May isn’t just about blooming flowers and longer days. In Del Mar, California, it’s National Barbecue Month, a perfect excuse to grab your tongs, fire up the grill, and get a little smoky. Whether you’re a backyard rookie or a seasoned pitmaster, Del Mar offers everything you need for a sizzling celebration.
Sizzle Like a Pro: Grilling Tips for May
Before you toss anything on the grill, here are a few simple tips to make your barbecue the talk of the block:
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Preheat Your Grill: Give your grill 15 minutes to get hot. This helps sear your meat and keeps it from sticking.
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Oil the Grates: Dip a paper towel in oil, grab it with tongs, and wipe the grates. This keeps food from sticking and gives you those classic grill marks.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Guesswork is out. Check the internal temperature so your chicken isn’t raw and your steak isn’t a hockey puck.
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Let Meat Rest: After grilling, let your meat sit for five minutes. This keeps the juices inside, not on your plate.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece of meat some space. Crowding drops the grill’s temperature and leads to uneven cooking.
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Try Wood Chips: Want a smoky flavor? Toss some soaked wood chips on the coals or in a smoker box.
These tips will help you grill with confidence all month long.
Where to Get Your Grill On: Barbecue Spots in Del Mar
If you’d rather let someone else do the grilling, Del Mar has plenty of options. Here are a few local favorites where the barbecue is always hot and the flavors are bold:
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Bushfire Kitchen: Known for its wood-fired rotisserie chicken and hearty barbecue plates, this spot is a go-to for families and friends looking for a casual feast.
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Pillbox Tavern: This laid-back hangout serves up barbecue classics with a local twist, from juicy ribs to pulled pork sandwiches.
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Nanay’s Best BBQ: Craving something different? Nanay’s brings Filipino barbecue flavors to Del Mar, with skewers and grilled meats that pack a punch.
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Del Mar Seaside Grill: While not strictly a barbecue joint, their grilled meats and Mediterranean flavors are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for those who want a little variety with their smoke.
For more options, a quick search for “barbecue chicken in Del Mar” will turn up even more local gems, so you’ll never run out of places to satisfy your cravings.
The Butchery: Your Local Meat Headquarters
If you’re planning to grill at home, start with the best ingredients. The Butchery in Del Mar is more than just a butcher shop; it’s a full-service destination for meat lovers. Located at 3720 Caminito Ct, Suite 200, The Butchery offers:
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Hand-Cut Steaks: Choose from dry-aged, wet-aged, wagyu, and even more exotic options like bison and venison.
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Pre-Marinated Meats: Short on time? Pick up house-marinated chicken, beef, or pork ready to hit the grill.
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Sausages and Ground Meats: All made in-house, perfect for burgers or grilling up a variety of flavors.
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Artisan Cheeses and Deli Items: Round out your barbecue with specialty cheeses, fresh baguettes, and deli sides.
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Craft Beer and Wine: Grab a bottle or a six-pack to pair with your barbecue feast.
The Butchery is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, so you can swing by anytime you get the urge to grill.
Fresh Finds: Del Mar Farmers Market
No barbecue is complete without fresh sides. The Del Mar Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 12 to 4 PM at 1050 Camino Del Mar. Here you’ll find:
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Seasonal Fruits and Veggies: Load up on corn, tomatoes, and greens for salads, salsas, and grilling.
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Local Eggs and Herbs: Perfect for making homemade marinades or adding a fresh touch to your dishes.
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Baked Goods and Honey: Sweeten up your barbecue with fresh bread or a drizzle of local honey.
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International Flavors: Pick up something new from one of the many food vendors for a global twist on your meal.
Shopping at the farmers market supports local growers and adds a burst of freshness to your barbecue spread.
Make May Your Best Barbecue Month Yet
National Barbecue Month is a great reason to try new recipes, visit local favorites, and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Whether you’re grilling at home with top-notch meats from The Butchery, picking up fresh produce at the Del Mar Farmers Market, or letting a local restaurant handle the heavy lifting, Del Mar has everything you need for a month of smoky, saucy fun.
So grab your apron, invite your neighbors, and let the good times (and the barbecue sauce) flow.
Sources: cozymeal.com, google.com, yardbarker.com
Header Image Source: Zac Cain on Unsplash
