The 5 Best BBQ Joints Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

“Barbecue may not be the road to world peace, but it’s a start,” wrote Anthony Bourdain. Around North Lake Tahoe and Truckee, that philosophy feels just about right. Barbecue has a way of bringing people together over smoky meats, tangy sauces and sides that somehow always taste better eaten outdoors. As part of the Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee, local favorites have proven that slow-cooked doesn’t mean outdated. These restaurants balance tradition and creativity, one bite at a time.

T’s Mesquite Rotisserie

T’s Mesquite Rotisserie might not advertise itself as a classic BBQ joint, but don’t let that fool you. With its focus on mesquite-fired meats, this Incline Village staple brings serious flavor to the table. The heart of T’s is the rotisserie, where chicken, tri-tip and pork are cooked over real wood flames to achieve that distinct, smoky depth. Family owned and operated since 1989, T’s is known for fast, no-frills service, generous portions and food that speaks for itself. Their burritos, tacos and platters serve as vehicles for those perfectly charred proteins, all finished with fresh salsas and homemade sauces. It’s BBQ by way of the Sierra, with a Southwest twist and no shortage of loyal locals lining up at lunchtime.

Smokey’s Kitchen

Smokey’s Kitchen has barbecue in its bones. Founded by a pair of professional firefighters, this Truckee restaurant has been serving up hearty, wood-fired comfort food since 2005. The menu reads like a tribute to backyard BBQs and Southern smokehouses, with pulled pork, ribs, brisket and tri-tip all given their due. Everything is smoked in-house, low and slow, using seasoned hardwoods that impart deep flavor without overpowering the meat. Beyond the BBQ, Smokey’s also doubles as a community gathering place — hosting fundraisers, catering local events and opening early for breakfast. It’s the kind of spot where locals refuel after a morning on the slopes, and families can count on a satisfying, unpretentious meal.

Bridgetender

Bridgetender may be best known for its burgers and Tahoe City bar crowd, but its BBQ game deserves a closer look. Established in 1977, this laid-back watering hole has become a local institution, and its outdoor grill draws a crowd all summer long. While the menu spans American pub favorites, Bridgetender’s smoked and grilled meats deliver the kind of comfort that sticks. Whether it’s a slow-roasted pulled pork sandwich or a smoky tri-tip special, the flavors are straightforward and satisfying. The setting doesn’t hurt either — picnic tables, a sunny deck and the steady sound of the Truckee River nearby. It's not barbecue with pageantry. It’s just done well, served hot and eaten with one hand while holding a beer in the other.

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