Best Barbecue Restaurants in Sorrento Mesa

Smokin' J's BBQ is a gem unbeknownst to us. My wife and I were attending an event at the Balboa Theater and were looking to make a reservation close to the venue. Smokin' J's is literally across the street...it couldn't be more convenient. Everything was excellent, the service was outstanding, the food was delicious with very ample portions. Even though we live in Encinitas, we will go back downtown to dine at Smokin' J's again. To us, it was a hidden gem.

Good overall. Great beers. Food options are decent.

Waitress Laurianna did an excellent job!!! The food was very good.

Gold stars to every worker at this location on Sunday night, November 3rd. We were celebrating a belated birthday and the place was absolutely slammed. There were several big parties, which is always a strain on waitstaff. Our server was gracious as she apologized for shortages or items being unavailable (the bar was out of Patron). We are always understanding of these situations because we know it wasn't her fault. Every one - hosting staff, wait staff, bus staff - were working their fannies off to keep things moving forward. Management should be proud of how well the restaurant was represented by these hard-working people.

The food was delicious. We ordered from their special Valentine’s Day menu and it was a ton of food for a good price.