This was my first time here last March and I'm heartbroken that this location has been closed, as I've been wanting to return when I am within the area. Brisket and cheddar sandwich ($16.95): this brisket is exactly how it should be, as it was seasoned, tender, and requires only a little effort to chew since it was tender. The caramelized onions and gooey cheese went well with the brisket and the buttered toast, 5/5 stars! Large size of mac and cheese: one of the best I've had, as it was indulgent! The creamy cheese sauce was seasoned and just completely covered the tender macaroni, 5/5 stars! The service was efficient as you order at the counter and they provide your food in a timely manner, despite the constant arrival of patrons. I've noticed that the majority of orders were for take-out, but I had to dive into the food stat as soon as it was ready out of the kitchen. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - 3/02/2025. Brisket and cheddar sandwich with large size of mac and cheese! - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

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've been to this BBQ spot three times now, and it's consistently solid. Twice there was a long line, but don't worry--there's plenty of indoor seating, and the atmosphere is welcoming and family-friendly. The BBQ oxtails and brisket are standout dishes. They're both seasoned with a thick rub that packs serious flavor. The meat is incredibly tender and soft--just melts in your mouth. It's definitely on the pricier side, but the quality makes it worth it. Sides like the mac n cheese and baked beans were just okay--not bad, but nothing special. However, the Oreo dessert waffle totally stole the show. It was absolutely amazing and the perfect sweet finish. Highly recommend for BBQ lovers who appreciate bold flavor and tender meats. read more

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Black Diamond Oxtails. They were cool. I like traditional oxtails better. If someone bought them I'd eat them again but I wouldn't buy them. Also, fairly expensive. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

The macaroni and cheese was horrible. The candy yams were good the meat I'll give it a six out of 10. The prices were ridiculous. Sold separately sounds disgusting to me. We paid $160 for cold food. I only went there to our uncle, but I'll never go back and I'll never recommend it to anyone read more

Very delicious pastrami, brisket and pulled pork!! You can't go wrong with Texas Toast and everything was filled with so much flavor! read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Brisket & Cheddar Sandwich w/ Side of Mashed Potatoes, Pulled Pork Taco & NYC Sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

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5 STARS Don't walk...RUN to this place!! We were in hemet for work and decided to give this place a try after following them on social media for awhile and wow...I am so glad we did! My friend got the oxtail bowl with rice and a side of mac n cheese and I had the brisket and cheddar sandwich with coleslaw. Walking in, you are greeted by the sweetest staff and they offer to give you their recommendations and explain the menu to you. About the menu, it's short and to the point, which I love. They offer maybe 6 different sandwiches, different sides (3) I think and they have tacos, bowls, etc. The restaurant is so cute and clean. It's located in Hemets old train station...which is so amazing. Having grown up in hemet & still visit the area, I love to see businesses like this thriving. Now onto the food...everything was DELICIOUS. I will say that brisket and cheddar sandwich and the mac and cheese were OUT of this world. Get both kinds of bbq sauce too...the regular and the spicy...so damn good! I cant stop thinking about the mac and cheese, it had the best texture and some smoky-ness to it! My friend loved the oxtail..literally fall off the bone! If you are in the area, you've gotta check this place out!!!! read more

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We drove a little bit over an hour to try this place (Hemet location) and it did not disappoint. Unfortunately, we did stand in line for about 30 minutes and was told that was actually a good time. However, it was most definitely worth the wait. Love the vibe of the place though. They had a DJ that was playing some old-school R&B. The owner was there too, and he's really nice. The lady that took our order was really nice too. She asked was it our first time there and explained the menu to us. Definitely recommend this place. Smoked oxtails 5/5 Beans 5/5 Potato Salad 2/5 Brisket & cheddar sandwich 5/5 Toast 5/5 Lemonade 5/5 read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Smoked oxtail, beans, potato salad, and toast. - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

I've seen their IG account with mouth watering BBQ and sides, so I stopped in at noon while I was in the area. So disappointed. Maybe they had an off day, but this was some of the driest, over cooked BBQ I've ever had. I ordered a 1/2 lb each of the sliced brisket and oxtails. Terrible. The brisket was so dry it broke apart like wood. I choked it down. The oxtails were cooked to the point that all that was left was the bones and some dry, chewy, over smoked scraps of meat. I would have thrown it all out, but it was $38 total for these meats. I didn't order any sides. I judge a BBQ spot on its meat. A friend has been sending me their IG posts saying we need to do a dinner here with our wives. I had to tell him we're passing. I had high hopes after seeing the hype on their IG. Do better DS. read more

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I'm pretty sure this location is closed. The BIG one is in Murrieta, Ca. The BBQ Meat is delicious, the side need some work.

Let me start by saying that the customer service was great. The ladies that were working that day were friendly and know how to provide great service. For the food; they were out of a some things when we went to order, Mac n cheese and eventually the oxtails. I believe some other items as well. The pork belly was delicious and had some good flavor, just wished it was warmer. The beans were so so. They didn't really taste like baked beans more so out of the can. The potato salad was so so as well. My aunt said the oxtails that she got were salty and the brisket was dry. She did like the pork belly though. The outdoor seating area was nice especially since it was nice weather that day. Maybe I'll have to catch them when they first open to see how it differs. Also want to check out their second location. All and all, it was alright. I definitely see the potential though. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Beans, potato salad and pork belly. - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

Being 100% honest, this will likely be one of the best (and most expensive) bbq you'll ever find in the IE. with that said, they have a very weird preferential approach to customer service. They dismiss you if you don't look important and love to cater to guests who are from Hollywood. If you want to get preferential treatment just say you're famous or a food reviewer. I spent literally more than two hours watching my order get screwed up. This is the third visit. I've waited no less than an hour each h time just to eat. Twice having so-so experience but great food. I did not feel welcomed. And bringing it to their attention made no difference. If you are disabled please do not come here. Also no refunds even when they admittedly screw up the experience. I'm sorry but if you have to wait in a line for more than an hour everyone should be treated with the highest regard and thanks for believing in you enough to weather through all that on a hot day. Failure read more

Food is top notch. Very flavorful and filling. I had the El Paso burger which was delicious. Can't beat smoked brisket piled on top of a smoked burger patty that was about an inch and a half thick. The bun was super soft and light. Also the BBQ sauce was a great zap of flavor. The only reason this place was 4 stars is because they are a bit pricey. The burger was by itself, sides were extra, doesn't even come with fries or anything. Everything else was extra. A side of anything such as bbq beans or Mac and cheese started at $7.98. Anyways, service was pretty quick and helpful. The set up is nice and clean. Seating was available inside and out. Recommend to go before the lunch to avoid the lines that run out the door. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Brisket Philly - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

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Came at noon. Service was quick. Clean establishment and very quiet. They have updated menus on the screen. My go to is always the brisket and cheddar. I added a size of mac n cheese for a side read more

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So worth the drive. From LA county and made the trip out to hemet for the infamous smoked oxtails. It's everything you expected, fall off the bone and smokey goodness. We also got a brisket burger and it was amazing as well! would definitely get something else next time i'm around the area. They don't have the hugest parking lot but there's parking on the other side of the shared lot. Good amount of seating outside and a couple tables inside. read more

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First - it's in the museum - park in the dirt lot. It's not painfully obvious where they are except maybe the larger smoker outside. I've seen all the videos so on the way to Temecula we stopped for lunch. We got there at about when they opened. The first thing I noticed was the absence of smoke smell, and I looked at the equipment outside and it was cold. Maybe not what I feel I should walk into A smoke house. They don't have a combo platter so after asking. I just ordered a half pound of the following Pork ribs - these were good tender and juicy. Not sure I was a fan of their bbq sauce and they didn't have options of sauces Brisket - didn't see a smoke ring - not bad not great. Maybe I just don't feel brisket like I should. I feel like the bbq sauce is the let down. Pork Burnt ends - dry and odd. Not sure how they were so bad. Not crunchy. Oxtail - meat was good seemed a little too blackened. My overall feeling was this wasn't cooked fresh and reheat. I've heard some places don't cook everyday. I over ordered just to try everything. My bill was about a $140 for the tray you see. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Brisket, pork belly burnt ends, oxtail, pork ribs, toast, potato salad - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

Destination Smokehouse is located in Hemet off Florida and State next to the Hemet Museum in a small private parking lot. This location features indoor, short tables as well as an outdoor paved patio with shade and seating. This place is a hidden gem and has great BBQ !! There was a nonstop line while we dined inside so be prepared. We tried both the strawberry and cookie butter shake - both were thick and creamy ! Definitely something you can share ! we also had the El Paso burger, the brisket and cheddar sandwich and a platter with oxtail, brisket, ribs and pork belly, along with baked beans, coleslaw and potato salad. The meat was so tender and juicy , it all fell apart and melted in our mouth ! They had bottles of spicy and regular BBQ sauce - I preferred the regular. The pork belly was my favorite - so much flavor and juicy ! And the baked beans !?? I normally don't eat beans but WOW!! Best bbq baked beans I've had ! They also served the platter with their homemade house pickles and they were great! Service was friendly and we had all of our food in about 15 minutes . Inside has a little bit of history to it with a lot of natural lighting and makes you feel right at home . It's a lovely place and the owner Nick is a great guy ! Check out my Instagram for full video on this location and more ! @guacdirtytome_ or @inlandempirefoodies read more

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4.3/5 Hemet location has a limited menu. If you want the full menu you'll have to visit the Murrieta location. We ordered Brisket and Cheddar sandwich, oxtail bowl, and brisket tacos. The bbq sauce is sweet and savory, but wish it had a little kick of spice. Brisket and Cheddar sandwich- bread is soft and grilled to perfection. I liked it didn't have too much bbq sauce in it, which allows you to add on your own and not take away from the flavor of the brisket. Oxtail Bowl- only two oxtails, but a good size. The meat fell off bone #Tenderism however, the gravy is the star of the show. We put it on our brisket tacos and hit the spot! Brisket tacos- this is what we actually came for! Meat is tender and moist, not shy on the portions, shells are soft and not overcooked. Guacamole sauce adds a good touch. Overall good eats! read more

Wow. Amazing. This place was absolutely delicious. My so and I got there around 10:30am just to avoid any lines but we were one of the first ones there so when they opened at 11am, we were able to order fast. We decided to get 1lb if ox tail and El Paso burger to share which was the perfect amount for 2 people. The burger had both brisket and patty which made it even tastier. Ox tail was falling off the bone and it was pure deliciousness. I want to say I liked the El Paso burger more but they were both amazing. They had inside / outdoor seating so we decided to sit outside since there was plenty of seating. The staff was friendly and came to check how the food was. Overall I think it's definitely worth the drive! read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

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Great food. Decided to try this place again and was very pleased this time. The brisket was nice, tender, and juicy. Just enough cheese and the toasted bread made a good holder for the meat. I had the BBQ baked beans and they had a good kick, I added just a squirt of the BBQ sauce and it was great!!! The lady at the front assisted with my decision on what to eat. The place inside hadn't changed from when it was destination coffee. The only thing that did was the modern menus. They have shakes but for some reason that do not post it anywhere. So if you are in the mood for something sweet, you need to ask the person in the front. Today when we went it was busy but the service was fast. read more

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I've moved to the area a couple years ago and have always been a little a little hesitant about trying the different restaurants here but have always had my eye on this one for some odd reason, so when my friends that love smoked meats came to visit I thought it was the perfect opportunity to finally try and it did not disappoint! I tried the brisket and cheese sandwich which looks to be a crowd favorite here, the meat was very tender and juicy so it was really good I also had the oxtail tacos (which are $6 instead of the regular $4 like the other meats) and those were also really good, I just wouldn't get again for that price I also enjoyed their mac n cheese and their potato salad! Perfect to pair with every entree, my personal fav was the mac n cheese Definitely have to visit again maybe at an off-peak hour because they can get super crowded, but good to know this is a local favorite read more

Coming from LA and working in Hemet, I stumbled upon this delicious hole in the wall place on Yelp. I must say the experience put Hemet on the map for me. The cheddar brisket was astoundingly tasteful, juicy, not under or overcooked, but done just right. It came warm on an unbelievably great herb toasted Texas roll. I had the BBQ sauce on the side and a side of ranch, both of those sauces were something unique to Destination, not some off the Sam's club shelf taste but very potent and flavorful. I added the smaller sizing of the Mac n Cheese, the damn thing made me so full and I'm a big guy. It was rich in flavor, the cheese was melted but not so watery, and they put some fantastic spices to give it that final blow to your flavor buds. For the $24 I spent i couldn't have been happier! The service at the register was exceptional, the lady greeted me delightful and repeated the order back to me. She later came to check up on how I was doing even when I was sitting pretty far back in the outdoor dining area. The ambiance was rich, the old railroad crossing turned into restaurant & Museum are a modern twist on a classical era. I highly recommend you try this place if you're in Hemet! read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - The cheddar brisket sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

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Originally seen their posts on Instagram and looked them up and found they were close to one of my customers so I invited my customer to join for dinner. They were hard to find, I had to call to figure out where they were. They are part of the museum building. We ordered the 2 way combo Brisket & Pork Belly with Mac & Cheese and Baked Beans to share. I also ordered a half pound of Oxtail. The bark on the brisket was excellent, smoky flavor but a bit dry. Thinking it was the end of the night before closing and we got the left overs. The pork belly was good. The sides were so so. Mac & Cheese had a cheese sauce and tasted ok. The bake beans tasted like a spiced up pork and beans. They were spicy. They also provide Texas toast that was good, 1 piece cut in half. The oxtail was the hit, Flavorful, Smokey and tender. I ordered a half pound ($17) kind of on the expensive side for 1 ox tail. We both had water. Total cost was $69.41. Next time I'm in the area we both agreed we would come back but will opt for a sandwich instead to save costs. read more

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My husband came across Destination Smokehouse & Eatery while scrolling through social media. I will confirm that, for us, this place lived up to the hype. The hidden gem of Hemet, FOR SURE! The food was fantastic and the service and team were friendly, welcoming, and professional. We came in on a Sunday in the early afternoon and they had a steady following of customers: locals, people who traveled out to Hemet, and regulars. The overall vibe there was super positive. We even loved how Walt was out there greeting and talking to the customers. This elevated the experience even more for us. We ended up trying several things during our visit. This included the - Brisket Nachos - El Paso Brisket Burger - Brisket Grilled Cheese - 1 lb of the Sliced Prime Brisket Everything was amazing. The brisket was tender and flavorful. It complemented every single item we ordered perfectly. We were also impressed that the burger was also smoked. It added an extra layer of yumminess to the burger that, again, elevated it beyond something typical you could get at any other establishment. You can't go wrong with anything from our order. We thought all of it was great! Some other details you may be wondering as you contemplate your visit: 1) yes, there's free parking and 2) yes they have both indoor and outdoor seating available for you to enjoy your food on site. We underestimated the situation and the popularity of the oxtail. They were completely sold out by the time we arrived. This in itself is motivation for a repeat visit, but truthfully, Destination Smokehouse & Eatery left a strong first impression on many levels. We're looking forward to returning sooner than later. read more

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Needs a better location. Waiting time was horrible. Never got a chance to eat. The customer service was like a sideshow with the hype man at the door. Sucks really bad. read more

I stopped at this place a few years ago on my way to Lake Hemet. Great barbecue with plenty of portions and the service was impeccable. If you're ever in Hemet and love great barbecue, you must go here! read more

**March 2023: Lunch Visit** I visited Diamond Valley Lake to see the blooms and after a few hours of walking/hiking, my friend were hungry for noms. This bbq joint looked promising online and when my friend and I arrived there were tons of people inside (which was very promising!). Parking was ample and there are seats inside and outside the restaurant. Patrons order at the counter and while it's mostly a serve yourself dining establishment in that you get your own drink and utensils, you're given a number and they'll bring out your food to your table. It did take a little while for us to get our food, but it was worth it! Here's we ate. Brisket & Cheddar ($14.95): This was fantastic! The brisket was juicy, tender, and full of flavor. If you're eating at the restaurant they have two different types of BBQ sauce Monte Carlo ($12.95): This is a pretty messy sando as the waffle bread is sprinkled with powder sugar, but it was a good. The turkey wasn't dry and te raspberry jam I tend to enjoy more savory than sweet items, but if you Baked Beans ($3.95): Solid! Mac & Cheese ($7.95): It's kind of expensive for the amount you get, but it's extremely creamy and a delicious side dish. Stubborn Agave Vanilla Can ($3): Friend ordered this and enjoyed it Lemonade ($3.50): Made fresh daily. I really enjoyed the strawberry lemonade! It was sweet and refreshing and most certainly quenched my thirst. I would definitely come back and maybe next time I'll try a brisket plate! read more

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Our Family were in Hemet area and wanted A Yummy Sandwich We Found Destination Smokehouse on Yelp and Were hoping for a good Sandwich. Very Surprised and amazed at the Brisket Cheddar Grilled Sandwich and Pastrami's Sandwich Best EVER LEAN High Delicious Meat Grilled to Our Perfection and awesome BBQ sauce to go with mmm Both Great choices so we enjoyed 1/2 of each sandwiches and then had The BBQ BEANS as a side Wow best Flavors ever. my Brothers lives a mile from the Place and we were in town to visit him. Service was Fast and Friendly Kind Service Going to go to Hemet more often now a small place but has inside and outside area seating lots of parking Very busy and they have take out too 5 plus Stars for the Food, Service and Best Chef for BBQ we have had in a long time. Heard they also are in Murrietta Ca Thanks so much We Will Be Back soon read more

Scale 1-10 Rating Food-10+ Price- $5-35 per item Atmosphere- 10 Very Chill and Casual Cleanliness-10 Parking- Free Front Lot & Back Lot The food is great and very tasty. They have staff that brings everything to your table and checks on you during your dinning experience. OMG THE BLUE RASPBERRY LEMONADE IS SOOOO GOOD . read more

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The best little lunch spot in Hemet. Located by the old train depot off of Florida. There's a nice sized patio as well as a smaller indoor eating area. Open for breakfast and lunch. I had a most amazing Buffalo Grilled Cheese Panini with smoked Turkey and buffalo sauce, melted cheese in garlic Texas toast. Perfect for dipping in ranch sauce. My Mon had the San Francisco which was smoked Turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, Muenster cheese, chipotle Mayo on sourdough. Everyone was especially nice, a very comfortable place to be. Besides dine in and outdoor seating they also offer curbside pickup. I can't wait to go back, I hear the pastrami is to die for! read more

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Told my friend about this place. We customized our own platter so we could try everything. The service was good and friendly. I wish this place was bigger or had more seating. The brisket and the beef rib bone were the best! I would come back again and try other items. read more

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Fast service. Friendly atmosphere. And the food was amazing .Definitely give this place a 10. read more

The only thing bad about this place is the prices. Sooooo high!!! But the food is some of the best BBQ I've had.

Let me just say the two hour drive was worth it, I read on Instagram that the oxtails were tender and juicy, So I to try them, And they along with the brisket did Not disappoint. I RECOMMEND this spot. read more

I have eaten here twice. The prices are a bit higher than I expected so be prepared for the cost if you have a large family. The last time I went, our food came out at different times so as we were finishing up our food, my son was just starting to eat his burger. The seating situation is limited inside and the seating outside is cute. read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

Hey, I recently took a friend to Destination Smokehouse for lunch. They were so impressed. I ordered the brisket and they had the ribs. The smoked flavor, seasoning was so good, it didn't need to be drowned in BBQ. I was halfway done before I even applied it to the meat! PLUS, the gluten-free side orders were a perfect complement to the meat. It was so good. I wish I had taken some on the rest of my road trip. There were all types of people and families. The music was nice and u had the feeling I was invited to the cookout. I would recommend this place to anyone. I wish I had one close to me!!! read more

Food has always been amazing!!! Was a regular customer every Saturday when it was in Hemet train station

This place is absolutely delicious! Probably the best brisket sandwich I've had in a long time read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

One of my favorite places to eat Food is always fresh is incredible Recommend one hundred percent. read more

The food here is amazing! We ordered a 1/2lb of Ribs 1/2lb of Brisket a 1/2lb Ox Tail, Jasmine Rice and Bbq beans... Everything was absolutely delicious! The service was great! It was our first time and we didn't know how special this place is... The server lead us in the right direction and suggested the best meats... Were definitely coming back! read more

Destination Smokehouse & Eatery - 1/2lb of Ribs, Brisket and Ox Tail - Sandwiches Near Me - Hemet, California

This place is outstanding! The oxtails are so bomb! We can't wait to go back and have some more. My husband and I had a great experience over all and the Pit Master Walter was hilarious and very personable. Video review on YouTube https://youtu.be/BX8yRuTnQU4?si=Ov7ue77NmQrnEm5Q read more

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