Nope, not like brisket...more like a large sirloin roast....really tender and beefy. Wonderful to marinade, char and slice thin, but does take smoke well.Looks awesome. I've never had tri-tip. Is it similar to brisket?
I go to our local meat locker. $4.49/lbHow do I get myself a Tri-Tip in Nebraska, that looks like heaven on a plate.
Maybe a local butcher will cut one for you. They need to get and cut the whole carcus or half though and not get little precut peces like many do these days. I doubt a supermarket, especially a big chain, is going to be able to help you.
Of couse you could get someone in CA to buy and send you one. Get in touch with these guys here in town where I live and maybe they will ship you one.
http://www.losgatosmeats.com/
They have an email address listed so it can't hurt to ask.