Breakwater Barbecue

"This laidback BBQ spot is famous for all of the right reasons. Their brisket burger tastes like the smoky gourmet cousin of a certain fast-food burger that rhymes with “pig snack,” and their burnt ends in red sauce go beautifully with the cucumbers, carrots, cilantro, and pickled chilies in the bánh mì. If you’re extra hungry or can’t commit, go for a platter with a selection of meats and updated versions of classic sides like refreshing apple-cilantro slaw and poblano-laced mac and cheese. Double check your calendar before you get too excited, though. They’re only open Thursday through Sunday." - Gabi Moskowitz

"This El Granada barbecue joint, which opened during the pandemic, specializes in just a few barbecued meats and side dishes, with weekend additions such as smoked chicken legs or turkey, and beef ribs on first and third Sundays. Enjoy sandwiches on thick-cut sourdough or soft buns, or tender, smoky brisket on the yellow outdoor patio picnic tables." - Dianne de Guzman, Momo Chang

"If the idea of a barbecue by the beach speaks to you, then this Michelin-listed spot may be the best place to find just that. Located in El Granada near Half Moon Bay, this barbecue joint offers a tight selection of four meats: brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and links. They can be best sampled via one of the restaurant’s shareable platters, which serve two or three adults. Don’t skip the unexpectedly tart spicy carrot sauce." - Eater Staff

"Northern California native Wyatt Fields opened Breakwater Barbecue in his seaside hometown just outside Half Moon Bay in 2020. Three years later, the restaurant has become nationally known for its menu of Texas-style barbecue including slow-smoked brisket with onyx-colored bark and snappy house-made sausages. In 2023, the restaurant earned a nod in the Michelin Guide, which praised dishes including the smoky-spicy chili and sides of potato salad and beans. For a non-barbecue option, try the burger, which sports a “semi-smashed” patty of ground brisket." - Cathy Park

"Just about ten minutes north of Half Moon Bay in the charming seaside town of El Granada, Breakwater Barbecue is an all-American spot tucked at the base of a blue shingled house. Walk in and you may be greeted by the butcher slicing and prepping slabs of meat. This is the kind of place where you'll want to grab a beer immediately upon entering before tucking into the likes of chili made with house-ground brisket, smoked short rib and house-made sausage. Braised in smoked pork stock with roasted poblano, smoked tomato and garlic, it's packed with smoky, spicy flavors and best sided with a slice of corn bread. But wait, there's more, specifically the Texas Trinity. It's an impressive heap of brisket, ribs and links, plus two sides (Merle's potato salad and beans and greens are good choices) and bread. Come hungry." - Michelin Inspector