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Bludso's BBQ
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Bludso's BBQ
8.6
Bludso's BBQ brings Texas-style smoked meats to La Brea with trays of brisket, ribs, and pulled pork served in a casual sports-bar setting. Locals lean on it for group dinners and game days thanks to big portions, a solid tap list, and reliably smoky barbecue. It’s the go-to when you want low-and-slow meat without leaving Mid City.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Texas-style smokehouse from James Beard–recognized pitmaster Kevin Bludso in a laid-back sports-bar setting.
Who should go: Smoked-meat lovers who enjoy casual, sports-bar energy.
When to visit: Early evenings or game days for freshest trays.
What to order: Prime brisket, baby back ribs, pulled pork sandwich.
Insider tip: Share a three-meat combo and add sides to sample widely.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on La Brea is limited during peak hours, but there are metered spots and some residential side-street parking within a short walk. No valet.
Dress code: Casual. Jerseys, jeans, and t-shirts are totally normal, especially on game days.
Noise level: Loud during games; moderate at off-peak hours. Expect energetic sports-bar volume with TVs throughout.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak dinner rush, especially on major sports nights.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and fries are available, but entrées are meat-focused.
Vegan options: Minimal options; only a couple of sides qualify. No dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Several meats and some sides are naturally gluten-free, but there is no dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the date enjoys casual, sports-bar energy and shared BBQ trays. It’s fun but not intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service, and seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early on game days for the best chance at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual family meals. High chairs and big portions make it easy, though noise levels can be high during games.
Best For
Better for: Smoked brisket, ribs, and a lively sports-bar vibe with generous portions at approachable prices.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, extensive vegetarian options, or a more elevated barbecue experience.
Bludso's BBQ
9.1
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Trendy Table Hotspots
Kevin Bludso’s La Brea flagship turns out Texas-style pork and beef ribs with deep smoke, bark, and plenty of fat-rendered richness. Long waits, trays piled with brisket, and a full bar make it a go-to rib destination for locals and visiting BBQ obsessives alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Spare Ribs, Texas Beef Rib, Three-Meat Tray with Brisket and Ribs
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 9.4
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Texas-style ribs and brisket with serious smoke and neighborhood-institution energy.
Who should go: BBQ fans who prioritize smoke ring and bark over decor.
When to visit: Early evenings before peak rush or weekday lunches.
What to order: Pork ribs, beef rib, three-meat tray with sides.
Insider tip: Order a platter to share so you can try multiple rib cuts and still have leftovers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along La Brea and neighboring residential blocks; spots fill quickly after 6pm, so allow extra time. No valet.
Dress code: Casual; jeans, tees, and sneakers are completely normal. Come comfortable—you’ll be eating with your hands.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; you can converse, but expect steady chatter and music.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes depending on game days and larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; 0–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, and fries are the primary options.
Vegan options: Extremely limited—mostly fries, pickles, and select sides without dairy.
Gluten-free options: Most smoked meats are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces on arrival as some may contain wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys casual, hands-on eating. The food is fantastic, but the vibe leans lively and messy rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Arrive early evening to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Big tables, relaxed energy, and shareable platters work well for families. Great for ages 6+ who can handle smoky, rich flavors.
Best For
Better for: Some of the deepest Texas-style smoke and rib texture in the area, with consistently tender meats and generous platters.
Skip if: You want a quiet, refined dinner or need robust vegetarian/vegan options—its strengths are firmly in the meat-centric lane.