Smoke & Meat BBQ — Restaurant in Stockton

Driving from the Bay to Sac, I stopped by Smoke and Meat BBQ in Stockton. It’s been on my wanna visit list for a little bit and today timing and location worked out. I got there 45 min before close and miraculously they had some of all the meats. PERFECT! I’d say that Smoke&Meat is a let’s the quality of the meats talk for itself kind of spot. Taking a bite of the ribs, it was a simple bark with no glaze of any sort. But well smoked and I could take bites without any pressure while not pulling any meat off the bone or having it fall off from gravity. A nice natural hint of sweetness from the pork meat and fat. Brisket let the beef talk. There was a nice crunchy bark that once under is some of the most tender beef. I was so excited after eating some slices of flat that i got back in line to get what they had left of the point. Juicy, beefy, fatty, not too complicated but executed wonderfully. Oh and I whenever I’m given the choice in dessert for anything key lime flavors I’m taking it. The key lime pudding was the perfect end for a great meal. The pieces of ginger snap cookies throughout added another layer of change after eating all that fatty meat. Def if you are driving through Stockton, this is a great...

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Smoke & Meat BBQ delivered an outstanding experience and easily ranks among the top BBQ spots in California’s Central Valley. Every meat option we tried was well-executed, but my personal favorites were the brisket, pork ribs, and turkey. Each was incredibly flavorful, tender, and smoked to perfection — exactly what you’d hope for in authentic Texas-style barbecue, which can be surprisingly hard to find in California.

The sides complemented the meal nicely. The standout for me was the braised greens — rich, savory, and full of depth. The beans were solid, offering a traditional BBQ sidekick. However, the mac and cheese seemed a bit too tailored for a younger palate — creamy and simple, lacking the baked texture or sharpness I personally enjoy in a more grown-up version.

All in all, Smoke & Meat BBQ is a gem for any BBQ lover looking for legit Texas-style flavors in the Valley. I’ll absolutely be coming back — this place is...

The food was great. Our favorite was the brisket. The ribs were a close second. The flavor and texture were great. It wasnt too overpowered with seasoning and but it wasnt underseasoned as well. The potato salad is amazing. The bbq beans were great. The mac and cheese was good but it wasnt mind blowing. Seemed like a side to have for the kids to enjoy which I love. Gotta have something for the kids to eat. The sausage was good. Great Variety and cooked properly. The hot link was my personal favorite. And to finish it off we had Banana pudding... it was amazing. Gotta try the pudding. I will be coming back to this place. They apparently serve pork belly on Sundays. The owner is very kind and passionate about what he does. From a short conversation with him, he is enthusiastic and has more creative ideas. He does a different type of collared greens. Although they arent traditional, they are delicious. Closest thing to Texas BBQ ive had...