Copper Top BBQ - Big Pine, California

Armahn R.

Copper Top BBQ is an absolute gem! Stopped here on my way to Mammoth, and wow—everything on the menu was amazing. The tri-tip was perfectly smoked, the ribs were packed with flavor, and even the sides were top-notch. You can tell they put real care into their food.

The staff was awesome and super friendly and welcoming, even with how busy it was. The outdoor setup adds to the experience, and the smell of the smoker just gets you hyped for the meal. If you’re driving through Big Pine, this place is a must-stop. Already looking forward to my next visit!

Erica F.

This BBQ place is on the way to Mammoth located on highway 395. Parking on the side alley. There was a line when I got here, but it was moving along very fast. They have 3 big smokers in the front, and I saw steam since I drove by in the morning. I ordered half rack of ribs, pull pork sandwich, and Mac and cheese. Staff is very friendly here. There were tables and benches set up in the front. Tables at indoor area are limited.

The ribs were a little bland and dry, but still tender. The pull pork sandwich was a great surprise! The pork was flavorful and the coleslaw was crispy! The Mac and cheese is on the watery side. BBQ sauce is on the sweet side. Food was overall decent.

Sumamarn K.

We were on our way to Mammoth when we spotted this BBQ restaurant with so many people on the line, and the sight of smoke wafting from the barbecue instantly caught our attention. It smelled so delicious that we decided to give it a try—and we’re so glad we did! We ordered the plate for one, and it was absolutely fantastic. The flavors were rich and satisfying. The ambiance is perfect for anyone who loves a cozy, country vibe, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!

Dmitry E.

If you're traveling along Highway 395, Copper Top BBQ is an essential stop. We make it a point to visit on every trip to Mammoth (and back!), and it's a highlight we always look forward to. Nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra, this BBQ spot delivers fantastic food alongside spectacular mountain views.

Our go-to order is the Big Pine Mega Platter (2 Person)--perfect for two, especially when we swap the pulled pork for extra tri-tip. Their ribs and tri-tip are always tender and flavorful, and we love that they sell vacuum-sealed options. You can easily reheat them at home, and they taste just as amazing as fresh from the smoker.

With friendly service, a great atmosphere, and unbeatable BBQ, Copper Top BBQ is a must-visit. Check out Copper Top BBQ and see why it's one of the best stops along Highway 395!

Brian C.

What a great new roadside BBQ place. The trip tip was good, wood grilled and tender.

I got the sampler platter and got fresh ribs off the grill.

Only downside is coleslaw. It wasn’t good as I thought. There is no taste at all

I think their homemade potato salad was among the best I have ever eater.

This is a family owned business and they are very friendly.

Mike T.

Wr have driven by here many of times, but never stopped as it wasn’t in the travel plan. It always smelled so good because the cooking is all in the outside along the road and the barbecues are always blazing.🔥

We stopped for lunch mid week. The reviews say, it gets crowded fast, we were there 10 minutes before opening and we were second in line. Walter was already at work, preparing the ribs for the pending orders.

We parked in the spaces on the north side of the restaurant and walked up a ramp to the order window. Once your orders, place you proceeded inside where you can get some sauce as you wait for your order to be called. At that point, you can walk outside for the outside seating or walk down to the barn which is a little more protected with heaters and TVs

We ordered the ribs with a side of mac & cheese. And these are St. Louis ribs, which were different than baby back but even more delicious. The mac & cheese was as cheesy as it looks and did not disappoint. You can see from the pictures that have an ample supply of wipes to get clean on every table.

On our way out, we noticed they had a vending machine that contain prepackaged ribs that you could take with you. Seems like a novelty, but what a great idea.

When we ordered, we were greeted by Lorena, she was bright and cheery . She answered all our questions on the proper protocol to get things done, meaning our food as soon as possible. We talked with Walter for a few minutes and he is a great guy and really loves his job. He made the lunch morepleasant his conversation.

If you’re looking to satisfy your barbecue fix, I highly recommend this restaurant. I could tell you this won’t be my last time having those St. Louis barbecue ribs.

Kuei-Da L.

If you ever drive 395, this is a restaurant you don’t want to miss. They have the best pork ribs I’ve ever had, no exaggeration. Outside, the pork ribs are just moisture enough and show a bit of oily glaze; inside, they are tender all the way to the bones. You could even easily peel the membrane around the bones off.

The tri tip is also really delicious. It has the smoke flavor and also very tender in the middle.

We really wish the location could have been easier to get to, but at least they have the vacuum sealed packages that we could taste it again at home.

Anna J.

So happy we stopped here on our trip from San Diego to Tahoe!
Great pulled pork sandwich, the rib meat fell off the bone easily, and they have good chicken sausage. Only 2 BBQ flavors- regular and spicy- but they are both so good, you don’t need anything else.
Outside seating with mountain views makes the location even more special.