Where to Pick Up BBQ Essentials This Summer
Nothing says summertime like some good old-fashioned BBQ. From classic all-American hot dogs to chargrilled burgers, slow-roasted ribs, tri-tip and everything in between, there’s no wrong way to do it. So fire up the grill this weekend (or let the pros do it for you), and indulge in a finger-licking meal with friends! But before you head to the nearest grocery store to stock up on the essentials, check out these six Newport Beach restaurants and butcher shops. With fresh cuts of meat and all the sauces and fixings, you’ll be set for your backyard (or beach) BBQ!
Known for their world-famous mai tais, bay views and Hawaiian-inspired fare, Billy’s at the Beach is a classic Newport Beach locale and a haven for BBQ enthusiasts. The menu features a diverse selection of smoky delights, including baby back ribs, cho cho skewers and pulled pork sandwiches. They also offer a pupu platter for two, which comes with crab cakes, coconut shrimp, cho cho skewers, black sesame crusted ahi and BBQ baby back ribs—perfect for sharing with friends. Pro tip: check out Billy’s’ dock-and-dine menu for more BBQ favorites that can be picked up via boat!
When it comes to a backyard BBQ, family style is the way to go. Level up your summer soiree by picking up a few made-to-order dishes at Arc Butcher & Baker in Cannery Village. This full-service restaurant, bakery and butcher shop specializes in elevated American cuisine, and their selection of smoked meats does not disappoint. Start with an order of their steak skewers and family-sized mac and cheese, then add on sides like their chopped salad or Brussels sprouts.
Consider yourself a grill master? Swing by The Butchery this weekend and pick up your favorite fresh cuts of meat! Whether that’s a T-bone, rib-eye, prime rib or something more obscure, this high-quality butcher shop does it all. Tell their knowledgeable team members what you have in mind, and they’ll cut it for you on the spot. And before you leave, don’t forget to check out their stellar selection of artisan cheese, craft beer and wine. The Butchery makes hosting easy and delicious.
Newport Beach’s only brewpub, Helmsman Ale House is a stellar spot for some BBQ and beer. The space features both indoor seating and an outdoor patio with picnic tables, so you can soak up the sunshine while you chow down. Start off with a refreshing pint of the Honey Blonde Ale and the Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread. Then cure your BBQ cravings with delicious mains like the Prime Rib Sandwich, Beef & Brisket Burger and Tri Tip Tacos.
For a more upscale BBQ experience, Bandera in Corona del Mar is the place. Comforting American cuisine with a Southwestern flair is their specialty, and the ambiance is rustic yet elevated. Make a reservation to dine in or order takeout—either way, you’re definitely going to want to try one of their Bandera-style roasted chickens, which comes with an apricot glaze and a side cucumber salad. These chickens are slowly cooked over a hardwood fire in the restaurant’s custom stone oven, resulting in a juicy, mouthwatering meal that’ll cure all your cravings.
Planning on sizzling up your own meats this weekend? Mario’s Butcher Shop offers everything from high-end cuts to charcuterie boards and wood-grilled and smoked meats. They have a full-service deli, too, that whips up a tasty selection of sandwiches like the pastrami on rye with layers of house-smoked pastrami, mustard, coleslaw, Swiss cheese and pickles. Stop by for all the goodies before you fire up the grill!
