fashioned love.
The classic “Barbecue Flight” lets you sample a bit of everything, and don’t skip their cornbread or collard greens, which round out the Southern comfort experience.
LB BBQ
Family-run and locally cherished, LB BBQ is famous for its marinated tri-tip, spicy sausages, and mouth-watering rib tips.
This place puts its own SoCal spin on barbecue—smoke meets salsa, with sides like pico de gallo, fresh tortillas, or jalapeño-spiked potato salad.
It’s festive, informal, and built for sharing with family and neighbors.
El Nuevo Pastor BBQ
Embracing Mexican-style open-fire cooking, El Nuevo Pastor specializes in “al pastor” grilled meats but expands into smoky, slow-cooked beef and pork ribs on weekends.
Expect homemade salsas, tender tortillas, and meats with a deep, mesquite-rich flavor.
This is barbecue through the lens of L.A.’s Mexican roots, uniting traditions for a crowd-pleasing feast.
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