Discover the flavorful BBQ and heartwarming service at this historic restaurant

This Christmas, I found myself in Hemet, California, visiting my parents for the holidays. With all the usual hustle and bustle of the season, there was one thing that kept my parents talking: a craving for some great BBQ. The day before, they had tried to make it to Destination Smokehouse & Eatery, but we arrived too late, just after closing time. So, today, they were determined to get their BBQ fix, and I was along for the ride.

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery is nestled in a unique location — the former Hemet train station, at 100 West Florida Avenue. It’s an iconic space shared with the Hemet Train Museum, giving it a historic charm with a nod to the town’s past. The train station’s remnants add a cool backdrop, making the meal feel even more special.

We arrived on a Tuesday, just in time to take advantage of their $2 Taco Tuesday special — and it did not disappoint. I ordered three tacos: Pulled Pork, Ox Tail, and Brisket. The pulled pork and ox tail tacos came with a tangy guacamole sauce, complemented by fresh onions and cilantro. My dad, ever the purist, insisted that the brisket taco be served without any toppings, so that’s what I got.

The corn tortillas they used were perfectly made — soft and tender but strong enough to hold up to all the juicy fillings. Each bite was a delightful balance of smoky flavors, tender meat, and just the right amount of char. The pulled pork was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the ox tail taco, with its rich flavor and satisfying texture, was a real standout. The brisket, which I dipped into a sweet brown sugar BBQ sauce, was another highlight — perfectly smoked, tender, and packed with that irresistible BBQ taste.

As we wrapped up our meal and prepared to head out, a minor mishap occurred. My mom realized she had forgotten her purse. No problem, right? Well, the incredible service at Destination Smokehouse & Eatery went above and beyond. Not only did they hold onto my mom's purse, but they also stayed past hours to ensure we could retrieve it. Even more impressive, the owner sat out front waiting for us to make the process as easy as possible for my parents. This act of kindness was the cherry on top of an already fantastic experience.

If you’re in Hemet, California, and craving a great meal with heart, be sure to visit Destination Smokehouse & Eatery. The food is delicious, and the service is second to none — you won’t regret it. Whether you’re stopping by for $2 Taco Tuesday, or just to enjoy their full menu, you’ll be supporting a local business that truly cares about its customers.

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery Hours:
MON: CLOSED
TUE: 11AM-3PM
WED: 11AM-3PM
THU: 11AM-3PM
FRI: 11AM-3PM
SAT: 11AM-3PM
SUN: 11AM-3PM

Location:
100 West Florida Avenue
Hemet, CA 92543

Website:
https://hemet.destinationsmokehouse.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/destinationsmokehouse?igsh=bTg4azZtOTBseThv

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DestinationCBB?mibextid=ZbWKwL

If you’re ever in the area, be sure to swing by and check it out. It’s a true gem of a local business that blends delicious food with a welcoming spirit.

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A BBQ Feast at Destination Smokehouse

How a holiday craving turned into a memorable dining experience