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Best Barbecue Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Hardwood Bar & Smokery restaurant
4.5
Awesome(94)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • SOMA
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Hardwood Bar & Smokery in SOMA, San Francisco, where the essence of true Bay Area BBQ comes alive. This neighborhood gem specializes in meats smoked over Northern California white oak and local almond wood, offering a rich, authentic flavor that captivates your palate. Patrons rave about the "deliciously smokey" meats, with the brisket and ribs receiving special mentions for their tenderness and taste. The atmosphere is perfect for a casual outing, as the restaurant boasts "great vibes" alongside its craft beers and cocktails. Whether it's the "smoke buddy" platter or the unique craft cocktails, every item promises a burst of flavor. As one reviewer puts it, Hardwood Bar & Smokery is a place where the "food and drinks are truly on another level," making it a must-visit for anyone craving a quintessential American BBQ experience in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Yakiniku Shodai restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(66)
Price: Very Expensive
• Barbecue • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area, Yakiniku Shodai offers an unparalleled yakiniku dining experience that truly stands out in the realm of barbecue cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on serving high-quality Japanese Wagyu, grilled to perfection by skilled chefs who bring over 20 years of expertise to each dish. Guests rave about the “extraordinary taste of meat” and the “world-class wagyu,” highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and passion evident in every bite. With accolades noting it as a “hidden gem,” Yakiniku Shodai is celebrated for its exceptional service, where the knowledgeable staff and personal chefs like Andy and Chris make every meal an intimate and enlightening culinary journey. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Yakiniku Shodai guarantees an authentic, high-end barbecue experience that is both memorable and unmatched.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa) restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(280)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • SOMA
Booked 24 times today
Gyu-Kaku in San Francisco, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood, is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese BBQ delights. Celebrated as the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand since its inception in Tokyo in 1996, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests become chefs at their own table-top smokeless grills. Patrons rave about the "exceptionally delightful" dishes like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib. One enthusiast mentioned, "Every bite was a symphony of flavor," highlighting the top-notch, well-seasoned meats. The atmosphere is perfect for a range of occasions, from casual dinners to celebratory gatherings, making every visit a magical culinary adventure. With its extensive menu and dedicated service, Gyu-Kaku stands out as a must-visit spot for Japanese cuisine aficionados in San Francisco.
A photo of International Smoke San Francisco restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2856)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • SOMA
Booked 14 times today
At International Smoke San Francisco, located in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood, the steak cuisine is elevated to an art form. This restaurant, a brainchild of Chef Michael Mina and Ayesha Curry, brings a unique global flair to traditional steak dishes. The wood-fired steaks are a particular highlight, consistently praised for their exceptional flavor and perfect preparation. One reviewer ecstatically noted, "Stakes are perfect as well," underscoring the high-quality meat and expert grilling techniques that make each steak dish outstanding. The restaurant's ambiance and service complement the dining experience, making International Smoke a must-visit for steak lovers in San Francisco. Whether it's the taste or the presentation, every detail is crafted to enhance the enjoyment of this beloved cuisine.
A photo of ABSteak by Chef Akira Back - San Francisco restaurant
4.4
Awesome(23)
Price: Very Expensive
• Barbecue • SOMA
Booked 13 times today
Korean steakhouse with dry-aged meats, expertly crafted cocktails and world-class service where the heart and soul of authentic Korean flavors seamlessly intertwine with the essence of a fine steakhouse.
A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - San Bruno restaurant
3.8
Excellent(60)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • San Bruno
Booked 2 times today
Time counts at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. Since our humble beginnings back in 1978, we've continued to refine our brewhouse experience to make BJ's a place where you can make the most of any meal. We want BJ's to be a place where the moment you leave is the moment you plan on coming back. We pride ourselves in our craft and attention to detail. Our guests come here for our award-winning handcrafted beer. They come here for the Southern California twist we've put on the Chicago-style deep dish pizza. And they come here for our Pizookies®, our world-renowned dessert. But above all we know people come here to make their good times better. So in many ways we haven't just crafted a brand, but a mindset. And our guests are the reason for this. And it's because of them we're continually striving to make sure every moment they choose to spend with us counts. Welcome to BJ's, a restaurant with a Brewhouse soul.
A photo of Smokin Woods BBQ restaurant
4.4
Awesome(21)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Oakland
Smokin Woods BBQ in Oakland has truly mastered the art of authentic barbecue, delighting locals and visitors alike since 2013. Their use of 100% all-natural woods like apple, cherry, mesquite, oak, and pecan ensures every bite is infused with deep, unforgettable flavors. Patrons rave about the "meltingly tender" beef ribs and the "out of this world" sauces that heighten every dish. The consistency of their perfectly seasoned meats, accompanied by standout sides like the much-loved mac and cheese, sets this spot apart. As one satisfied customer put it, the experience at Smokin Woods BBQ is so good it "brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart." Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning barbecue enthusiast, the friendly service and community vibe make every meal memorable.

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Discover best Barbecue restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Discover the vibrant barbecue scene in the San Francisco Bay Area's Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness neighborhood, where a delightful array of barbecue restaurants awaits your palate. These establishments are celebrated for their unique take on classic barbecue flavors, offering a perfect blend of traditional techniques and innovative culinary twists. Visitors can expect a diverse menu featuring everything from slow-cooked, smoky ribs to expertly grilled specialties, all prepared with high-quality ingredients that highlight the local flair. The dining atmosphere in this locale is dynamic and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and special dinners. Each restaurant in the area prides itself on providing excellent service, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests. Whether you're a barbecue aficionate or new to the scene, this neighborhood promises an enticing culinary journey that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. Embrace the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue in this culinary vibrant district, where every meal is both a discovery and a delight.

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