Coop's West Texas BBQ
This business is unclaimed.
Owners who claim their business can update listing details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more.
Claim your free listing now
+1 619-589-0478+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Sun
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tue
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wed
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thu
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Fri
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
This business is unclaimed.
Owners who claim their business can update listing details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more.
Claim your free listing now
CUISINES
American, Barbecue
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
FEATURES
Takeout, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible
Is this an American restaurant?
Details
CUISINES
American, Barbecue
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
FEATURES
Takeout, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible
Contribute
4.5
102 reviews
Excellent
74
Very good
21
Average
5
Poor
1
Terrible
1
my82pink
San Diego2694 contributions
Mar 2024 • couples
Love it when the community comes together to save a small business from fully closing. Coop’s is now open on Fri-Sun 10-3. CASH ONLY.
We came on a raining Sat and was the first in line by 9:15am. We placed our order at 9:57am and got our order in 15 mins. Rainy day special of 10% off.
We got a 1/2 slab pork ribs, 1/2 lb brisket, 1/2 lb jerk chicken, 1/2 lb sausage, candied yams, Mac n cheese, corn bread (requested corner piece) and sweet tea.
Everything was so tender, moist with a smokey flavor of oak wood (they ran out of mesquite wood). The sausage and chicken was our least favorite. The pork ribs and brisket were our top two. The ribs had so much flavor deep into the bones and didn’t need sauce. Both had the right amount of fattiness.
We asked for corner cut pieces of the corn bread to get the extra crispiness on the edges.
Sweet tea is a must at bbq places. Be prepared to take on that pre diabetes goodness.
My fiancé said it’s one of the best Mac n cheese he’s had. I’m not a Mac n cheese gal but I liked it bc it was cheesy without being cheesy.
Know that Coop’s bbq is Texas dry rub style with a thin wet layer, not drenched in sauce. They do give you spicy and non spicy bbq sauce.
Parking is in a small lot with tons of street parking. Four picnic indoor tables. Across the parking lot, there are outdoor seatings in the former Coop’s chicken and waffles building.
Written April 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vee F
24 contributions
Jun 2023 • friends
Time to get off the beaten path. The barbecue here was excellent we had brisket sandwiches, pork ribs, collard greens, smothered potatoes and peach cobbler. The minute we exited the car we could smell the barbecue which brought back fond memories of childhood gatherings. It's old school BBQ, the kind that is difficult to find in San Diego unless you venture off the tourist spots. I had to give the owner a hug; Not only was the food good, but the memories it brought back to me were priceless. Order in one building and adjacent to that he has an outdoor seating area for you to enjoy your meal. We could not wait, so we ate there. Trust me..great food, friendly staff...a joyful place.
Written June 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael B
1 contribution
Mar 2024 • business
I was tasked with coordinating lunch for 30 for a retreat in two days. I stopped by Coop's on 3/15/24 during their lunch rush to place my order. Tara cooper knew what she was doing. Had me in and out in no time. My order was ready on time on 3/17/24 as scheduled and Coop's West Texas BBQ did not disappoint. From the ribs to the brisket, the chicken and yams, followed up with greens and cornbread, our retreat went out with a bang. Thank you for taking care of me and my group, we will definitely be returning customers!!!
Written March 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
F2063QZni
Chippewa Falls110 contributions
Jul 2022 • family
Great BBQ whole family loved it and the fast service. Loved the outdoor seating overlooking the river.
Written June 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CoyotesCoach14
San Diego13 contributions
Jun 2020 • family
After a couple of missed opportunities, we finally got takeout and everything was amazing! Definitely will be coming back for more. The peach cobbler was the best I've ever tried.
Written June 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mamaspajamas2
Lemon Grove16 contributions
Jul 2019 • couples
We usually get take-out from Coops, but this time we ate there. Coops BBQ is excellent BBQ with generous portions. The only reason I’m not giving a 5 star is because the seating is so limited due to it being TINY. And I have to say that the staff could be friendlier. They don’t smile or even say hello. But we ate there a lot because the food is so good.
Written December 1, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gustavo Pena
San Diego89 contributions
Feb 2019 • none
This is the only BBQ in San Diego that deserves to even use the name BBQ. Where have you been all my life.! The iced tea is the best tea in San Diego. For those of you who have a sweet tooth dont miss the peach cobbler. The brisket had a beautiful smoke ring. They have 3 sauces to put on your meat on the table. Rib tips were super juicy. The bean have peach in them, gives them a great aftertaste. I can go on about this place, but I have to eat my leftovers. Just try this place you won't regret it. This is definitely one of San Diego top restaurants and food experience that we have in my hometown. A must try if your here on vacation or if you have company in town. Great job coops
Written November 21, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Judy M
Lemon Grove5 contributions
May 2019 • none
Small restaurant, very busy, go early to avoid sellout, food is great, be sure to try the sweetpotato pies!!
Written August 7, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laurie and Randy Furry
Ashland27 contributions
May 2019 • family
We were having a gathering and did not want anyone to cook. Everyone agreed that bbq sounded like a perfect solution. Having the gathering in Lemon Grove where I grew up, I did a Yelp search to see our options. We were not disappointed!We ordered briscut, chicken and pulled pork. Each of our choices had a great smoke, and was juicy and a crowd pleaser! We had already made our sides and I wish we had not! I really wanted fried okra and sweet potato pie...we will be back!
Written May 22, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
k b
San Diego377 contributions
Feb 2019 • family
I bet you didn't know that Coop's is the national tamale champion in San Diego. Oh yes, Coop's creativity for a smoked tamale was ingenius. Unfortunately, you cannot purchase tamales at the restaurant. Especially prepared for festivals only.
Coop's is a dive-in, with 3 basic tables, chairs and 3 booths. Decor ....oh there isn't any. The focus is good eatin'.
If you're a local or visitor and are hankering for savory cue, this is your place. Best to travel by car. Lemon Grove is a small City within San Diego. If you're traveling to Sycuan or Viejas or Barona, Coop's is a very good meal stop.
Barbecue is flavorful. Homemade sausage is tasty. Sides (yams, potato salad, beans) my faves. If you know how to make or tasted gourmet macaroni and cheese, forego that side here.
Brisket is a winner. Pork ribs tender and seasoned. All you need is a little sauce, rather than drowning your food in sauce to compensate for flavor.
Sweet potato pie, always most and perfectly sweetened balanced. Peach cobbler-undistinguished.
Coop's is pricey. Especially if you are a person that cooks, and barbecues, and actually does the grocery shopping. You do get plenty of food but you kind of get a tinge in the stomach when you pay for a family of four.
I love to cue. But the preparation, planning, marinating and all that jazz... leads me to Lemon Grove. Savor each bite.
Written April 22, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JennA.
36 contributions
Apr 2019 • family
There are many bbq spots in San Diego, but my top two includes Coops. The bbq is smoked enough that the meat falls off the bone and you put how much bbq sauce you want. The Kit and Kaboodle meal is a great way to choose 4 types of meats,comes with 2 medium sides and 2 corn bread slices. Drink selection has sweet tea among soda choices as well.
The only downside is the restaurant dining area is small inside (about 8 tables that fits 4) and parking is limited.
Written April 13, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gzau
San Diego1966 contributions
Mar 2019 • friends
I went back to Coops BBQ again as they are one of the best BBQ place in San Diego. They now have a fried chicken place next door so you can get that too. Food is good and the staff is friendly. We liked the jerk chicken and the ribs.
Written March 22, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nick
Honolulu10 contributions
Feb 2019 • family
1. Free Parking and lots of it
2. Very friendly staff and owner
3. HUGE portions.
4. Finger Lickin Good.
5. Very Affordable Prices for BBQ
We didn't know what to get so we opted to ask the staff what they recommend and they said the kaboodle which comes with 4 choices of meat, 2 sides, and 2 pieces of corn bread ($29.99) more than enough to feed 3-4 people. Our meat selection was the pork ribs, rib tips, brisket, and pulled pork. Our sides were potato salad and Cole slaw.
Ribs and rib tips was super tender, juicy, smoky, and cooked to perfection so it wouldn't melt off the bone
Pulled pork was smoky, juicy, but it is even better with the housemade tangy bbq sauce
We drove 103 miles to try this place and it was well worth it!
Written February 5, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mai619
San Diego14 contributions
Nov 2018 • couples
I've been going here now and then, because its hard to find good bbq in San Diego. They are not the best, but close by and really hit or miss. Ive had great brisket sandwiches from here, and also had them where there was barely any meat and filled with bbq covered fat! When I called to complain, they told me it was my fault for not asking for 'lean'. I hope this was the only rude person that works here. I've met Coop and he's very nice and down to earth. They have delicious mac n cheese!.
Written January 16, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MaryW
Las Vegas310 contributions
Nov 2018 • family
The level of barbecue produced in this dive off-the-beaten path near San Diego makes an hours-long road trip worthwhile. To say it is mouth-watering describes only part of the story. It is eye-watering, and tongue-watering, ear-watering...what have you. All of the senses get involved here. There is even a still that falls over the place. Like you are in a church or library. Although the owner treats people with golden oldies from the 60s and 70s, the people sitting in this dark and dank little cafe seemed singularly focused on their food. As well they should. And there is a congregational atmosphere here. For sure, this qualifies as 'soul' food.
Specifics: Brisket that is tender and deeply flavored (call ahead, they run out of this), juicy and smoky BBQ chicken, ribs...the ribs are like 'where-have-you-been-all-my- life?' good. Perfectly seasoned and cooked. Sides are a nice complement to the meat, but the meat is the reason to come here. Mac and cheese, beans, and corn bread are good supporting characters, but not the star by any means (so don't be disappointed). Still, worth trying. You need something to eat with the meat. Prices are on the high side, but reasonable considering the location (near San Diego, albeit in a sketchy strip mall), and the quality of what you get. Bring cash. They take cards but cash is easier and faster, and there is always a line.
Across the way is an annex to the restaurant, a food stand owned by the same guy that sells only fried items. That's where you go to get their delicious fried okra. They will bring it to you. Just let them know you will be dining at the restaurant. That's also where you will use the restroom.
Get something for the road! You won't regret it.
Written January 6, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Showing results 1-15 of 101
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing