Top 10 BBQ Places in Texas
Hey, y’all! Emily here, and if you know anything about Texas, you know that BBQ is a big deal. Growing up in Texas, I’ve had my fair share of BBQ, and let me tell you, it’s a tough job but somebody’s gotta do it. So, without further ado, here are the top 10 BBQ places in Texas that are worth the trip:
1. Franklin Barbecue (Austin, TX)
If you’re a BBQ lover, chances are you’ve heard of Franklin Barbecue. This place is a staple in the Austin BBQ scene and has been named the best BBQ joint in America by Bon Appétit magazine.
My personal experience at Franklin was nothing short of amazing. I waited in line for 3 hours, but it was worth every minute. The brisket was juicy, tender, and had the perfect amount of smokiness. The sides were delicious too, especially the potato salad.
2. Snow’s BBQ (Lexington, TX)
Located in a small town outside of Austin, Snow’s BBQ is a hidden gem that’s worth the drive. It’s only open on Saturdays, and the line starts forming early in the morning. But trust me, it’s worth waking up early for.
The brisket and ribs are the stars of the show here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and juicy that it practically melts in your mouth. The sides are also great, especially the beans and potato salad.
3. Kreuz Market (Lockhart, TX)
Kreuz Market has been serving up BBQ since 1900, so you know they’re doing something right. The atmosphere here is old-school, and the smell of smoke hits you as soon as you walk in.
The brisket and sausage are the must-tries here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so flavorful and has the perfect texture. The potato salad is also a standout.
4. Louie Mueller Barbecue (Taylor, TX)
Louie Mueller Barbecue has been around since 1949 and has won numerous awards for their BBQ. The atmosphere here is no-frills, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket is the star of the show here, and it’s no wonder why. It’s so tender and has the perfect amount of smokiness. The jalapeño sausage is also a must-try.
5. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (Llano, TX)
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a Texas institution that’s been serving up BBQ since 1953. The atmosphere here is casual, and the smell of smoke hits you as soon as you walk in.
The brisket and ribs are the must-tries here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and has the perfect amount of smokiness. The mac and cheese is also a standout.
6. Terry Black’s Barbecue (Austin, TX)
Terry Black’s Barbecue is a newer player in the Austin BBQ scene, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves. The atmosphere here is casual, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket and ribs are the stars of the show here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and has the perfect amount of smokiness. The creamed corn is also a standout.
7. 2M Smokehouse (San Antonio, TX)
2M Smokehouse is a relative newcomer to the Texas BBQ scene, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves. The atmosphere here is casual, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket and turkey are the must-tries here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and flavorful. The mac and cheese is also a standout.
8. Cattleack Barbecue (Dallas, TX)
Cattleack Barbecue is a hidden gem in Dallas that’s worth the trip. The atmosphere here is casual, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket and burnt ends are the stars of the show here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and has the perfect amount of smokiness. The bacon burnt ends are also a standout.
9. Bodacious Bar-B-Q (Marshall, TX)
Bodacious Bar-B-Q has been serving up BBQ since 1968, and they’ve been doing it right ever since. The atmosphere here is casual, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket and sausage are the must-tries here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and flavorful. The potato salad is also a standout.
10. Pecan Lodge (Dallas, TX)
Pecan Lodge is a Dallas institution that’s been serving up BBQ since 2010. The atmosphere here is casual, and the focus is on the meat.
The brisket and ribs are the must-tries here, and they do not disappoint. The meat is so tender and has the perfect amount of smokiness. The mac and cheese is also a standout.
FAQs
What makes Texas BBQ different?
Texas BBQ is all about the meat. It’s slow-smoked over wood until it’s tender and flavorful. It’s not about the sauce, although some places do offer sauce on the side. Texas BBQ is also known for its beef brisket, which is the star of the show in most BBQ joints.
What sides should I try with my Texas BBQ?
While the meat is the star of the show, the sides are also important. Some must-tries include potato salad, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and beans.
What’s the best time to go to a Texas BBQ joint?
Most BBQ joints in Texas are only open for lunch, and some are only open on certain days. It’s best to check their hours and arrive early to beat the line.
What’s the difference between Texas BBQ and other types of BBQ?
Texas BBQ is known for its beef brisket and slow-smoking process. Other types of BBQ, such as Carolina BBQ, are known for their pulled pork and vinegar-based sauce.
What’s the best BBQ joint in Texas?
That’s a tough question, as there are so many great BBQ joints in Texas. It really depends on what you’re looking for and what type of BBQ you prefer. But if you’re looking for the best of the best, Franklin Barbecue is a must-try.