Santa Maria style restaurants in Santa Maria area

They don't have tri-tip, but Jocko's in Nipomo is fantastic. Everything cooked over blazing red oak on a Santa Maria pit. I've had pork ribs, beef ribs, and beef BBQ there (it was like a sliced beef deal, with some kind of sauce - not normally what I'd go for, but very good). Everything I've had is fantastic. It's a very popular spot, best to have reservations & go early. If you like to drink at the bar with locals, you can do that - it's a fun spot.

http://jockossteakhouse.com

From what I understand, the real roots of what is widely understood to be Santa Maria BBQ are in fundraisers held by churches and civic organizations. I have no idea if they still go on or not. There's also a spot called The Hitching Post that I haven't been to but have heard good things about - I believe there are 2 - not sure if they are related or if one is preferable to the other.

This looks promising...I may have to go check it out myself!

St. John's in Santa Clara does a nice tri-tip on Tuesdays.
Firestone Grill in SLO was good too.
Stop in for a "slash" at the Madonna Inn, most famous bathroom in CA



Jocko's is legendary