Balboa Bar-B-Que

600 E Bay Ave A7, Newport Beach, CA 92661, United States
+1 949-673-4000
$$$ Barbecue restaurant
(152 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable barbecue experience right by the stunning shores of Newport Beach, look no further than Balboa Bar-B-Que. Nestled at 600 E Bay Ave A7, this barbecue gem perfectly marries high-quality, hickory-smoked meats with a laid-back beach atmosphere that invites you to kick back and indulge.

The cuisine here is a delightful homage to traditional barbecue, focusing on smoky flavors and robust sauces. As you flip through their menu, it's hard not to get excited about the variety of offerings. One standout is the Saucy Brisket - hand-pulled and generously topped with cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy BBQ sauce that accentuates the smokiness of the meat; it’s a true crowd-pleaser at $16.95. For those who crave a meat-lover's delight, the Big Pig combines hickory smoked pulled pork with grilled hot link and thick-cut bacon, enveloped in BBQ sauce – a mouthwatering symphony of flavors for $17.95. And let’s not overlook their Mac & Cheese section, where the Piggy Mac dazzles with its rich, creamy base topped with pulled pork and even BBQ potato chips for that extra crunch, all for just $9.95.

The dining atmosphere is just as compelling as the food. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the refreshing ocean breeze. The view is an added bonus - perfect for an evening meal as the sun sets over the horizon. Customers rave about the friendly service and cozy setting, with many noting the welcoming staff who are more than happy to explain menu items, especially to curious kids. One satisfied diner, B.A. Jacobs, encapsulated the experience well: “Awesome food! Such a surprise to find great BBQ down here!”

Balboa Bar-B-Que is more than just a place to eat; it's a community hub that brings together locals and tourists alike. After indulging in a hearty meal, consider a leisurely stroll along the beach. With countless shops and scenic spots nearby, your day can easily extend into an exploration of the beautiful Balboa Peninsula. Add this spot to your Newport Beach itinerary - you won't regret it!

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Comfort food
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Seating
Crowd
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Payments
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Pets
Dogs allowed
152 Reviews
B.A. Jacobs

19 Nov 2025

Awesome food! Such a surprise to find awesome Bbq down here! Brisket fries were great....not loaded down with a bunch of crappie toppings. They didn't skimp on the brisket or fries. Corn balls and Mac and cheese were great as well. Service was very good and the view is awesome . If you are near Balboa I highly recommend hitting this place up!

Sari Medina

01 Nov 2025

There are some places that have to be recognized for being exceptional and Balboa BBQ is one of them. Located on the right side of the boardwalk if you park towards Palm st nestles a decent sized restaurant with inside and outside seating. We stopped by at 7pm and they accommodated our order by not only serving hot delicious food, but also explaining to my kids what they were doing as they were watching from the counter. The staff was very friendly and patient and we would definitely go back again.

Jon L

05 Oct 2025

Was not expecting much from the place because there was only one person ahead waiting for take out. The family had a couple of sandwiches, Texas fries, and brisket Mac and cheese and was completely blown away. All the sauces on hand were great too. Great portions for the price and the staff were very friendly with quick service. This will be a go to any time we’re around Balboa!

Wade Wagner

29 Sep 2025

Food was incredible, had the brisket fries and original street hot dog, this is a must if you’re on Balboa Peninsula!

Mandy Schaller

05 Sep 2025

My boyfriend and I were just out cruising around California cause we always like to go drive around and look at new things. It was time for lunch and we were hungry and we saw this barbecue fries it was absolutely amazing is all I can say! The view was great if you wanted to eat outside the atmosphere and the customer service was absolutely wonderful.

Maria Leticia Sanchez Tellez

15 Aug 2025

Fantastic food! Definitely worth the calories =) our favorite were the brisket fries. We will be back.

Christine E Gabrielse Lin

28 Jul 2025

Great place for a quick bite and a reasonable price in a touristy area. We LOVED the corn balls--piping hot and fresh and delicious! My pulled pork sandwich was also good, there are several BBQ sauces you can add. Although, it seemed more like pulled ham, which was interesting. Not bad, just different. I liked that they toasted the bun! My husband enjoyed his fish and chips and the vinegar to go with it. The fries were deliciously seasoned.

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