Tucked away in the charming historic district of Old Towne Orange, where vintage shops and Spanish-style architecture create a postcard-perfect setting, Smoqued California BBQ stands as a testament to how the Golden State is carving out its own identity in the barbecue world – with a side of mac and cheese that might just change your life.
California might seem like an unlikely contender in the great barbecue debate.
When most people think barbecue, their minds drift to the smoky pits of Texas, the vinegar-based traditions of the Carolinas, or the sweet, tomato-forward sauces of Kansas City.
But this unassuming storefront on Chapman Avenue is quietly building a reputation that extends far beyond Orange County’s borders…