Highly Opinionated: An Eater Editor’s Favorite Barbecue in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"In San Juan Capistrano, Daniel Castillo’s sprawling smokehouse channels Austin vibes with outdoor seating along a skinny lot, steel smokers perfuming the morning air, and a line that forms for hours as the mission’s church bells ring at 11 a.m. The menu runs nearly 19 items and ranges far beyond Texas norms—whole smoked chicken, maple-glazed pork ribs, tri-tip, and specials like char siu pork belly, whole beef ribs, and a burger—yet across the board the meats are deeply smoky, highly peppered, and well-seasoned. Close my eyes and the brisket is as luscious as the best in Texas; the beef rib doesn’t reach the heights of Black’s Barbecue, but it’s still terrific, and the herb-heavy chicken is a welcome option for non–red-meat eaters. Sides are just as thoughtful, from grandmother-pleasing Korean-style chile pickles and dense, salty spiral mac and cheese to hearty beans, queso with crisp tortilla chips, and a bright peach and cherry tomato salad. Castillo and team go above and beyond to craft a meal brimming with excellence, and given his 2025 James Beard Award finalist nod for Best Chef: California, I definitely think Heritage should join the four Michelin-starred barbecue spots in Texas." - Matthew Kang