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    CJ's Barbecue

    3.6 (467 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

    Order CJ's Barbecue Takeout or Delivery

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    CJ'S BARBECUE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - CJ's Barbecue

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    Bbq sauce
    Julie D.

    I have seen CJ's from the road, but was always curious to go and check it out. Glad I did! SERVICE: Went here for the first time today, pretty impressed! I got the 2 meat combo, and felt like it was priced fairly. I really liked how buffalo wings were included in the 2 meat option, there are lots of options to choose from. And lots of sides to choose from as well! Service was helpful and answered my questions. AMBIANCE: This is an order at the register and they bring your food to you restaurant, it seems like they do a lot of to-go orders as there aren't a lot of tables inside to sit at. But there is outside seating as well if you prefer that. FOOD: Food was good, I got the two meat combo: I chose Tri tip, buffalo wings and for side I chose fries, coleslaw. A bun comes with it as well. TRI TIP: This Tri tip was TENDER! The most tender I have had in Oxnard/Ventura. The bbq sauce on top is really good, but they slather it on there for you and it's a lot. I would recommend you ask for the bbq sauce on the side if you order the trip tip. --8/10 BUFFALO WINGS: The wings were average for me, nothing out of the ordinary. Very classic and tasted good. -- 8/10 FRIES: The fries are AMAZING. Like seriously, so good. They have great seasoning on them, I'm obsessed. The ranch is really good too! 10/10 COLESLAW: I've had better, wasn't bad but wasn't amazing. A little sweet and not a lot of flavor. 7/10 BUN: Bun was delicious, seriously so good and the BEST bread side I have had for bbq places in Ventura/Oxnard. Other bbq places just give you white bread that is barely toasted sometimes. This was buttered and toasted to perfection. 9/10 Overall, we are definitely going here again. It was tasty and a fun way to shake up our normal routine. I really want to try the cobbler soon, and those fries are incredible. I like that they have bottles of BBQ that you can use at the table, that was an awesome touch. Totally would get this place for catering/to go!

    Bbq beans, mac n cheese, sauce on the side and dinner roll
    Raymund S.

    It's my birthday today but my dinner plans were cancelled. I wanted something I haven't had in awhile so I thought of CJ's. Called them up 30 minutes before they closed and they took my order. I ordered a full rack of beef ribs! Took of to make it there before closing and was greeted with the friendliest person that just kept a smile on. Gave me my order and told me to enjoy my food. I told him I will because it's my birthday. We started talking guessing each others ages and we were both off by 10 years. He gave a cornbread in the house. I asked his name and he said,"Chris...CJ" I didn't know that was him. Such a pleasure to meet the owner. Very personable. Reminded me of Sal at Sal's Mexican Restaurant went he was still with us and the place was open. Anyway, I got home and the ribs were the best! I asked for the sauce on the side because I don't usually use sauce on my ribs, but when I put some on...wow! It was even better! The bbq beans were great and so was the mac n cheese. I just wish my sides were bigger. As for the cornbread...so good. I ate everything except 3 ribs. I got too full. I'll be back soon for more, but I will order bigger sides.

    Corn bread

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    3 years ago

    Always love their food! So yummy! Customer service is pretty good too. But I love their food & look aid.

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    4 years ago

    Great service, great food second on my second visit I even tried the catfish and it was bomb.

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    4 years ago

    Love this place great service! Great food! Love the tri tip super tender.. the corn bread is really moist and sweet

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    2 years ago

    Service is good but overpriced seem like good people but their portions aren't worth the price and there ribs aren't that good

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    4 years ago

    My advice is- Check your order BEFORE leaving. We didn't t and were shorted and over charged. Won't be back

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

    The Tri tip potato skins are my go to as well as the spicy BBQ sauce. My husband gets the 3 meat bbq combo

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    4 years ago

    Cj has the best bar b que in Ventura County. His organization is clean and the staff is friendly

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    Page 3 of 12

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    Ruff House BBQ - Brisket mac

    Ruff House BBQ

    4.8(97 reviews)
    6.0 mi

    Ruff House BBQ is one of those places you almost don't want to tell people about because it's that…read moregood. Tucked inside the music hall, it serves up legit Texas-style barbecue that would hold its own anywhere. The atmosphere is unique--great food, live music vibes, and a laid-back crowd all under one roof. The brisket was phenomenal with a perfect bark, deep smoky flavor, and that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness every BBQ lover hopes for. The beef rib was absolutely massive and incredibly juicy, while the pork belly burnt ends were rich, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The mac and cheese was the ideal side--creamy, cheesy, and comforting without stealing the spotlight from the meats. What makes this spot even more special is that they're only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 3 PM (or until they sell out), so you know everything is fresh and made in limited batches. After tasting the food, it's easy to understand why they often sell out. The portions are generous, the quality is outstanding, and every bite tastes like it was made by people who truly care about barbecue. Whether you're there for a show or just making a special trip for lunch, Ruff House BBQ is absolutely worth it. Get there early, come hungry, and don't leave without trying the brisket and beef rib. I'll definitely be back.

    INSANELY DELICIOUS!!!!! Okay! Okay now!! This place is FIRE!…read moreSimple menu style, different items on different days to keep it fresh! Such a great concept..It was $1 wing night and let me tell you, Crispy, flavorful, and I couldn't eat them fast enough! We got a few other items that deserve jist as much praise! Smash burger, Sweet & smokey potato with pork belly YUMM!!! The smash fries had me in a good coma! The service was friendly and and our food arrived in a timely manner, which is important. The place is spacious and is in the Ventura Music Hall, were concerts, bands, and other music events happen. I most definitely will be back for whatever this place is selling!!! This is a MUST stop with family, or friends. Great for groups.

    Photos
    Ruff House BBQ
    Ruff House BBQ - Esquite

    Esquite

    Ruff House BBQ - The lighting inside wasn't the best for photos but the flavor was ALL there.  The is the Fleet!

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    The lighting inside wasn't the best for photos but the flavor was ALL there. The is the Fleet!

    It's In The Sauce BBQ - Brisket Plate with garlic bread, potato salad, and apple cobbler, DELICIOUS

    It's In The Sauce BBQ

    4.6(280 reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Budget friendly

    "It's in the Sauce" catering has now done three reunions for our veterans group, and Wayne and his…read morefamily continue to knock it out of the park every time. There are no fancy contracts, no drama, and no surprises--just a handshake, a date, and a headcount. I tell Wayne when we're eating and how many mouths we need to feed, and he shows up on time, fully prepared, and ready to deliver. That kind of reliability is rare, and it means everything when you're feeding a large group. The food is consistently excellent, the service is smooth, and the whole operation reflects pride, experience, and family values. You can tell this is a family-owned business that genuinely cares about doing things right. When you find people you can trust completely, you stick with them--and that's exactly why we'll continue to use It's in the Sauce for future reunions. Highly recommended without hesitation.

    An amazing spot to grab some BBQ in Oxnard. This spot is unassuming and what appears to be in a…read morebusiness area of town away from foot traffic. We probably wouldn't have dropped by it if someone hadn't told us about it. The staff was kind, friendly, and gave suggestions when we asked questions about the various meat options. The cash register is right straight in as you walk in. There are communal benches outside and a few high top tables inside, but the restaurant seemed to get a lot of pick up orders. Food came out within 5 minutes on a Saturday at lunch, which I was weary about since it's BBQ - but everything ended up still being hot and juicy. We ended up going with the 3-meat plate for about $30 total. It was enough for 2 people (or 1 really hungry person!). We ordered the brisket, burnt ends, and hot links which came with garlic bread and two sides of our choice - the star of the show was for sure the burnt ends, which were juicy and deeply flavorful. The brisket was moist, which I feel like is hard to find, but I do wish it had more flavor. The hot links were also good but didn't have much nuance either. Next time, we'll definitely save room to try some dessert, which was only $5! If you're in the area, definitely check this place out!

    Photos
    It's In The Sauce BBQ
    It's In The Sauce BBQ - Sides

    Sides

    It's In The Sauce BBQ - Looks good with the smoker sitting outside

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    Looks good with the smoker sitting outside

    Busters Og Bbq & Grill - Dip that sandwich in the beans..perfection!

    Busters Og Bbq & Grill

    3.3(195 reviews)
    3.7 mi
    $$

    Buster's BBQ is hidden away but definitely worth finding. We ordered the Tri Tip meal and Sandwich…read moreand both had a generous portion of sliced tender meat with a lovely smoke ring. The house-made chili beans were also flavorful and perfectly seasoned. The potato salad was solid and the coleslaw was delicious if you grew up enjoying KFC coleslaw. The meats live up to the high expectations we have for BBQ and it draws large crowds at lunchtime. The cashier at the counter was very friendly and helpful and the meal was brought to the table fairly quickly. The interior 2 dining rooms are spacious and the standout decor is comprised of large TV screens playing an eclectic selection of cartoons, sports and home improvement shows. The focus here is definitely serving up the best BBQ and fixings. We'll absolutely be back to try the ribs, and chicken.

    Well, passing through town again staying for a few days to visit friends and family from my old…read morestomping ground here in Ventura, California. I crave some barbecue tri-tip.. I read somewhere across the street where this Location used to be in that food court is another barbecue place that I didn't get to try unfortunately because I'm pretty loyal to Buster's . it was about 730 on a Monday night and they close at eight so I figured you know what I'll give them a shot. Upon entering the business I could smell some of the meats we're still cooking on the grill so that's a good sign. I need a quick take on the pricing and wow unbelievable that this place at one time sold a tri-tip sandwich for 7.99 and a tri-tip dinner for about 13.99. now the sandwich is 14.99 and the dinner is 19.99.. there's a picture included. You can zoom in and see the prices for yourself but not sure how much I would get. I was starving. I got the dinner and I also got the sandwich. I can also eat the next day or simple some of my was not full. I opted for the potato salad, the coleslaw and the beans on the dinner and the sandwich just comes with tri-tip French bread and a barbecue sauce of your choice or you can get hot version which I avoid. So about 35.00 and I'm headed back to my hotel. I dug into the dinner first and yes, the tri-tip was kind of dry, but would you dip it into the barbecue sauce? It was OK. The beans were OK. I needed some seasoning potato salad. It was great and the coleslaw was just average coleslaw. nothing to write home about the butter. Bread was pretty good portions was it fresh it was warm. Could've been better.. I was given about 4 to 5 slices of tri-tip, which isn't really a lot so I attacked the language and took a few slices off of there and then put the rest away for tomorrow. Overall, it's decent maybe I should've went when it was fresher in the afternoon, but I probably wouldn't recommend going late in the evening as things are being put away and food tends to sit around for a while. can't really blame the price too much because we all know. Beef prices are insane these days but I think you should at least get more portions for the $$$$ you're paying for. on my next visit I head across the street and try the new place if it's still an existence cause we know that food court turns new places over left and right and it could be vacated on my next return..

    Photos
    Busters Og Bbq & Grill - Clean for the win

    Clean for the win

    Busters Og Bbq & Grill - Tri-tip dinner beans, potato salad, coleslaw don't mind the one bite off the toast

    Tri-tip dinner beans, potato salad, coleslaw don't mind the one bite off the toast

    Busters Og Bbq & Grill

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    Gunsmoke BBQ - Brisket

    Gunsmoke BBQ

    4.3(230 reviews)
    13.9 mi
    $$

    If you know anything about Gunsmoke BBQ and Beer in Santa Paula, you know their barbecue already…read morehas a solid reputation....but finally making it into their restaurant just confirmed everything I'd been hearing. I've had the chance to try their BBQ at local events around Ventura County, and it always left an impression. They make some darn good BBQ. BUT for this visit we ended up highlighting something just as exciting...their vegetarian options! It definitely says a lot when a barbecue place has great non meat options. I came with my friend Raquel (yelp elite) for lunch and we went all in on their vegetarian plates...well with one exception, we ordered the deviled eggs too. Let's start there: Their famous Candied Bacon Deviled Eggs are a must. Creamy, flavorful filling, lightly battered egg, topped with crispy bacon...yeah, they're as good as they sound. 10/10. Now for the vegetarian standouts: The Fried Avocado Bites were simple but done so right. Perfectly fried and paired with house made sauces that really brought everything together. Super shareable and perfect as a starter. 10/10. The Cauliflower Tacos were a reminder that you absolutely do NOT need meat for a great taco. These were hearty and loaded with (again) incredible sauces. My friend was obsessed and I get why. They were good, but I would prefer a meat protein taco at a spot like this. 7/10 for me. Beyond the food, the experience really shines here. The space has this perfect mix of country charm and rock n roll edge which is such a fun vibe. Service was top notch, and we love when owners are present and genuinely care. They stopped by to check in, which always makes a place feel extra special. And shoutout to our server Bentley, an absolute sweetheart. Next time you're in Santa Paula, do yourself a favor and check them out.

    I sadly became a pescatarian right as Gunsmoke BBQ was opening. I have friends who have been…read morewanting to try it so I wanted to give it a shot as well. Gunsmoke is located in Downtown Santa Paula. I didn't pay close attention but I don't believe they have private parking. If you don't know SP, there is street parking and some parking lots. I would be mindful when you are planning to come for parking. I came with a friend midday so there was plenty of parking and seats as well so we got seated right away. I was happy to see the non meat options they have available. I was a bit bummed out they didn't have their hummus but it's just another excuse for me to go back. I did end up getting their cauliflower tacos. My friend got their avocado fries and their devil eggs. I had never had devil eggs, and tried those and were so good. I wanted more but I had already had all my tacos. I did appreciate the owner coming to greet us and finding out I was pescatarian. He was nice, mentioned that even though they are a BBQ spot, they still want to value those customers that don't eat, and asked if there's anything I think of to let him know to see if they can add it to the menu. Really appreciated that. Overall, bummed out I wasn't able to try their BBQ. The options I did try were all really good. I would come back.

    Photos
    Gunsmoke BBQ - I loved the decor

    I loved the decor

    Gunsmoke BBQ
    Gunsmoke BBQ - Inside

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    Inside

    CJ's Barbecue - burgers - Updated June 2026

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