BBQ Joint

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill

A polished SoCal chain with excellent tri-tip and quality sides, though calling it the 'best BBQ in Southern California' is a stretch.

By Luis Ramirez

Details

Address
Agoura Hills, CA
Style
California BBQ
Price
$$$

A personal review of Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Agoura Hills, describing the inviting mesquite aroma, unexpectedly refined interior, and a busy Sunday atmosphere. The reviewer and his wife skip appetizers (relying on combos and complimentary garlic rolls) and order two different combo plates to sample a range of meats and sides.

Mains:

  • Tri tip roast (signature item): Very tender, smoky, slow-roasted, and the standout of the meal.
  • Baby back ribs: Meaty, flavorful, and well-matched with the house BBQ sauce.
  • Western beef ribs: Tender and enjoyable, though beef ribs aren’t the reviewer’s personal favorite.
  • BBQ chicken: Moist and generally good but under-seasoned, improved with extra salt and sauce.

Sides:

  • Skillet-baked beans: Tasty and satisfying.
  • Smashed sweet potatoes: Balanced between sweet and savory; the wife’s favorite.
  • Peanut coleslaw: A perfect complement to the BBQ.
  • Mesquite-grilled corn: Nicely done and flavorful.

The overall impression is positive: good-quality BBQ, strong sides, and a pleasant dining experience with the likelihood of a return visit. However, the reviewer is skeptical of claims that it’s the absolute best BBQ in Southern California, leaving that judgment open. The restaurant also offers take-out and convenient short-term parking out front.