Barbecue season is sizzling as Memorial Day weekend rolls into the weekend, marking the beginning of summer.

Since 2019, Los Angeles has seen a rise in the number of new barbecue restaurants and pop-ups, each bringing their own rich flavors and unique Southern California influences.

1. Moo’s Craft BBQ

Located in Lincoln Heights, Moo’s Craft BBQ was founded by Andrew and Michelle Mu?oz in July 2021.

In almost three years, the local barbecue hotspot and taproom has earned three consecutive appearances on the L.A. Times’ 101 Best Restaurants List, finishing in the top 10.

Most recently, they’ve even appeared in the Michelin Guide as a top barbecue restaurant.

The business began as a backyard pop-up, with hours-long lines full of eager barbecue fans seeking some of their delicious Cali-Mex flavors.

Specializing in central Texas-style barbecue, Moo’s is renowned for its tender brisket, which is slow-roasted and seasoned with a simple salt and pepper rub. The menu also features impressive pork ribs, spicy house-made sausages, and smoked turkey??.

Besides the meats, Moo’s offers distinctive sides like creamy esquites, dill-heavy red potato salad, and a highly praised tres leches bread pudding.

2. Smoke Queen Barbecue

Although not in the city of Los Angeles, Orange County has its own rich barbecue culture and deserves a mention here.

Founded by Winnie Yee-Lakhani, the restaurant owner turned pitmaster started in her backyard during the pandemic.

During a difficult period, Yee-Lakhani, a 14-year restaurant veteran, was facing the devastating loss of her businesses and nearly 50 employees.

Instead of giving up, she used the lockdown period to master the art of smoking meat. Not long after, she secured a spot at Smorgasburg, a popular weekly market in downtown Los Angeles with diverse food vendors and artisanal products.

Smoke Quen Barbecue’s style combines a unique fusion of American barbecue techniques with Asian flavors. Their offerings include standout items like smoked brisket, pork belly char siu, and Korean Dino beef ribs.

3. AGL Craft Meats

AGL Craft Meats, led by owner Alec Lopez, is an acclaimed barbecue operation in Los Angeles known for its Texas-style smoked meats.

Lopez was born in the South Bay to a Cuban Father and a Mexican mother. His father worked at Fuddruckers, a San Antonio-based burger chain.

Originally operating as a pop-up, AGL Craft Meats has gained a reputation for its exceptional brisket, chipotle cheddar sausage, and pulled pork.

Whether you’re visiting Los Angeles or a local searching for a new neighborhood spot, these are three barbecue spots you won’t want to miss.

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