Holiday shopping: is there anything more daunting? With picky relatives and that impossible-to-shop-for brother of yours, knowing what to buy friends and family can often be the most stressful part of the season (can we get a second round of eggnog, please?). But, not to fear, friends—today, we’re talking the one gift they won’t return: the tasty, unmistakable flavor of Santa Maria style barbecue. Read on for our top picks of barbecue gifts the grill master in your life is sure to get fired up about.
1. Give them flavor.
There’s a reason we’re known as the barbecue capital of the world—and it has to do with our unmistakable use of flavor. From our famous Santa Maria Style rub to smoky barbecue sauces and spicy salsas, we love the idea of gifting flavor this season. Local favorites include:
- Barbecue Baste or Barbecue Sauce from the Hitching Post
- Authentic Santa Maria Style Seasoning from Susie Q’s
- Santa Maria Style Salsa from Susie Q’s
2. Give them tools.
Every grill master needs the proper tools to master their art. Whether it’s red-oak chips to impart that unmistakably smoky Santa Maria flavor, or a high-quality grilling apron to protect them from unexpected pops-and-sizzles, we love the idea of gifting some tried-and-true barbecue products and tools this holiday season. Our favorites include:
- Red Oak Chips from Susie Q’s
- Wine Barrel Oak Chips from Susie Q’s
- Butcher-Style Denim Apron from Susie Q’s
3. Bring it all together.
Nothing completes a present like great presentation. We love the idea of collecting some of the above items and making a custom Santa Maria Style gift-basket for the barbecue fanatic in your life. Include some spices and rubs, a bottle of barbecue sauce, Santa Maria Style salsa, and a butcher’s apron. You can also throw in a bottle of wine and some pinquito beans for a true Santa Maria Style basket. Then, print out our Santa Maria barbecue recipes and include them with the gift so they have everything they need to grill up the perfect Santa Maria style meal! (Psst.if you’re feeling extra generous, you can even plan a trip to our Valley for you and your favorite barbecue fanatic—and then include tickets and gift cards to local barbecue joints as part of your presentation.)
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In Santa Maria Valley, there’s so much to do from here. Hit the road and explore it all with our 24 hiking trails, 34 tasting rooms, seven unique AVAs, 13 beaches, and a growing selection of local breweries, all within a beautiful 30-minute drive. There is no need to venture far if you are looking for sand dunes, cycling and authentic Santa Maria Style dining. You’ll find it’s the perfect home base, where you can eat, drink and do more for less.
