Slow Hand BBQ

Barbecue restaurant · Pleasant Hill

Slow Hand BBQ

Barbecue restaurant · Pleasant Hill

3

1941 Oak Park Blvd Suite #5, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

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Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by Slow Hand BBQ
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null
Slow Hand BBQ by null

Highlights

Smoked ribs, brisket, tri-tip, chicken, pulled pork & beer  

Featured in Eater
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1941 Oak Park Blvd Suite #5, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Get directions

slowhandbbq.com
@slowhandbbq_mtz

$20–30 · Menu

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1941 Oak Park Blvd Suite #5, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Get directions

+1 925 942 0149
slowhandbbq.com
@slowhandbbq_mtz
𝕏
@slowhandbbq

$20–30 · Menu

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Last updated

Sep 8, 2025

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@eater

The Best Barbecue in the Bay Area, Summer 2024 | Eater SF

"Located in a Pleasant Hill strip mall, Slow Hand does a solid job with the usual lineup of ribs and brisket, but it also gives corned beef a turn in the smoker, and the tender, intensely flavorful smoked chicken is a particularly nice surprise. It’s all cooked over California white oak, using no gas or electric heating elements." - Eater Staff

https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-barbecue-san-francisco-oakland-bay-area-restaurants
View Postcard for Slow Hand BBQ
@eater

A Meat Lover’s Guide to the Best Barbecue Joints in the Bay Area

"Located in a Pleasant Hill strip mall, Slow Hand does a solid job with the usual lineup of ribs and brisket, but it also gives corned beef a turn in the smoker, and the tender, intensely flavorful smoked chicken is a particularly nice surprise. It’s all cooked over California white oak, using no gas or electric heating elements." - Lauren Saria, Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff

https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-barbecue-sf-bay-area-takeout-delivery-san-francisco-oakland
View Postcard for Slow Hand BBQ
@eater

East Bay Restaurants Open for Takeout and Delivery During the Coronavirus Shutdown - Eater SF

"The Pleasant Hill barbecue spot is open for takeout and is also selling cans and bottles of beer, cider, and wine. 925-942-0149" - Luke Tsai

https://sf.eater.com/2020/3/19/21185822/east-bay-restaurants-takeout-delivery-coronavirus
View Postcard for Slow Hand BBQ

Susan Duce

Google
🔥 5 Stars! Absolutely loved this spot! The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, the ribs had a perfect smoky bark, and the tri tip was on point. You can tell they put real care into every plate. Super friendly staff, fast service, and chill atmosphere. This is exactly the kind of local gem you want to keep coming back to. Can’t wait for the next round!

Corey Strock

Google
Literally the best Reuben Sandwich I have had in years. Fantastic, you can check my reviews, I get Reuben's everywhere and this one was off the chain. Sweet Potato Tots were well fried and I'm pretty sure house made as well. Wife liked the ribs, friends loved their dishes as well. Beer menu was solid w/ some nice semi local options. Service was fantastic, everyone was super friendly. And, believe it or not, the price was not insane, it was super reasonable for BBQ.

Arnold Lira

Google
Really good food and good atmosphere. I lived in Oklahoma for a few years, I've had some good brisket before, I can say the brisket here ranks up there. Portion size of the meats are decent, but the quality of the meat and the portion sizes of the sides more than make up for it. Mac and cheese is the best. The chopped pork is good but wasn't my favorite, a bit too much vinegar.

Tamara Douglas

Google
I hadn't visited Slow Hand BBQ in over four years, but I'm pleased to report that the food remains exceptional. I travel from Richmond specifically to indulge in top-quality barbecue. My preferred meal consists of St. Louis Spare Ribs, picnic potato salad, BBQ baked beans, and rolls.

Jarrett Cheak

Google
Eat here! Fantastic brisket and pork ribs! Was going to local bbq places in concord walnut creek area and slow hand blows them all out of the water no problem!

James Ellsworth

Google
Got the smoked Ruben sandwich and sweet potato tots - unsusal but very tasty. I’ve never heard of smoked corned beef but it was good. Only down side is Pepsi at the fountain drinks and the spicy BBQ sauce was missing the “spicy” part. Super friendly staff.

Pak Ko

Google
Best place in the area for BBQ hands down. We had the brisket and the ribs and both were very tender and juicy. Meat fell off the bone so easily for the ribs! The Mac and cheese was nice and creamy. Fries were crispy. Must try!

Richard P

Google
I usually get the brisket sandwich which is fantastic. This time we tried the burger and the brisket Philly. Both are incredibly delicious! Also, SO happy the sweet potato tots are back. Mac&cheese is yum too! Great people, chill atmosphere, tasty beer selection. Highly recommend.
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Tia R.

Yelp
Every time I go to Slow hand BBQ I am delighted with the food , the atmosphere , the kindness and professionalism of staff and the visible care put in to each order. Delighting my palate is so easy for Slow Hand , it's what they do !! Every time I leave , I cannot wait to go back !
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Scott A.

Yelp
This place is old school and as good as ever. Grab a menu and when you're ready order at the counter. Everything is fresh and delicious. I can't pick a favorite because everybody really is that good. My favorite sides are the beans and the Mac and cheese. I come for brisket and short ribs but I love the chicken and pork too. And the Tri tip. And the links. They have two large screen TV's to watch the sports or go sit outside when the weather is nice. Great selection of beers on tap as well! I love Slow Hands!
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gary l.

Yelp
There's lots of mediocre bbq in the bay area. Slowhand's brisket texture and flavor get a high rating. The smoked corned beef is wonderful too. My girlfriend and another friend are nuts about the "cheesesteak" brisket sandwich. Friendly, helpful service. Nice ambiance. I'm originally from Texas so I have been to the "top of the mountain" at Franklin's in Austin. This is my East Bay go-to bbq restaurant. It's got the right mojo.
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Cliff S.

Yelp
Ominous spot and very well hidden! They have live music and a small outdoor area, which is almost like every BBQ joint I've seen in Texas lol. But on to the food. My buddies and I ordered the whole package. Mac & cheese, brisket, ribs, backed potato tater tots. Oh and brisket nachos. I have to say, with me starting to getting into smoked meats, I've cooked plenty of brisket before and this one was really good. The baked potato was great and the mac and cheese was good. I have to say the ribs were not to my liking, they were a bit dry and cold.
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Alice A.

Yelp
Food was juicy and well-seasoned! Served fast. Also they have one of the best bathrooms I've ever been to. Nice and clean! I'd love to go back again!

judi H.

Yelp
One of the best BBQ places in the entire Bay Area. Great value, tasty food, exceptional customer service and I like the outside patio. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but can't win them all I live in Oakland and was teaching a class at the Pleasant Hill library and the librarian recommended this place. As you can see from my empty plate (which I wanted to lick) I loved it. My associate was with me and she had the same experience - even the sides were tasty. We both said that we would definitely come back, even though it is a bit of a drive for us - but totally worth it.
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Brian T.

Yelp
Decently sized restaurant with a good atmosphere. They have a bar counter, regular seats inside, and outdoor seating with a heater. Service was good, ordered in the front counter and picked a seat. I got the brisket Philly which was warm and gooey with nice caramelized onions. The brisket was soft and tender. The sandwich was on the smaller side but tastes great. The regular BBQ was Smokey sweet but a bit too sweet for me. The spicy a BBQ has a good kick.
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Nicole C.

Yelp
Very average BBQ, huge disappointment especially for the cost, Mac and cheese sub par and a bit sour, tri tip well done after I specifically asked how it was cooked. The ribs were good I'll give them that and the service was ok to a point. Definite avoid for me. I was refunded for the tri tip after a bit of haggling, which shouldn't happen, after I specifically ASKED her how they were cooked. Nothing about the tri tip was medium, it was dry as the Mojave desert. Also the sauces on the table were not great nor seemed fresh. Too bad because it's a cozy cute restaurant.
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Thomas U.

Yelp
This is a good solid local barbecue joint. It's a little out of the way and parking is a bit of a challenge but the food is excellent. The ribs, both St Louis style and baby back, were excellent. The brisket was just a touch dry but we were there late in the day. The sides that we selected were potato salad, which was the traditional style, beans, standard camp style, and coleslaw, which was unique and very good. I really liked all of them. The service was the standard order at the counter and they bring it out. It was fast and friendly. The place is a bit of a dive but it's clean and still retains the Covid parking lot tables that are getting plenty of use. One note about this place, they had live music and it was so loud that it was problematic. You couldn't hold a dinner conversation inside so we had to sit outside. I will return again.
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Robin W.

Yelp
Oh, Lordy! The smoked prime rib at Slow Hand BBQ on Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, was phenomenal! The generous portion had the perfect smoky flavor and seasoning. It's served with a loaded baked potato. The prime rib dinner is a Friday night special at their Pleasant Hill and Martinez locations. I recommend getting there early; I know it's a popular special. They also have indoor and outdoor dining and live music at both locations. If you don't feel like a big dinner, the brisket nachos are another favorite of mine! They have a great group of young people who work there; they're always super friendly!

Joseph W.

Yelp
SHB has reputation for good BBQ products, and my family has generally had good results. My 7/19/25 order #5B86292F for 4 pounds of brisket was highly disappointing, especially when we got it to serve multiple guests. While flavor was good, I expressly requested (by phone with order taker, immediately subsequent to online submission where I found no place to designate) all lean meat. But what we got was larded with substantial fat; I gauge at least 20-25% was fat. As we live 5 miles from SHB, I was not going to return; nor will I take back now the remainder. But, see the picture showing chilled meat,, revealing substantial fat. It is wrong to charge $30 per pound for this. If non-lean meat has even more fat, this is gross!
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Dexter D.

Yelp
We were on our way to a concert in Napa and still hadn't figured out where we were going to get food from. If we arrived early, we could get a better parking space. If we didn't, who knows what we'd end up with. We figured that it would be best to arrive early, with food, and eat in the car. When we came through Lafayette, I asked if she would be happy with BBQ and she said yes. I suggested that she order from Slow Hand through yelp. The process is straight forward. We ordered and paid while on the road. Our order was ready when we arrived. As soon as the bag came into the car, the aromas wafted throughout. It was a challenge to keep from digging in while driving. We found the venue pretty quickly and parking was relatively easy. Then we proceeded to feast. We got: St. Louis Ribs - 4 - super moist and tender. Maybe just a tad salty for my taste but I didn't bother with the containers of sauce, they weren't needed. Macaroni & Cheese - 3 - Last we got them, they were made with shells; this time fusilli. Had I read my last review before we ordered, I would not have ordered them this time. Picnic Potato Salad - 2 - Something has changed. The potatoes were undercooked and there appeared to be too much mustard. This potato salad was not enjoyable. Hot Link - 4 - I did not indulge. She said at first that it wasn't too spicy. She later said that it had a heat that snuck up on you. We've eaten here and ordered to go. The Pork Ribs are relatively consistent. Other items have been hit and miss for us. We're considering returning only for the Pork Ribs to supplement dishes from other establishments in the future.
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John D.

Yelp
That Thing You Q Locally-owned BBQ spot that saw its humble origins begin back in 2010 at the Brentwood Farmers Market before finally realizing their dream and opening their first brick-and-mortar here in Pleasant Hill back in 2012. Their sister Martinez location came to life in 2018, fwiw. The Good: *They Q things up the right way with brick pits and 100% hardwood smoked meats using White Oak. *Great selection of local beers and ciders on-tap *Service from the young lady running the FOH was great. *Dog-friendly outdoor dining *BBQ Beans and Coleslaw were both terrific, and the latter met with the approval of the Coleslaw Queen. The beans were meaty, smokey, and cooked perfectly. *Sweet Potato Tots were homemade and fantastic. Crispy, with a soft center and great sweet potato flavor. *Smoked Corned Beef Brisket is phenomenal! Smokey, salty, and that great corned beef flavor in a juicy, meaty slab. I couldn't resist trying this even tho we were already ordering the regular brisket, as well, but I'm so glad we did. *Ribs were cooked perfectly so that they weren't completely fall-off-the-bone but had some good texture, nice amount of smoke, and a great flavor from the rub. *Private lot and street parking The Meh: *Wasn't a fan of the German Potato Salad, as it just didn't stand up to the flavor of the other sides we tried. The Ugly: *Brisket was a bit disappointing, as it was very dry and not juicy at all, which is a shame because the smoke and rub were great. Conclusion: Fantastic *real* American BBQ that's worth a stop. Highly recommended.
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Ben L.

Yelp
Visiting in town and ordered the hungry eyes combo that came with 3 meats & 3 sides. Bbq was very average and nothing really stood out but it was still good. The brisket was fatty & moist but the bark was non existent. Tri tip was a little dry but still juicy which was a little strange, flavor was good. The spare ribs had really big bones and I felt a little ripped off but the taste was good. The Cole slaw is vinegar based, I enjoyed this the most out of the 3. Beans and potato salad were pretty basic and could have been from the grocery store. Overall decent place but don't expect anything mind blowing.
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Tabitha M.

Yelp
So so good! I had the brisket sandwich and my husband had the tri-tip sandwich. Both were amazing, perfect amount of smoke. We both preferred the spicier bbq sauce. Also had the bacon wrapped jalapeños and they were delicious. Can't wait to eat here again!
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Mydalya C.

Yelp
I absolutely enjoyed Slow Hand! Only in town for a week for work and we came in for a team dinner. They accommodated us with open arms! I kinda love the ordering style of order and pay at the counter and then they brought the food out to your table. Very friendly service! The food was so good and the portions were big. Nothing fancy, but everything was comfy and casual about this place! Love the old school advertising decor hanging throughout the restaurant.
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Kate C.

Yelp
My husband wanted a corned beef sandwich, but the waitress also recommended the Pit Burger. We're so glad he took her advice! That burger was a flavor explosion with the onion sauce, bacon, and cheese. I'll definitely be craving it again. Our ratings: Pit Burger: 5/5 Smoked Corn Beef Reuben: 1/5 (way too salty) Service was (5/5) Giving them a solid 4 star rating. Overall, we definitely recommend this place! Go get yourself a Pit Burger!
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Francis C.

Yelp
Baby back ribs were excellent. Great smoky flavor, not overcooked and tender. I had this on takeout. Well prepared, tasted great.
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Bob U.

Yelp
I was looking for a new place to try around Lafayette and picked this place. I'm glad I did! I had a brisket sandwich and cole slaw. As mentioned in other reviews, it's a vinegar-based slaw and may not be to everyone's liking. I enjoyed it, the crisp bitterness helps balance out the richness of the BBQ. I sat at the bar and everyone working there was super friendly and seemed happy to be there. I will definitely be back, and am willing to make a trip here even if I'm not staying in the area!
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Corey W.

Yelp
Having moved to Pleasant Hill from San Ramon we have been exploring the restaurant options here and have been very happy with findings. That was until I tried Slow Hand BBQ. My wife was out of town and I have been looking for a good BBQ joint since I moved from the mid west. Welp I am still looking. The brisket was salty and dry. The loaded baked potato was big, but it was just a potato and a little over cooked. The sauce also was just ok. So, I am still looking.
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Jessica A.

Yelp
Great service, amazing food!! Always come through with amazing Brisket!! Ordering is always easy, and they're super efficient and ready when we get there!!
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Gwendolyn M.

Yelp
I got the brisket nachos. They were the worst nachos I've ever had. The cheese does not taste like cheese, it taste like powder mixed with water that coagulated. Theres a green sauce with no flavor. The brisket was so bland and grey and I bit into a bone.... The chips def came from a bag. I got the small and it was $15... Anyways great service from staff! Really personable and nice! 5 stars for the staff!! Aprox an hour after eating this I got violently ill with food poisoning. I am now regretting every choice I made today, especially getting this food.
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Lynnelle E.

Yelp
I've been going to this place for a few years now.   For a BBQ spot, this is very spacious on the inside and well decorated with cow hide and longhorns. There is so much to look at.  It has such a good and welcoming vibe.      Restrooms are superclean, and I was surprised that they have a changing table and provide disposable changing pads for the babies. They also provide tampons and pads for women.  I was a little surprised and amazed that they provided these.  There are not a lot of places that you can go to nowadays that even provide any of these.      We have tried a few items here, and I highly recommend: 1.  Brisket nachos - The chips are fresh, and it's just a cheesy brisket goodness. Don't mind the messiness.  2.  Beef rib - Only available on Sundays.  It's reasonably affordable and comes with a side.  Good enough for 2 people.  I only recommend getting there early for it because it does sell out 3.  Corn beef special - this was only for St. Patty's Day. I have never had a corn beef brisket before, but man, I've been missing out.  It was well seasoned, tender,  and so flavorful. 4.  Loaded baked potato - this is one of the best I've ever had. It's a good-sized potato. 5.  Bacon wrapped jalapeno - a good appetizer to start with. They do not skimp on the bacon, and it packs a little heat to get you going. 6.  Key lime pie  - if you like key lime, this has a good tartness with a small hint of sweetness.  I especially love the crust. 7.  Maple bacon cake was different but reminded me of the maple bacon donuts you can buy. I didn't really care for the mac n cheese and the ribs. I was a little disappointed that the rib didn't fall off the bone. It was a little tough. Service was above and beyond, and you can't go wrong with the complimentary fountain soda.
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Brad N.

Yelp
Ordered 2 racks of st louis ribs and honestly felt there was a significant lack of smoke flavor - some was there but not really a hit of that "BBQ" feel - bummer. The dry rub seasoning was fine/good but with a lack of smoke (and smoke ring for visual cue) it tasted kind of like baked ribs. I appreciate the sauces on the side so you have a choice. I'm not a huge fan of the dark sweet molasses-y sauce (their regular?) but did enjoy a bit more of the redder "spicy" BBQ sauce; don't worry it's not really spicy. Unfortunate I didn't have an experience that matches the other reviews.
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Bambi F.

Yelp
Heard reviews that it was a family owned business. And true to that, you feel that you are part of the family when you eat here. Every once in a while they come and check on you. It's like a hole in a wall except it's located at a corner street in Martinez. Service was great!
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KR S.

Yelp
Great food and the service was amazing!!! Thank you for making fathers day amazing!!!!! We ordered about everything on the menu and it was all amazing like usual!
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Anna W.

Yelp
I really want to like this place but I gotta give feedback. The ribs are dry and tough. The hot links are so hot as to be almost inedible. The Mac is actually the best thing here and it's still only ok. When you're paying so much for bbq you want it to be good and last time we had it I was too disappointed to want to come back. Hoping they can work on those ribs! Would like this to be a go to neighborhood option but it's not.

Faith Y.

Yelp
We almost always buy bbq at back forty, but was disappointed to see they changed their menu and eliminated rib round up and some other choices we always get. Decided to try slow hand bbq and we were more than satisfied. Ribs great, sauce supreme, chicken(only my sons is better than theirs) Brisket was a little fatty but taste was good. Potato salad tasted homemade and beans were really tasty. Amount more than feed 8 people. I think back forty lost loyal customers. Too bad so sad
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Rob M.

Yelp
I seem to feel the same as many of the recent reviews. I think they used to be better, but the last couple of times I went the meat was on the dry side and lacked flavor. We took some friends there last year and I was disappointed. I know there's nothing they can really do about it, but it's also annoying when people are waiting for a table outside that people who have clearly finished eating continue to linger despite multiple people hovering nearby. "People... they're the worst." I wonder if their Martinez location is the same. Since my sister lives in Martinez now, maybe I'll give it a try.
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Maian T.

Yelp
I'm gonna say this loud, proud, and with my chest: THE SMOKED CORNED BEEF RUBEN IS MY FAVORITE SANDWICH IN THE EAST BAY. Sandwich supremacy is not to be trifled with. I am a sandwich GIRLIE. I take them SERIOUSLY. The confluence of perfectly tender smoked meat, melted swiss, homemade sauerkraut, strong mustard, and marbled rye?!?? Eaten after a long hike around Las Trampas?!!(*@ It's enough to make a sandwich girlie levitate. I have like 12 pictures of this sandwich across 3 phones but I've only included the most recent. TBH I've had a bbq plate from here before and it was p good, but this sandwich is where it's at.
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Molly R.

Yelp
I went to Slow Hand between 3 and 4PM to beat the dinner rush. The server was friendly and knowledgeable. I got my baby back ribs quickly and tried them with the hot and sweet barbecue sauces. They also provide accoutrements for making sandwiches with the rib meat. I thought the ribs were quite good! The meat fell off the bone and there was definitely enough food for my money's worth. The spice rub had a garlicky aftertaste, so it might not be a good idea if you have reflux. The place has a family-friendly sports bar-ish sort of vibe. They have a nice outdoor patio area, which is suitable for dogs. The bathrooms are VERY clean with all possible amenities provided, plus some funny signs. It's a good place to stop by if you're in the area (and hungry).
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Audrey F.

Yelp
The food itself was average, had little flavor and the portions were quite small. We ordered the meal for 2 and in no way did it include enough food for two people to have an entire meal. It was definitely more of a snack and not worth $40 especially considering it had very little flavor. The mac and cheese had a good flavor but a very watery consistency, and the meat all just tasted like salt and nothing else. The one bright spot was the staff. Her name was Adriana and she was welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and lovely. Give that girl a raise especially if you're overcharging for subpar food.
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Billy M.

Yelp
Just had the slow hand turkey for Thanksgiving. Everyone loved it!!! Smoke flavor all the way through. Just delicious. It's been requested for next time. Maybe smoked Prime Rib next year as well???
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Ashley A.

Yelp
We recently ordered catering for my daughters rodeo themed first birthday party and the food was such a hit! Everyone loved it!! We had so many people tell us how great the food is and wanted to know where it was from. We ordered food for 30 but there was plenty for everyone to go back for a second plate, and some even went for a third! My baby loved chewing on her St. Luis rib way more than the cake I made her. I would definitely ordered from Slow Hand again! Thanks Slow Hand team, for helping to make my daughter's birthday a huge success!

Iesha A.

Yelp
This place is called Slow Hand Bbq but it needs to be called No Hands Bbq because they were clearly cooking with their feet .. I ordered on Uber Eats thinking this would be a great place to eat since it looked good on TikTok.. Not the case at all. The meat quantity was trash. The brisket was mostly fat and didn't have a very good taste. The beans looked like they were cooked sloppy Joe style.. I'm not even sure what kind of sauce was made for them and there was way more sauce than there were beans.. so overall I give them no stars. Won't be going back and I wouldn't recommend to anyone. Disclaimer I am pregnant so maybe it was my tastebuds, but my husband who's also a foodie said "he was thinking about where to eat next"
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Gerald R.

Yelp
LABOR DAY WEEKEND BBQ Summer technically ends on September 21. However regarding vacations summer for most of us ends after Labor Day. While enjoying the last few days of summer vacation I came to Slow Hand BBQ the night before Labor Day. When I go to BBQ joints there has to be an item that has to be special or "jumps out of the menu". One of the items I noticed was the smoked corned beef. That was one reason why I went to Slow Hand BBQ. The other reason is the beef rib, which is only served on Sundays. My initial plan was to get a pound of smoked corned beef and a beef rib. As my birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks I thought about ordering from the catering menu. At the last minute I ordered a 1/2-pound beef brisket, 1/2-pound smoked corned beef, and a beef rib plate that includes a side order, which I choose coleslaw. Instead of eating inside I decided to eat outside where there were wooden picnic tables. Several minutes later the BBQ tray arrived of all the items I ordered. I glanced over the items then proceeded to devour. The beef brisket was moist and flavorful. The beef rib was juicy and rich. The best item I ordered was the smoked corned beef. I love corned beef at restaurants yet never had smoked corned beef. The corned beef at Slow Hand BBQ was succulent as the fat melted inside the meat. I am not going to say that this was the best corned beef I ever ate at an eatery, but it was the best item I ate that night. The combination eating the beef brisket and corned beef eventually made me too full to finish the beef rib. I like how pickles and raw onions were served. They act as a compliment texture to the fatty meats. The rolls were soft. The coleslaw was a major disappointment. I love coleslaw with mayonnaise as that is my preference. I understand there is no mayonnaise with the coleslaw served at Slow Hand BBQ but there is vinegar, which besides cabbage is the main component for coleslaw. The more I ate the coleslaw at Slow Hand BBQ there was aftertaste. That might have to do with the bell peppers. I like bell peppers, but not in my coleslaw. Other than the coleslaw I really enjoyed my meal at Slow Hand BBQ. I plan to come back again. My "go to" item will still be the smoked corned beef. I will try new items such as the St. Louis Ribs, hot links, and chopped pork, which sounds really intriguing.
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Notorious M.

Yelp
Parking is very limited, but there's street parking. This place has a sports bar feel. We walked in and there was a group of people watching a football game, kids running around playing with the chairs. It's an order-at-the-counter and seat yourself sort of place. We got the combo which was $35, good enough to fill to people as the 2 sides were generous portions, but the portions of meat were meager. Meat was tender, BBQ sauce was a bit too sweet, but the spicy BBQ sauce was just right.

Nick S.

Yelp
My experience here was during March right after St. Patrick's day. I ordered the brisket, cornbeef, BBQ beans, and Mac n cheese. The Mac n cheese was good and cheesey. The Brisket was dry but full of flavor. The BBQ beans were undercooked. But the reason I will continue to go back is the SMOKED CORNBEEF!! This is a STAR! I highly recommend it.
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Max K.

Yelp
I offer my opinion on Slow Hand as follows: *their BBQ may be some of the best in NorCal. I've tried E&J, All the Smoke, Sauced, etc...Slow Hand is OOM way better. * the ambiance is terrific * it's a sleeper local place. But the owners clearly are passionate about BBQ * I've eaten at all the premier places in Austin. Slow Hand rivals these. Go. Enjoy. Take your time...it's Slow Hand.
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David G.

Yelp
The 30-minute drive was well worth it. The experience started with a super-friendly and helpful guy at the register, and was capped off with a dinner for three consisting of brisket, which was juicy, tender, and delicious. The dinner also included both baby back ribs and St. Louis-style ribs, both of which were falling-off-the-bone tender and flavorful. There wasn't much for my vegetarian wife, but a cob salad (bacon on the side) and the vinegar-based coleslaw were perfect.
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Glenn L.

Yelp
I was not sure if we over- or under-ordered but the combo for 2 was just right for us. We had the brisket and the baby back ribs, with the cole slaw and beans. We had a fairly thick slice of brisket, which was amazingly tender. The baby back ribs were also very tender. The cole slaw and beans were okay, but sides were always just okay here. I would love to see something like collard greens or corn bread, but the meats here are just awesome.
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Lorraine G.

Yelp
Had the loaded baked potato and I forgot to take a photo! It was all that a loaded potatoes should be! Full of yummy brisket and toppings of cheese and sour cream and chives! Amazing! I ordered to go and the person who took my order and gave it to me when I picked up was super sweet! I came in right when they opened for lunch so no crowd yet! Very cozy place!
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Christopher R.

Yelp
I came here for lunch one afternoon to slow hand bbq. When I came in I was seated immediately. The waitress was very friendly and very polite. I ordered the 2 meat combo with salad and sweet potato tots. The two meats I had were chicken and ribs. The ribs and chicken were smoked to perfection and the sauce was nice addition to the meat. The sweet potato tots were very tasty and very flavorful. The ambiance is very customer friendly and has a lot of parking. This is a great place to come get some good bbq.
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Robert C.

Yelp
We've never had a chance to visit this place. Only heard good things about them. We came in at 5:30 on a Saturday evening and it was busy but not packed. We received a friendly greeting at the counter. Place smelled great btw. We ordered the two meat platter with fries and potato salad. I got their version of a McRib with Cole slaw, a Cobb salad with chicken, loaded baked potato, and the brisket nachos. Food was really good; moist, not too Smoky, and good portions. The slaw was a tangy version with an Asian taste, potato salad was not too creamy. Fries were nice and crispy. All the meat was tasty. They had live music which went well with the vibe. Service was friendly. We'll be back-
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Marlon T.

Yelp
I've lived in Pleasant Hill most of my life and have driven past this joint many times. I finally tried it recently for takeout. I went with the brisket and baby back ribs. The BBQ was not bad but not the best I've ever had. The thing I liked the most was the tater tots! They were fried to perfection and it came with the sour cream sauce that tasted amazing. If I come back, it'd be to dine in with a beer since they have a great selection.

Sammy M.

Yelp
Nice place. Clean. Food very good - big ribs, tasty coleslaw, sweet tater tots vg. Only thing I didn't like was their molasses tasting BBq sauce. Will bring my own. Marcus was very nice, so was the nice young woman at the bar and checkout. My friend had a gigantic brisket sandwich. Loved it. We will be back again very soon.
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Christy R.

Yelp
Food is really good. We took the risk though we saw the low star reviews and Slowhand did not disappoint. Must try! Especially on Sundays. Place is clean especially the toilet. Staff are friendly and fast service. We will come back. We are 45mins away but all worth it!
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Mark G.

Yelp
The best meats and even better service and atmosphere. Love the wings, ribs, tri-tip sandwich, corn beef.

Dax C.

Yelp
**Catering Review** This is my second time doing a large catering order for work (approximately for 100 people). I will try to break it down. First of all the online ordering is user friendly and straight forward. Both times I sent a catering inquiry online to ask a few questions about picking up the food before their opening time and received an immediate response. Both times they accommodated the earlier time (1030 vs 1100). Pick-up was a breeze. Everything was ready to go and they double checked with me there, the food, condiments, and everything in between. They do not skimp on plates, napkins, or BBQ sauce. I have done a lot of catering over the years, especially BBQ, and the concern is will you have enough food. With Slowhand, there is no concern, my team loaded up and many went back for seconds. The food itself was great both times. I work in the 510, so many were unfamiliar with Slow Hand. Not anymore, they all know Slowhand well and prefer over the other BBQ spots we have frequented over the years. Brisket, ribs, and chicken have been the go to meats, and all were extremely moist and well seasoned, with good level of smoke flavoring. The Mac b Cheese is a crow favorite and the potato salad is not far behind. We round out the order with BBQ beans, and they include a generous amount of Hawaiian roles. Overall, catering with Slow Hand is a great experience. Dan, Maureen, and Maddie run a great family operation, and I will not hesitate to use them again for any future events.