About Columbia Beach Barbeque and our Santa Maria BBQ Style
Renowned across the United States, Santa Maria Style Barbecue originated near Santa Maria, CA, during cattle round-ups at ranches surrounding the Santa Maria Valley. The ranch owner would treat his Vaqueros, family and friends, to a barbecue dinner as a sign of his gratitude for a hard day's work.
The present Santa Maria Style grew out of this tradition, and achieved its name over 60 years ago when local residents began to cook over the hot coals of a red oak fire.
The meat, either top block sirloin or the triangular shaped bottom sirloin known as "Tri Tip" is rolled in a simple seasoning mixture just prior to cooking. It is then barbecued over the smoky oak coals, giving the meat a hearty smoky flavor.
Once a well-kept local secret, word of Santa Maria Style Barbecue has spread around the world. Enticed travelers come by the thousands, seeking a taste of this local specialty, and its not difficult to find. On a typical weekend, you will see clouds of fragrant smoke billowing through the air, leading you to numerous barbecues throughout the city. They range from outdoor feasts sponsored by schools and local charities, to backyard cookouts where families enjoy their own recipes that have been passed down through the generations.
It's no wonder Santa Maria is known by many as the "Barbecue Capital of the World." And now you and your family can enjoy the famous taste of Santa Maria Style Barbecue right here on Whidbey Island, thanks to your friends at Columbia Beach Barbecue.