Not all smoke is created equal in the barbecue world, and at Hog Wild BBQ in Placerville, CA, they’ve mastered the art of low-and-slow cooking. With pitmasters who take pride in every cut of meat they serve, this spot is a haven for anyone who appreciates the finer points of perfectly smoked brisket and ribs.

Meat Done Right: Low and Slow

They don’t just cook meat at Hog Wild BBQ but treat it like an art form. Their motto? Low and slow is the tempo. And they mean it. Every morning at 5:30 AM, the pitmasters fire up their J&R Texas Oiler Smokers, which have been seasoned with over 35 years of cherry wood smoke. These smokers are the real MVPs, infusing brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and ribs with a flavor that’s so rich it practically tells a story.

The smoking process isn’t rushed. Brisket and ribs are given hours to soak up that cherry wood aroma, emerging tender enough to cut with a fork. And here’s the kicker: the meat is served naked—no sauce slathered on top. Why? Because when something tastes this good on its own, it doesn’t need dressing up. That said, if you’re feeling saucy, they have options: original, spicy, or chipotle sauce.

What’s on the Menu?

Hog Wild BBQ keeps things simple but satisfying. Here’s a quick peek at what’s cooking:

• Brisket: Smoky, tender slices that melt in your mouth.
• Pulled Pork: Juicy shreds of pork that are perfect on their own or piled high in a sandwich.
• Ribs: Offered in two styles—St. Louis or baby back—both fall-off-the-bone delicious.
• Chicken: Smoked to perfection with just the right amount of seasoning.
• Burgers: Yes, even their burgers get the smoker treatment.

Sides include classics like coleslaw and beans, but let’s be honest—you’re here for the meat.

Drinks That Pair Perfectly

What’s a barbecue without a cold drink? Hog Wild BBQ has you covered with a selection of beers on tap (think Sierra Nevada’s Hazy Little Thing and Elysian’s Space Dust) and bottled options like Modelo Negra and Blue Moon. Not into beer? Try one of their local wines from Boeger Winery—Hangtown Red pairs particularly well with brisket.

Why Sauce Is Optional

Let’s talk about that bold move of serving meat without sauce. At Hog Wild BBQ, they believe their smoking technique does all the heavy lifting. The cherry wood smoke combined with their secret seasoning blend creates a deep and complex flavor that sauce becomes an afterthought. But hey, if you like to dip or drizzle, their homemade sauces are ready to join the party.

Hours and Timing Tips

Hog Wild BBQ operates Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM—or until they sell out (and trust us, they often do). Pro tip: Get there early if you want first dibs on brisket or ribs. They’re closed on Monday and Tuesday, so plan accordingly unless you enjoy staring longingly through locked doors.

The Location

You’ll find Hog Wild BBQ right in downtown Placerville at 38 Main Street. It’s an easy spot to locate whether you’re a local or just passing through on your way to Tahoe or Sacramento. The vibe is casual and welcoming—perfect for families, solo diners, or anyone who appreciates good food without any pretense.

What Sets Them Apart

Hog Wild BBQ isn’t trying to reinvent barbecue; they’re honoring it. They’ve created something special by sticking to traditional Texas-style methods while adding a touch of California flair (hello, local wines). It’s no wonder they were voted one of the Top 50 Restaurants by the Sacramento Bee.

Sources: hogwildbarbque.com, Hog Wild BBQ & Catering Facebook Page, Hog Wild BBQ & Catering Instagram Page
Header Image Source: Luis Santoyo on Unsplash