A Local's Guide to the BBQ Capital of California
Welcome to Santa Maria, CA – the ultimate destination for BBQ lovers! When you think of California, you might envision palm trees, beaches, and Hollywood. But did you know that the small town of Santa Maria is referred to as the "BBQ Capital of California"? This title holds true to this day, and it's no wonder why. Here's your ultimate guide to tasting the best BBQ in Santa Maria, from a local's perspective.
The History of Santa Maria Style BBQ
First things first – what exactly is Santa Maria Style BBQ? It's a traditional way of barbecuing beef over an open flame, using red oak wood as the primary source of heat. This style of BBQ originated back in the mid-19th century, where local ranchers would host huge feasts for their vaqueros (cowboys) after long cattle drives. Today, Santa Maria Style BBQ is deeply embedded in the town's culture and continues to be a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike.
The Must-Try BBQ Joints
Now, let's get down to business – where can you find the best BBQ in Santa Maria? You can't go wrong with any of these local favorites:
- The Hitching Post: A family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious BBQ since 1952.
- Shaw's Famous Steakhouse: This local institution has been in operation since 1953 and is known for their mouth-watering tri-tip.
- Far Western Tavern: Established in 1958, this restaurant offers a modern take on Santa Maria Style BBQ with a touch of elegance.
- The Firestone Grill: Located in the heart of downtown Santa Maria, this place is popular for its BBQ ribs and live country music on weekends.
The Secret Sauce
One of the main reasons why Santa Maria Style BBQ is so unique and delicious is the secret sauce. Each restaurant has its own special blend, but the key ingredients include red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic, and tomato ketchup. Be sure to ask your server for a side of sauce to dip your BBQ in – you won't regret it!
Santa Maria BBQ Festival
Did you know that Santa Maria hosts an annual BBQ festival? The Santa Maria BBQ Festival is a two-day event that takes place every September at the Santa Maria Fairpark. This is the perfect opportunity for BBQ lovers to meet and mingle with local BBQ pitmasters, participate in a BBQ cook-off competition, and of course, indulge in some delicious BBQ! The festival also includes live music, craft beer, and a variety of artisan vendors.
Other Things to do in Santa Maria
While Santa Maria is undoubtedly the BBQ capital of California, there's more to this charming town than just delicious BBQ. Here are some other activities and attractions to check out during your visit:
- Wine Tasting: Santa Maria is known for its exceptional wine country, so be sure to visit a few wineries and taste some award-winning wines.
- Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes: Explore the largest coastal dune system in California, home to a variety of plant and animal species.
- Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum: Learn about the town's rich history through interactive exhibits and displays.
- Pismo Beach: Take a short drive to the nearby coastal town of Pismo Beach and spend a day relaxing on the beach or strolling along the pier.
So there you have it – a local's guide to tasting the best BBQ in Santa Maria, CA. We hope this has inspired you to plan a trip to our BBQ haven and experience the mouth-watering flavors for yourself. You won't be disappointed!
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