20 Best BBQ Restaurants in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is home to some of the best Barbecue restaurants in the United States. The city is a haven for barbecue lovers, boasting a rich tradition of smoky, tender, and flavor-packed meats. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are a number of BBQ joints scattered throughout Austin, and it can be challenging to narrow down the best options.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through the top 20 best BBQ spots in Austin, ensuring you savor every delicious bite.

20 Best BBQ Restaurants in Austin, Texas 2024

1. Micklethwait Craft Meats

Micklethwait Craft Meats serves some of the best barbecues in Austin, Texas. Hidden in East Austin, Micklethwait Craft Meats is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. Their menu is made up of superbly crafted meats, including briskets, ribs, and house-made sausages. The smoky aroma fills the air as you savor the perfectly rendered fat and tender textures. Be sure to try their mouthwatering sides, such as the jalapeño cheese grits.

Location | 1309 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702

Phone Number | (512) 791-5961

2. Franklin Barbecue

Without mentioning Franklin Barbecue, no list of Austin’s best BBQ restaurants would be complete.  Open in 2009 by Aaron Franklin, the BBQ joint is known for its legendary brisket. Franklin’s perfectly seasoned and meticulously smoked meats have garnered a loyal following. Arriving early is a must, as the line can stretch for hours, but the melt-in-your-mouth meaty rewards are well worth the wait.

Location | 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702

Phone Number | (512) 653-1187

3. La Barbecue

Looking for where to have a taste of some mouthwatering barbecue in Austin, TX, then you need to visit La Barbecue. Founded in 2012 by LeAnn Mueller, the BBQ joint is nestled in East Austin and offers a delightful fusion of traditional and innovative barbecue.

La Barbecue’s mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausages are cooked to perfection, combining a smoky exterior with a juicy interior. Don’t miss their flavorful and tangy sauces, which add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Location | 2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

Phone Number | (512) 605-9696

4. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Terry Black’s Barbecue is a great spot to have a taste of traditional Texas barbecue. The BBQ is a family-owned establishment that has been serving exceptional smoked meats for generations. Their brisket, sausage, and beef ribs are renowned for their tenderness and flavor. The casual and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a hearty barbecue feast.

Location | 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Phone Number | (512) 394-5899

5. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ

Combining two beloved cuisines, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ offers a unique dining experience. Their mesquite-smoked meats are complemented by delicious Tex-Mex flavors, creating a delightful fusion of tastes. From the mouthwatering smoked brisket tacos to the indulgent “Real Deal” Holyfield sandwich, Valentina’s is a culinary delight.

Location | 11500 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748

Phone Number | (512) 221-4248

6. Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew

Owned by Shane Stiles, Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is a neighborhood favorite that captures the essence of classic Texas barbecue. Their pitmaster’s expertise shines through in every bite of their succulent meats, including the signature beef rib and the flavorful pulled pork. The friendly atmosphere and extensive beer selection make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy an authentic barbecue.

Location | 6610 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752

Phone Number | (512) 380-9199

7. The Salt Lick BBQ

Located just outside Austin in Driftwood, The Salt Lick BBQ is one of the best barbecue spots in Austin, Texas. The Salt Lick BBQ offers a unique dining experience in a picturesque setting. This legendary barbecue joint serves succulent meats cooked over an open pit and slathered in their famous tangy sauce. Feast on their tender brisket, pork ribs, and sausage while enjoying the scenic Hill Country ambiance.

Location | 18300 Farm to Market Rd 1826 UNIT C, Driftwood, TX 78619

Phone Number | (512) 858-4959

8. The Green Mesquite BBQ

Since 1988, The Green Mesquite BBQ has been serving up delicious barbecue in Austin, Texas. Their menu features classic smoked meats, including tender brisket, pork ribs, and sausage, infused with smoky flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly service create a welcoming environment to enjoy your barbecue feast.

Location | 1400 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Phone Number | (512) 479-0485

9. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Home of the world-famous “Big Chop” (a mesquite-grilled, two-inch-thick pork chop), step into Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, and an irresistible aroma will greet you.

This traditional barbecue joint specializes in slow-cooked meats, with their mesquite-smoked brisket stealing the show. Don’t forget to try their famous jalapeño cheese sausage and indulge in classic sides like macaroni and cheese or peach cobbler.

Location | 217 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Phone Number | (512) 474-4227

10. Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue

Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue offers a refined take on traditional Texas barbecue. Located in the 2nd Street District of downtown Austin, this upscale eatery impresses with its slow-smoked meats and creative flavor combinations. Indulge in their juicy brisket, tender pork ribs, or delectable smoked chicken. The unique blend of spices and sauces will tantalize your taste buds.

Location | 401 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

Phone Number | (512) 494-1500

11. Black’s Barbecue

Not to be mistaken with Terry Black’s BBQ, this is the “Original Black’s BBQ” in Lockhart that has extended its renowned pit-smoked meats to Austin.

Their brisket, sausage, and pork spare ribs are prepared using time-honored techniques, resulting in a succulent and flavorful barbecue experience. The smoky aroma that fills the air as you step into Black’s Barbecue is just a prelude to the incredible taste that awaits. Be sure to try their famous beef shoulder clod and mouthwatering homemade sides like pinto beans and potato salad.

Location | 3110 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Phone Number | (512) 524-0801

12. Iron Works BBQ

Named as one of the best BBQ restaurants in Austin, Texas, Iron Works BBQ is a true Texas barbecue institution. Located in a historic building near downtown Austin, the BBQ spot offers mouthwatering smoked meats, including beef ribs, brisket, and sausage. The rustic charm and the rich smoky flavors make Iron Works a must-visit for barbecue aficionados.

Location | 100 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Phone Number | (512) 478-4855

13. Texas Ranch BBQ

The Texas Ranch BBQ offers a traditional Texas barbecue. The BBQ joint offers meats like lean brisket, spare ribs, and sausage by the half-pound. You can also opt for the Posse Pack and choose three pounds of meat with a pick of two pint-size sides, including cream corn, and pinto beans.

Location | 3632 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Phone Number | (512) 998-2615

14. Interstellar BBQ

Interstellar BBQ has grown to become one of the best barbecue restaurants in Austin, Texas. Opened in 2019 and owned by pitmaster Johna Bates, Interstellar BBQ offers mouthwatering traditional barbecues. Their menu is comprised of meats by weight (including sliced or chopped brisket), sandwiches, and tacos.

Location | 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

Phone Number | (512) 382-6248

15. LeRoy And Lewis Barbecue

Since beginning operation in 2017, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue have been attracting a lot of people to its joints. The BBQ joint operates from a blue food trailer parked in the Cosmic Coffee patio/garden. Their menu is comprised of smoked beef cheeks, barbacoa, pork sausage with Citra hops, and sides like kimci and pork hash.

Location | 121 Pickle Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Phone Number | (512) 945-9882

16. Distant Relatives

Listed as one of the 11 Best New Restaurants in America by Eater, Distant Relatives also serves one of the best barbecues in Austin, Texas. Owned by pitmaster Damien Brockway, Distant Relatives is inspired by his African ancestry for unique ingredients to sauce his meats, such as tamarind molasses and chile-vinegar dip, and cooks up sides like burnt ends with black-eyed peas.

Location | 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744

Phone Number | (512) 717-2504

17. Sam’s BBQ

Sam’s BBQ is one of the best BBQ spots that has been serving up hearty barbecue since 1957. This family-owned BBQ joint specializes in mesquite-smoked meats, including beef, pork, and chicken. The generous portions and the friendly atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a satisfying barbecue meal.

Location | 2000 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

Phone Number | (512) 478-0378

18. KG BBQ

Opened in 2022 by Egyptian pitmaster Karem El-Ghayesh, KG BBQ is one of the most innovative new barbecue spots in Austin. The truck-operating barbecue offers Egyptian-Texan smoked meats influenced by the flavors of the owner’s home country. Their menu is fun with barbecue-topped rice bowls, stuffed pitas, and tahini.

Location | 3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

Phone Number | (337) 344-4768

19. Brown’s Bar-B-Que

Brown’s Bar-B-Que is a beloved food truck that has gained a reputation for its exceptional barbecue. Specializing in East Texas-style meats, their tender beef ribs and juicy pulled pork are standout offerings. The smoky flavors and hearty portions make Brown’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Location | 1901 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Phone Number | (512) 517-8520

20. Moreno Barbecue

Opened in 2019 by Pitmaster Bo Moreno, Moreno Barbecue serves one of the best barbeques in Austin, Texas. Moreno serves excellent smoked meats from brisket to sandwiches and tacos. Their tender brisket has a peppery bite, and it’s easily some of the best in town.

Location | 5608 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745

Phone Number | (512) 808-8271

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