Austin’s Best BBQ Joints
Top Places for Mouthwatering Barbecue
Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant barbecue scene, attracting food lovers from all corners of the country. With a rich tradition and a variety of techniques, the city offers some of the best barbecue experiences you can find. From brisket to pork spare ribs, these BBQ joints provide a mouth-watering array of smoked meats that are sure to satisfy any carnivore's cravings.
One standout is Franklin Barbecue, a must-visit for anyone serious about BBQ. Known for its long lines and savory brisket, Franklin has achieved near-legendary status. Another gem in the city is Terry Black's Barbecue, where you can taste the legacy of Central Texas barbecue history. They offer a delicious selection of beef, turkey, and sides that make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
La Barbecue also deserves mention, famous for its perfectly smoked brisket and consistency. For those seeking variety, Brotherton’s Black Iron Barbecue provides some of the best-smoked meat sandwiches in the area. Each of these establishments brings something unique to the table, making Austin a barbecue paradise worth exploring.
History and Tradition of Texas Barbecue
Texas Barbecue has deep roots characterized by diverse influences and pivotal milestones that have shaped its rich tradition. The evolution of Austin's barbecue scene showcases these historic and cultural transformations.
Origins and Influences
The foundations of Texas Barbecue trace back to the 19th century, influenced by Czech and German immigrants. They brought the tradition of smoking meats, which combined with local methods. These settlers opened meat markets that doubled as barbecue joints.
African American pitmasters played a crucial role, bringing unique techniques and flavors, enriching the barbecue culture. The methods involved slow-cooking beef over wood, primarily oak or pecan. This style remains a hallmark, especially the focus on beef brisket.
Rise of Austin's Barbecue Scene
Austin has emerged as a critical hub for Texas Barbecue, thanks to legendary establishments and innovative pitmasters. Places like Franklin Barbecue have set new standards, drawing attention nationwide for their meticulously smoked brisket.
Other notable joints include House Park Bar-B-Que, established in 1943, which predates many famous spots. These institutions emphasize traditional methods while also embracing new trends and diverse influences, making Austin a dynamic center for barbecue.
Top-Rated BBQ Joints in Austin
Austin is renowned for its exceptional barbecue scene, where pitmasters deliver mouthwatering meats and sides. This guide highlights some of the most celebrated spots that garner praise for their unique flavors, use of high-quality ingredients, and consistent excellence.
Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is an icon in the Austin barbecue landscape, known for its consistently high-quality smoked meats. Pitmaster Aaron Franklin, a James Beard Award winner, perfected the art of brisket, which attracts long lines of hungry patrons daily.
Opened in 2009, the joint emphasizes low-and-slow cooking, particularly for its brisket, which boasts a perfect bark and tender interior. Other popular menu items include turkey, ribs, and sausage. Its reputation extends far beyond Austin, making it a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats stands out with its handcrafted approach to barbecue. Located on the east side of Austin, this food truck-turned-barbecue haven emphasizes quality and creativity in its offerings.
Meat options include brisket, pork ribs, and house-made sausages, all smoked over Texas post oak. The sides, such as jalapeño cheese grits and lemon poppy slaw, receive just as much attention as the meats. Micklethwait’s dedication to craft and detail has earned it a solid place among Austin’s top barbecue destinations.
Leroy and Lewis
Leroy and Lewis redefine traditional Texas barbecue with innovative cooking techniques and unique meat selections. Instead of sticking to classic cuts, they offer items like smoked beef cheeks and hog’s head.
Located in South Austin, the menu changes frequently, but the commitment to quality remains constant. Acclaimed for their inventive twists and sustainable practices, Leroy and Lewis also pay homage to classic sides with items like barbacoa-stuffed baked potatoes and smoky chili beans. Their innovative approach has garnered attention from food critics and locals alike.
La Barbecue
La Barbecue, founded by LeAnn Mueller, offers a hearty lineup of smoked meats that rival any in Texas. Known for its brisket, pork ribs, and beef ribs, La Barbecue has garnered a strong following for its tender, flavorful cuts.
Their pitmasters use Texas post oak and employ a meticulous smoking process. La Barbecue also features delicious side dishes, such as chipotle coleslaw and potato salad. Located in East Austin, this spot is famous for both its quality and the passionate barbecue fans who frequent it.
Interstellar BBQ
Interstellar BBQ, led by chef John Bates, seamlessly combines fine dining techniques with traditional barbecue practices. Situated in North Austin, this joint is acclaimed for its attention to detail, sourcing premium ingredients, and creating clean smoke.
Key dishes include perfectly smoked brisket and pork ribs. Interstellar’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite, whether it’s their rich mac and cheese or their carefully curated meat offerings. This dedication has earned them a spot among the city’s most revered barbecue establishments.
Diverse BBQ Offerings
Austin's BBQ scene is renowned not only for its traditional meats but also for its innovative menus and inclusive options for vegetarians and those seeking alternatives.
Innovative Barbecue Menus
Austin barbecue joints offer more than just the classics. Many places are experimenting with unique flavors and cooking techniques.
For example, Franklin Barbecue in East Austin elevates traditional BBQ with its meticulous attention to smoking processes, resulting in brisket that's tender and flavorful.
Similarly, La Barbecue is known for its perfectly smoked meats, often creating special menu items that highlight non-traditional cuts or unique seasoning blends.
Terry Black's Barbecue combines the legacy of Texas BBQ with modern twists. This includes offerings like smoked turkey or jalapeño cheese sausages, ensuring their menu never feels stale.
Vegetarian and Alternative Options
While BBQ typically centers around meat, Austin’s diverse culinary landscape caters to various dietary preferences.
The Vegan Nom offers a plant-based take on classic BBQ dishes. They serve BBQ jackfruit that mimics the texture and flavor of pulled pork, appealing to vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Similarly, Arlo's provides hearty options like BBQ seitan that satisfy cravings for smoky flavors without animal products.
Another noteworthy spot is Kerlin BBQ, which features creatively smoked non-meat dishes alongside traditional meats. Their BBQ tempeh and tofu dishes attract those looking for healthier, sustainable options.
These varied BBQ offerings ensure that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy the culinary richness of Austin's BBQ scene.
The Art of Smoking Meat
Smoking meat is an intricate dance of technique and tradition. It's a craft honed by skilled pitmasters who know how to balance flavors and textures.
Pitmasters and Technique
Pitmasters are the cornerstone of any great BBQ joint. Each has their unique methods, but the fundamentals remain consistent: low temperatures and slow cooking times. Pitmaster Damien Brockway, a notable figure in the BBQ world, emphasizes patience and attentiveness in every step.
Pitmasters start by selecting quality cuts, such as brisket, ribs, and sausage. These meats are prepared with a blend of spices and rubs, each pitmaster's secret mix. The meat is then placed in a smoker, where it absorbs the flavors of wood smoke for hours. Consistent temperature control is crucial; even slight fluctuations can affect tenderness and taste.
Choosing the Right Wood
The choice of wood is as significant as the cut of meat. Different woods impart unique flavors to the meat, creating a complex profile. In Austin, common choices are oak, hickory, and mesquite. Each offers distinct characteristics that complement various meats.
Oak is popular for its smooth, medium smoky flavor, making it ideal for brisket. Hickory provides a stronger, bacon-like taste, perfect for pork ribs and sausage. Mesquite, known for its intense and earthy flavor, is best used sparingly, as it can overpower the meat. Pitmasters often mix woods to achieve a balanced and harmonious taste.
A deep understanding of both technique and wood selection sets apart exceptional BBQ from the rest, creating a memorable experience with every bite.
Signature Texas BBQ Dishes
In the landscape of Texas BBQ, mastery is found in the art of preparing brisket, ribs, and sausage. These dishes are the cornerstone of any successful BBQ joint in Austin.
Brisket Mastery
Brisket is the crown jewel of Texas BBQ, characterized by its distinct smoky flavor and tender texture.
Preparation starts with a simple rub of salt and pepper. The meat is then slow-cooked over oak wood, typically for 12-16 hours. This long, slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in a richly flavoured, moist brisket.
The bark, or the flavorful crust formed on the outside, is another hallmark of expertly smoked brisket. It requires careful monitoring of temperature and smoke.
The Perfect Pork Ribs
Pork ribs are another staple, often enjoyed for their succulent meat and smoky undertones.
In Austin, ribs are usually prepared using a dry rub, which can include a mix of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. These ribs are then smoked for several hours until they achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
Choices in Austin range between baby back ribs and spare ribs, each offering a distinct texture and taste. The key is ensuring the meat pulls away easily from the bone but isn't overly soft.
Sausage and Beyond
Sausage in Texas BBQ holds a special place, often made in-house using traditional recipes.
Central Texas BBQ joints pride themselves on their homemade sausage, usually crafted with a mix of beef and pork. The spices used can vary, but often include garlic, black pepper, and cayenne for a subtle heat.
Sausage links are smoked until they have a snappy casing and a rich, juicy interior. It's not uncommon to find variations that include jalapeños, cheese, or other local flavors, offering a unique twist on a classic dish.
Sides and Accompaniments
When exploring Austin's BBQ scene, the sides and accompaniments play a crucial role in enhancing your dining experience. From traditional comfort foods to creative and unique dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Traditional Favorites
Many BBQ spots in Austin offer classic sides that have stood the test of time. Beans are a staple, often served slow-cooked with smoked meats for added flavor. Potato salad and coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky main dishes.
Pickles and onions are commonly found as they add a crunchy texture and sharp flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the meat. Banana pudding and peach cobbler often make the perfect end to a hearty BBQ meal, providing sweet, comforting finishes.
Innovative Sides
For those looking for a twist, Austin’s BBQ joints deliver with imaginative offerings. Corn casserole is a standout, with its rich, creamy consistency and sweet-savory blend that's hard to resist. Smoked scalloped potatoes bring another level of complexity with their smoky undertones.
Shells and cheese often get a gourmet upgrade with additions like bacon or gourmet cheeses. At certain spots, you might find inventive rice dishes or unique salads making appearances. These sides not only serve to accompany the main dishes but sometimes steal the show with their creativity and flavors.
Condiments and Sauces
Austin’s BBQ scene is legendary for its robust flavors and unique culinary touches. A key element that enhances the experience is the array of condiments and sauces that complement the smoked meats.
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue Sauce is a cornerstone of Austin’s BBQ. Various joints in Austin have their signature blends, with tastes ranging from sweet and tangy to spicy and smoky.
Franklin Barbecue offers a sauce that perfectly balances sweetness from brown sugar with the tang of vinegar.
La Barbecue is known for a spicier take, incorporating cayenne and black pepper.
These sauces often use a base of tomato, vinegar, and sugar, with each pitmaster imparting their unique touch.
Regional Flavors
Regional Flavors bring diversity to Austin’s BBQ condiments. Beyond classic BBQ sauce, places like Terry Black’s Barbecue and JNL Barbecue offer additional items that reflect Texas culinary traditions.
Pickled Red Onions: Often found as a tangy and crunchy topping.
Queso: This cheesy dip is sometimes provided as a side or topping, especially in spots with Tex-Mex influence.
These additions, from rich Cheddar Cheesecake to spicy pickled vegetables, showcase the creative and regional blend of flavors that make Austin a BBQ haven.
Austin BBQ Culture
Austin's BBQ culture is a vibrant tapestry that includes both food trucks and brick-and-mortar establishments, each bringing their own flavor and experience to the city's dining scene.
Food Trucks and Trailers
Austin is known for its diverse and bustling food truck scene. BBQ food trucks and trailers are popular fixtures in locations like North Austin and Cedar Park. These mobile joints often park at local breweries, corner bars, and community events, providing a unique dining experience that can't be found in traditional settings.
The mobility allows these trucks to reach a wide audience. Some famous BBQ trucks are even considered must-visit destinations. They offer a variety of options from brisket to smoked turkey, catering to the cravings of BBQ enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Brick-and-Mortar Establishments
Brick-and-mortar BBQ joints offer a more traditional sit-down experience. These establishments, such as those found in Austin's Zilker neighborhood or the outskirt town of Driftwood, have built a legacy over the years. Places like Terry Black's Barbecue and The Salt Lick BBQ provide consistent, mouthwatering BBQ offerings that have become synonymous with Austin.
These restaurants provide a range of smoked meats like brisket, pork ribs, and beef kielbasa. They are often family-run, passed down through generations, adding a sense of history and authenticity to Austin’s BBQ culture. The fixed locations ensure a reliable spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy top-tier BBQ regularly.
Special Features and Events
Austin's barbecue joints not only serve top-notch food but also host a variety of special features and events. From unique daily specials to prestigious barbecue competitions, these additions elevate the dining experience.
Daily Specials and Limited Offerings
Barbecue joints in Austin pride themselves on offering diverse daily specials and limited-time offerings. For instance, InterStellar BBQ frequently introduces seasonal dishes and chef specials, courtesy of Chef John Bates. These specials often feature unique meats or sides that aren't part of the regular menu, such as smoked duck or exotic sausage blends.
Meanwhile Brewing teams up with Rollin Smoke to offer exclusive beer and barbecue pairing events. Such collaborations not only highlight the diversity within the barbecue scene but also provide a unique dining experience for patrons.
Many places also have meat-centric days, where signature items like brisket, ribs, or pulled pork are offered at special prices. These offerings ensure that regular customers always have something new and exciting to look forward to.
Barbecue Competitions and Awards
Numerous Austin barbecue joints have received accolades and participated in prominent competitions. Terry Black's Barbecue, for instance, has made its mark with multiple awards, showcasing their dedication to quality. Notably, several joints have chefs who have been acknowledged by prestigious institutions like the James Beard Foundation.
Kareem El-Ghayesh of KG BBQ is known not only for his delectable dishes but also for his participation in local and national barbecue contests. These competitions highlight the skill and creativity of Austin’s pitmasters and contribute to the city's reputation as a barbecue hub.
Events such as these often bring the community together, featuring live music and outdoor activities, making them a significant attraction for both locals and tourists.
Guide to Visiting
Navigating Austin's BBQ scene requires a bit of preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Knowing where to find the best spots and how to handle the infamous wait times can make all the difference.
Locating the Best Spots
When searching for the top BBQ joints in Austin, it's essential to know their locations. Famous spots like Franklin Barbecue are situated in East Austin, making them easily accessible for both locals and tourists. La Barbecue is another must-visit, located at 900 E 11th St.
For those who prefer a place with a more extensive menu, Black's BBQ on Ranch Rd 620 N offers a variety of smoked meats and sides. Additionally, Terry Black's BBQ, which is known for its long hours, provides convenience for late-night cravings.
Using tools like Google Maps or Foursquare can help find these places and even give insights into their busiest times. Ensure to check their operating hours and whether they accept reservations to avoid disappointments.
Tackling the Wait Lines
Austin’s top BBQ joints are renowned not just for their food, but also for their lines. Franklin Barbecue, for example, often sees lines forming well before opening hours. To tackle these waits, it’s advisable to arrive early, sometimes even an hour before they open.
Another strategy is to visit during non-peak hours. Late afternoons or weekdays are often less crowded. Some places, like Terry Black's, offer longer hours which can help in avoiding the rush.
Consider bringing snacks and water for those extended waits. Many locals bring folding chairs or picnic blankets, making the wait more comfortable. Engage with fellow BBQ enthusiasts to pass the time and share experiences.
Beyond Barbecue
While Austin is undoubtedly famous for its incredible barbecue, there are other aspects that enhance the experience, such as drink pairings and global culinary influences that shape the flavors. Exploring these dimensions can provide a richer, more nuanced appreciation of barbecue culture.
Pairing Drinks with Barbecue
Choosing the right drink to accompany barbecue can elevate the meal. Craft beers are popular choices, particularly IPAs, which pair well with the smoky and spicy flavors of barbecued meats. Meanwhile Brewing in Austin offers a variety of beers that complement different styles of barbecue.
Bourbon and whiskey also make excellent partners for barbecue, cutting through the richness of the meat and adding depth to the palate. For non-alcoholic options, homemade lemonades and iced teas—like peach tea-glazed beverages mentioned in the Eater Austin snippet—can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors.
Exploring Global Influences
Barbecue in Austin isn't just confined to traditional Texas styles. There are Egyptian influences seen in the use of unique spices and cooking techniques. Additionally, the flavors from the African Diaspora have further enriched Austin barbecue, introducing new marinades and preparation methods.
These global influences bring innovative twists to classic barbecue dishes, making them more diverse and flavorful. Fusion dishes like barbecued meats infused with exotic spices provide a testament to Austin’s dynamic culinary scene. When visiting places like La Barbecue, you might encounter these international nuances seamlessly merged into their offerings.
By exploring drink pairings and global culinary influences, barbecue enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation of the rich and varied culture that defines Austin’s barbecue scene.
Supporting Local Businesses
Supporting local barbecue joints in Austin is essential for the city's economy and community spirit. These small businesses provide more than just food; they offer a taste of tradition and culture that defines Austinites' dining experiences.
Frequenting local BBQ spots ensures that the money spent stays within the community. This boosts the local economy and helps maintain the unique character of Austin's culinary scene.
Places like Franklin Barbecue and Terry Black's Barbecue have deep roots in Austin. Their commitment to quality and community makes them favorites among both residents and visitors. By choosing these eateries over chains, patrons support not just the food but the stories and histories behind them.
Many local joints source ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers, fostering relationships that benefit other small businesses. This network of support enhances the overall sustainability and resilience of the community.
Diners can enjoy various specialties, including brisket, ribs, and sausage, each crafted with care and local pride. Supporting these establishments helps preserve the rich BBQ heritage of Austin.
Eating at these restaurants also provides a unique experience that chains can't replicate. The atmosphere, hospitality, and personalized service found at local BBQ joints make dining more memorable.
Local initiatives and events, like BBQ festivals and cook-offs, further promote these businesses. They bring people together to celebrate the city's vibrant food culture and foster a sense of community among Austinites.
Tables at businesses like InterStellar BBQ showcase the owner's dedication to quality and innovation, adding to the restaurant's unique charm and drawing in loyal patrons.
In summary, supporting local BBQ joints in Austin is about more than just enjoying great food. It's about strengthening the community, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering economic growth.
