There are many places in Central California to enjoy Santa Maria tri-tip, but it isn’t so common around Greater Los Angeles. To find one of the best examples, head to Simi Valley and Green Acres Farm Market and Catering, a historic spot that opened in the late 1920s as a general store. In 1968, Dick Rhoads and some partners bought the market, then named for the TV comedy “Green Acres.” In the early '90s, son Randy Rhoads added the Santa Maria BBQ in front. While they dispense with the traditional coastal live oak in favor of mesquite, everything else is pure Santa Maria tri-tip. The bottom cut of sirloin beef is rolled in salt, black pepper and garlic salt before being grilled over Mesquite to infuse the meat with a sweet and savory flavor. Tri-tip sandwiches are served on a toasted garlic roll. A sauce bar featuring house-made BBQ sauces and sides are available. Green Acres also has a tri-tip dip, served with a side of au jus. Take a seat on the covered patio or get it to go. They do a brisk weekday lunch business, and weekends are busy, but it’s worth the wait. 

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