Phil's BBQ

4.6 ( 3631 reviews )
$10–20
9816 Mission Gorge Rd, Santee, CA 92071, United States
+1 619-449-7700

Phil's BBQ, located in Santee, CA, has garnered glowing reviews as a standout barbecue restaurant, often compared to a family gathering filled with delicious food. Patrons like Gregory Fuerte describe the warmth and nostalgia associated with their meals, highlighting how Phil's has become a staple for visitors in San Diego.

The food is consistently praised, with Kristen Walker noting the superior quality of their onion rings—super crispy and rich in flavor. Additionally, large portion sizes make Phil's BBQ a great value; many diners, such as David Bauers, report enjoying hearty meals that leave ample leftovers for later.

What truly sets Phil's apart is their exceptional customer service. Diners like Anthony and Carol Campbell share stories of attentive and friendly staff members, such as Christian, who ensure every aspect of the dining experience is enjoyable. This blend of top-notch service and quality food creates an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and satisfying.

With dishes like gigantic beef ribs and a variety of sides, Phil's BBQ has cemented its reputation as a must-visit for barbecue lovers. It's a place where great food meets a delightful experience.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Good for watching sport
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves happy-hour drinks
    • Serves happy-hour food
    • Has private dining room
    • Quick bite
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Has counter service
    • Serves dessert
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Good for groups
    • Popular with tourists
    • Popular with university students
  • Planning
    • Usually has a wait
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For Phil's BBQ

Gregory Fuerte
Jun 14,2025
Phil's is like Famous Dave's, but only if you love the food and you were eating at a family BBQ. This was my first time at a Phil's and I can not wait to return, plus the family like so it will always be a stop for us when we visit San Diego.
Kristen Walker
Jun 13,2025
Had an awesome time at Phil's BBQ in Santee! The food was super tasty—everything was on point, but the onion rings especially were amazing, super crispy and full of flavor. The staff was really friendly too, which made the whole experience even better. Definitely coming back!
Anthony
May 19,2025
Phil’s BBQ takes their customer service very serious. I had an issue once out of maybe 100 times going there. I have been to Many locations and they are always great. This Mission Gorge store has always been great with the Niblet Meals and the Bar Service was always great. When I had an issue Phil’s reached out to me right away. They assured me my feedback was received and would take care of it. I am looking forward to going there again to feast on the Beef Ribs. My Son and Dad are just as happy and excited to go there again. We all live in santee and like the Mission Gorge Location. Their beef portions are gigantic. I added the extra beef rib and had food for 3 days.
David Bauers
May 11,2025
This is real value for the money. I ordered the 3-piece beef ribs with two sides. I had PLENTY of rib left over for two more meals. I also took some of the beef rib and fried it up with eggs,onions and mushrooms. Sooo good!
Carol Campbell
Apr 27,2025
My husband and I had dinner at Phil’s Santee today. Even better than the food (and the food is pretty awesome) was the service from the staff, one in particular named Christian. As we sat at our table waiting for our food, Christian approached our table, introduced himself, gave us plates, utensils and hand wipes, and said if he can do anything else for us, let him know. My husband asked him for another “Creole Seasoning” as the one at our table was almost empty. Cristian promptly brought us another one. Then, during our meal, he checked in with us to confirm everything was good. Later he came by and asked if we needed any boxes to go, and the whole time, he was very pleasant, friendly, and professional! Christian clearly knows and, even better, understands how important it is to provide excellent customer service! Thank you Christian for adding to the enjoyment of our dining at Phil’s BBQ.
Chris Barker
Apr 19,2025
When we arrive the line was out the door and we almost left and went somewhere else. I’m glad we stayed. The weight was not too bad and the line moves pretty quick. I had a half a rack of ribs with potato salad and macaroni cheese. My girlfriend had The boneless ribs. Both were good. I liked the ribs over the boneless ones. We also got a side of sausage and it was good as well. Darling your rings were big, thick and good. The kids got the philibuster and said it was really good as well. Don’t let the line for you and not check this place out
Czar Fonzarelli
Apr 12,2025
Phils BBQ never disappoints delicious Barbecue huge portions for a good price and customer service is always excellent I got the beef rib tickler no Coleslaw and they give you the option to get extra onion rings or French fries so definitely get extra onion rings they are my favorite onion rings I've ever had there ranch sauce is delicious also and I also got a pulled pork sandwich and there is plenty of parking
Scott L
Mar 6,2025
Phil's BBQ in Santee lives up to its reputation as the best American BBQ spot in San Diego County. As the only location in Santee, it draws a good crowd, especially on Thursday evenings, though the wait time is shorter compared to weekends, and seating is usually available. The baby back ribs are a must-try—tender and flavorful. The Link Combo is a great value at 4.99, featuring a delicious beef sausage paired with a soft drink. While the chicken wings were a bit dry for my taste, the Tickler stands out as a hearty option, combining beef ribs with fries, coleslaw, and two crispy onion rings. It’s a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling full. For those who prefer less sweetness, I recommend requesting the sauce on the side to control the flavor balance. The patio dining area is a huge plus, as it’s dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot to enjoy great BBQ with your furry friend. Phil's BBQ in Santee is a fantastic place for an enjoyable BBQ experience.

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