The 7 Must-Try BBQ Joints In Palm Springs, CA: A 2025 Smoker’s Guide To The Coachella Valley’s Best Brisket

The Palm Springs desert heat isn't the only thing sizzling this year; the local barbecue scene is hotter and more diverse than ever. As of late 2025, the Greater Palm Springs area has cemented its status as a surprising haven for smoked meats, moving far beyond typical resort fare to offer everything from authentic Texas-style brisket to deeply flavorful Southern soul food. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking that perfect low-and-slow experience, this guide cuts through the smoke to deliver the absolute must-visit BBQ spots right now. Forget the outdated lists—this is your definitive, up-to-date guide to the top seven BBQ restaurants and hidden gems across Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and the surrounding Coachella Valley, complete with the signature dishes that make each one a true destination. Get ready to dive into a world of dry rubs, tangy sauces, and fall-off-the-bone goodness.

The Newcomers and The Legends: Top Palm Springs BBQ Destinations for 2025

The Palm Springs BBQ landscape is a vibrant mix of long-standing institutions and exciting new players. This list focuses on the joints that are currently generating the biggest buzz for their quality, authenticity, and unique dining experiences.

1. Big Earl's Barbeque: The New Texas-Style Contender

One of the freshest faces on the Palm Springs BBQ circuit, Big Earl's Barbeque has quickly earned a reputation for bringing authentic Texas-style barbecue to the desert. Opened in 2024, this spot is a must-visit for purists who appreciate a quality smoke ring and a simple, meat-focused menu. * The Style: Authentic Texas-style BBQ, focusing on simple seasoning and long, slow smoking. * Signature Dishes to Try: * The Brisket: Widely praised for its tender texture and deep, smoky flavor—a true test of any Texas joint. * Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Perfectly seasoned and piled high. * The Vibe: Located inside the Fireside Lounge, it offers a cozy, local, and unpretentious atmosphere—a perfect spot for a casual, meat-centric meal. * Entity Keywords: Texas-style BBQ, Fireside Lounge, Pulled Pork, Smoked Meats, Palm Springs Newcomer.

2. Brown's BBQ and Soul Food: The Unassuming Local Favorite

Often cited by locals as the absolute best, Brown's BBQ and Soul Food is the epitome of a "hole-in-the-wall" gem that delivers massive flavor. This cozy spot transports you straight to the heart of the South with its rich, comforting cuisine that perfectly blends classic barbecue with true Southern soul food. * The Style: Southern comfort food and BBQ, rich in flavor and tradition. * Signature Dishes to Try: * Baby Back Ribs: A highly popular choice, known for being slathered in delicious BBQ sauce and tasting great. * The Combo Plates: These allow you to mix and match BBQ meats with Southern staples like fried catfish, jumbo shrimp, and hot links. * Classic Sides: Don't skip the fresh cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad—they are essential to the experience. * The Vibe: A small, unassuming establishment near the Palm Springs Tram, known for its friendly, mom-and-pop service and authentic feel. * Entity Keywords: Soul Food, Southern Comfort, Baby Back Ribs, Catfish, Hot Links, Local Favorite, Cornbread.

3. Babe's Bar-B-Que & Brewery: The Brewpub Experience

Located in nearby Rancho Mirage, Babe's Bar-B-Que & Brewery offers a unique combination: award-winning, slow-smoked barbecue alongside a full-service microbrewery. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to pair their brisket with a handcrafted beer. * The Style: A blend of classic barbecue techniques with a modern brewpub menu. * Signature Dishes to Try: * 20-Hour Brisket Dinner: This is the star of the show, slowly cooked for maximum tenderness and flavor. * Mushroom Peppercorn Tri-Tip: A unique specialty topped with Chef Omar's signature sauce. * Baby Back Ribs and Sweet Potato Fries: Highly favored by patrons. * Appetizers: They offer an extensive list, including fried okra and brisket mac and cheese. * The Vibe: A lively, spacious brewpub atmosphere, great for families, groups, and beer enthusiasts. * Entity Keywords: Brewpub, Rancho Mirage, Brisket, Tri-Tip, Microbrews, Baby Back Ribs, Sweet Potato Fries, Mac and Cheese.

Beyond Palm Springs: Coachella Valley BBQ Gems

The search for great barbecue often requires a short drive, and the Coachella Valley offers a few iconic spots that are well worth the trip, providing unique regional styles and unforgettable settings.

4. Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace: The Legendary Desert Institution

While technically a short drive from Palm Springs in Pioneertown, no comprehensive guide to the region's best smoked meats would be complete without mentioning Pappy & Harriet's. This legendary saloon and music venue is set in an old-west movie set town, offering a truly iconic desert dining experience. * The Style: Classic American fare with a focus on hearty, rustic BBQ. * Signature Dishes to Try: * Mesquite-Grilled Tri-Tip: A California BBQ staple, cooked over mesquite wood for a distinct smoky char. * Half Rack of Baby Back Ribs: A classic choice to enjoy while listening to live music. * The Vibe: A historic, rustic Western saloon and world-class music venue. It's an essential desert experience that combines food, history, and entertainment. * Entity Keywords: Pioneertown, Joshua Tree, Desert Saloon, Live Music, Mesquite-Grilled, Tri-Tip, Rustic BBQ.

5. Bubba's Bones & Brews: Cathedral City's Smoked Meats Spot

Just down the road in Cathedral City, Bubba's Bones & Brews is a lively spot that serves up a crowd-pleasing menu of barbecue favorites. It’s a reliable choice for enthusiasts looking for a fun, energetic environment. * The Style: Classic American BBQ with a focus on crowd-pleasing favorites. * Signature Dishes to Try: * Mouthwatering Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A specialty of the house, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. * Ribs and Brews: Known for its lively setting, it’s a great place to enjoy a full rack with a cold beer. * The Vibe: Lively and casual, making it a great destination for a relaxed meal. * Entity Keywords: Cathedral City, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Lively Spot, Barbecue Enthusiasts.

The Specialized and The Reliable BBQ Options

For those with specific cravings or catering needs, the Palm Springs area offers several other excellent options that round out the local BBQ scene.

6. Dickey's Barbecue Pit: The Revitalized Texan Chain

While a national chain, the Dickey's Barbecue Pit location in Palm Springs has generated buzz with its recent Grand Re-Opening under new ownership. This revitalization promises a renewed commitment to quality and service, making it a reliable option for a true Texan BBQ experience. * The Style: True Texan BBQ, known for its consistency and classic offerings. * Signature Dishes to Try: * Sliced Brisket: A staple of the Texas style. * The Big Yellow Cup: A classic beverage accompaniment to any Dickey's meal. * The Vibe: Fast-casual, reliable, and convenient for takeout or delivery. * Entity Keywords: Texan BBQ, Grand Re-Opening, Sliced Brisket, Fast Casual, Takeout, Delivery.

7. CVBBQ Palm Springs & BBQ Catering: The Catering Specialist

If your BBQ needs are for a party, event, or large gathering, CVBBQ Palm Springs is the go-to specialist. They focus heavily on providing delicious barbecue catering throughout the Coachella Valley, making them a key player for any large event. * The Style: "Big Smoke, Bigger Flavor" catering, designed to impress large groups. * Signature Offerings: * Custom BBQ Catering Packages: Offering a variety of smoked meats and sides tailored for events. * Online Orders: Convenient ordering for large and small gatherings. * The Vibe: Focused on service and delivery, they bring the authentic smokehouse experience directly to your event. * Entity Keywords: BBQ Catering, Coachella Valley, Event Catering, Online Orders, Big Smoke, Smoked Flavor.

The State of Palm Springs BBQ: A Culinary Evolution

The current state of BBQ in Palm Springs, CA reflects a significant culinary evolution. No longer limited to a single style, the region now embraces a wide spectrum of smoked meats traditions. The presence of new, highly-rated spots like Big Earl’s, which opened in 2024, alongside the enduring popularity of Southern comfort giants like Brown’s BBQ and Soul Food, confirms that the desert is a serious destination for pitmasters. The competition among these establishments ensures high quality across the board. Whether you are craving the dry-rub perfection of Texas brisket, the sweet and tangy glaze of Southern ribs, or a unique brewpub experience, the Coachella Valley has a smoker running just for you. Exploring these joints is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the diverse, flavorful, and constantly evolving culture of American barbecue in a truly unique desert setting.

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