Water Pig BBQ
Water Pig BBQ is an open-air beachfront restaurant serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue with stunning views of the Santa Rosa Sound.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Water Pig BBQ
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Water Pig BBQ is an open-air beachfront restaurant serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue with stunning views of the Santa Rosa Sound.
"The Water Pig barbecue is a must stop if you're in Pensacola Beach. They have amazing views, but most importantly, they have some of the best barbecue on the island."
Embrace the Outdoor Seating
Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy Gulf breezes and scenic views while dining.
Try the Brisket Tacos
Experience a flavor explosion with the Brisket Barbacoa Tacos, complemented by crispy tater tots.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Barbecue
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Beachfront BBQ with a View
Enjoy authentic, low-and-slow smoked barbecue with stunning views of the Santa Rosa Sound and Gulf.
Brisket Barbacoa Tacos & Tater Tots
Savor tender brisket barbacoa tacos paired with addictive, crispy tater tots for a flavor explosion.
Award-Winning BBQ
Named one of the TOP FIVE best new restaurants in the nation by USA TODAY, featuring Texas-style brisket and ribs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace the Outdoor Seating
Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy Gulf breezes and scenic views while dining.
Try the Brisket Tacos
Experience a flavor explosion with the Brisket Barbacoa Tacos, complemented by crispy tater tots.
Don't Miss the Tater Tots
These crispy, addictive tater tots are a must-try side that perfectly complements the main dishes.
Ask for Sauce Recommendations
If unsure, inquire with staff for personalized recommendations on the best sauces to pair with your meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace the Outdoor Seating
Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy Gulf breezes and scenic views while dining.
Try the Brisket Tacos
Experience a flavor explosion with the Brisket Barbacoa Tacos, complemented by crispy tater tots.
Don't Miss the Tater Tots
These crispy, addictive tater tots are a must-try side that perfectly complements the main dishes.
Ask for Sauce Recommendations
If unsure, inquire with staff for personalized recommendations on the best sauces to pair with your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Water Pig BBQ offers a fantastic beachfront dining experience with authentic, slow-smoked meats and delicious sides. While the BBQ and atmosphere are highly praised, some guests noted that service can be a bit slow at times, and certain dishes like the mac and cheese were described as bland. The restaurant is celebrated for its stunning views and friendly staff who go the extra mile.
"Out at Water Pig BBQ on Pensacola Beach, lunch ain’t some sad little afterthought they threw together to please folks in pastel polos — it’s a damn full-blown event, the kind where you show up hungry and leave needing a nap and a life coach. This place squats right up against the sand like it owns the shoreline, and honestly, it kinda does.
They built Water Pig with one idea in mind: make the kind of barbecue that don’t just taste good — it wrecks your whole plan for the day. Low and slow smoking, no shortcuts, no apologies. Open-air seating, Gulf breeze whipping your napkins off the table, and a smoker out back belching hickory-sweet promises into the sky. That’s the vibe.
Now, let’s talk about why we’re really here — the Brisket Barbacoa Tacos. When they hit the table, they ain’t playing around. You get two classic street tacos, built honest and simple: a heavy-handed pile of slow-cooked brisket barbacoa, so tender it basically apologizes to your teeth for making them do any work. They top it with diced onion and fresh-cut cilantro — none of that sad, wilty garnish nonsense — and drop a lime wedge on the side, like they know you’re gonna need a little acid to cut through the glorious meat tsunami you’re about to unleash.
And because Water Pig understands the way normal, decent folks eat, they don’t hand you a couple of tacos and call it a day. No, sir. They toss in a side of golden, crispy-ass tater tots — little crunchy miracles that ought to come with a warning label about how addictive they are.
You sit there, toes in the sand, brisket juice drippin’ down your wrist, poppin’ tots like you’re at a high-stakes carnival — and for a few sweet, smoky moments, you forget about calories, beach bods, or whatever dumb plan you had to “just grab a light snack.”
Water Pig don’t do light snacks. They do barbecue. And they do it like they mean it."
Eddy Roger Parker
"We tried a few items from the menu, ribs, brisket sandwich, and loaded tators. This place has a good view of the bay and it has a cover above so it like you eating outside. Service was a little slow but overall we had a good visit."
JMPJOSE
"Food was decent. We got the brisket sandwiches & mac and cheese. I wish I had gotten plain brisket! They actually had brisket this time when we went so that was good. The Mac and cheese was bland. Nothing to rave about.
Our waitress was great. Always checking on us. The atmosphere was quiet and outside bay vibes. I wish they had some soft beach music! If you like a super chill and very quiet atmosphere this is for you.
I wasn’t super impressed thus the 3/5 stars. It’s not bad, but it’s not my first choice. They are usually out of something. This time they were out of daiquiris."
Channing Blue
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Water Pig BBQ specializes in authentic, low-and-slow smoked meats, including Texas-style brisket, St. Louis-style ribs, and Carolina pulled pork.
Yes, the restaurant offers open-air seating with beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf, creating a perfect beachside dining atmosphere.
The addictive, crispy tater tots are frequently mentioned as a must-try side, complementing the BBQ perfectly.
Yes, the laid-back atmosphere and beachside location make it a great spot for families. Some reviews mention the staff being very accommodating.
While primarily a BBQ joint, they offer sides like watermelon salad and possibly other vegetarian-friendly options. It's best to inquire directly.
The restaurant offers convenient free parking in front, which can be a challenge in this touristy area.
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Eat Like a Local: 8 Must-Visit Restaurants in Pensacola Beach, Florida
Located just steps from the Santa Rosa Sound, this open-air restaurant offers slow-smoked barbecue, delicious house-made sides, and refreshing cocktails. Whether you’re sitting on the deck or at the bar, you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere perfect for savoring great food and Gulf views. Tags: Bonsai restaurant Pensacola, Fairfield Inn & Suites Pensacola Beach, Fish Heads restaurant Pensacola, florida, gulf coast, Hilton Pensacola Beach, Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach, Hotel News, Innisfree Hotels, north america, North America tourism news, pensacola beach, Piazza Pizza & Beach Bodega Pensacola, Tallahassee, Tourism, Tourism news, Travel, Travel News, usa, USA Tourism News
Eat Like A Local | Holiday Inn Resort
Head over to Water Pig where you can experience an unparalleled open-air atmosphere to enjoy authentic, low and slow smoked BBQ, delectable homemade side dishes, and one of a kind libations. Just steps from the Santa Rosa Sound, the setting offers everything you need for a perfect beachside day or evening. Whether it is on the raised deck watching your children play in the sand, or bar-side overlooking the sound, they have the ideal place for you to tuck into some BBQ on the water!
Eat Like A Local | Hampton Inn
Head over to Water Pig where you can experience an unparalleled open-air atmosphere to enjoy authentic, low and slow-smoked BBQ, delectable homemade side dishes, and one-of-a-kind libations. Just steps from the Santa Rosa Sound, the setting offers everything you need for a perfect beachside day or evening. Whether it is on the raised deck watching your children play in the sand, or bar-side overlooking the sound, they have the ideal place for you to tuck into some BBQ on the water!
Eat Like A Local
Award-winning Pitmaster Steve Seige has over 11 years’ experience cooking regional BBQ styles including Texas, Memphis, Carolina, California and Kansas City and now locals and visitors to the Pensacola Beach area can tuck into Texas Style Smoked Brisket, Dry Rubbed Pork Ribs, a House Ground Brisket “Smash” Burger, Seasonal Sides and more all in this open-air beachfront setting. www.waterpigbbq.com 5 Via De Luna Dr (850) 565-4863
Top 10 Restaurants to Visit in Pensacola Beach, Florida
Named one of the TOP FIVE best new restaurants in the nation by USA TODAY 10Best, Water Pig BBQ, is the only BBQ joint on Pensacola Beach offering up fresh-Smoked meats daily. The brisket, pulled pork, ribs and delectable sides are sure to impress!. (We also highly recommend their watermelon salad – a perfect refresher on a sunny day.) Enjoy open-air seating with beautiful views while you sip on one of their signature cocktails.
Top 10 Places to Eat on Pensacola Beach
If you’re in the mood for some delicious Q, Water Pig is the only dedicated BBQ restaurant on Pensacola Beach. The open-air atmosphere features authentic, “low and slow” smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, homemade side dishes, a great selection of adult beverages, and nightly live blues. Besides mouth-watering barbeque, favorites include the loaded tots appetizer, watermelon & feta salad, and the ground brisket “smash” burger.
5 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In Pensacola Beach
The Water Pig BBQ is for you if you are ready for a lively atmosphere and delicious barbeque. Considering it was named as a 2020 Top Best New Restaurant in the nation by USA Today, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Water Pig BBQ. With an open-air atmosphere and steps from the crystal blue ocean waters, you can enjoy Pitmaster Steve Seige’s BBQ cooked low and slow with homemade side dishes and tropical libations.
Pensacola Beach dining guide: From fancy to flip flops
Self-proclaimed as the “best damn BBQ on the beach,” Water Pig is a slow-smoked meat-lovers' dining destination for tender Texas brisket, St. Louis-style ribs, and Carolina pulled pork sandwiches. Water Pig BBQ offers unobstructed Gulf views paired with open-air beachfront seating, low and smoked barbecue and refreshing cocktails. Water Pig is the perfect place to kick back and chow down on some beach barbecue.
Father's Day 2023: Pensacola brunch and dinner spots with special dinners for dad
Details: Water Pig BBQ, a beachfront barbecue restaurant specializing in 12-hour smoked bacon, house rubs and homemade sauces, will be welcoming families with a Father's Day house special. This one-day-only dish will be a smoked prime rib over garlic thyme mashed potatoes with a side of tricolored glazed carrots. However, you'll want to get there early, this special is subject to change based on availability.
Exploring Pensacola Beach with Your Dog: Our Pet-Friendly Guide
Slow down, get ready to relax, and take Fido out for beachside barbeque at Water Pig BBQ in Pensacola Beach!. This open-air eatery provides relaxing waterfront views and a comfortable outdoor deck, perfect for dining with your pup!. The attentive staff goes the extra mile to ensure your pet feels welcomed while you try out their homemade sides, slow-cooked barbeque meats, and mouthwatering appetizers.
17 Best Pensacola Beach & Navarre Beach Restaurants To Try!
If you’re looking for something other than seafood while in Pensacola Beach, Water Pig BBQ is a great choice!. Water Pig has only been serving Pensacola Beach since the summer of 2020, but they have already earned a solid reputation in the area. They specialize in slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and homemade sides including coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, and more!
10 Kid Friendly Beach Restaurants
It’s how they cook the BBQ and it’s how you’ll feel when you slow down beachside. The restaurant is a covered outdoor raised deck with sound-side beach access, hammocks, Adirondack chairs, and a beautiful white-sand beach. Next to the restaurant, a giant inflatable screen is used for sports games and movie nights, it’s the ultimate place for the whole family!
Drinks, Views & Good Times
The weather on Pensacola Beach changes almost hourly causing the Gulf of Mexico to ebb and flow, and our Beach Report aims to give you the latest conditions out here at the beach. From wave height and quality, to water clarity and surface conditions we’ve got you covered. We want our visitors and locals to be prepared for whatever mother nature is giving us.
Eat & Drink
Award-winning Pitmaster Steve Seige has over 11 years’ experience cooking regional BBQ styles and now locals and visitors to the Pensacola Beach area can tuck into Texas Style Smoked Brisket, Dry Rubbed Pork Ribs, a House Ground Brisket “Smash” Burger, Seasonal Sides and more all in this open-air beachfront setting.
How to Have a Fun Wheelchair Accessible Trip in Pensacola FL
If you’re in the mood for some delicious barbecue (and who isn’t?!) in Pensacola Beach, look no further than Water Pig BBQ. They have open-air seating and all of their meats are smoked daily. I enjoyed a chopped brisket sandwich with macaroni & cheese and slaw on the side. Everything was delicious!.
Water Pig BBQ Crowned One of USA Today’s Best New Restaurants
Readers from New York to Napa named Water Pig BBQ the #4 Best New Restaurant in America, flocking to the beachfront eatery for melt-in-your-mouth St Louis-style ribs, rustic, delectable mac and cheese, and other tempting barbecue staples from Texas and beyond.
The 15 Best Gluten-Free Spots in Pensacola Beach
I have Celiac disease and ate the loaded tots and burnt ends. It was amazing and I had zero reaction!. Our server was wonderful.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit