Where Texas barbecue tradition meets Los Angeles innovation, Slab Barbecue Los Angeles elevates slow-smoked meats to fine dining heights through pitmaster Burt Bakman's meticulous craft. This West Third Street destination transforms authentic Central Texas techniques into an upscale yet approachable experience that defines modern barbecue excellence.

Bakman's remarkable journey from Israeli immigrant to celebrated Los Angeles pitmaster began with a transformative business trip to Texas, where he discovered his passion for the ancient art of smoking meat. After years perfecting his technique through underground pop-ups and his acclaimed Trudy's Underground Barbecue, Bakman partnered with the prestigious h.wood Group in 2015 to create Slab's brick-and-mortar vision. Opening in 2018 after three years of recipe refinement, Slab has earned critical acclaim among Los Angeles fine dining enthusiasts and barbecue aficionados seeking authentic pitmaster craftsmanship.

The cuisine centers on precision-smoked Black Angus brisket, the restaurant's crown jewel, achieving perfect tenderness through hours of patient cooking over California red and white oak. Signature offerings include the O.G. brisket sandwich, St. Louis pork ribs with optional strawberry habanero glaze, and the innovative Tony Montana—Slab's elevated Cuban sandwich featuring pulled pork, sausage, and house-made Gold Rush sauce. The menu balances traditional Texas staples with Los Angeles creativity, offering sophisticated sides like smoked gouda and cheddar mac and cheese alongside classic coleslaw and seasoned fries. House-made sauces including "Dank white" and "Backyard red" complement rather than mask the expertly smoked proteins.

Slab's interior showcases a striking central slicing station crafted from sandblasted coal granite with copper green accents, honoring Bakman's backyard smoker origins. Reclaimed Douglas fir walls, stained by coal and adorned with vintage 1950s Californian cattle auction photographs, create an atmosphere that's both rustic and refined. The custom-built outdoor smoker, visible to diners, serves as both functional workspace and theatrical element, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to traditional smoking techniques. Counter-service ordering maintains casual accessibility while the quality rivals the best restaurants Los Angeles offers.

For discerning diners seeking authentic barbecue artistry, Slab Barbecue represents Los Angeles' premier destination for elevated comfort food. Reservations aren't required for this counter-service gem, though peak lunch and dinner hours often draw crowds of devoted locals and culinary tourists. The restaurant's family-style takeout packages make it perfect for intimate gatherings or corporate events seeking memorable catering.