Where to Get the Best Barbecue in Austin?

If you’re in Texas, chances are you’re a barbecue aficionado – and if you want to get the best barbecue in Austin, you’re in luck. Austin, TX’s capital city, is home to some of the best barbecue joints in all of Texas. Home to award-winning takes on classic southern BBQ dishes, as well as delicious new takes on the art of barbecue, it’s no wonder that Austin is recognized as a barbecue mecca around the country.

The best way to tackle Austin’s vast selection of barbecue is by region:

Popular BBQ Restaurants in South Austin

South Austin offers some of Austin’s hottest spots. Franklin Barbecue is without a doubt one of the most popular and highly acclaimed barbecue restaurants in the city. Order up their succulent brisket and other delicious meats at Franklin Barbecue in south Austin. Franklin Barbecue is so popular that there’s usually a line around the block by the time it opens. Alongside Franklin Barbecue there is also Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ, South Side Flying Pizza, Micklethwait Craft Meats and more – all worth trying!

BBQ Restaurants in East Austin

East Austin is home to some of the best barbecue restaurants in the country, with several boasting James Beard Award wins and other prestigious awards. Two of the most popular BBQ spots in east Austin are La Barbecue and Freedmen’s Bar. Both offer reliably delicious takes on classic Texas-style BBQ. La Barbecue has specialty sandwiches such as their brisket sandwich with lime mojo – a unique, zesty twist to the usual brisket sandwich – while Freedmen’s, which holds a number of awards and accolades, offers soft pork ribs and hot links, among other delicacies. You can find both at La Barbecue and Freedmen’s Bar.

Other Notable Spots to Check Out

On the north side of town you’ll find North Pack BBQ, which is another popular spot, and also Lamberts Downtown Barbecue. On both sides of Lady Bird Lake, Anderson’s BBQ and Will’s Place are two other popular places, as well as The Salt Lick and Lockhart Smokehouse, both located in town and serving some of Texas’ finest popular dishes. For a more casual setting and atmosphere, try Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew for some tasty sandwiches, beer on tap, and a more relaxed vibe than other joints. For more smoky flavors, look no further than Texas Liquor BBQ, which serves up delicious brisket tacos, enchiladas and queso.

No matter which region of Austin you’re in, there’s sure to be a great spot for some delicious Texas-style barbecue nearby. Be sure to check for updated safety protocols at each location before you go – due to the pandemic many locations have changed their hours or policies to accommodate safe dining practices. You won’t be disappointed with any of these great BBQ spots!

Where to Get the Best Barbecue in Austin?

Are you planning a trip to Austin, Texas and looking for the best barbecue joints in town? Well, you’re in for a treat! Austin is known for its amazing barbecue and has some of the best pitmasters in the country. But with so many delicious options, it can be hard to decide where to go. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about where to get the best barbecue in Austin.

What Makes Austin Barbecue So Special?

Before we get into the specifics of where to find the best barbecue in Austin, it’s important to understand what makes Austin barbecue so special. Austin barbecue is all about quality meat, slow-cooking techniques, and signature rubs and sauces. Pitmasters in Austin use different types of wood to smoke the meat, which creates a unique flavor profile.

The most popular barbecue meats in Austin are brisket, ribs, and sausage. Brisket is king in Austin, and it’s smoked low and slow for up to 18 hours to achieve the perfect tenderness and flavor. Ribs are also slow-cooked with a sweet and savory rub and finished with a delicious glaze. And don’t forget about the sausage, which is often made in-house and smoked to perfection.

What Are the Best Barbecue Joints in Austin?

Now that you know what makes Austin barbecue so special, let’s dive into the best barbecue joints in town. Here are a few of our top picks:

1. Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue is a local favorite and a must-visit spot for any barbecue lover. It’s famous for its mouthwatering brisket, which is smoked for up to 18 hours and has a rich, smoky flavor. The ribs and sausage are also excellent. The only downside is the long lines, so be prepared to wait for a few hours.

2. Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue

Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue is a higher-end barbecue joint that focuses on elevated Texas cuisine. The brisket is cooked over a wood-fired pit and served with delicious sides like mac and cheese and green chili hominy. The cocktails are also top-notch.

3. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Terry Black’s Barbecue is a family-owned joint that has been serving up delicious barbecue for over 90 years. The brisket is the star of the show, but the sausage and ribs are also excellent. Don’t forget to try the banana pudding for dessert.

4. Micklethwait Craft Meats

Micklethwait Craft Meats is a food trailer that serves up some of the best barbecue in Austin. The brisket is tender and flavorful, and the homemade sausage is a must-try. The sides, like the jalapeno cheese grits and pinto beans, are also delicious.

What Should I Order at a Barbecue Joint?

If you’re new to the world of barbecue, it can be overwhelming to know what to order. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the menu:

– Start with the brisket. It’s the most iconic and delicious barbecue meat in Texas.
– Add some sausage or ribs to your plate for variety.
– Don’t forget the sides – mac and cheese, potato salad, and coleslaw are classic choices.
– Skip the sauce at first and try the meat on its own. Most pitmasters take pride in their rubs and don’t want them covered up with sauce.

Conclusion

Austin is a barbecue lover’s paradise, with some of the best pitmasters in the country. Whether you’re a brisket fanatic or a rib lover, there’s something for everyone in Austin’s barbecue scene. Use this guide to find the best barbecue joints in town and order like a pro. Happy eating!