70s Themed BBQ

Clarence Jul 14, 2026

Step back in time to the groovy '70s and ignite a culinary journey with a 70s themed BBQ! The disco decade brought us bell-bottoms, lava lamps, and some mouthwatering grilling trends that are making a comeback. So, let's don our aprons, relax to someABBA, and get ready to throw an unforgettable BBQ party.

an outdoor party with drinks and snacks on the table next to a swimming pool is featured in this magazine
an outdoor party with drinks and snacks on the table next to a swimming pool is featured in this magazine

In the '70s, BBQs weren't just about meat and potatoes; they were social events centered aroundizei, communal dining, and outrageous fun. Think massive quantities of delightful, tended noshes, and fiery debates over whose homemade recipe was the most fabulous. Let's revisit these delightful traditions and imbue them with a modern touch.

a group of people sitting around a table with an umbrella over it in the grass
a group of people sitting around a table with an umbrella over it in the grass

The Decade's Grilling Favorites

The '70s BBQ staples were a testament to the era's penchant for experimentation. It was the time of fondue, so why not bring back the neighborhood fondue night to your menu?

27+ Show-Stopping Summer Party Themes for Adults & Kids [2025]
27+ Show-Stopping Summer Party Themes for Adults & Kids [2025]

Steak, chicken, and ribs reigned supreme at the BBQ pits, but so did surprises like kidney skewers or even alligator meat. Embrace the spirit of adventure and consider offering something unusual on your grilled spread, like succulent shrimp skewers with pineapple and bell peppers.

Retro Marinades

Sears catalog 1970
Sears catalog 1970

Marinating wasn't just a culinary technique; it was an art form in the '70s. Teriyaki was everywhere, but Stellenbosch seasoning, soy sauce, and backyard concoctions were equally popular. Whip up a batch of evocative, sweet yet tangy '70s inspired marinade, like a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and your favorite BBQ sauce.

For a true blast from the past, try "Chemical BBQ Sauce" - an unusual but delicious blend of ketchup, vinegar, bourbon, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Your guests might not be familiar with it, but they'll love its nostalgic kick.

Side Dishes: The More, the Merrier

a platter filled with meats, cheeses and fruit
a platter filled with meats, cheeses and fruit

No '70s BBQ was complete without a smorgasbord of side dishes. Think creamy coleslaw, potato salad, and vinegar-based beans. And who could forget the charcuterie boards laden with pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and imported cheeses?

Spice up the retro salad game with favors such as ambrosia salad (pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, and Cool Whip) or Watergate salad (pectin, instant pistachio pudding, pineapple, and chopped nuts). Pair these with a medley of grilled veggies and you've got a symphony of flavors that'll make your guests believe they're in a '70s time machine.

70s-Inspired Cocktails and Beverages

a man grilling meat on top of a red bbq
a man grilling meat on top of a red bbq

Flirtious drinks coined with disco monikers were the '70s BBQ's liquid fuel. Pina Coladas, Harvey Wallbangers, and Tequila Sunrises were all the rage. Blend up a batch of these classics or give 'em a modern twist with fresh, organic ingredients.

But no ‘70s spread would be complete without tragicomic flops like the "Gasyet" – a mixture of lemonade, chestnut puree, and Malibu rum. The bolder, the better in the pursuit of unexpected laughter and dance moves.

tables and chairs are lined up under an awning
tables and chairs are lined up under an awning
Best Ideas to Organize your Dream Barbeque Party
Best Ideas to Organize your Dream Barbeque Party
Throw a 60
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Retro Bbq, Vintage Bbq, 1950s Grill, Vintage Barbecue, Vintage Barbeque, 1950s Bbq, Vintage Barbecue Advertisement, Vintage Bbq Photos, 1950s Barbecue Cookbook
a platter with tomatoes, broccoli and cheese on skewered toothpicks
a platter with tomatoes, broccoli and cheese on skewered toothpicks
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70 Theme Party Ideas Decoration, 70 Theme Party Ideas, 70s Birthday Party Theme Decoration, 70s Food Ideas, Party Inspo Decoration, Funny Themed Parties For Adults, Retro Party Theme, 70 Party, Food For 70s Party
a buffet with many different types of food on it, including meats and vegetables
a buffet with many different types of food on it, including meats and vegetables

Desserts: Go Go Gourmet

While the main course was a mind-bending marvel, '70s desserts were all about instant gratification. Angel Food cake, Jello Poke cakes, and Good Humor ice cream bars made regular appearances. For an updated take, consider prepping a Baked Alaska or an Ice Cream Terrine, two '70s staples that have somehow fallen by the wayside.

And who can forget the Dairy Queen-inspired ice cream creations? Get out your soft-serve machine and succumb to the joy of crowd-pleasers like The Dilly Bar, The Fat Fudge Bar, or even The Banana Split.

So there you have it, folks! A swing back to the incredible, unforgettable '70s – at your fingertips, one delectable BBQ at a time. Now, turn up that Bee Gees record and let the good times roll!