East of San Diego’s beaches and bustle, El Cajon sits at the gateway to the mountains with a diverse, family-friendly vibe and a low-key but hungry appetite for great barbecue.
Here, the best joints blend SoCal creativity with old-school smoke, often serving up tri-tip, mesquite-kissed brisket, and sides that range from Mexican corn to classic mac and cheese.
Whether you’re in for family takeout, a smoky weekend treat, or a laid-back patio meal, El Cajon’s BBQ scene is well worth digging into.
1. Buckboard’s BBQ & Brew
A longtime East County favorite, Buckboard’s is famed for big portions, downhome service, and a melt-in-your-mouth tri-tip that nods to Central California roots.
Brisket is super tender, the ribs pull clean, and the house “Buckboard sauce” balances sweet with a gentle tang.
Don’t skip the loaded mac and cheese or the beans, studded with bits of smoked pork.
Their small but quality craft beer menu completes that “backyard gathering” feel.
2. Smokey & the Brisket BBQ
Just on the cusp of La Mesa/El Cajon, Smokey & the Brisket exudes craft smokehouse energy.
Pitmasters here do Texas-worthy brisket, juicy turkey, and ribs with deep smoke rings.
The brisket burger and “Loaded Spuds”—huge baked potatoes piled with meat, cheese, and sauce—are musts.
Try their signature BBQ sauces: house, spicy, and Carolina vinegar, all made in-house.
3. Felix’s BBQ With Soul
An institution in the wider San Diego area, Felix’s brings soulful, Southern-inspired barbecue to East County.
The combo platters let you try everything—ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and sausage—all served with cornbread and sides like collard greens or red beans and rice.
It’s family-run, with gospel music, warm hospitality, and the kind of sweet potato pie that keeps folks coming back.
4. Abby’s Real Texas BBQ
Purists love Abby’s for its devotion to slow-smoking meats over oak and serving them simply with classic, slightly peppery Texas-style sauce on the side.
Brisket sandwiches, jalapeño sausage, and burnt ends are the stars, and the pit beans are loaded with flavor.
A favorite for large family feasts and catering.
5. Izzy’s BBQ Addiction
Izzy’s started as a food truck and has a loyal local following for its creative “BBQ tacos” (try the brisket or smoked chicken with spicy slaw), pastrami, and house-pulled pork.
It’s the place for adventurous specials and clever fusion—keep an eye out for their smoked mac tacos or loaded BBQ nachos.
Fun, community-driven atmosphere and plenty of heart.
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