Heritage Barbecue

"Barbecue is a veritable religion in America, and chefs in this realm have a near cultish way of doing things. With that in mind, consider this SJC bijou, packed to the gills with focused diners and trays of smoky meat.Punctuality is of the essence as everyone is here, early and eager, for Chef/owner Daniel Castillo's food. His creations draw inspiration from central Texas, so when that sweet scent of California white oak gets going, find yourself transported on a riotous journey, starting with slices of glistening brisket—correctly charred and deliciously rich. Add on a side of chili with more brisket along with a cheddar-jalapeño biscuit and never look back again. Don't forget to save room for desserts like banana pudding or pineapple upside down cake." - Michelin Inspector

Overheard at the 2025 James Beard Awards | Eater

"Post-pandemic departures have made finding good people the biggest challenge, though incoming younger workers are showing initiative and offering hope for rebuilding the workforce." - Sam Nelson

The Best Barbecue Restaurants in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"One of the most celebrated barbecue spots in Los Angeles, Heritage, from pitmaster Daniel Castillo, has a true Texas-style barbecue vibe with massive outdoor pits, plentiful outdoor seating, and Austin-style lines of smoked meat-loving fans to boot. Brisket is king here, surrounded by a deliciously dark bark on American black Angus beef. Making some concessions to California tastes, Castillo and company smoke up tri-tip for a more approachable cost. The smoked Duroc pork ribs come with a maple glaze — another dish that West Coast palates might prefer. Don’t sleep on the sausages and smoked turkey, either. Castillo recently opened an upscale diner called Le Hut Dinette in Santa Ana, solidifying the chef as a bona fide mover-and-shaker in the Orange County restaurant scene." - Matthew Kang

A Groovy New Restaurant Called Le Hut Dinette Opens in Santa Ana - Eater LA

"A celebrated Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded barbecue spot in San Juan Capistrano, known for its smoked meats and dedicated following." - Matthew Kang

The Best Barbecue Restaurants in Los Angeles

"One of the most celebrated barbecue spots in Los Angeles, pitmaster Daniel Castillo has a true Texas-style barbecue with massive outdoor pits, plentiful outdoor seating, and Austin-style lines of smoked meat-loving fans to boot. Brisket is king here, just like in Texas, surrounded by a deliciously dark bark on American black Angus beef. Making some concessions to California tastes, Castillo and company smoke up tri-tip for a more approachable cost. The smoked duroc pork ribs come with a maple glaze — another thing that West Coast palates might prefer. Don’t sleep on the sausages and smoked turkey, either. Castillo recently expanded to a beer-and-barbecue spot in Oceanside and also opened an upscale diner called Le Hut Dinette in Santa Ana, solidifying the chef as a bona fide mover-and-shaker in the Orange County/north San Diego County restaurant scene." - Mona Holmes, Matthew Kang