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Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica
8.8
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Group Dining Gatherings
Holy Cow’s original Santa Monica outpost has been slow-smoking baby back ribs, brisket, and tri-tip since 2014, drawing fans from across the Westside. Pitmaster-founder Rob Serritella pulls together regional American barbecue styles under one roof, with hearty plates, standout sides, and a casual roadhouse feel across from Brentwood Country Mart.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baby Back Ribs with Original 'Q' Sauce, BBQ Plate with Texas Brisket & Santa Maria Tri-Tip, Collard Greens and Banana Pudding
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Serious, multi-regional smoked barbecue with ribs at the center.
Who should go: BBQ fans craving smoky meats and hearty sides.
When to visit: Weekend lunches or early dinners before ribs sell out.
What to order: Baby back ribs, brisket and tri-tip plate, collard greens.
Insider tip: On busy nights the ribs run out—order early or go weekday.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Montana can be tight during peak meal windows; expect a short hunt. Residential side streets usually have open spots within a 2–3 block walk.
Dress code: Ultra casual. Tees, shorts, and post-beach attire are all common.
Noise level: Moderate — upbeat bustle from families and groups, but normal conversation is still easy.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during prime hours, especially if ribs are running low.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait — walk right up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options like salads, mac and cheese, fries, and cornbread, but mains are meat-focused.
Vegan options: Limited — sides like fries or pickles are possible, but full entrées are scarce.
Gluten-free options: Good availability — many smoked meats and several sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is used to the request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? If you’re aiming for relaxed, unfussy, and delicious, yes. It’s not a candlelit venue, but the messy, shareable plates can make for a fun, low-pressure date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily counter-service and walk-in friendly. The only caveat is that popular meats may sell out, so arrive on the earlier side if you’re rib-focused.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High chairs, quick service, and plenty of family groups make it easy for kids of all ages. The menu’s sliders, mac and cheese, and soft drinks are kid hits.
Best For
Better for: Smokier, more consistently tender ribs than most Westside BBQ shops, plus a wider multi-regional selection under one roof.
Skip if: You’re seeking chef-driven, avant-garde barbecue or a quiet, dressy dining room — this is a casual, comfort-first spot.