I have been wanting to try this place for a while. My family is from Texas and our favorite BBQ spot left OC last year. We came here on a Saturday afternoon and the place was really empty. It is a weird layout and parking lot to entrance situation so be ready- you park behind the building and even though it looks like you enter from the main street- you don't. You go through the back patio and through a lounge/club area hang a left and you've made it. We ordered a family meal for the two of us because we wanted to try several things and we wanted to take food to family members. It was comical how much food came out, they had to bring a whole other table over. The service was fast and friendly and very helpful. The food- overall I liked everything we got, but I would say it doesn't have that smoky flavor I am used to in the meat with Texas BBQ. Meat was tender and the sauce was good just missed the smoke. The cornbread- I liked it, my son said it was drier than he liked. The greens were flavorful but I felt could be cooked just a little bit longer. The yams were so good! No notes. The mac and cheese was good enough. You always compare to home so this is a hard sell. The peach cobbler we got to go and the server was so sweet she gave my dad a whole serving - I would say the crust was a bit softer than we like but the flavor was spot on. We would definitely come back and send others there! I don't want to lose another spot. I do see they are doing events and nightime activities to make use of all the space and club area but I just wish this location made more sense. read more

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***Did Somebody Piss Off The Chef?*** I've been hearing rave reviews about Beale's Texas Barbecue since its grand opening, especially from a close friend who couldn't stop singing its praises. So, I finally decided to check it out, thinking it would be a fitting way to celebrate Juneteenth by supporting a Black-owned business. While I was prepared for a slightly higher price tag, anticipating that the quality would justify it, I couldn't have been more mistaken. The meats were decent but lacked any distinguishing flavor that would set them apart from the competition. The Honey Cheese cornbread was passable but overpriced; for the cost of a single slice, I could have bought a half-pan from Ralph's with a taste that was just as good, if not better. The sides, while generously portioned, did little to redeem the meal. The beans and mac and cheese were merely average, but it was the collard greens and yams that compelled me to write this review. **Collard Greens**: With my first bite, I was taken aback by their bitterness. I was like is this some Texas shit here? - these greens tasted overwhelmingly vinegary far from the comforting and rich flavors I grew up enjoying from my mom who is from Mississippi. I could not take another bite. If I had to rate them, they'd earn a dismal zero on a scale of 1 to 5. **Yams**: As for the yams, I was genuinely perplexed. They carried a strange aftertaste reminiscent of the spicy kick found in the candy Hot Tamales or Red Hots. It was so off-putting that I found it hard to believe this was the food being served to customers. ***Navigating to Beale's: A Confusing Entrance*** The restaurant is located at 100 Main Street, right at the intersection of Main and First Street. While the address is prominently displayed over the door on Main Street, the experience quickly becomes puzzling. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a sign instructing me to enter through a different door, but there were no arrows or clear directions indicating where that door might be. This lack of guidance left me wondering: Is the entrance on First Street? Or perhaps Sycamore Street? After a bit of searching, I discovered that the actual entrance is located on Sycamore Street, which is one block before Main Street. It would have been incredibly helpful if the sign or the restaurant's website provided this crucial information, especially for first-time visitors who may not be familiar with the area. On a brighter note, once I made my way through the correct entrance, I was warmly welcomed by the young ladies working there. Their friendliness made a positive impression amidst the initial confusion. OVERALL, I drove 26 minutes to get there and spent $54 for what turned out to be decent cornbread, average ribs and hot links alongside collard greens and yams that were simply unpalatable. I can't shake the feeling that either the chef was having a bad day or perhaps a new chef was experimenting without oversight. Either way, it was a profoundly disappointing experience that left me questioning how a place like this could remain in business serving food that was, frankly, unacceptable. Returning customers are the lifeline for any small business. Needless to say, I will not be a returning customer. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

1. The ribs were nicely cooked, and it had a delicious sauce! I also really like the beans and cornbread! 2. The spot has fun casual vibes! The interior is very spacious and huge! 3. The staff was friendly and attentive! 4. There is only indoor seatings! There are a lot of tables! 5. This spot has their own parking lot! There is also a parking garage nearby! Note: They have restrooms available for customers! Photo: Honey Cheese Cornbread, St Louis Style Ribs, and Ranch Style Beans read more

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I'm only visited this establishment once. A line dancing event. I had fun lot of people having fun eating, drinking and dancing. Friendly employees clean restaurant. I didn't get a chance to try the food, but from the looks of it , it looked good. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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A large group of us (14-15) dined here on Sunday. They were already busy from the car show in front. They had run out of a few items. I know most people would deduct a star for that. But I'm sure it was a busy weekend before Halloween and they did the best they could. I got the last available salmon. I'd really like to commend our waitress, Kareli. Her service was terrific. She allowed us to each pay separately and didn't make a big deal out of it. Kudos for that alone. She hustled back and forth with our drink orders, brining plenty of napkins and utensils. She was friendly, patient, understanding and professional. I'd recommend this restaurant for watching games on their big screen TVs. It's good for families, and casual dining. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Salmon, yams, and Cole slaw. - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Well first time coming to Beale's Texas BBQ. The old original Mike's has turned into a wonderful bbq restaurant. Owner Bret Beale's has created some outstanding dishes for barbecue enthusiasts. The huge tender off the bone St. Louis ribs with a hint of smoke and the mild sauce were off the hook. That tangy, never have I ever had a coleslaw like that, make me not want to share with the family slaw "boom". But the winner was the fluffy air-eee corn bread that was better than cake. I'm not a corn bread eater ask the wife but this was a game changer. Made by owner Mr. Bret Beale's from scratch! BOOM!! The whole meal was delicious and will definitely return as a regular. Great job! A Big 5 Stars!!! Cheers read more

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I have been waiting for this restaurant to be added to DOORDASH and the first order and they cancel claiming they are closed. wow! This place just lost 110.00 order and probably won't visit the establishment read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Blueberry, Lemon Drop Drink - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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I hear Beale's was once in H.B. now they occupy the old Original Mike's building in Santa Ana. This place is huge. They have a stage for live music, a VIP room, the dining area and bar have multiple TV's to watch your favorite game. The staff here is really nice and make you feel welcome. I had the three meat dinner with rib tips, brisket, and tried tips. My sides were corn bread, and mac and cheese. I enjoyed all the meats. Everything was tender. The sides were tasty as well. This place is large enough to hold groups, team events etc. It's perfect for football weekends. There's also plenty of parking. read more

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I read other people's reviews for here first (both + & -). My take is that the brisket was SPOT ON. While no grease running out it was tender with the right pull, fat rendered correctly and collagen broken down. The flavor was MAX BEEF which you get when you use "Dalmatian" rub which is very purist Texas Pit smoked - just salt and pepper. The Triple B sandwich was a home run for my grandson - all four meats (they added sausage also) LOVED the sausage, tender not spicy and the pulled pork was well seasoned and like the brisket tender so cooked to 203 give or take. Grandson also loved the Mac & Cheese, with him mixing it all together since the "Formed meat" sandwich was way too big for his mouth and he has a BIG mouth. Service was attentive from start to finish so this place definitely goes on the list of regular haunts. read more

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The food is decent, but we made reservations for Mother's Day and they ran out of food. Not sure how that happens but very disappointing.

Great food but ambiance didn't seem very BBQey.I had three different meats (pork, brisket and chicken) and all were fantastic. I liked that it had a sports bar vibe but maybe because it eas empty it just didn't feel like a place that sold BQ - it felt more like a nightclub that serves food during the daytime. The portions were large and prices were reasonable. I also liked the sweet and savory bbq sauces. The macaroni was good however the collared greens seemed rather flavorless. Would still recommend and will definitely give this place another look to reconsider for that 5th star read more

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What a great space on both sides of the business + the patio. I came here for an event and had the best time. The ribs & yams were delicious. I wish the greens weren't so sour but some people prefer it that way. Drinks were also delicious. I'm glad I was able to check out a newer space & restaurant in Orange County. I can't wait to go back! read more

Everything was delicious, love how they are made with detail and care. I will be coming back. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Ribs, hot links, brisket, Coleslaw and Honey Cheese Cornbread - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

The entrance is through a small courtyard with a fountain, sharing a door with a bar/lounge. Service was fantastic. Waiter was friendly and polite. A lot of seating, a lot of parking. Food was, in my opinion, decent. If I were judging it against Texas BBQ in TX, it would be average, but here in California this is better than most places in Orange County. My Texan husband ordered the brisket (moist though not in a smoked way) & sausage (not bad). I tried both and really enjoyed the brisket, but I agree I had a hard time tasting smoke. However, have eaten a LOT of dry brisket in SoCal (most of them are dry?!), I find this place still one of the best ones for brisket in OC. I ordered the short rib and it is HUGE. Good flavor, good texture. So much meat. Comes with bbq sauce already on. The sides were my favorite part, personally. I would come back just for them. Cornbread with whipped butter - classic. Mac & cheese - 10/10. Coleslaw - saucyyy. Collared greens - did not personally try but hubs said it was fine. Topped the meal off with banana pudding. The pudding is airy and whipped (unique texture), which made for a refreshing finish. However, it IS sweet (as banana pudding should be imo), just a note for those who aren't into super sweet food. I would come again. This satisfies my TX bbq craving. read more

Huge, spacious place to dine on some decent BBQ. Beale's has been around for years and is a Santa Ana staple. Those of us from the area are stoked that he moved back from HB. The food is good and portions are generous. The sides are in need of more flavor but the greens are a hit. Drinks are strong. The meat selection is standard with ribs, tri tip, rib tips, brisket, pulled pork chicken, salmon and hot links. I enjoy the entertainment on the weekends and the patio section where you can smoke cigars etc. It looks like there's a pretty fancy section to host a private event as well. Overall a decent spot to visit! The servers are attentive and helpful. read more

Ok it's about time someone is putting out some good barbecue for some great prices the places off the hook good barbecue taste great people you need to try this place out and come to think about it. The owner attended Valley high school read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Great food, staff is super friendly but I don't know if my husband wants to go back. We went the first time with no problems, loved the vibe, but when we went back on a Friday night a couple weeks later they were closed- even though the internet said they were open, it was odd. My best advice is call ahead since the hours of operation are a bit unreliable. Other than that, the food line i said was awesome! read more

Came to this place for a work retirement party. The space is very large and open, with lots of tables. The bar had a tap system but there were no handles on it, which meant they only had bottles to choose from, mostly all of the Mexican beers like Corona, Modelo and Pacifico. However, they did seem to have a full bar for mixed drinks. The food was really good, but overall I felt the beers were expensive. I got the loaded fries with BBQ pulled pork which were $16 and I did not have a problem with that price point. But with 3 bottles of Corona, my total bill came to over $50! I didn't get a receipt but I'm assuming that means a 12 ounce bottle of Corona must be around $10. Probably won't be back as I can get cheaper, larger draft beers elsewhere. read more

I went to this place when it was located in HB. I thought it was ok but I wanted to try more items to give it a fair assessment Since their move, we've attempted to dine here three separate times and we were unable to for reasons like the kitchen being closed 3hrs before their posted closing time, menu items not being available, and etc. My first visit was not memorable enough to say it outweighs the service and availability. Don't waste your time here as there are plenty of other places that are far more welcoming to their customers. read more

Let's start with the service. The service was prompt. The staff is friendly and they are very attentive. There was never a time where I was looking for my server. The food was tasty. I spent some time in Texas, so it's hard to find good bbq to compare it to here. The food here was good. The tenderness of the meat was okay, but the flavor was good. Quality meat. Peach cobbler was delicious. The main reason for the four star was due to the beer selection. They didn't have any draft beer options. Overall, the place was great. Very clean, very friendly, and very attentive. I would recommend this place, hopefully they stick around. read more

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Excellent!! There were three of us dining...Mikayla was fabulous!! The ribs, the chicken, the brisket = yummo!! Will definitely be back!!! read more

I recently had evening rations at this establishment. I had a tri tip sandwich. The sandwich was edible and my appetite was satisfied as I also had French Fries. However, this establishment only has chopped brisket and tri tip. While the chopped meat was edible, it was not consider desirable as I prefer sliced meat. For the reason I am dinging this establishment one point. Men's washroom was clean enough but no paper towels were available. For that reason I am dinging this establishment one point. The service was very good. If I was to assign a letter grade as is done in school, this establishment would get a solid C. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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Is there salsa dancing? Spoke with Mikala. Salsa Dancing Saturday only $15 entry fee with dance lessons starts at 8:00 pm salsa and cumbia some days they have funk music $15 all night with or without lessons No entry fee if you dine Hope this helps someone who wants to know about salsa dancing and lessons read more

The food was... interesting. I ordered the rib tips and the brisket, the best thing was the brisket and that is a reach. The table ordered a round of "dinner rolls" and we received hamburger buns.. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Dinner Rolls - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Texas has filed a lawsuit to remove the name "Texas" from the restaurant title! This is NOT Texas BBQ! The brisket was all wrong. There was no smoke ring or bark from BBQ. This was more like a pot roast. And it was sliced wrong. It should have been sliced 90 degrees from the grain of the meat. It was sliced with the grain. This makes it chewy. Not good. Either the owner isn't present, doesn't care or doesn't know. Just bad BBQ. Here's more detail: 1. The bark is basically missing. A real smoked brisket should have: * A dark, crusty bark * Visible spice rub adhesion * Texture on the exterior Beale's has: * A soft, uniform brown surface * No crisp bark edge * Almost a "roast beef" appearance This is a classic sign of low smoke exposure or improper cooking environment (e.g., oven or pressure-cooked brisket, then lightly smoked or sauced). 2. There's little to no smoke ring. A proper smoke ring is a pinkish band -¼ inch deep beneath the bark. Beale's slices show: * Maybe a faint hint of color * But basically zero distinct ring A missing smoke ring usually means: * Cooked in an oven * Cooked fast * Electric smoker with little combustion * Not enough airflow or low wood use 3. The texture is off. Beale's brisket looks: * Compact * Tight-grained * Slightly mushy on the cut surface * Not marbled or juicy Good smoked brisket is: * Tender but structured * Juicy with rendered fat * Loose fibers that hold shape when sliced This looks more like: * Braise-style beef * Oven brisket * Steam-table reheated brisket * Or smoked very minimally then finished another way 4. The flavor indicators support this. When brisket has been properly smoked 10-14 hours: * The bark is unmistakable * The smoke ring is obvious * The meat slices clean * It does NOT shred like pot roast unless massively overcooked Beale's brisket shredded partly because it was soft from moisture/steam cooking, not slow rendering of collagen under smoke. Verdict This is something that was called brisket, but not authentically smoked brisket. This is extremely common at places that: * Don't have a real pit * Smoke in batches then reheat * Rely on ovens or sous-vide and add smoke flavor after * Serve smoked meats but don't follow proper BBQ technique Bottom line: this wasn't real Texas-style smoked brisket. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Beale's BBQ is easily one of the best spots in Santa Ana--not just for the food, but for the full vibe. It's tucked into a spot that feels both lively and laid-back, with an awesome crowd, great energy, and that irresistible smell of slow-smoked meat in the air. I ordered the Triple B sandwich--pulled pork, tri-tip, brisket, and hotlink all stacked under one bun--and it was absolutely next-level. Every bite was a mouthful of smoky, juicy, meaty heaven. You know it's good when you stop mid-bite just to close your eyes and appreciate. Add in the killer sides and super friendly service, and I was already sold. But what really pushed the whole experience over the top? The patio DJ. This guy was on fire. He had the whole patio locked in, spinning hit after hit that kept people posted up, eating, dancing, and just straight-up vibing. It wasn't background music--it became part of the experience. Everyone was smiling, moving, staying longer than they probably planned to. I actually had to go over and give the man a hug. He earned it. 100%. Between the amazing BBQ, the music, and the energy, Beale's is more than a restaurant--it's a destination. Can't wait to go back. read more

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The first time we ate here it was good. The brisket was moist and tasty, the greens were pretty good. I wanted to go back for lunch again on April 16, 2026, during posted open hours and they were locked up tight and their phone number wouldn't take messages. We left and had burgers down the street. read more

The Big room is the Bbq restaurant area. There's a stage in that room and a separate private VIP lounge to the side of the stage. There's dancing and sometimes they have Live bands. On some weekends they have a DJ who plays outside. There's also what looks like an events room. The bar is decent sized. Good & friendly customer service. read more

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We decided to try this place since it was nearby. The twice baked potato was NOT a potato. it was just mashed potatoes topped with your choice of meat which is misleading. i was confused when i got it. the pulled pork was good but the coleslaw was DRY , no taste. overall i will not be back. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - bbq twice baked potato - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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I found you!!! I was driving home through DTSA and I was at a light and looked to the left and it said Beale's. Beales... Beales... BEALES'S!!! My go to for ribs when it was on PCH. I went one day and it was closed. And I was sad because this was my spot. But now I found you guys again and will be getting those St. Louis ribs again. I haven't been there yet but I will tonight on the way home. See you guys later!!! read more

This place is a TOTAL SHAM! I would give zero stars if I could. Don't waste your money here. This place SUCKED! The food and drinks were absolutely terrible. I read all the bad reviews after we left and they were all spot on and VERY accurate. Had I read them prior I absolutely wouldn't have ate here. The portion sizes were tiny, too. The food was cold and lacked seasoning (or smoke) of any kind and the "hot links" tasted like cheap store bought hot dogs with bbq sauce. After dousing our food in salt, pepper, and hot sauce it then made the food edible enough to eat. What a shame to have wasted $75. Oh, and don't expect to get a single beer on tap like their menu list states. They have nothing on tap. Also, they didn't have the ingredients to make an espresso martini which was also on their menu. I can't stand when a place doesn't have an updated menu. If something is on the menu, I should be able to order said item. The only thing good about our experience was the nice young waitress we had who kept apologizing profusely for everything that wasn't right about that place. Which was everything. I'd be embarrassed to work there too, sis. Although, I was a little disappointed when we got our bill since our waitress told us she'd give us a discount on the drinks but no discounts were given. Save your time and money. Go to Gus's fried chicken across the street. We almost did and I sure wish we did. Lessons have to be learned in life and I'm teaching you this one. Take my advice. Go anywhere else but here. You're welcome. **Beale's Texas Bbq, you should be ashamed of what you promote and serve.** read more

1 Star - Very Disappointing Experience I had high hopes for Beale's Texas BBQ after hearing good things, but my experience was far from what was promised. Our waitress described the brisket and cornbread as "super moist," but nothing could be further from the truth. I specifically asked for the fatty portion of the brisket and was brought the flat instead. That would have been fine if it were moist--but it was extremely dry and tough. The rib tips were even worse--clearly a couple of days old and dried out, even under the barbecue sauce. I asked if I could substitute the rib tips for hot links, and the waitress said yes--but it took over 45 minutes to get them, with repeated check-ins saying "they're working on it." The cornbread was another disappointment. It was described as cheese cornbread, but there wasn't a trace of cheese in it. Instead, it was crumbly, dry, and flavorless. To be fair, the mac & cheese was excellent--creamy, flavorful, and easily the highlight of the meal. The hot link sausage was also very good and had great texture and moisture. Unfortunately, the good sides couldn't make up for the poor service and the dry, overcooked meats. For a BBQ place that's earned four stars, this was shockingly lackluster. Our group was there for an event with many people supporting them, and it's a shame they didn't deliver. I wouldn't come back. read more

Food was good. Service was amazing. My tri tip was very tough and over cooked. Ribs and chicken were delicious. They forgot one of my side orders of corn bread. Will give them a try again and update. read more

I had an amazing time my first time. The service was impeccable and the food was even better! I highly recommend!

We used to come here when it was OG Mikes. They've turned this place into a beautiful, spacious, modern restaurant. TV's wall to wall, watch all your sports and enjoy a band. We came at lunch, ordered the family meal #1. Everything was perfect! Ribs, brisket, and the greens were the stars! You can taste the love in the food! Our server Faith was amazing, she was sweet and attentive. We'll be back for sure. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Family Meal #1 - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

I've never had some greens without some type of smoked meat.. normally i do mine with turkey tails but at least a turkey leg or wing would have sufficed the brisket was decent and the aesthetic of the spot was beautiful the brisket was decent but I'm not convinced to come back .. the staff is completely understaffed but in a sense that might not be the establishments fault.. some people don't wana work anymore read more

3/20/26. First time there. Was looking forward to some good BBQ. Bitterly disappointed. It took over an hour to get our food. Then it was cold. The greens were vinegary. The meat was tough. To be fair , there were a lot of people there that night. The servers were good but the food was not. Will not be going back.​ read more

nasty food no flavor meat was so hard and the corn bread tasted undercooked and old never would go back here again

Hi, My second review. My Best friend & I, enjoyed St Louis Ribs, Yams, Collard Greens, Cold Slaw & Potato Salad. Beales were unfortunately, out of Short Ribs! I specifically bought him here, for Short Ribs! Oh well, the ribs were good, and all the sides were excellent! Ambience was fine, music playing. I didn't get Waitress's name, short hair, congenital, and attentive! Bartender fantastic! I highly recommend Beale's Texas BBQ, in Santa Ana! Oops, I forgot to mention the Cooks, in kitchen, (names unknown) food was served fast & definitely not microwaved! I'm extremely fussy ! Marie read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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Very disappointed. Saw all the good reviews so we wanted to give this place a try since we were craving BBQ. The entrance needs to be better marked because we went around thinking it was the front since the back looked like a whole club. The brisket was very dry and so were the ribs. Collard greens were decent. My partner got the brisket and pulled pork and corn bread and they were also all dry. I guess I should have known better when I didn't see a smoker or smell any smoke like I would at a BBQ spot. I lived in Texas for a while and this is not Texas BBQ. The only positive I'd say is our server was attentive and nice. It was absolutely not worth $72. read more

Beale's Texas Bbq - Ribs & brisket - Barbeque Near Me - Santa Ana, California