Best BBQ In Austin
Hey there, fellow food fanatics! Craving some finger-lickin’ good BBQ and wondering where to head in Austin? Buckle up, because this guide is about to take you on a drool-worthy journey through the city’s smokiest havens.
Austin boasts a BBQ scene like no other, with iconic joints and hidden gems scattered across every corner. Whether you’re downtown dodging traffic or strolling the vibrant South Congress, there’s a perfect pit waiting to satisfy your cravings. So, ditch the burger joint and get ready to experience true Texas BBQ bliss!
First things first, let’s talk Texas-style BBQ. Unlike some regions, Austin leans towards a Central Texas approach. This means slow-cooked meats, primarily brisket, seasoned with just salt and pepper to let the natural flavors shine. Sides are simple and classic, featuring potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans – the perfect partners in crime for your smoky feast.
Now, let’s dive into the good stuff! We’ll explore four key areas of Austin, highlighting three must-try BBQ joints in each location. So, grab your appetite and get ready to explore:
Downtown Delights
1. Franklin Barbecue
This legendary spot needs no introduction. Be prepared for potentially long lines, but the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, legendary for its perfectly rendered fatty bits and smoky bark, is worth the wait. Don’t miss their pulled pork shoulder, juicy sausage links, and creamy potato salad – they’re all guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
2. Micklethwait Craft Meats
This butcher shop and restaurant is a carnivore’s dream. Not only can you grab top-quality cuts of meat to grill at home, but they also offer a delicious selection of house-smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, and sausages. Pair your protein of choice with their creative sides like smoked mac and cheese or chipotle collard greens for a truly decadent meal.
3. Interstellar BBQ
This innovative newcomer puts a modern spin on tradition. Their menu features globally-inspired takes on classic BBQ dishes, offering something unique for adventurous palates. Think Korean BBQ tacos with kimchi and gochujang glaze, or smoked brisket Bahn Mi sandwiches with pickled vegetables and sriracha mayo. Don’t forget to try their unique sides like Thai curry potato salad or chipotle Brussels sprouts for an unforgettable flavor explosion.
East Sixth Sizzle
1. Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
This lively joint offers a classic Texas BBQ experience with all the trimmings. Their menu boasts juicy brisket, flavorful sausage, and perfectly seasoned ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender. Don’t skip their signature cornbread pudding – it’s the perfect sweet ending to a savory feast.
2. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Don’t let the name fool you – Valentina’s offers a delightful fusion of Texan and Mexican flavors. Think barbacoa tacos alongside smoked brisket and unique creations like brisket birria served with consommé for dipping. They also offer delicious breakfast tacos featuring smoked brisket and chorizo, making them a great option for any time of day.
3. Slab BBQ & Beer
This casual spot is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a relaxed meal. Their generous portions of smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs are sure to leave you satisfied. Pair your protein with their classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans for a no-frills, but flavorful BBQ experience. They also offer a wide selection of beers on tap to complement your meal.
West Sixth Wanderings
1. Terry Black’s Barbecue
This family-owned favorite is a staple on the Austin BBQ scene. Their moist brisket, legendary for its smoky peppered crust, is a must-try. They also offer juicy sausage links, flavorful ribs, and a variety of delicious sides like creamy coleslaw and cheesy potato casserole.
2. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
This historic establishment, established in 1950, offers a no-frills, traditional BBQ experience. Their menu features classic Texas staples like brisket, sausage, and ribs, all slow-smoked over oak wood for a rich, smoky flavor. Don’t forget to grab a slice of their pecan pie for dessert – it’s the perfect way to end your visit to this piece of Austin BBQ history.
3. The County Line
This iconic joint is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. Their menu features all the Texas BBQ staples, like brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, alongside other Southern classics like fried chicken and catfish. Don’t miss their legendary sweet potato casserole, topped with marshmallows and pecans, for a taste of Southern comfort food at its finest. They also offer live music on their patio most nights, making it a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal and some good tunes.
South Congress Savory Stops
1. Loro
This collaboration between Aaron Franklin and Tyson Cole offers a unique and innovative take on Texas BBQ. Their menu features traditional smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, and sausage alongside inventive tacos like the brisket barbacoa with salsa verde and pickled onions, or the smoked duck carnitas with pineapple pico de gallo. They also offer creative sides like smoked deviled eggs and chipotle coleslaw for a truly unique BBQ experience.
2. LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
This popular food truck specializes in unusual cuts of meat and locally sourced seasonal sides. They might offer anything from smoked beef belly to wild boar sausage, ensuring an exciting and unexpected culinary adventure. Their sides are equally innovative, featuring dishes like smoked jalapeno mac and cheese or roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon jam. Be sure to check their social media for their daily location and menu, as they change frequently.
3. House Park Bar-B-Que
This neighborhood gem offers traditional Texas BBQ with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their brisket is slow-smoked to perfection, offering a tender and juicy bite. They also offer pulled pork, sausage, and ribs, all smoked over post oak wood for a unique and delicious flavor. Their sides are simple but delicious, featuring classic options like potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans. They also offer a selection of homemade desserts, like their pecan pie and banana pudding, which are the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Unveiling Your Austin BBQ Adventure: A Smoky Symphony Awaits
From the legendary Franklin Barbecue to the innovative creations at Loro, Austin’s BBQ scene is a symphony of smoky flavors and culinary creativity. This guide has equipped you with just a few starting notes to embark on your own BBQ adventure.
Remember, the best way to experience Austin’s BBQ is to explore, be adventurous, and most importantly, savor the delicious journey! So grab your friends, embrace the friendly atmosphere, and let the rich smoke and tender meats guide you toward unforgettable BBQ bliss.