About

If you are like us, we were skeptical about the authenticity of Mo's Smokehouse BBQ. After all, California isn't exactly known for its barbecue. That distinction and honor goes to the Southeastern states, Texas, Chicago, and Kansas City.

But owner Larry Kowalksi "paid his dues" with an epic 3500-mile road trip through the illustrious "BBQ Belt" to learn firsthand the secrets, tips, and necessities for mouth-watering barbecue.

The trip was over 20 years ago, but it yielded a treasure trove of wisdom that enabled Larry to create smoky, fall-off-the-bone BBQ! He also purchased antique chairs at each stop and would incorporate them at Mo's Smokehouse BBQ.

With his wealth of knowledge from the "gurus of BBQ," Larry crafted a menu filled with classic entrees. At the same time, his pièce de résistance is his original BBQ sauces—Original, Hot, Sweet Carolina, and Philthy Phil's.

Mo's Smokehouse BBQ is in the heart of Pismo Beach, close to iconic landmarks like the Pismo Beach Walkway & Boardwalk, making it an ideal dining destination after exploring the area.

Whether a skeptic or curious, Mo's Smokehouse BBQ will satisfy with its award-winning pit-style barbecue.

Vibe

If you know anything about pit BBQ, the best joints aren't much to look at. Some are roadside shanties, others are in refurbished gas stations, and most are humble abodes. Owner Larry Kowalski captured such a vibe at his Pismo Beach location.

The roof sign resembles something you'd spot in rural Alabama. The design is simple and to the point: a marquee with glowing neon declaring it serves authentic BBQ.

Another sign of authenticity is the aroma of hickory smoke detectable blocks from the restaurant. As BBQ fans will tell you, it isn't barbecue unless cooked "low and slow" over a hickory fire.

The decor inside further mimics a roadside BBQ pit found anywhere from Texas to North Carolina. While very clean and presentable, the walls are a mish-mash of antique signs, vintage photos, and quirky memorabilia.

As mentioned, the tables and chairs are from his BBQ tour. These add to the place's charm and further showcase Larry's commitment to serving the Real McCoy when it comes to BBQ.

The rustic vibe may not appeal to those seeking a romantic dinner, but it is the hotspot after a fun-filled day on the dunes with the Pacific Adventure Tour.

Mo's Smokehouse BBQ: Menu & Drinks

While any restaurant can mimic the "look" of a BBQ joint, the true measure of authenticity is the food. Rest assured, Mo's Smokehouse BBQ delivers big on flavor because all meats are slow-smoked on-site for a flavor-packed experience.

You can't go wrong with a BBQ staple like the pulled pork sandwich. The pork is succulent and juicy with the right amount of smokiness. And if you order it like they serve throughout the South with coleslaw on top, you'll have a taste of heaven. It's the perfect combo of sweet, salty, smoky, crunchy, and juiciness.

The ribs are another standout and are pork, not beef, as is popular in Texas. MO's Memphis Pork Ribs are a top-seller, smoked to perfection and slathered with Mo's original BBQ sauce. The meal includes a corn muffin, beans, and coleslaw or potato salad.

The MO's Chipotle Lime Chicken Tacos combine the best of California with BBQ flavors from the "BBQ Belt." The chicken breasts are marinated in chipotle pineapple sauce before being smoked. The meat is stuffed inside flour tortillas with shredded cabbage, tomatoes, cilantro, and sweet and spicy cream sauce. Add avocado for a more Cali taste!

Grab some BBQ, sauces, and trimmings for a picnic at the beach or to enjoy at Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards while sampling locally produced wines.

Mo's Smokehouse BBQ hits the bullseye in serving authentic pit-style, hickory-smoked barbecue, making it a must-visit on your vacation to Pismo Beach.

Local Tips

Take home some of their BBQ sauces on sale at the store.
Let Mo's Smokehouse BBQ cater your next event or party.
Order BBQ to-go to savor back at your Casago rental.
While the kid's menu doesn't offer BBQ, it makes Mo's family-friendly.

Staging environment