Third Wave BBQ Hawthorn

Nestled in the vibrant suburb of Hawthorn East, Third Wave BBQ Hawthorn is a must-visit American barbecue restaurant that brings authentic slow-smoked meats right to the heart of Victoria. Specializing in traditional American BBQ, this hotspot expertly showcases a meticulous smoking process that imbues each dish with profound smoky depth and unforgettably tender textures.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Slow Smoked Beef Brisket. This unusually cut, widely adored in the US but less common locally, offers deep, beefy flavors that melt in your mouth after being smoked for an impressive 8 to 10 hours over hickory wood. Paired with a sharp horseradish sauce, each bite is a masterclass in barbecue craftsmanship—tender, juicy, and exquisitely delicate.

Equally enticing is the Pulled Pork, smoked for 12 hours until it's irresistibly soft and infused with a perfect balance of spices. The chefs’ promise that you’ll be able to pull apart the pork with your fingers speaks volumes about the care and technique behind this dish. This juicy, flavorful pork is made all the more memorable when dipped in their house-made Hot And Spicy BBQ Sauce—a fiery blend of award-winning American barbecue sauces that adds a luscious, caramelized finish with just the right amount of kick.

For a true communal feast, the BBQ Platter For 4 is a showstopper. This generous spread features 4 beef ribs, cheesy kransky sausages, 300g brisket, 12 juicy wings, and heaps of pulled pork, accompanied by perfectly crispy beer-battered fries, onion rings, slaw, pickles, and candy bacon. It's the ideal way to share the authentic BBQ experience with friends or family, with enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

Dining at Third Wave BBQ Hawthorn offers more than just incredible food—the atmosphere is welcoming and lively, with a casual yet vibrant vibe that perfectly complements the hearty, unpretentious nature of barbecue. Guests consistently praise the friendly service and the spacious, relaxed setting, making it a perfect spot for celebrations or casual outings alike.

As Kelly Lean noted after her birthday dinner here, the portions are generous, and the hospitality warms every visit: “The food is delicious in generous portions... Friendly service and lovely ambience too! I will definitely return!” Regulars, too, rave about their creative specials and the skillful treatment of each cut of meat, turning each meal into a memorable occasion.

Whether you're a seasoned BBQ aficionado or new to slow-smoked American flavors like Taylah Bons and her friends experiencing them for the first time, Third Wave BBQ Hawthorn guarantees an authentic, satisfying barbecue journey that beckons you back time and time again.

With its location on Riversdale Road, Third Wave BBQ offers a convenient and vibrant setting to indulge in a soul-satisfying feast. If you are after smoky, tender, and richly flavored American BBQ in Melbourne's east, this venue is well worth the visit—prepare to savor truly memorable dishes that celebrate the art and tradition of barbecue.