What Makes a Great BBQ Side? Ranking Our Most Popular Pairings at Swing Inn Cafe

Great BBQ doesn’t stand alone. It’s the sides—those creamy, crispy, tangy, and cheesy add-ons—that turn a solid BBQ plate into a full-blown comfort food experience. At Swing Inn Cafe, our smoked meats might get the spotlight, but the BBQ sides are what complete the meal and keep locals coming back.

Here’s how we rank our most popular BBQ side pairings, based on what locals love with their brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and beyond.

#1 – Mac ‘N’ Cheese: The Crowd Favorite

It’s rich, it’s cheesy, and it’s practically required next to BBQ. Our Mac ‘N’ Cheese is the #1 most-ordered side for a reason—it balances the smoky richness of brisket or ribs with smooth, savory comfort.

Best paired with:

• Brisket Platter

• Pulled Pork Sandwich

• Brisket Fries (double down on indulgence)

#2 – Potato Salad: The BBQ Classic That Never Misses

Cool, creamy, and perfectly seasoned, our Potato Salad brings balance to every plate. It’s the go-to when you want a refreshing contrast to heavy meats or saucy sandwiches.

Best paired with:

• Family Platter (adds great texture contrast)

• Ribs

• Hot Pastrami Sandwich

#3 – Cole Slaw: Crisp, Tangy, and Totally Essential

Coleslaw does more than add color—it adds crunch and acid that cuts through the richness of BBQ. Whether you pile it on your sandwich or enjoy it on the side, it’s a must-have for the full BBQ experience.

Best paired with:

• Pulled Pork Sandwich

• Beef Dino Rib

• BBQ Takeout orders (it travels well!)

#4 – French Fries: The Can’t-Go-Wrong Comfort Pick

Sometimes you just want to keep it classic. Our French Fries are hot, crispy, and a universal favorite whether you’re a kid, a BBQ purist, or just here for the sides.

Best paired with:

• Brisket Fries (obviously)

• Sandwiches of all kinds

• Kids’ BBQ plates

#5 – Baked Beans: Sweet, Savory, and Soulful

You can’t talk about BBQ sides without mentioning Baked Beans. Ours are slow-cooked and loaded with flavor, adding just the right amount of sweetness and warmth to any meal.

Best paired with:

• Brisket Platter

• Family Platter

• Sausage (if available) or Turkey

Bonus – Side Salad: Keep It Fresh

For those looking to lighten the load (or just balance the BBQ indulgence), our Side Salad is fresh, crisp, and simple—but never boring.

Best paired with:

• Turkey or lean brisket

• Combo meals

• Takeout orders that need a fresh element

Customize Your BBQ Plate, Your Way

All of our sides are available a la carte—so whether you want one, two, or all six, you’re in full control of your plate. Choose Small or Large portions depending on your appetite—or how many people you’re feeding.

Build Your Dream BBQ Plate Today

Not sure what to pick? Our team is always happy to suggest the best pairings based on your order.

📍 Visit us in Old Town Temecula at 28676 Old Town Front St 

📞 Call ahead or order online here to build your takeout BBQ feast