Top 10 Barbecue Restaurants in Texas
Howdy y’all! My name is Emily Johnson and I’m here to share with you the top 10 barbecue restaurants in the great state of Texas. As a born and raised Texan, I take my barbecue very seriously and have spent countless hours eating my way through the Lone Star State to bring you this list. So grab a napkin, put on your stretchy pants, and let’s dive in!
Curiosities and interesting facts
- Texas is known as the Barbecue Capital of the World and for good reason – we have some of the best barbecue joints in the country.
- There are four main types of Texas barbecue – East Texas, Central Texas, West Texas, and South Texas – each with its own unique style.
- The most popular barbecue meat in Texas is brisket, followed closely by pork ribs and sausage.
- Barbecue is serious business in Texas – some of the best-known joints have lines that start forming hours before they even open.
The Top 10 Barbecue Restaurants in Texas
1. Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
Franklin Barbecue is widely regarded as the best barbecue joint in Texas, and for many, the best in the world. The brisket is the star of the show here – it’s cooked low and slow for up to 18 hours over post oak wood, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep smoky flavor. Be prepared to wait in line for several hours, but trust me – it’s worth it.
2. Snow’s BBQ (Lexington)
Snow’s BBQ is a hidden gem located in a small town about an hour outside of Austin. It’s only open on Saturdays, and they often sell out within a few hours, so get there early. The brisket and pork ribs are top-notch, but the real star here is the pork shoulder – it’s so tender and juicy, you won’t even need sauce.
3. Louie Mueller Barbecue (Taylor)
Louie Mueller Barbecue has been around since 1949 and is a true Texas institution. The brisket here is legendary – it’s cooked over oak wood for up to 16 hours and has a beautiful smoky bark and perfect pink smoke ring. The beef ribs are also a must-try – they’re huge and meaty and fall off the bone.
4. Terry Black’s Barbecue (Austin)
Terry Black’s is a newer joint in Austin, but it’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The brisket is excellent – it’s juicy, tender, and has a nice peppery crust. The sausage is also a standout – it’s made in-house and has a great snap to it.
5. Kreuz Market (Lockhart)
Kreuz Market is one of the oldest barbecue joints in Texas and has been serving up delicious smoked meats since 1900. The brisket and sausage are the stars here – they’re both cooked over post oak wood and have a great smoky flavor. The atmosphere is also worth mentioning – the dining room is housed in a beautiful red brick building that’s over 100 years old.
6. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (Llano)
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que has been around since 1962 and is a must-visit for any barbecue lover. The brisket is cooked over mesquite wood and has a nice char on the outside and juicy, tender meat on the inside. The pork chop is also a standout – it’s huge and has a beautiful smoky flavor.
7. 2M Smokehouse (San Antonio)
2M Smokehouse is a newer joint in San Antonio, but it’s already making waves in the Texas barbecue scene. The brisket is cooked over oak wood and has a nice crust and juicy, flavorful meat. The pulled pork is also excellent – it’s cooked over mesquite wood and has a great smoky flavor.
8. Black’s Barbecue (Lockhart)
Black’s Barbecue is another Lockhart institution and has been serving up delicious smoked meats since 1932. The brisket and pork ribs are the stars here – they’re both cooked over post oak wood and have a great smoky flavor. The sides are also worth mentioning – the mac and cheese and potato salad are both excellent.
9. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ (Austin)
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ is a unique take on Texas barbecue – they combine traditional smoked meats with Mexican flavors and ingredients. The brisket is excellent – it’s cooked over mesquite wood and has a nice crust and juicy, flavorful meat. The breakfast tacos are also a must-try – they’re filled with smoked brisket and topped with a fried egg.
10. Tejas Chocolate Craftory (Tomball)
Tejas Chocolate Craftory is a chocolate shop and barbecue joint all rolled into one. The brisket is excellent – it’s cooked over pecan wood and has a nice crust and juicy, flavorful meat. The beef rib is also a standout – it’s huge and has a beautiful smoky flavor. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – the chocolate truffles and caramels are out of this world.
FAQs
What is Texas-style barbecue?
Texas-style barbecue is characterized by slow-smoking meats over wood for hours, resulting in a tender, smoky flavor. The most popular meats in Texas-style barbecue are brisket, pork ribs, and sausage.
What is the best barbecue joint in Texas?
There’s no easy answer to this question, as everyone has their own personal favorite. However, Franklin Barbecue, Snow’s BBQ, and Louie Mueller Barbecue are often regarded as some of the best in the state.
What’s the best kind of wood to use for smoking meats?
There’s no one best kind of wood – it all depends on personal preference. However, some popular choices in Texas include oak, mesquite, and pecan.
Do I need to put sauce on Texas barbecue?
It’s all up to you! Many Texans prefer their barbecue without sauce, as the meat is flavorful enough on its own. However, if you like sauce, go for it.
What should I order if I’ve never had Texas barbecue before?
The brisket is a must-try for any first-time Texas barbecue eater. It’s the most popular meat in the state and is often regarded as the best.
Is Texas barbecue really that good?
Yes, it really is. Texans take their barbecue seriously and have spent generations perfecting the craft. Trust us – once you’ve had Texas barbecue, you’ll be hooked.