BBQ in Southern California??

If you are not familiar with Phil’s BBQ in San Diego, you are missing out on one of its key landmarks of San Diego and of course missing out on arguably the best bbq in Southern California. Adam Richman and show Man vs Food would be attracted to this restaurant and would go to critic their food. I was really shocked that Adam did not evaluate the ribs because as of now that was the only thing I’ve ever thought was worth order at Phils; he ended up ordering the El Toro (a Tri Tip Burger).
I’ve decided to take my food pallet to Phils to try this “mouth watering sandwich”. When arriving to Phils, you are always expected to wait in a 20-30 minute line. It doesn’t seem that long especially with the long awaited anticipation and the coolness the barn shaped restaurants brings to your eyes. If you are starving you can’t bear to wait in line, a secret is to go inside and order togo and just eat on the hood of your car. It can get messy but you can always go back inside and wash your hands. I was really reluctant to order the El Toro because I didn’t feel waiting in line for 30 minutes was worth one sandwich but I did it. It was served very simply: tri tip, bread, and bbq sauce given to you on a red serving basket.
I dove right and I was surprised with the texture of the bread, very soft and warm and complimented the meat quite nicely. The meat was very tender and juicy but had a very sweet and tangy taste due to the bbq sauce.

My thoughts on the sandwich compared to Adam:
He calls it a “bite of heaven”, I would have it say that it’s a “bite of Disneyland”. It’s a terrible analogy but it’s probably 2nd to the amount of fun one could have. I have to agree the meat was good but I feel the sauce was just too much sweetness. I hear you can order the sauce on the side so you can get a full taste and actually appreciate the quality of the meat. I definitely recommend if going to Phils order the beef ribs, but I guess if you want a lighter yet filling snack go with the El Toro. I give the El Toro a 3.8 out of 4 stars, it’s just too simple and complexity rocks ones socks.

Unfortunately my phone died and was unable to take a picture but here’s a picture from Google.