Buster's Original Southern BBQ

1207 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga, CA 94515, United States
+1 707-942-5605
$$$ Barbecue restaurant
(1716 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to Buster's Original Southern BBQ, a true gem nestled in the heart of Calistoga, California. This quintessential barbecue restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Southern BBQ in the Golden State. Buster's beckons you with its mouthwatering dishes, warm atmosphere, and a unique dining experience that is both casual and vibrant.

At Buster's, the barbecue is a star, with offerings that deliver a delightful explosion of flavors. Indulge in the Pulled Pork Dinner – succulent, tender pulled pork that melts in your mouth, paired perfectly with sides of your choice, including homemade potato salad and their renowned macaroni salad. Each bite is a journey through rich, smoky flavors enhanced by their house-made BBQ sauces, which include options both mild and spicy that cater to every palate.

For those seeking a heartier option, the Pork Loin Dinner is a great pick, boasting juicy, well-seasoned pork loin served alongside the beloved garlic toast. If you're a rib lover, prepare for a treat—Buster's offers tender pork ribs smoked to perfection, ensuring every bite leaves you yearning for more. And don’t forget to pair your meal with thrist-quenching beverages like a chilled Modelo Especial or Lagunitas IPA to elevate your dining experience.

The atmosphere at Buster's is a delightful blend of warmth and community. The restaurant is adorned with rustic decor that complements its Southern roots, creating an inviting space for friends and families to gather. The addition of live music on Saturday evenings and open mic nights during the week injects a vibrant energy into the place. Customers rave about the incredible atmosphere; one visitor described their evening as "filled with great drinks and dancing," a testament to the lively ambiance that Buster's consistently delivers.

People from all walks of life—including both barbecue veterans and newcomers—have shared experiences that highlight the genuine hospitality and delicious food here. A satisfied customer remarked, "Buster is old school and knows how to smoke meat, low and slow, the way it’s supposed to be done." Another praised the quick service that ensured their meal was ready in no time, all while underscoring the quality of food and cleanliness of the space. It’s this dedication to quality and service that keeps patrons returning to Buster’s.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Calistoga, Buster's Original Southern BBQ promises not only a meal but an experience that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart. Grab your friends and family and take part in the lively atmosphere, where exceptional Southern BBQ awaits your discovery. Call ahead at +1 707-942-5605 or come on by – the moment you step in, you’ll understand why Buster's is cherished by many. Come hungry and leave happy!

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
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has live music
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
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
Openings Hours
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Monday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

1716 Reviews
Rajiv Garg

12 Sep 2025

We did not eat here, but came for Sunday afternoon music. The drinks and bamd were great. It was blues music amd lots of people were dancing . It was a fun evening.

Brian Preston

03 Sep 2025

We visited Buster's Original Southern BBQ in Calistoga last weekend and were not disappointed. The parking lot had plenty of spots available, the wait in line was very short, about 5 minutes, and the food is outstanding! We had the pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw, and the tri-tip sandwich with potato salad. Both selections were served up in less than 5 minutes, and we enjoyed our meal under the shade of the oak trees. The staff here is very friendly and helpful. The grounds are very clean and there are multiple restrooms on site. We will definitely be returning!

John Krajc

01 Sep 2025

Come for the beach, but in my opinion, leave the sauce out. Born and raised in the Carolinas, barbecue is a way of life and a diet staple. Decided I wanted to do something different here with trying to beef ribs as many places don’t serve beef ribs, but just pork ribs. The way they smoke their meat over and open fire elevated out in the open was unique to this place and tasted fantastic. The outdoor seating option was perfect for this beautiful Friday afternoon. For me the sauce was a complete miss however. Has spices in it that remind me of a Mole sauce, which was odd for barbecue. Love that they’re doing their own thing, just wasn’t big for me And not something I’m used to even though I often eat things that are out of the ordinary.

Maria Thi Mai

28 Jun 2025

Classic and a Calistoga institution, busters has live music on Saturdays and open mic on Tuesdays. We didn’t partake in the food but enjoyed the music

Rachel Davidson

22 Jun 2025

We enjoyed the homemade bbq sauces. We are a family who loves heat so the spicy bbq sauce was right on point. The brisket was my favorite

Culinary Anarchy

18 Jun 2025

I've said for years that you can't find real Southern BBQ in California. This place proves me wrong. Buster is old school and knows how to smoke meat, low n slow, the way it's supposed to be done. The sauce is a nice edition but the pork is able to stand without it. Whenever I get homesick, this is where I'll be going.

Steve M

17 Jun 2025

Been wanting to stop here for a long time, finally the wife caved, she's not a BBQ fan. The meat was awesome, I loved the beans too. The chicken wasn't all that great, not bad though. Potato salad was too bland for the wife, so I ate it they have beer and wine. All and all I enjoyed my time there, it is a little costly for BBQ, but what isn't these days?

Joseph Beckham

08 Jun 2025

Quick, kind and clean service! Food is served as you order. Didn't take us 5 minutes to get meals for 5. Plenty of seating inside. Napkin stations everywhere, and they were needed! Tri tip sandwich and pulled pork sandwich was delicious. Baked beans and cold slaw great as well. Restroom was also very clean! Zero conplaints!

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