Barbecue is practically a religion in Texas, and everything, from the wood used, to the salt and pepper ratio of the rubs, to the ingredients of the sauce, is of the utmost importance.
While many people simply refer to “Texas barbecue” as a style, there are actually four distinct styles of barbecue that can be found in the Lone Star State - Central, East, West, and South Texas styles.
Central Texas barbecue, the style most people outside Texas consider “Texas barbecue”, is characterized by simple dry rubs, and a long smoke at low temperatures using either oak, mesquite, or pecan wood.
East Texas barbecue, on the other hand, is marinated in a sweet tomatoey sauce and is smoked until it falls off the bone, usually using hickory wood smoke.
West Texas barbecue highlights the cowboy culture of the region, cooked over an open mesquite fire.
South Texas barbecue is similar to East Texas methods, but the sauce is molasses-based and menus feature-heavy influences by Mexican barbecue culture, called barbacoa, with cuts of meat like cow’s head and tongue sometimes available.
Across the four different styles, there are some commonalities though. Beef and pork are king here. Beef brisket, pork ribs, and sausage will feature heavily on any decent barbecue menu in Texas. Influences of German, Czech, and Mexican cuisine can be found in recipes throughout the state. In most establishments, the meat is served with the sauce on the side and almost all meals are served with either a slice of white bread or a tortilla.
Whether you want the unadorned smokey deliciousness of Central Texas-style barbecue, the sweet tang found in East and South Texas, or the wild west flavor of West Texas, here is a list of 55 barbecue spots across the state where you can get your barbecue fix.
1. BBQ on the Brazos
Only in Texas can you expect to find award-winning barbecue inside a Texaco station, just a one hour drive south of Dallas. If you’re just passing through, grab a breakfast taco stuffed with their delectable smoked meats, or enjoy a generously piled moist brisket sandwich for lunch paired with any one of their mouthwatering sides. You can also purchase meats by the pound to enjoy later.
Located In: Cresson
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
2. Cattleack Barbeque
Open Thursdays, Fridays, and the first Saturday of every month from 10:30 am until they run out, Cattleack Barbecue is a Dallas area favorite for delicious smokey barbecue. Their renowned Toddfather sandwich is piled high with brisket, pulled pork, sausage, homemade slaw, and barbecue sauce, but they offer all the barbecue staples in plate form or by the pound. There are no call-in orders or reservations here, so be prepared to stand in line, but you can BYOB.
Located In: Farmers Branch
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
H2: 3. Harris Bar-B-Que
Run by husband and wife team Kelvin and Angie Harris, this local joint serves up self-styled “stellar brisket” in a close-knit, small-town atmosphere. Enjoy a variety of pit-style wood-smoked meats, including brisket, generously sized ribs, sausage, and juicy chicken.
Located In: Cedar Hill
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
4. Heim Barbecue
Serving up “Mom and Pop farm to smoker barbecue”, Heim Barbecue is a Fort Worth favorite. The Heim’s started their barbecue journey with pop up dinner parties, graduated to a food truck, and now own several restaurant locations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. But, no matter where you eat, you will be treated to quality sourced meats smoked low and slow over a post oak fire.
Located In: Fort Worth
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
5. Hutchins BBQ
Voted the 2020 Reader’s Choice Best Barbecue in Dallas-Fort Worth, this 40+ year veteran of the Texas barbecue scene prides itself on high-quality meats and sides served with incredible customer service. Their tried and true mixture of mesquite, oak and pecan wood gives their slow-smoked meats a beautiful flavor. Be sure to also try the fried catfish and ask about their specialty items, like the delicious Texas twinkies.
Located In: McKinney and Frisco
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
6. Lockhart Smokehouse
Specializing in Central Texas-style barbecue, Lockhart Smokehouse delivers beautifully smoked meats in nostalgia-inducing surroundings. Try some of their mouth-watering sausage and shoulder clod or sample their devilishly delicious deviled eggs. No matter which of their three locations you visit, you will leave happy and full.
Located In: Dallas and Plano
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
7. Mike Anderson’s BBQ House
If pork is what you’re craving you definitely want to stop in at Mike Anderson’s. Patrons rave about the pork ribs and pulled pork, whether bought by the pound or piled high on a bun, but they also offer all the Texas hickory-smoked meat staples. They proudly serve 20 homemade sides and sweet treats to round out your meal.
Located In: Dallas
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
8. Pecan Lodge
Nestled in the historic neighborhood of Deep Ellum, Pecan Lodge is a Dallas legend. With lines that can stretch around the block, expect a long but worth it wait for your taste of melt-in-your-mouth barbecue that has its own celebrity admirers. The brisket is a can’t miss experience and the fried okra has been voted the best in Dallas.
Located In: Dallas
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
9. Spicy Mikes BBQ Haven
If you’re looking for great barbecue with a spicy kick, Spicy Mikes definitely lives up to its name. Enjoy lean smoked brisket or a slice of Mike’s giant jalapeño sausage, in a setting replete with smoke and cattle country kitsch. The fire-breathing spicy mac and cheese pairs perfectly with any main dish.
Located In: Amarillo
Closest Big City: Amarillo
10. Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue
Proudly known as the oldest operating mom and pop barbecue joint in Tyler, the pitmasters at Stanley’s know there’s no need to mess with a good thing. From the foodie favorite Mother Clucker sandwich to their famous rack of ribs, they apply the same love and care to every smokey saucy order. With a decided East Texas barbecue style and a motto of “Be Kind - Have Fun”, you are sure to feel right at home at Stanley’s.
Located In: Tyler
Closest Big City: Dallas-Fort Worth
11. Tyler’s Barbeque
Voted the Best Barbecue of Amarillo 2020, Tyler’s is owned and operated by Amarillo native and seasoned pitmaster Tyler Frazer. Barbecue here is smoked old school, using native mesquite wood, and served with a sauce delicious enough to take home. The pork ribs are not to be missed, and the brisket is heavenly as well.
Located In: Amarillo
Closest Big City: Amarillo
12. 2M Smokehouse
A new contender for the Texas barbecue crown, 2M Smokehouse is putting the Alamo City on the map as a destination for great barbecue. With a hand-built smoker that is a thing of beauty and a no-frills atmosphere, this family-run operation serves up a simple salt and pepper brisket that is smoked to perfection and quickly gaining a legion of fans. Traditional Mexican staples like barbacoa, Oaxaca cheese, and poblano peppers show off this South Texas barbecue joint’s heritage and set it apart as a true Tex Mex barbecue experience.
Located In: San Antonio
Closest Big City: San Antonio
13. Augie’s Barbed Wire Smokehouse
This San Antonio hometown favorite has been serving up backyard style barbecue for more than 20 years under an iconic giant pink pig sign. It’s a throwback to an earlier, simpler time in the barbecue world, yet still presents delicious brisket, sausage, and all the other Texas barbecue favorites. Bring your pooch along to their pet-friendly patio and enjoy a great meal.
Located In: San Antonio
Closest Big City: San Antonio
14. Heavy’s Outdoor Bar-B-Que
With a pared-down menu done right, Heavy’s definitely lives up to its name in portion sizing. Try the Heavy D, a serious Frito pie topped with beef, sausage, beans, and sauce. Don’t forget to round out your meat-heavy menu with the dessert of the day.
Located In: Hondo
Closest Big City: San Antonio
15. Smolik’s Smokehouse
Serving up Czech barbecue since 1928, the proprietors of Smolik’s have been getting barbecue right for nearly 100 years. While the perennial Texas favorites of brisket and ribs are undeniably good, you don’t want to miss their snappy garlicky Czech sausage and braised cabbage for a true Czech Texas treat.
Located In: Mathis
Closest Big City: Corpus Christi
16. South BBQ + Kitchen
The Mission District of San Antonio is steeped in tradition, and South BBQ + Kitchen fits right in among the stately Mission churches and historic sites around them. The perfected old fashioned South Texas smoked barbecue that’s juicy and tender is served with a bevy of delicious Tex Mex sides like borracho beans and rice. All of their food, from meat and sides to the sauce and even pickles, is made in house daily.
Located In: San Antonio
Closest Big City: San Antonio
17. Texas Pride Mesquite Smoked Barbecue
If you’re looking for an Instagram worthy barbecue joint, look no further. An adorable antique facade and collection of filling station memorabilia create a beautiful backdrop for serious Texas barbecue. What started in the 1920s as a filling station serving spaghetti dinners has grown into one of the best places to get delicious South Texas-style barbecue. Locals also rave about the peach and pecan cobbler, so be sure to give that a try.
Located In: Adkins
Closest Big City: San Antonio
18. The Smoking Oak
Though its location is about as South Texas as you can get without being in Mexico, The Smoking Oak actually serves up Central Texas-style barbecue that would be right at home in Austin. From juicy, seasoned brisket and praiseworthy pork shoulder to baked beans and creamed corn, you won’t find any tacos or rice on their menu, but you will find delicious barbecue.
Located In: Mercedes
Closest Big City: Brownsville
19. Vera’s Backyard Bar-B-Que
Winner of the James Beard America’s Classics Award, Vera’s is 100% South Texas barbecue straight from the valley. They have an impressive 65-year history and still prepare traditional favorites the historic way. Their signature barbacoa de cabeza is smoked underground in a brick-lined pit for up to 12 hours. They are the only restaurant in the state still permitted to use this cooking method, so it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
Located In: Brownsville
Closest Big City: Brownsville
20. Black’s Barbecue
Another tried and true classic, three generations of Blacks have been serving up Central Texas-style barbecue since 1932. They feature a meat market set up, where you choose your sides and dessert before being ushered over to the holy meat cutter to make the impossible choice between nine different perfectly smoked meats, including their family’s 80-year-old handmade sausage recipe. A laid back friendly atmosphere and helpful staff ensure that you have an enjoyable time as you agonize over your choices in any one of their four Central Texas locations.
Located In: Lockhart (original), Austin, New Braunfels, San Marcos
Closest Big City: Austin
21. City Market BBQ
In a town famous for watermelon, Luling’s City Market BBQ proudly touts “World Famous Barbecue.” Order directly from a glass-enclosed pit room that allows patrons to see the smoke in action and be sure to snag a bottle of the house-made barbecue sauce that is good enough to eat cardboard. The juicy smoky pork ribs and the snappy beef sausage rings are a favorite among regulars and newcomers alike.
Located In: Luling
Closest Big City: Austin
22. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
Texas Hill Country pit-style barbecue is served proudly at this cornerstone of the Austin barbecue scene. In addition to the ubiquitous brisket and glazed pork ribs, they also serve the “Big Chop,” a massive pepper-crusted pork chop seemingly large enough to feed a family of four. Although the Llano location is the original, you can find their restaurants around the Austin, Dallas, and Houston areas.
Located In: LLano (original), and across Central, North and East Texas
Closest Big City: Austin
23. Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue has truly become nationally famous for their smoked brisket and other high-quality meat offerings. Pitmaster Aaron Franklin has become somewhat of a celebrity himself, with a cookbook, James Beard Award, and even a cooking show. Brisket is king here but if you want to try to snag some beef ribs, they are only offered on Saturdays until they run out, so come early and expect to wait in a long line.
Located In: Austin
Closest Big City: Austin
24. Hays Co. Bar-B-Que
Covered in Texas State Bobcats memorabilia, this proud San Marcos establishment serves up a delectable variety of meaty goodness. The peppery-certified-Angus brisket is cooked for up to 20 hours to ensure the perfect level of tenderness and smoke. Turkey lovers will delight in the juicy slices served up and if you’re looking for a spicy kick, try the jalapeño cheese sausage.
Located In: San Marcos
Closest Big City: Austin
25. Kreuz Market
Texas barbecue and German heritage meet at this old school style market that’s been in business since 1900. The sausage and pork chops are the must-try items here, served up with sauerkraut and German potato salad. It’s a no-frills establishment where butcher paper serves as plates and you’d better bring your own fork if you plan on using one.
Located In: Lockhart
Closest Big City: Austin
26. La Barbecue
Another local favorite, La Barbecue sources its grass-fed beef from a local ranch. Owner LeAnn Mueller favors the salty over the sweet, so expect an exceptional plate of savory dishes, including standards like ribs and brisket, alongside originals like the chipotle sausage and brisket chili. Mueller’s German heritage is on display throughout the menu, especially in their impressive selection of house-made sausages and pickles.
Located In: Austin
Closest Big City: Austin
27. Louie Mueller Barbecue
Known as the “Cathedral of Smoke”, this barbecue joint has been serving meat to barbecue worshippers since 1949 and has gained national acclaim for its efforts. The cooking process starts at 3 am with a rub that’s nine parts pepper and one part salt and results in succulent brisket. Beef lovers should definitely try their crowd favorite fall-off-the-bone prehistoric-looking beef ribs.
Located In: Taylor
Closest Big City: Austin
28. Micklethwait Craft Meats
Don’t let the whimsically decorated food trailer fool you, the barbecue that is served out the window will be able to contend with any brick and mortar place and has earned itself the title of Best Barbecue in Austin. Serving up inventive scratch-made sides like lemon poppy slaw and jalapeño cheese grits alongside beautifully smoked meats and their own craft sausages, this tiny dynamo is taking the barbecue world by storm.
Located In: Austin
Closest Big City: Austin
29. Miller’s Smokehouse
The Miller family started their operation selling sausage and pulled pork in the front area of their taxidermy business in 2008 and it quickly took off. The taxidermy (now the side job) has been moved to another location to devote even more space to the delicious barbecue they crank out. They still make their own sausage - and sell around 500 pounds of it every week, along with some of the best brisket in Texas, and scratch-made delicious pies.
Located In: Belton
Closest Big City: Austin
30. Payne’s Bar-B-Q Shak
The chalkboard sign out front that says simply “we are open till we close” heralds the decidedly no-fuss approach at Payne’s Bar-B-Q Shak, where sides are self serve and the barbecue is the real deal. If you want to get your hands on a sampling of their brisket, house-made sausage, or pork steaks, you’d better come early.
Located In: Burnet
Closest Big City: Austin
H2: 31. Schoepf’s Bar-B-Q
Their name might look like a mouthful - Schoeph's - it’s pronounced "Shuffs", but it’s their Hill Country style barbecue you will want to stuff your face with. Try their mesquite-smoked pork offerings like the enormous pork chop or the pork ribs or, for poultry lovers, the bacon-wrapped stuffed quail is delightful.
Located In: Belton
Closest Big City: Austin
32. Snow’s BBQ
Famed pit-master Tootsie Tomantez keeps a watchful eye over her domain and has put Snow’s on the map as THE place to visit for Texas barbecue. Voted #1 best barbecue in Texas three times consecutively, they serve up beautiful barbecue in a classic Hill Country setting. While all of the barbecue here is phenomenal, the stars of the show are the succulent chicken and pork steaks.
Located In: Lexington
Closest Big City: Bryan/College Station
33. Stiles Switch
Named after an 1800s railroad stop, Stiles Switch serves up equal parts great barbecue and friendly atmosphere with a heaping side of nostalgia. Pair their heavenly beef ribs with one of the rotating local craft beers on tap or ask about the daily special, which ranges from prime rib to brisket enchiladas.
Located In: Austin
Closest Big City: Austin
34. The Salt Lick
The Salt Lick is famous for its original hand-built open barbecue pit and for some of the best Hill Country barbecue you can find. The rancher plate is a great sampler of the best they have to offer, with portions of sausage, brisket, turkey, and pork ribs served with sides and as many loaves of bread as you’d like to eat.
Located In: Driftwood
Closest Big City: Austin
34. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Yet another food truck shaking up the Austin culinary scene, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ has earned its share of fans, including Austin barbecue king Aaron Franklin. His favorite order is the brisket taco, a hand made flour tortilla stuffed with mesquite smoked brisket and topped with sea salt lime guacamole.
Located In: Austin
Closest Big City: Austin
36. 1775 Texas Pit BBQ
Named after the US Army’s birthday by Army vet and owner Brad Doan, this local favorite keeps it simple with a regular menu of four perfected meats — brisket, pork ribs, smoked turkey and sausage — and four delicious side dish options. They’re only open Thursday-Saturday and are a favorite with residents and college students alike, so come early if you want to be guaranteed your meat of choice is still available.
Located In: College Station
Closest Big City: College Station
37. Blue Moon BBQ
It may not look like much but, as they say, the best barbecue comes from a shack, everyone knows that. Their smokey melt-in-your-mouth brisket is what everyone recommends here but the pork ribs and pulled pork are nothing to miss either. Be sure to ask about their sometimes-available smoked prime rib as well.
Located In: Hearn
Closest Big City: College Station
38. Bodacious Bar-B-Q
With 40 plus years of bodaciously good barbecue under its belt, you can expect to be well fed here. Sit surrounded by small-town bric-a-brac and enjoy beautiful cuts of meat and a sauce good enough to be sold by the gallon. If you just have time for a quick lunch, grab one of their smokey chopped beef sandwiches smothered in that same delicious sauce.
Located In: Hearn
Closest Big City: College Station
39. Charlie’s Bar-B-Que
Charlie’s is famous for its Beaumont classic snappy, never greasy beef sausage links and some of the finest pork ribs in East Texas. Whatever you have, top it off with one of their personal-sized sweet potato pies.
Located In: Beaumont
Closest Big City: Houston
40. CorkScrew BBQ
With a devotion to real ingredients, handmade rubs, red-oak smoking, and an emphasis on quality over quantity, it’s no wonder that people check Facebook and Instagram to make sure Corkscrew hasn’t sold out before they arrive. Their brisket might be a little pricier than most joints, but it is delicious Prime Halal Non-GMO all-natural brisket. The pulled pork and whole smoked chicken are also delectable.
Located In: Spring
Closest Big City: Houston
41. Fargo’s Pit BBQ
Located just down the road from Texas A&M University, Fargo’s is a true local haunt. All of their meats are smoked with a secret method, using oak and another mystery wood, for a unique and delicious flavor. Try their memorable brisket, smokey pork, and beef sausages, or incredibly flavorful smoked chicken.
Located In: Bryan
Closest Big City: College Station
42. Gatlin’s BBQ
If you show up at Gatlin’s during lunchtime, be prepared for a long worth-it-wait in a long line. The pork ribs, cut in both baby-back and St. Louis style, are a true thing of beauty. If you’re looking for something unique, the venison sausage delivers, and the dirty rice has been described as “show-stopping”. Be sure to follow them on Instagram to see their daily specials.
Located In: Houston
Closest Big City: Houston
43. Joseph’s Riverport Bar-B-Cue
Touting handcrafted barbecue made from 100% fresh meat and all-natural ingredients, quality is important at Joseph’s Riverport Bar-B-Cue. If you are grabbing a quick bite, the chopped brisket sandwich is perfect, or grab their famous “swamp fries”, loaded down with brisket and toppings. If you have a little more time, go for the Texas Trinity-3 meat plate, so you can sample their brisket, pork ribs, and sausage.
Located In: Jefferson
Closest Big City: Shreveport, LA
44. Killen’s BBQ
Killen’s has gained a reputation as a can’t-miss barbecue spot in the Houston area. Their beef ribs have been named some of the best in the country and their fried chicken has its own legion of devoted fans. Sample from their variety of house-made sauces to find your favorite.
Located In: Pearland
Closest Big City: Houston
45. LJ’s BBQ
Located in the hometown of Bluebell Ice Cream, LJ’s, named after owner Matt Lowery’s Grandma Laura Jean, is the barbecue joint the locals go to. Try their many taco options, from smoked brisket and sliced beef to pulled pork and sausage, or load up on one of their generously portioned barbecue plates, where you can choose from their selection of five meats and five sides. If you’re having a hard time choosing, locals rave about the tender brisket and flavorful pulled pork shoulder.
Located In: Brenham
Closest Big City: College Station
46. Pinkerton’s Barbecue
Pitmaster Grant Pinkerton has earned the title of one of America’s “Top 9 Up and Coming Pitmasters” and it’s easy to figure out why. With meticulous attention to the details and a desire to make everything from scratch daily, Pinkerton is paying homage to Texas barbecue traditions. Smoking is started over mesquite and finished over post oak for a true blend of Texas flavors that results in perfectly rendered brisket and ribs.
Located In: Houston
Closest Big City: Houston
47. Ray’s BBQ Shack
The tag line at Ray’s is “smokin’ good with a whole lotta soul,” and once you take your first bite you will understand why. Hickory smoked meats are paired with homemade sides and desserts so good, you’ll think your Mama works there. Located in Houston’s historic Third Ward, they are famous for their ribs and their true East Texas-style barbecue.
Located In: Houston
Closest Big City: Houston
48. Tejas Chocolate Craftory
It may be an unusual name for a barbecue place, but Tejas Chocolate Craftory proves this unusual pairing is a winning combination. Serving rustic chocolate (made in-house from cocoa beans) and self-described “urban barbecue” this isn’t your Dad’s barbecue joint. Try their Brisket & Blues sandwich, which combines delicious brisket with blue cheese and a brioche bun, alongside one of their decidedly gourmet sides.
Located In: Tomball
Closest Big City: Houston
49. The Pit Room
With a simple name and an equally simple motto of “handcrafted barbecue”, the Pit Room delivers on complex flavors. Prime quality meat cuts combined with Texas barbecue traditions mean that no matter what you pick it will be delicious and perfectly smoked. Be sure to enjoy your barbecue selection with one of their perfect house-made tortillas.
Located In: Houston
Closest Big City: Houston
50. TRUTH Barbeque
Another Brenham favorite, TRUTH Barbecue serves up serious Texas barbecue, homemade bread, and Instagrammable sides and desserts. Try their mildly sweet ribs and delicious corn pudding topped off with a slice from one of their massive cakes.
Located In: Brenham
Closest Big City: College Station
51. Big Boys Bar-B-Que
Folks from miles around make the drive to park in a caliche lot in Sweetwater and sink their teeth into Big Boys Bar-B-Que. Barbecue here is pit-smoked over mesquite for a flavor that is worth the drive. With cheeky menu options like “My ribs” (country-style ribs) and “Your ribs” (traditional spare ribs) and a true West Texas atmosphere, you are guaranteed to enjoy the experience.
Located In: Sweetwater
Closest Big City: Abilene
52. Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue
Operated by the historic and beautiful Gage Hotel, Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue is an oasis in the beautiful West Texas desert. The barbecue here is perfectly smoked over oak, the favorites being the excellent brisket and pork ribs, and served with a menu of above-average sides. Wash down your barbecue feast with a selection from their six house-brewed craft beers and finish with a serving of their banana bread pudding.
Located In: Marathon
Closest Big City: El Paso
53. Convenience West
Located in the wild desert artist’s haven of Marfa, Convenience West elevates “Far West Texas Barbecue" to an art form. The menu features a host of unusual offerings for a barbecue place, including sweet potato salad and blue corn cornbread, alongside delicious barbecue and a new sausage creation each week. If you’re looking for something truly unique, try the “carrot dip dip”, made with roasted carrots and red peppers, garlic, and onions and served with a side of Fritos.
Located In: Marfa
Closest Big City: El Paso
54. Evie Mae’s Pit Barbeque
Another quality over quantity establishment, the patrons at Evie Mae’s resign themselves to long lines for a taste of their superbly smoked meats. You have to come early for the beef ribs or burnt ends. For a blend of two Texas favorites, try their sliced brisket sandwich topped with their house-made chili.
Located In: Lubbock
Closest Big City: Lubbock
55. Pody’s BBQ
With an exterior straight out of a John Wayne movie and spicy barbecue sauce with chunks of habanero peppers, this is a true West Texas experience. Pitmaster Israel “Pody” Campos utilizes an unusual offset pit, fed by western staple mesquite wood, and adds other woods like cherry, pecan, and oak for extra flavor. Try their brisket baked potato or just stick with the classic sliced brisket and ribs.
Located In: Pecos
Closest Big City: El Paso
No matter what your favorite style is, you are sure to find excellent barbecue across Texas. If you are traveling or new to the area, ask the locals where they go. Nearly everyone in Texas has a favorite barbecue haunt. If you are relocating to our state of smoke and brisket, we’d love to help you get started at homecity.com.
