Austin boasts many restaurants and food trucks specializing in mouth-watering BBQ ribs, brisket, and sausage. If you’re a foodie visiting Austin, you can’t miss out on the chance to indulge in this quintessential Texan cuisine.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Austin’s best BBQ joints, where you can savor the authentic taste of slow-cooked meats, smoky flavors, and tangy sauces.
From traditional BBQ spots to modern restaurants, we’ll help you discover the places that truly capture the essence of Austin’s BBQ culture. So, get ready to satisfy your cravings and embark on a culinary journey of a lifetime.
Brown’s Bar-B-Que
If you’re on the hunt for exceptional BBQ in Austin, look no further than Brown’s Bar-B-Que. Tucked away in a bright red trailer located near Corner Bar in South Austin, this food joint serves up some of the most mouth-watering meats you’ll ever taste. Brown’s Bar-B-Que is known for its high-quality, tender meats that are slow-cooked to perfection.
If that wasn’t enough, they even have a fully stocked bar to quench your thirst while you savor the flavors of the meats. But the best part? Every Sunday from 3pm to 5pm, Brown’s Bar-B-Que gives out a free BBQ, making it a must-visit spot for any foodie visiting Austin.
Distant Relatives
Since its opening in 2020, this unique establishment has made a name for itself by drawing inspiration from the rich textures, flavors, and stories of the African diaspora in the United States.
The result is a tantalizing menu that showcases a fusion of African and Texan BBQ styles, featuring the signature use of Pecan and mixed hardwood smoke, elevated spice profiles, and traditional preservation techniques. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned BBQ aficionado, Distant Relatives is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Franklin Barbecue
Considered by many to be one of the best in town, this joint is famous for its slow-cooked, tender briskets and pork ribs. Be prepared to wait in line for up to 2-4 hours, but rest assured, the wait is well worth it. In addition to their signature dishes, don’t miss out on their succulent pulled pork and jalapeno cheddar sausage. Franklin Barbecue is the perfect spot to indulge in the bold flavors and smoky aromas that define true Texas BBQ.
Green Mesquite BBQ
If you’re looking for a BBQ joint that embodies the essence of traditional Texas BBQ, look no further than Green Mesquite. This restaurant has been serving up some of the best mesquite-smoked BBQs in Austin since 1988. According to Food Network, the secret behind the spot’s signature smoky flavor is the mesquite wood that is “seasoned” or “green.”
But BBQ is just the beginning of what Green Mesquite has to offer. This joint is also known for its delicious comfort foods like catfish, chicken fried steak, and mouth-watering smoked chicken wings. Trust us when we say that these wings are a must-try.
Interstellar BBQ
Named the second-best barbecue joint in 2021 by Texas Monthly, this restaurant is renowned for its commitment to quality ingredients and careful cooking process. Each batch is slow-cooked to perfection using only the best wood, resulting in a delicious and unique flavor profile.
Interstellar BBQ’s menu features a variety of tantalizing dishes, but there are a few must-try items that should not be missed. Indulge in the succulent Pork Belly, creamy Scalloped Potatoes, flavorful Jalapeno Popper Sausage, and mouthwatering Mac n Cheese. These dishes showcase the restaurant’s dedication to excellence and are sure to leave you craving more.
Iron Works Barbecue
Originally an ironworks shop, the establishment was converted into a BBQ spot in 1978 and has been serving up delicious meats ever since. With a menu that includes options for dine-in or takeout, as well as sandwiches and meat by the pound, Iron Works is a must-try.
If you can’t get enough of their signature sauces, fear not: you can purchase them from the restaurant or online. Make sure to try their creamy corn, succulent beef ribs, and flavorful pinto beans – they’re sure to be a highlight of your visit.
La Barbecue
Indulging in the best BBQ Austin has to offer means taking a trip to La Barbecue. Here, tradition meets innovation in the form of mouth-watering recipes that are sure to please any foodie. With a unique blend of salty and savory rubs, La Barbecue’s succulent briskets and housemade sausage are sure to leave you wanting more.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with their delicious sides, such as their irresistible Chipotle Coleslaw. If you’re on the hunt for a BBQ experience that is both traditional and inventive, La Barbecue should be at the top of your list. Don’t leave without trying their must-try dishes, including the Brisket, Chipotle Coleslaw, Sausage, and Pork Ribs.
Lamberts
Discover Lamberts, a downtown barbecue restaurant located in Schneider Brothers Builder that offers slow-smoked BBQ and modern Texas cooking. Enjoy local beets, classic cocktails, and wines while taking in live music in the laid-back atmosphere of their upstairs bar and lounge. Don’t miss out on their must-try dishes, including crispy Waffle Fries, succulent Hanger Steak, and tender Lamb Ribs.
LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
Located at Cosmic Coffee and Beer Garden, Leroy and Lewis is a tiny blue food truck with an inventive take on BBQ. The joint sources local ingredients for their must-try menu items like House Made Kimchi, Beef Cheeks, Smoked Burgers, and of course, Brisket. Don’t miss out on this unique twist on traditional BBQ in the heart of South Austin.
Micklethwait Craft Meats BBQ
Micklethwait Craft Meats BBQ, established in 2012 by pitmaster Tom Micklethwait, has become a leading name in Texas craft barbecue. The trailer in Central East Austin has grown into a revered establishment serving high-quality smoked meats, sides, sausages, and baked goods.
You can enjoy your meal at outdoor picnic tables and take advantage of the special events and large-scale catering services. Don’t miss out on their must-try items, including jalapeno cheddar grits, frito pie, pulled lamb, and beet salad.
Moreno Barbecue
This BBQ joint, founded by an Austin local, offers a unique blend of Tex-Mex influences in their central Texas craft barbecue. Open until sold out, their hours also feature a breakfast service on weekends, followed by lunch until the food runs out. Must-try menu items include the pork belly, smash burger, creamed corn, and smoked brisket burger.
Rollin Smoke BBQ
Nestled in a cozy and beloved window-serve spot, this joint offers slow-smoked barbecue, tacos, and sandwiches that are hard to resist. Everything from the brisket, pulled pork to the jalapeño cheddar pork sausage is smoked to perfection on-site in a Moberg Smoker. Plus, fresh buns from New World Bakery add to the experience, guaranteeing the freshest possible product. Whether it’s a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this spot promises to satisfy your taste buds.
Terry Black’s Barbecue
One of the must-visit BBQ joints in Austin is Terry Black’s BBQ. This legendary establishment was founded by Terry Black, who passed down his expertise to his twin sons, Michael, and Mark Black. With locations in Austin, Lockhart, and Dallas, Terry Black’s BBQ offers a menu that includes meats, sides, family packs, and beverage options ranging from tea to wine. Their brisket, pork ribs, creamed corn, and pecan pie are particularly noteworthy and worth a try.
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ has a rich family history of gathering together and BBQ-ing on holidays and special occasions. Each family member contributes to the menu and takes part in preparing the from-scratch dishes. Among their favorites are fresh flour tortillas, accompanied by homemade spicy salsa, avocado, cilantro, and lime, all served alongside the delicious BBQ.
BBQ Places in Austin, TX
We hope that this guide has inspired you to explore the city’s rich food culture and satisfy your cravings for smoky meats and tangy sauces. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover and savor in Austin’s vibrant food scene.
For those of you considering a move to this BBQ-loving city, why not take a closer look at the neighborhoods surrounding these BBQ joints? You might just find your dream home and your new favorite BBQ spot all in one place.
Click here to speak to a relocation specialist or fill out the form below to learn more about Austin’s diverse neighborhoods and start your BBQ-filled adventure in this lively Texan city.
