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Newport Beach BBQ and Beer Guide

May 25, 2022

Nothing pairs better with a warm Newport Beach day than a cold beer and some smoky BBQ. And for those who don’t consider themselves grill masters, we’ve compiled a list of the best local BBQ joints in Newport Beach! Prepare to sink your teeth into everything from a rack of ribs to smoked brisket and beyond. And to wash it all down? An ice-cold beer, of course! Here are our favorite spots for some good old-fashioned BBQ and brews.

Balboa Bar-B-Que

Must-Order Beer: Walk over to Newport Landing for a beer after!

Must-Order BBQ: Brisket Stack

Balboa Bar-B-Que is a casual local gem located in the historic Balboa Fun Zone. After you’ve worked up an appetite kayaking, parasailing or riding the Ferris wheel, head over for some pulled pork, BBQ beans and ribs. Balboa Bar-B-Que even serves its own housemade sauces, including BBQ, Sweet N’ Spicy and Original!

The Alley Restaurant & Bar

Must-Order Beer: Firestone Walker 805

Must-Order BBQ: Famous Baby Back Ribs

With an interior reminiscent of a San Francisco-style saloon, it’s no wonder The Alley is a popular spot for some smoky goodness. This hotspot has been a staple in Newport Beach since 1986 and is known for its classic American cuisine. Stop by for one of their daily specials; on Mondays, you can enjoy their Famous Baby Back Ribs, and on Tuesdays, you can dig into Tri Tip!

Billy’s at the Beach

Must-Order Beer: Pacifico

Must-Order BBQ: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich

Renowned for its fresh seafood, steaks, pupus and world-famous Mai Tais, this waterfront establishment will transport you to the tropics—no plane ticket necessary. And while Billy’s certainly nails the “Aloha” vibes, the restaurant’s selection of BBQ bites is second to none. We recommend the Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich for lunch, and for dinner, the half-rack of slow-roasted baby back ribs served with french fries and coleslaw.

Helmsman Ale House

Must-Order Beer: Honey Blonde Ale

Must-Order BBQ: Texas Tornado BBQ Sandwich

With both indoor and outdoor seating, Helmsman Ale House is the perfect place for a midday beer and some pub grub. Start off with a pint of the Honey Blonde Ale and the Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread, then move onto mains like the Beef & Brisket Burger, Texas Tornado BBQ Sandwich or Tri Tip Tacos.

Other Hotspots for a Pint:

Chihuahua Cerveza

Mutt Lynch’s

Stag Bar + Kitchen

Muldoon’s Irish Pub

SideDoor

Written by: Kaylin Waizinger

Written by Visit Newport Beach

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