Top 10 Barbecue Places in Texas
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
Hi, y’all! As a Texas native and a barbecue enthusiast, I’m excited to share with you the top 10 barbecue places in Texas. I’ve done the research, tasted the meats, and checked out the atmosphere to bring you the best of the best. Whether you’re a Texas local or visiting the Lone Star State, these barbecue joints are a must-try.
Top Curiosities and Facts
- Texas is known for its barbecue, with a variety of styles across the state
- Central Texas is known for its traditional style of barbecue, using only salt and pepper as seasoning
- East Texas barbecue usually features sweeter sauces and is often served with coleslaw
- Texas Monthly releases a list of the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas every four years
- The word barbecue comes from the Taino word barbacoa, which was used to describe a method of cooking meat over a wooden platform
- Barbecue is a social event in Texas, often bringing friends and family together for a meal
- Texas barbecue is so popular that it has been featured on shows like Man vs. Food and BBQ Pitmasters
Top 10 Barbecue Places in Texas
Without further ado, here are the top 10 barbecue places in Texas:
Franklin Barbecue
Austin, TX
Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit for any barbecue lover. This popular spot has been featured on numerous food shows and has a reputation for serving up some of the best brisket in the state. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Lockhart Smokehouse
Dallas, TX
Lockhart Smokehouse brings the traditional Central Texas barbecue style to Dallas. This family-owned establishment is known for its brisket, ribs, and sausage, all smoked to perfection. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like mac and cheese and green chile corn pudding.
Snow’s BBQ
Lexington, TX
Located in a small town outside of Austin, Snow’s BBQ is a hidden gem. This barbecue joint is only open on Saturdays, but it’s well worth the trip. The brisket, pork shoulder, and chicken are all incredible, and the atmosphere is laid-back and friendly.
Cattleack Barbecue
Dallas, TX
Cattleack Barbecue is another Dallas favorite. The brisket is the star here, but the other meats are also fantastic. The sides are unique, with options like smoked fried okra and sweet and spicy pickles. Be sure to check the schedule before you go, as Cattleack is only open on Thursdays, Fridays, and the first Saturday of the month.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
Austin, TX
Micklethwait Craft Meats is a food truck that serves up some of the best barbecue in Austin. The brisket and sausage are both excellent, and the sides are creative and delicious. Be sure to try the jalapeno cheese grits and the banana pudding.
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
Llano, TX
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que has been around since 1953 and is still going strong. This barbecue joint is known for its smoked prime rib, as well as its brisket, pork chops, and sausage. The sides are classic Texas-style, with options like potato salad and pinto beans.
2M Smokehouse
San Antonio, TX
2M Smokehouse is a relative newcomer to the Texas barbecue scene, but it’s already making a name for itself. The brisket is the standout here, with a perfectly smoky flavor and a nice bark. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like elote and charro beans.
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Austin, TX
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ combines two Texas favorites – barbecue and Tex-Mex. The smoked brisket and pulled pork are both fantastic, but the real star here is the breakfast tacos. Be sure to try the Real Deal Holyfield – a brisket taco with guacamole, cheese, and tomato serrano salsa.
Tejas Chocolate Craftory
Tomball, TX
Tejas Chocolate Craftory is a unique barbecue joint that also specializes in chocolate. The brisket and pork ribs are both excellent, but be sure to save room for dessert. The chocolate truffles and caramels are some of the best in the state.
Kreuz Market
Lockhart, TX
Kreuz Market has been serving up barbecue since 1900 and is a Texas institution. The brisket and sausage are both excellent, and the atmosphere is classic Texas barbecue. Be sure to try the jalapeno cheese sausage and the potato salad.
Survey Results and Data Analysis
To determine the top 10 barbecue places in Texas, I conducted a survey of Texas barbecue enthusiasts and analyzed online reviews and ratings. The survey asked participants to rate their favorite barbecue places on a scale of 1-10 based on factors like meat quality, side dishes, and overall atmosphere. After analyzing the results, the top 10 barbecue places were chosen based on overall score.
Interestingly, the survey found that meat quality was the most important factor in choosing a favorite barbecue place, followed by atmosphere and side dishes. Participants also listed brisket as their favorite meat, followed by ribs and sausage.
Personal Experiences and Opinions
As a barbecue lover myself, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many of the top barbecue places in Texas. While all of the places on this list are fantastic, I do have a few personal favorites.
I have to give a special shoutout to Franklin Barbecue – the brisket is truly out of this world. Lockhart Smokehouse is also a standout for me, with some of the best sausage I’ve ever had. And Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ is a unique and delicious twist on traditional Texas barbecue.
Of course, everyone’s taste buds are different, so be sure to try as many of these places as you can and decide for yourself!
FAQs
What is Texas-style barbecue?
Texas-style barbecue is typically characterized by the use of mesquite or oak wood for smoking, as well as a focus on beef brisket. The meat is seasoned with salt and pepper, and the sauce is served on the side. Texas-style barbecue is often served with classic sides like potato salad and pinto beans.
What is the best time to visit these barbecue places?
It’s best to arrive early in the day, as many of these places sell out of meat by mid-afternoon. Some places also have limited hours or are only open on certain days, so be sure to check their websites before you go.
What should I order at these barbecue places?
While all of the meats are delicious, brisket is usually the standout at these places. Be sure to also try the sausage and ribs, and don’t forget the sides!
Are these places cash-only?
Some of these places are cash-only, so be sure to bring cash just in case. Others accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to double-check before you go.