Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que in Lake Forest, CA, is a barbecue haven that masterfully captures the spirit and flavors of Southern smokehouse tradition while offering a warm, inviting dining experience. This charming restaurant specializes in authentic smoked meats and classic comfort dishes, ensuring that every visit transports you to a vibrant world of rich, smoky aromas and hearty plates designed to satisfy every craving.

The cuisine here revolves around expertly prepared barbecue favorites, with standout selections that keep guests returning time and again. Their baby back ribs are famously tender, seasoned with Lucille’s special rub, and slow-smoked to fall-off-the-bone perfection. If you're craving variety, the 2 Meat Combo allows you to savor multiple signature smoked meats, paired beautifully with house favorites like Lucille’s crispy onion straws and luscious macaroni & cheese. The Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich offers a crispy, juicy alternative, while the Memphis Style Pulled Pork Sandwich with coleslaw embodies the authentic Southern experience with every bite.

Lunch brings enticing options like the Brisket Fajita Back Porch Bowl — featuring smoky Texas-style brisket atop fragrant chimichurri rice, bursting with savory sautéed peppers and onions, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty pico de gallo — or the Winner Winner Chicken Lunch, where hand-battered tenders nestle in a comforting bed of creamy garlic mashed potatoes and buttered corn, all crowned with rich country chicken gravy. The Crispy Lowcountry Shrimp Platter and the Jambalaya “Meohmya” showcase the restaurant’s dedication to regional nuances, combining fresh seafood and bold spices to electrify the palette.

Diners delight not only in the food but in the ambiance that Lucille's expertly curates. Step inside, and you're greeted by a nostalgic, old-world interior that Amir Safarkhah beautifully describes as a magical journey back in time, enveloped in a warm, authentic atmosphere. This setting, combined with attentive, friendly staff — including memorable servers like Nick who add personal touches such as offering hot towels after your meal — elevates each visit into a genuinely comforting and memorable occasion.

Consistently praised for its service and pace, Lucille’s strikes a rare balance where quick, efficient dining does not compromise quality. Customers frequently comment on how every dish arrives well-cooked and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect spot for both spontaneous stops and leisurely meals. From the mouthwatering smoked barbecue nachos to decadent banana pudding, the menu is a celebration of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition.

Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or a curious newcomer, Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que offers a captivating blend of genuine flavors, heartfelt service, and an atmosphere that invites you to savor every moment. It’s more than a meal — it’s a richly layered experience that turns casual dining into a cherished memory.