The Best BBQ in South Padre Island (2024)

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Who doesn’t love a good BBQ? Well, South Padre Island, TX, offers some of the best spots to get your BBQ fix. Join me as I explore the top-rated BBQ joints in this beach paradise, indulging in mouthwatering ribs, briskets, and all the smoky goodness you can imagine.


Porky’s Pit BBQ & Catering

A Food Truck Delight

Porky’s Pit BBQ & Catering is a food truck that has earned rave reviews for its exceptional BBQ. Located conveniently for beachgoers, this place offers a casual dining experience with picnic tables and umbrellas. The brisket here is the star of the show—tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The ribs are equally impressive, with a smoky taste that BBQ aficionados will love.

Address: 1817 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brisket: Tender and packed with flavor, this is a must-try.
  • Ribs: Smoky and perfectly cooked, they are a hit among regulars.
  • Charro Beans: Surprisingly good for a BBQ place, adding a delightful twist to your meal.
  • Slaw: A refreshing side that complements the rich BBQ flavors.

R & R BBQ

Hidden Gem

R & R BBQ might not have a plethora of reviews, but the ones it does have speak volumes about the quality of its food. Known for its brisket and baby back ribs, this spot offers a simple yet satisfying BBQ experience. The flavors are rich and authentic, making it a worthy stop for any BBQ lover.

Address: 200 E Maxan St, Port Isabel, TX 78578

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brisket: Full of flavor and tender, it’s the highlight of the menu.
  • Baby Back Ribs: Juicy and delicious, these ribs are worth the visit.


Mahi Nic

A Seafood Twist

While Mahi Nic is primarily known for its seafood, it also serves some impressive BBQ dishes. This place is perfect for those who want to enjoy a variety of flavors. The BBQ fries and tacos here are particularly popular, offering a unique blend of BBQ and seafood that you won’t find anywhere else.

Address: 7305 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ Fries: Crispy fries topped with BBQ goodness, a favorite among visitors.
  • BBQ Tacos: Combining the best of both worlds, these tacos are a must-try.

Will And Jacks Burger Shack & Beer Garden

Best of Both Worlds

Combining the best of burgers and BBQ, Will And Jacks Burger Shack & Beer Garden is a must-visit. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The BBQ options here are fantastic, with the sweet potato fries being a standout side.

Address: 1106 TX-100, Port Isabel, TX 78578

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ Burgers: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for BBQ lovers.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: A delicious side that pairs well with any BBQ dish.

Tom & Jerry’s Beach Club Bar & Grill

Beachside BBQ

Tom & Jerry’s Beach Club Bar & Grill offers a delightful mix of BBQ and seafood. Located right on the beach, this spot provides a picturesque setting for enjoying a meal. The ribs and shrimp po’ boys are particularly popular, offering generous portions and great taste.

Address: 3212 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ribs: Generous portions with a fantastic smoky flavor.
  • Shrimp Po’ Boy: A delicious seafood option with ample servings.

Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria

Italian with a BBQ Twist

Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria might be known for its Italian cuisine, but it also serves up a surprisingly good BBQ pizza. This unique combination is perfect for those who want to enjoy something different. The BBQ pizza is a hit, offering a delightful blend of Italian and BBQ flavors.

Address: 700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ Pizza: A unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza.

Louie’s Backyard

Lively Atmosphere

Louie’s Backyard is a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and varied menu. While the BBQ here is average, the overall experience makes it worth a visit. The ribs are decent, but it’s the beachside setting and vibrant crowd that make this place special.

Address: 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ribs: Average, but the setting makes up for it.

Padre Island Brewing Company

Great Beer and BBQ

Padre Island Brewing Company offers a fantastic combination of great beer and BBQ. The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the BBQ sauce is top-notch. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy some good food, and sip on craft beer.

Address: 3400 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender with a delicious BBQ sauce.
  • Craft Beer: Perfectly complements the BBQ dishes

When you think of South Padre Island, the first things that come to mind are probably its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and various water activities. But for foodies like me, it’s also a place where you can find some of the most delectable BBQ joints. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite from a food truck or a relaxing meal at a beachside bistro, South Padre Island has it all.

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Bruce_Abbott_bio
About the author

Bruce Abbott
Husband. Dad. Native Texan. Media Guy. Guitar Geek. Lover of Texas beaches! I am on a mission to bring you the best of Texas beaches. From the sand and surf, to the people, events, and fun that make The State of Texas great!