Hidden, unassuming, and pleasantly surprising, Ironwood BBQ just might be the best barbecue in San Francisco. And it's at a golf course. Golden Gate Park's beloved nine-hole pitch and putt is a relaxing way to wind down the weekend and recharge for the days ahead, but it's the oak-wood fired barbecue that really gets things swinging. Owner Bruce Olson bought a humdinger Wham Turbo barbecue pit seven years ago, and today churns out some of the tastiest pulled pork sandwiches in the business. Ironwood's sauce, along with the other fixin's, is homemade (one of the secrets is just the right amount of Anchor Steam beer). Get a sandwich "Memphis-style," where coleslaw is smothered in with the meat—sloppy-good. Delicious sides include baked beans and scalloped potatoes. After noshing, grab your clubs (or rent some) and tee-up on the beginner-friendly course. No hole is longer than 200 yards. Fantastic barbecue and a quick game of golf: Fore sure!
Ironwood BBQ and Golden Gate Park golf course, 47th Ave. and Fulton St. inside Golden Gate Park, San Francisco; 415-751-8987. Ironwood BBQ opens around 11:30 a.m. and closes about an hour before sunset. The golf course opens at 7 a.m. It's $13 for nine holes on a weekday, and $19 on the weekend.