Must Try Top Barbecue Restaurants in Ontario, California!

1. Mike Henry’s Barbecue

Location: 8443 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Timings: Monday – Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Overview: Mike Henry’s Barbecue Co. specializes in Central Texas–style brisket, slow-cooked for 12–14 hours until perfectly fork-tender. Located at Haven City Market, they’re known for crowd favorites like Trio Fries loaded with brisket, pulled pork, mac ’n’ cheese, and hot links, all finished with their homemade sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

2. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

Location: 7893 Monet Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
Timings:

Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11 AM to 10:30 PM

Overview: Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ brings an authentic yakiniku barbecue experience to the table, where guests grill premium meats on a smokeless tabletop grill. With over 700 locations worldwide, it’s a go-to destination for flavorful Japanese barbecue, highlighted by favorites like Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib.

3. Mule Car Smokehouse

Location: 200 N Euclid Ave Ontario, CA 91762
Timings:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:30 AM to 8 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM to 9 PM

Overview: Mule Car Smokehouse serves up bold Texas-style barbecue with Tex-Mex flair, featuring expertly smoked brisket, pulled pork, tri-tip, spareribs, and smoked wings. A standout favorite, the spareribs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned for true barbecue lovers.

4. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

Location: 12624 N Mainstreet, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
Timings:

Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11 AM to 10 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11 AM to 11 PM

Overview: Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que brings classic Southern-style barbecue to life with slow-smoked meats, house-made sauces, and comfort-food sides. Known for its warm, rustic atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for hearty BBQ plates, family gatherings, and true down-home flavor.

5. Crazy Gringo BBQ

Location: 296 N 2nd Ave, Upland, CA 91786
Timings:

Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday – Thursday: 12 PM to 8 PM
Friday – Saturday: 12 PM to 10 PM
Sunday: 12 PM to 7 PM

Overview: Crazy Gringo BBQ in Upland, CA specializes in slow-smoked, competition-style barbecue paired with indulgent, loaded comfort dishes like pork belly burnt end topped potatoes. This fast-service spot is known for brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and house-made sauces, making it a popular stop for quick bites and beer.

6. Moon Grill Hawaiian BBQ

Location: 2252 S Euclid Ave Ste G Ontario, CA 91762
Timings: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Overview: Moon Grill serves next level Hawaiian BBQ, delivering bold island flavors, perfectly grilled meats, and delicious homestyle sides. With a focus on good vibes and friendly service, it’s the perfect spot to come hungry and leave happy, whether dining in or taking your feast to go.

7. Spirit of Texas Craft BBQ

Location: 2859 Hamner Ave, Norco, CA 92860
Timings: Monday – Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Overview: Spirit of Texas Craft BBQ in Norco delivers authentic Central Texas–style barbecue, specializing in oak-smoked brisket, dino beef ribs, and pork belly burnt ends. Known for its low-and-slow approach and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this casual counter-service spot is praised for high-quality meats and bold, traditional flavors.

8. Gus’s Barbecue

Location: 500 W 1st St, Claremont, CA 91711
Timings:

Monday – Thursday: 11 AM to 10 PM
Friday: 11 AM to 11 PM
Saturday: 9 AM to 11 PM
Sunday: 9 AM to 10 PM

Overview: Gus’s Barbecue, serving since 1946, is a Claremont landmark known for real pit BBQ, warm Southern hospitality, and time-honored traditions. Located in the historic Claremont Packing House, it pairs classic Southern flavors with craft cocktails, whiskey, and a welcoming, family-style atmosphere.

Staying at Best Western Ontario Mills Mall puts you just minutes away from some of the best barbecue spots in the Inland Empire. From Central Texas style brisket and Southern pit BBQ to Japanese yakiniku and Hawaiian BBQ, these must-try restaurants are all a short drive from the hotel. After shopping at Ontario Mills or relaxing at the hotel, guests can easily enjoy bold, slow-smoked flavors and unforgettable BBQ experiences nearby. Book your stay now – a great BBQ is just minutes away.