The Ultimate Guide to Palm Springs BBQ

Palm Springs may be known for its mid-century modern architecture and poolside cocktails, but the desert oasis is also home to some seriously impressive barbecue joints. Whether you're looking for Texas-style brisket, Carolina pulled pork, or innovative dessert-inspired BBQ fusions, Palm Springs has something to satisfy every meat lover's cravings. Here's our roundup of the best BBQ spots that deserve a place on your Palm Springs itinerary. Note: barbecue joints go up in smoke quickly, so please confirm that the restaurant is still in business before heading over to one.

1. Pappy & Harriet's

Location: 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown (30-minute scenic drive from Palm Springs)

Specialty: Mesquite-grilled ribs and Texas-style brisket

Website: https://pappyandharriets.com/home/

While technically in nearby Pioneertown, no BBQ roundup would be complete without mentioning this legendary desert institution. Set in an Old West movie set town, Pappy & Harriet's combines authentic mesquite barbecue with live music in a setting that feels straight out of a Western film.

Their ribs fall off the bone, and the brisket, smoked for 12 hours or more, offers that perfect bark and pink smoke ring that BBQ aficionados crave. The trip from Palm Springs is worth it, not just for the food but for the entire experience, including potential celebrity sightings, as it's a favorite among musicians performing at nearby music festivals.

1. Babe's Smokehouse and Tavern

Location: 49870 Jefferson St Ste 100 Indio, CA 92202

Specialty: Championship baby back ribs, chicken tamales, corn bread, BBQ jackfruit

Website: https://www.babestavern.com/

Founded by legendary restaurateur Don Callender, of Marie Callender's fame, Babe's has won numerous awards for its slow-smoked ribs and craft beers. Their St. Louis and baby back ribs have earned them a devoted following, featuring meat that's tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.

This restaurant is a new iteration of the old Babes: a little more modern, more options (salad, anyone?), and pasta in addition to excellent short ribs.

1. Dickey's Barbecue Pit

Location: 5200 E Ramon Rd, Palm Springs

Specialty: Texas-style brisket and homestyle sides

Website: https://www.dickeys.com/locations/california/palm-springs/palm-springs

This Texas-based chain brings authentic Lone Star State BBQ to the desert. Dickey's slow-smokes their meats on-site daily, ensuring that perfect combination of tender beef and smoky flavor. Their brisket, smoked for 14 hours, is a standout with its distinctive peppery bark.

For the indecisive diner, Dickey's offers combo plates that let you sample multiple meats. Don't skip their sides – the waffle iron fries and mac and cheese complement the smoky meats perfectly.

1. Brown's BBQ and Soul Food

Location: 410 W San Rafael Dr, Palm Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92262-1654

Specialty: Soul food including collard greens, catfish, and mac and cheese

Order: https://www.yelp.com/order/v2/cart/fe9574b2f7883e42447fc670224f1081

1. Bubba’s Bones & Brews

Location:

Specialty: customer favorites are Bubba’s own IPA beer battered fish and chips, Mac & Cheese Egg Rolls, Mac Daddy Burger, and  Korean Ribs

Happy hour is daily from 3-6 pm. Known for its fall-off-the-bone pork and great sides, including onion rings and mac and cheese.

Website: https://bubbasbonesandbrews.com/

BBQ Tips for Desert Visitors

1. Beat the heat: Many of these BBQ joints get busy during prime dinner hours. Consider an early lunch or late afternoon visit to avoid both crowds and the peak desert heat.
2. Try the locals' favorites: Palm Springs BBQ often features unique desert influences – look for date-infused BBQ sauces and prickly pear glazes that you won't find in traditional BBQ regions.
3. Make it an experience: Several of these spots offer live music, especially on weekends. Check their event calendars before visiting to combine great BBQ with entertainment.
4. Take it poolside: Many Palm Springs accommodations allow outside food. Consider grabbing BBQ takeout and enjoying it by your hotel pool for a quintessential Palm Springs experience.
5. Hydrate: The desert air combined with salty, smoky BBQ makes staying hydrated essential. Most BBQ joints offer refreshing local craft beers, but be sure to balance with plenty of water.

Whether you're a barbecue purist or an adventurous foodie, Palm Springs' BBQ scene offers a delicious complement to the area's natural beauty and vibrant culture. These smoky, savory offerings might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your desert getaway, but they deserve a spot on your culinary itinerary.

ModMansions recommends: After a day of BBQ exploration, return to your luxury vacation rental to relax by the pool and digest in style. Our concierge team can arrange for any of these restaurants to deliver directly to your ModMansion for the ultimate convenience.

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