May is National Barbecue Month, and in Placerville, California, that means one thing: it’s time to fire up the grill, grab your friends, and get a little sauce on your shirt. The days are longer, the evenings are warmer, and the smoky scent of barbecue drifts through the foothills. Here’s how to make the most of barbecue season in Placerville, from expert grilling tips to the best local spots and where to get your meat.
Sizzle Like a Pro: Grilling Tips for May
Before you start flipping burgers or basting ribs, let’s talk technique. Even if you’re a backyard rookie, these simple tips can help you grill like a champ:
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Start with a clean grill: Old charred bits don’t add flavor, they just mess up your food. Scrub those grates before you heat things up.
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Let your meat rest before grilling: Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before it hits the grill. This helps it cook evenly.
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Oil the grates, not the food: Use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to wipe down the grates. This keeps food from sticking.
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Don’t press your meat: Smashing burgers or steaks squeezes out the juices. Let them sizzle undisturbed.
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Use a thermometer: Guesswork is for gamblers. Check the internal temperature to make sure your chicken isn’t clucking and your steak isn’t mooing.
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Let it rest after cooking: Give your meat a few minutes to relax before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
With these basics, you’re already ahead of the game and ready to impress the neighbors.
Placerville’s Barbecue Scene: Where to Eat
If you’d rather leave the grilling to the experts, Placerville has you covered. This town knows its barbecue, and a few spots stand out for locals and visitors alike.
Hog Wild Bar-B-Que
This Texas-style joint is a local legend. Hog Wild Bar-B-Que serves up slow-cooked meats with sauce on the side, so you can taste the smoke and the seasoning. Their signature sandwich, The Angry Pit Master, and Margie’s Four Berry Cobbler have even landed them on national TV and in the Yelp Top 100 Barbecue Spots in the nation. The vibe is casual, the portions are generous, and the brisket is the talk of Main Street.
Geartooth Alewerks
Looking for barbecue with a side of craft beer? Geartooth Alewerks pairs smoked meats with house-brewed ales. It’s a relaxed spot to unwind after a day exploring the Gold Country.
Holy Grail BBQ and Poor Red’s Bar-B-Q
Both are local favorites for ribs, chicken, and classic sides. Whether you’re after a pulled pork sandwich or a plate of smoky tri-tip, you’ll find it here.
Placerville’s barbecue restaurants are all about flavor, hospitality, and making sure you leave with a full belly and a smile.
Local Butcher Spotlight: Archer’s Butcher Block Meat Market & Deli
For those who want to grill at home, start with the best meat. Archer’s Butcher Block Meat Market & Deli is a family-run shop known for its high-quality cuts and friendly service. Located on Mother Lode Drive, Archer’s offers everything from marinated chicken Bordelay to thick, meaty bacon and even specialty meats like elk. Their deli counter is stacked with sandwiches, and the outdoor picnic tables make it easy to grab a quick bite or plan a picnic.
If you’re looking for something special to throw on the grill, ask the staff for recommendations. They’re happy to help you pick the perfect steak or suggest a new marinade. And if you’re a bacon lover, don’t miss their house-made version; it’s a local favorite.
Another Meat Lover’s Haven: Kings Meats
Just a short drive away in Diamond Springs, Kings Meats is another top choice for grillers. This butcher shop is famous for dry-aged beef, house-made sausages, and a wide selection of sauces and rubs. They grind their meat fresh daily, never freeze it, and even have a dry age room you can check out. Kings Meats is all about quality over price, making it a go-to for anyone serious about their barbecue.
What to Grill This Month
Not sure what to toss on the fire? Here are a few ideas that always work in May:
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Chicken thighs: Juicy, forgiving, and perfect for marinades.
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Tri-tip: A California classic, especially when seasoned with just salt, pepper, and garlic.
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Sausages: Quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.
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Vegetables: Don’t forget the corn, peppers, and mushrooms. Charred veggies are a hit with everyone.
Make It a Party
Barbecue is best shared. Invite friends, bring out some local beer or lemonade, and let everyone build their own plate. Try a sauce tasting with different styles—sweet, spicy, and tangy—and see which one wins the crowd.
Placerville’s barbecue spirit is all about good food, good company, and making memories. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or sampling the best brisket in town, May is the perfect time to celebrate National Barbecue Month. So grab your tongs, pick up some fresh meat, and let the smoke signals fly.
Sources: cozymeal.com, google.com, yardbarker.com
Header Image Source: Emerson Vieira on Unsplash
