May in Folsom, California, is not just another page on the calendar. It’s the official kickoff to National Barbecue Month, a time when backyards fill with smoky aromas, local grills fire up, and the city’s best pitmasters show off their skills. Whether you’re a seasoned grill guru or you just want an excuse to eat more ribs, Folsom is the perfect place to celebrate all things barbecue.
Where to Get Your BBQ Fix in Folsom
Folsom’s barbecue scene is as varied as the sauces on your plate. Here are a few local favorites where you can taste the spirit of National Barbecue Month.
Poppy’s Bar & Que
With 12 beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a menu packed with barbecue classics, Poppy’s is the place to watch the game and eat your fill of smoky goodness. The atmosphere is lively, and the TVs are always tuned to the big game.
Belly Barbecue
If you’re after authentic Southern barbecue, Belly Barbecue delivers. They use offset smokers and fresh ingredients to create high-craft barbecue that’s worth every bite. Their motto: “We close when we sell out.” Translation: get there early.
Daddy O’s Smokehouse
A local favorite for slow-cooked meats and classic sides, Daddy O’s is a must-try for anyone serious about barbecue.
Kiki’s Chicken Place
While famous for their crispy chicken tenders and wings, Kiki’s also serves up a BBQ-style chicken sandwich that locals rave about. Their sauces are the stuff of legend.
Noble Beast Butcher’s Market Food Truck
This mobile eatery brings California-style BBQ to the streets of Folsom, using premium local meats and fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to try something new and support local ranchers at the same time.
Grilling Tips for Backyard Heroes
Ready to fire up the grill at home? Here are some simple but effective tips to make your barbecue the talk of the block.
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Preheat your grill: Give your grill 15 minutes to get nice and hot. This helps prevent sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
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Oil the grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to wipe down the grates. This keeps your food from sticking.
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Don’t poke the meat: Use tongs instead of a fork. Piercing the meat lets the juices escape, and nobody likes dry barbecue.
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Let it rest: After grilling, let your meat rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite tender.
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Experiment with wood: Try different woods like hickory, apple, or mesquite for unique flavors.
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Keep it simple: Sometimes, salt, pepper, and a little patience are all you need for great barbecue.
Spotlight: Adam’s Meat Shop
If you want to take your barbecue to the next level, start with the best ingredients. Adam’s Meat Shop on E. Bidwell Street is a local institution for Folsom’s grill enthusiasts. Adam and his team offer a huge selection of high-quality meats, from classic cuts like tri-tip and ribeye to house-made sausages and wild game. Looking for something special? Their marinated tri-tip and jalapeño cheddar sausages are local favorites.
Adam’s is praised for its friendly service and willingness to help you pick the perfect cut or seasoning. They even offer to cube your stew meat or explain the differences between marinades. The shop is always clean, and the meat is fresh, just what you want when you’re planning a barbecue.
Don’t Forget the Sides
Barbecue isn’t just about the meat. Folsom’s barbecue joints serve up sides that deserve their own spotlight. Think macaroni salad, garlic fries, sweet potato fries, and tangy coleslaw. A good side dish can turn a plate of barbecue into a feast.
Supporting Local: Markets and Food Trucks
Folsom’s barbecue scene thrives because of its local markets and food trucks. Noble Beast Butcher’s Market Food Truck is a great example, sourcing ingredients from Northern California farms and ranches. Their commitment to quality and community makes every bite taste even better.
If you’re looking for more options, the Roseville Meat Company just up the road offers a wide variety of meats, including exotic options like buffalo and venison. Their staff can help you figure out exactly how much meat you’ll need for your next barbecue bash.
Celebrate All Month Long
National Barbecue Month is your excuse to try a new spot, experiment with grilling techniques, or just eat more ribs than usual. Whether you’re picking up a rack of ribs from Adam’s Meat Shop, grabbing a BBQ chicken sandwich at Kiki’s, or trying out a new food truck, Folsom has everything you need to make May delicious. So grab your tongs, invite some friends, and let the smoke signals fly.
Sources: blog.goldbelly.com, google.com, napoleon.com
Header Image Source: Vincent Keiman on Unsplash
