REGION – Nominations for The Best of North County 2025, presented by North County Injury Lawyers, concluded March 7. Now in its third year, the contest has been reimagined, with three winners selected for each of the 264 subcategories, ranging from accident law to yoga studios.
Over the next six weeks, this special feature will spotlight various categories, keeping readers informed on what’s next.
North County is known for its diverse food scene, and this year’s contest saw 1,876 nominations in the Eat & Drink category. One cuisine that doesn’t always top the list of local favorites but deserves attention is barbecue.
Across North County, a lineup of restaurants and food trucks serves fall-off-the-bone barbecue that keeps diners licking their fingers long after the meal ends. While some spots stick to classics like smoked brisket, tri-tip and chicken, others have introduced innovative takes. A few have incorporated south-of-the-border flavors, offering brisket-filled tacos, while some have taken traditional banana pudding to new levels with bread pudding-inspired creations.
Barbecue is more than just the meat. A well-crafted sauce—whether tangy, vinegary, spicy or mild—can define the dish, but so can the sides. Gone are the days of bland coleslaw and dry potato salad. Today’s barbecue spots are elevating the experience with bold, flavorful accompaniments that round out the meal. This year, 18 establishments have been nominated in the BBQ category.
ABOUT OUR SPONSOR
North County Injury Lawyers, led by managing partner Randy Walton, has been
serving North County San Diego for over 20 years, securing tens of millions of dollars for personal injury and wrongful death clients. Walton, a longtime resident, is known for his personalized approach and commitment to keeping clients informed. Recognized as the “Best Personal Injury Law Firm in North County San Diego,” the firm combines extensive experience with dedicated advocacy to achieve outstanding results.
Next week, the focus shifts to Health & Beauty. Voting opens March 24. Learn more about the contest and how to participate at TheBestofNorthCounty.com.
