When it comes to barbecue, few places can match the quality and variety of Austin, Texas. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you'll find plenty of options for mouth-watering meats and delicious sides. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best Austin Texas barbecue restaurants and what makes them stand out.
Terry Black's Barbecue
Terry Black's Barbecue is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up some of the best barbecue in Austin since 2014. Their meats are cooked low and slow over oak wood, resulting in tender and flavorful brisket, ribs, and sausage. The sides are also worth trying, especially the mac and cheese and the creamed corn.
Franklin Barbecue
No list of Austin Texas barbecue restaurants would be complete without mentioning Franklin Barbecue. This popular spot is known for their melt-in-your-mouth brisket, which is smoked for up to 14 hours. Be prepared to wait in line, though - Franklin is so popular that people often start queuing up hours before they open.
La Barbecue
La Barbecue is another must-visit spot for barbecue lovers. Their meats are cooked over post oak wood, giving them a distinctive smoky flavor. The brisket is a standout here, but don't overlook the pulled pork or the beef ribs. The sides are also noteworthy, particularly the chipotle coleslaw and the pinto beans.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats is a food trailer that serves up some seriously delicious barbecue. Their brisket is cooked to perfection and their sausage is made in-house. They also offer unique options like smoked lamb and pork belly burnt ends. Be sure to try the jalapeno cheese grits as a side.
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
If you're looking for a fusion of Tex-Mex and barbecue, Valentina's is the place to go. Their brisket and pulled pork are top-notch, but what really makes them stand out are their breakfast tacos. Get there early to try the Real Deal Holyfield, a taco filled with brisket, eggs, and cheese.
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is a family-friendly spot that offers a wide range of barbecue options. Their brisket is cooked for up to 18 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat. They also have unique options like smoked turkey and pork loin. Don't skip the sides, especially the cheesy squash casserole.
Texas Monthly BBQ Fest
If you're not sure where to start with Austin Texas barbecue restaurants, consider attending the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. This annual event brings together some of the best barbecue joints in the state for a day of meat-eating and music. It's a great way to sample a variety of styles and flavors in one place.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer your barbecue smoked over oak or post oak wood, Austin Texas has something for everyone. From popular spots like Franklin Barbecue to hidden gems like Micklethwait Craft Meats, there's no shortage of delicious options to explore. So grab a bib and get ready to chow down!