You ever notice how the best food in the world is usually served in a place that looks like a converted garage or a humble storefront on a busy avenue? Seriously. You’re driving down 98th Avenue in Oakland, dodging traffic, and then you see it: World Champion Smokehouse & Market. It isn't some fancy, high-concept bistro with valet parking. It’s a no-frills, heavy-hitting barbecue joint that stays open late because, honestly, the hunger for real tri-tip doesn't follow a 9-to-5 schedule.
People get confused about the name sometimes. They think "World Champion" is just some marketing fluff, but in the BBQ world, titles actually matter. Whether it's the specific wood-fire technique or the way the dry rub hits the back of your throat, this place has earned its reputation in the trenches of East Oakland. It is a local legend, tucked away at 679 98th Ave, and if you aren't looking for it, you might just miss some of the best fried fish and smoked ribs in Northern California.
What’s Actually on the Menu at World Champion Smokehouse & Market?
Let’s get into the meat of it. Literally. Most people show up here for the Pork Rib Dinner. It’s the undisputed heavyweight champion of the menu. You get these massive, meaty slabs that haven't just been "cooked"—they’ve been through a process. We’re talking about that deep smoke ring and fat that’s rendered down until it’s basically butter.
But here’s the thing: everyone talks about the ribs, yet the real "if you know, you know" move is the Beef Tri-Tip. Tri-tip is a California staple, but doing it right in a smoker is tricky. At World Champion Smokehouse & Market, they nail that balance. It’s tender, sliced thin enough to melt but thick enough to satisfy, and it usually comes with a side of their signature "jojo" potatoes.
If you aren't in a beef or pork mood, don't sleep on the fish. It sounds weird to go to a smokehouse for fried fish, but their Basa and Catfish are legendary. The Basa is crispy, seasoned with a heavy hand, and somehow stays flaky inside despite being fried to a perfect golden brown. You’ve probably seen the 12-piece or 24-piece fish platters on the menu—those are for the families who know that cooking at home on a Friday night is a losing battle compared to this.
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The Sides That Actually Matter
A lot of BBQ places treat sides like an afterthought. Just some mushy beans and dry slaw. Not here.
- Jojo Potatoes: These are basically thick-cut potato wedges, but they’re seasoned and fried in a way that makes regular fries feel pathetic.
- Macaroni Salad: It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and exactly what you need to cut through the richness of a pound of beef links.
- BBQ Beans: They’ve got that smoky, sweet depth that tells you they’ve been sitting near the pit for a while.
- Potato Salad: Reviewers and locals constantly argue about this, but most agree it’s the "real deal" kind of recipe your grandma would make.
The Neighborhood Reality and Why Locals Love It
Let’s be real for a second. The location at 98th Ave isn't exactly a tourist trap. It’s a gritty, busy part of Oakland. But that’s part of the charm. This is a community hub. When you walk in, you aren't just a customer; you’re someone looking for a "hot meal" that actually feels like a meal.
There’s a lot of talk online about the service. Some people say it’s slow. Others say it’s "unfriendly." Honestly? It’s just an Oakland vibe. They aren't there to give you a corporate smile and a script. They’re there to move a massive amount of high-quality smoked meat through a small window. Pro tip: Call your order in. If you just show up and expect to be out in five minutes, you’re going to be disappointed. The locals know to call ahead, wait the 20 minutes, and then pull up to grab their bag of steaming hot ribs.
Is It Actually "World Champion" Quality?
In the world of competitive BBQ, names like David Bouska or Al Lino usually dominate the conversation with their world titles from the Jack Daniel's World Championship or Memphis in May. While World Champion Smokehouse & Market in Oakland shares the name, it operates as a neighborhood market and smokehouse that brings that competitive standard to the street level.
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What makes it "champion" level isn't a trophy on the wall—it's the consistency. Smoked meat is temperamental. The humidity in the air, the quality of the wood, and the temperature of the pit can ruin a brisket in an hour. This place has been a staple because they don't mess up. Whether you’re ordering the Beef Link Lunch or a full Slab of Ribs, the flavor profile remains consistent: smoky, seasoned, and unapologetically bold.
The Price Factor
Let’s address the elephant in the room—the prices have gone up. In 2026, finding a "cheap" meal is like finding a unicorn, and BBQ is particularly expensive because of the cost of raw brisket and ribs. A Tri-Tip & Rib combo might run you north of $40. Some people complain, but then you see the portion sizes. A "lunch" portion here is usually enough to feed two people, or one person who is prepared to take a very long nap immediately afterward. You’re paying for the hours of labor that went into that smoker while you were still asleep.
Common Misconceptions About the Market
Most people think it’s just a restaurant. It’s called World Champion Smokehouse & Market for a reason. While the prepared food is the big draw, they also function as a spot where you can grab essentials. However, don't walk in expecting a Whole Foods experience. It’s a functional market that caters to the neighborhood's immediate needs.
Another misconception? That it’s only about the "low and slow" BBQ. Their Fried Chicken is surprisingly top-tier. You can get a 9-piece thigh meal or just a couple of party wings. The breading is thick and crunchy, which is a nice contrast if you find the BBQ sauce a bit too rich for your palate that day.
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How to Do World Champion Smokehouse Right
If it's your first time, don't get overwhelmed by the menu. It’s huge. You’ll see burgers, sandwiches, fish, and BBQ combos.
- Start with a Combo: If you can't decide, get the Tri-Tip & Link combo. It gives you a taste of the smokehouse's range.
- Ask for the Sauce on the Side: Their sauce is rich and bold. Sometimes you want to dip; you don't always want your meat swimming in it.
- The Turkey Tails: If they have them, try them. It’s a specialty item you don't see everywhere, and they are incredibly fatty and flavorful when smoked correctly.
- Check the Hours: They generally open around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM and go late, but Sunday hours can be a bit shorter. Always check before you make the trek.
At the end of the day, World Champion Smokehouse & Market is a testament to the fact that you don't need a tablecloth to have a world-class meal. It’s about the wood, the fire, and the meat. Everything else is just noise.
To get the best experience, place your order via phone at (510) 553-9191 before heading to 679 98th Ave. This avoids the long wait times during peak lunch and dinner rushes. If you're hosting a larger group, opt for the "Family Meal" or a "Slab" of ribs rather than individual plates to get the most value for your money. Always double-check their current stock of specialty items like Turkey Tails or Basa fish early in the day, as these high-demand items frequently sell out by late afternoon.