Ask anyone to name three words that come to mind when they think of Austin and “barbecue” is likely on the list. The Capital City’s barbecue scene is full of decades-old smokehouses, generational recipes, and award-winning flavors.
To help guide your next barbecue outing, we’ve pulled together 20+ joints in Austin with some of the best meats, sauces, and sides in the US. We hope you’re hungry.
Classic Texas barbecue
la Barbecue, 2401 E. Cesar Chavez St. | Indulge in brisket, housemade spicy sausage, ribs, and side dishes inspired by world travels at this barbecue joint that’s been around since 2012.
Franklin Barbecue, 900 E. 11th St. | A meal at this local mainstay — which Texas Monthly said serves “the best barbecue in the known universe” — is a rite of passage in Austin.
With brisket, pork ribs, pulled pork, homemade sausages and so much more on their menu, Micklethwait Craft Meats is the perfect spot for meat lovers looking for a new destination.
Photo from @craftmeats
Micklethwait Craft Meats, 1309 Rosewood Ave. | Expect oak-smoked meats and a slew of tasty sides at this cherished food truck, steered by Austin-born pitmaster Tom Micklethwait. Psst — a new brick-and-mortar location is in the works.
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew, 6610 N. Lamar Blvd. | Set in a shopping center steeped in local history, this locale aims to offer an “old Austin” vibe. Its menu features meat plates and cozy sides like corn casserole and sweet Serrano-fried Brussel sprouts.
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, 217 Congress Ave. | Open since 1962, this eatery in the heart of Downtown claims the title of home of the original “world-famous Big Chop.”
Terry Black’s BBQ, 1003 Barton Springs Rd. | The barbecue recipe at this central Austin restaurant has been passed down for generations. Psst — don’t let the long line deter you, it moves quickly.
The Original Black’s BBQ, 3110 Guadalupe St. | What started as a meat market in Lockhart in 1932 is now a must-taste meal for barbecue fanatics from far and wide.
If you’re thinking of skipping out on Mum Foods, think again.
Photo from @mumfoodsatx
Mum Foods, 2113 Manor Rd. | This farm-to-table barbecue joint can be found at its deli from 11 a.m. until sellout or around town at local farmers’ markets.
Green Mesquite BBQ, multiple locations | Get a solid bang for your buck with daily specials at this local establishment, which switches things up by cooking meat over a mesquite wood fire.
Brown’s Bar-B-Que provides south Austin with award-winning bone ribs, brisket, chicken, pulled pork, and all the fixings.
Photo from @brownsbarbque
Brown’s Bar-B-Que, 1901 S. Lamar Blvd. | Parked outside Corner Bar, this truck earns high praises for its brisket, chicken, and comfort food on the side.
Inventive flavors
Leroy and Lewis Barbecue, 5621 Emerald Forest Dr. | This south Austin locale blends locally sourced ingredients with inventive “new school” barbecue inspired by cultures from across the globe.
SLAB BBQ & BEER, multiple locations | Dig into a sandwich at this barbecue joint, which takes culinary inspiration from Texas, Alabama, Memphis, and the Carolinas.
Interstellar BBQ, 12233 Ranch Rd. 620 N, Ste. 105 | Surprise your taste buds with menu items like Frito pie sausage, peach tea-glazed pork belly, tomato zucchini salad, and smoked scallop potatoes.
KG BBQ, 3108 Manor Rd. | Helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Kareem El-Ghayesh, this truck at Oddwood Brewing fuses classic Central Texas barbecue with Egyptian and Middle Eastern flavors.
CM Smokehouse, 2027 S. Lamar Blvd. | Specializing in both creative dishes and traditional barbecue, this truck at Bouldin Acres offers unique menu items like the “Brisket Crunchwrap.”
Distant Relatives, 3901 Promontory Point Dr. | This little truck has made a big impact at Meanwhile Brewing Co., serving up meats and dishes inspired by the African diaspora within the US.
Moreno Barbecue, 5608 Menchaca Rd. | It’s about more than meat plates at this restaurant — try the sandwiches on potato buns, tacos, nachos, and brisket burgers.
Elevated atmospheres
Iron Works Barbecue, 100 Red River St. | Beef ribs are the stars of the show at this restaurant housed in a historic iron shop. Fun fact: former President George W. Bush said this spot is one of his favorite places to eat in Austin.
Lamberts, 401 W. 2nd St. | If you’re seeking a modern and upscale experience, head to the historic J.P. Schneider building in Downtown Austin for slow-smoked meats and an extensive whiskey menu.
Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St. | Come for the barbecue and stay for the live music and beer at this Austin staple, which also offers a gospel brunch on Sundays.
The County Line on the Lake, 5204 Ranch Rd. 2222 | There’s something for everyone at this waterside restaurant, which is set in an old lake lodge. Pro tip: you’ll want to make room in your order for its fluffy homemade white bread.
Didn’t see your favorite spot on the list? Let us know.
