Smoke signals rise above the historic mission town of San Juan Capistrano, drawing hungry pilgrims to a white stucco building where meat magic happens daily at Heritage Barbecue.
This isn’t some trendy California interpretation with avocado and sprouts – it’s legitimate, Texas-style barbecue that would make a Lone Star native simultaneously beam with pride and question why they ever left Texas.
The modest exterior belies what many consider the best barbecue in California, a bold claim in a state known more for its kale than its brisket.
Yet one bite of their legendary brisket sandwich explains why people willingly stand in line for hours, contemplating life choices and practicing deep breathing exercises to calm their growing hunger…