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Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Austin, this is a city with a rich barbecue culture, and there’s no shortage of amazing barbecue restaurants to choose from. The top five restaurants on this list – Franklin Barbecue, Terry Black’s Barbecue, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ, and La Barbecue – all offer unique takes on classic Texas-style barbecue, with signature dishes that keep customers coming back for more.

1. Franklin Barbecue – Franklin Barbecue, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is often considered the best barbecue restaurant in the country, let alone Austin. This popularity stems from their exceptional barbecue, made with slow-smoked meats, juicy brisket, and delicious sides. People often wait in line for hours just to get a taste of their renowned meats.

2. Terry Black’s Barbecue – Terry Black’s, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a classic Texas barbecue joint that has been serving customers for over 100 years. Their meats are slow-smoked for hours, resulting in tender and juicy brisket, ribs, and sausage. The sides, such as their mac and cheese, are also highly rated.

3. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que – Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is known for their large portions and flavorful meats. Customers can choose from a variety of meats, including beef ribs, pork chops, and turkey breast, and then pick from a selection of delicious sides. The restaurant also has a laid-back atmosphere that many customers appreciate.

4. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ – Valentina’s, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a fusion barbecue joint that combines traditional Texas barbecue with Mexican flavors. Customers rave about their brisket breakfast tacos and their smoked carnitas. The restaurant also offers a variety of homemade sauces that pair perfectly with their flavorful meats.

5. La Barbecue – La Barbecue, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a family-owned barbecue restaurant that serves some of the best brisket in Austin. The meats are smoked to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy flavor. Customers also rave about their pulled pork and homemade sides, such as their potato salad and coleslaw. The restaurant also has a great outdoor seating area that many customers enjoy.

Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

1. Franklin Barbecue - Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

Franklin Barbecue

Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am until sold out (usually around 2pm)
Phone Number: (512) 653-1187

Franklin Barbecue, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a renowned Texas-style barbecue restaurant located in Austin, Texas. The restaurant’s interior is a casual and rustic space, with a large open pit where the meat is smoked over oak and pecan wood. The menu features classic Texas-style meats, such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage, as well as traditional sides like potato salad and coleslaw.

One of the signature items on the menu at Franklin Barbecue is their brisket. It’s slow-smoked for up to 18 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that’s often considered some of the best in the country. Another popular item is the pork ribs, which are perfectly seasoned and smoked to perfection.

What sets Franklin Barbecue apart from other barbecue restaurants is their commitment to quality. The restaurant only uses the highest quality meats and ingredients, and they cook everything fresh each day. They also don’t take shortcuts, with the brisket taking up to 18 hours to smoke, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s hard to match.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – Slow-smoked for up to 18 hours, Franklin Barbecue’s brisket is a signature dish that’s tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. The meat is seasoned with a simple rub and then smoked over oak and pecan wood until it’s fall-apart tender.

Pork Ribs – Another classic Texas barbecue dish, Franklin Barbecue’s pork ribs are seasoned with a dry rub and then slow-smoked for several hours. The result is a tender and flavorful meat that’s fall-off-the-bone delicious.

Sausage – Made in-house, the sausage at Franklin Barbecue is a mix of beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and paprika. The sausage is then smoked until it’s cooked through and has a delicious smoky flavor.

Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Franklin Barbecue is slow-smoked for up to 14 hours, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that’s packed with flavor. The meat is then pulled apart by hand and served with a side of tangy barbecue sauce.

Turkey Breast – For those looking for a leaner protein option, Franklin Barbecue also offers turkey breast. The meat is brined overnight and then smoked until it’s juicy and flavorful. It’s served sliced and can be topped with a side of the restaurant’s homemade barbecue sauce.

The service at Franklin Barbecue is efficient and friendly. Customers line up outside the restaurant before it even opens to ensure they get a taste of the mouth-watering meats. Once inside, the staff moves quickly to take orders and serve customers, ensuring everyone gets their food as quickly as possible.

Customer Reviews:

“I had the brisket and it was absolutely amazing. The meat was tender and juicy, and the smoke flavor was just right. The sides were also delicious, especially the potato salad. I can see why this place has such a long line!”

“The wait is totally worth it for the brisket. It’s some of the best I’ve ever had. The staff is also really friendly and helpful. Just be prepared to wait in line for a while!”

“I’m a barbecue snob and Franklin Barbecue did not disappoint. The brisket was amazing and the pork ribs were also great. I highly recommend getting there early to beat the crowds.”

In summary, Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves barbecue. The commitment to quality, the mouth-watering meats, and the efficient service all make for an unforgettable dining experience. Just be prepared to wait in line for a while – it’s definitely worth it! They rank amid the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Austin for good reasons.


2. Terry Black's Barbecue - Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

Terry Black’s Barbecue

Address: 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11am-9pm
Phone Number: (512) 394-5899

Terry Black’s Barbecue, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a classic Texas barbecue restaurant located in Austin, Texas. The interior of the restaurant is a large and spacious dining area with wooden tables and chairs, and an open kitchen where customers can watch the meat being smoked. The menu features traditional Texas-style meats, including brisket, pork ribs, sausage, and turkey, as well as classic sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, and coleslaw.

One of the signature items on the menu at Terry Black’s is their brisket. The meat is slow-smoked over oak wood for up to 16 hours, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that’s packed with flavor. Another popular item is the pork ribs, which are seasoned with a dry rub and smoked for several hours until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender.

What sets Terry Black’s apart from other barbecue restaurants is their commitment to using high-quality meats and ingredients. The brisket, for example, is sourced from a single provider and is never frozen, ensuring the best possible flavor and texture. The restaurant also has a BYOB policy, which means customers can bring their own beer or wine to enjoy with their meal.

Main Meal Items:

Brisket – Terry Black’s Barbecue’s brisket is a signature dish that’s slow-smoked for up to 16 hours over oak wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s sliced to order and can be enjoyed with a side of barbecue sauce or on its own.

Pork Ribs – The pork ribs at Terry Black’s are seasoned with a dry rub and then slow-smoked for several hours until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. The meat has a rich, smoky flavor and pairs well with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw and potato salad.

Sausage – Terry Black’s makes their sausage in-house using a blend of beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and other spices. The sausage is then smoked until cooked through and served sliced on a plate or as a sandwich on a soft roll.

Turkey – For a leaner protein option, Terry Black’s offers turkey breast that’s brined and then smoked until juicy and tender. It’s served sliced and can be enjoyed with classic barbecue sides like mac and cheese or green beans.

Beef Ribs – Terry Black’s beef ribs are a meat-lover’s dream, with large and meaty cuts that are slow-smoked until they’re fork-tender. The ribs are seasoned with a dry rub and have a bold, smoky flavor that pairs well with a side of cornbread or baked beans.

The service at Terry Black’s is friendly and efficient. Customers line up to place their order at the counter and then take a seat to wait for their food. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to answer any questions customers may have.

Customer Reviews:

“The brisket at Terry Black’s was some of the best I’ve ever had. It was tender and juicy, with a perfect smoky flavor. The mac and cheese was also delicious. Can’t wait to come back!”

“The pork ribs were amazing. They were fall-off-the-bone tender and had a great flavor. The potato salad was also really good. Overall, a great dining experience!”

“The sausage at Terry Black’s was delicious. It had a great smoky flavor and was perfectly cooked. The brisket was also great. Highly recommend this place!”

In summary, Terry Black’s Barbecue is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves classic Texas-style barbecue. The high-quality meats, delicious sides, and friendly service make for an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t forget to bring your own beer or wine to enjoy with your meal! They stand out among the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin.


3. Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que - Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Address: 217 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm
Phone Number: (512) 474-4227

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a classic barbecue restaurant located in downtown Austin. The interior of the restaurant is a large and spacious dining area with wooden tables and chairs, and an open pit where customers can watch the meat being smoked. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including beef ribs, pork chops, turkey breast, and sausage, as well as classic sides like potato salad and coleslaw.

One of the signature items on the menu at Cooper’s is their beef ribs. The ribs are seasoned with a dry rub and slow-smoked until they’re tender and juicy. Another popular item is the pork chops, which are thick-cut and grilled to perfection.

What sets Cooper’s apart from other barbecue restaurants is their commitment to large portions and flavorful meats. The restaurant offers generous portions of meat and a variety of delicious sides to choose from. They also have a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

Main Menu Items:

Beef Ribs – Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is known for their large and meaty beef ribs. The ribs are seasoned with a dry rub and slow-smoked for several hours until they’re tender and flavorful. They’re served by the pound and can be enjoyed with a side of barbecue sauce.

Pork Chops – The pork chops at Cooper’s are thick-cut and grilled to perfection. They’re seasoned with a dry rub and have a delicious smoky flavor. The meat is juicy and pairs well with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw and baked beans.

Turkey Breast – For a leaner protein option, Cooper’s offers turkey breast that’s seasoned with a dry rub and then slow-smoked until tender and juicy. It’s sliced to order and can be enjoyed with a side of tangy barbecue sauce.

Sausage – Cooper’s makes their sausage in-house using a blend of beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and other spices. The sausage is then slow-smoked until cooked through and served sliced on a plate or as a sandwich on a soft roll.

Pork Ribs – Cooper’s pork ribs are another classic barbecue item that’s slow-smoked for several hours until fall-off-the-bone tender. The meat is seasoned with a dry rub and has a rich, smoky flavor. The ribs can be ordered by the pound or as a plate with a choice of sides.

The service at Cooper’s is efficient and friendly. Customers line up to place their order at the counter and then take a seat to wait for their food. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to answer any questions customers may have.

Customer Reviews:

“The beef ribs at Cooper’s were amazing. They were huge and packed with flavor. The potato salad was also really good. Can’t wait to come back and try the pork chops!”

“The pork chops were cooked to perfection. They were juicy and had a great smoky flavor. The coleslaw was also really good. Highly recommend this place!”

“The sausage at Cooper’s was delicious. It had a great smoky flavor and was perfectly cooked. The beef ribs were also great. Love the laid-back atmosphere of this restaurant.”

In summary, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a great spot for anyone looking for a classic Texas barbecue experience. The generous portions of meat, flavorful sides, and laid-back atmosphere make for an enjoyable dining experience. Don’t forget to try the beef ribs! They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Austin.


4. Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ - Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ

Address: 11500 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8am-8pm; Sunday, 8am-3pm
Phone Number: (512) 221-4248

Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a unique fusion restaurant that combines traditional Texas-style barbecue with Mexican flavors. The interior of the restaurant is a casual and laid-back space with wooden tables and chairs, and an open kitchen where customers can watch the meat being smoked. The menu features classic Texas-style meats, such as brisket and pulled pork, as well as Mexican-inspired dishes like brisket breakfast tacos and smoked carnitas.

One of the signature items on the menu at Valentina’s is their brisket breakfast tacos. The tacos are filled with tender and flavorful brisket, scrambled eggs, and cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Another popular item is the smoked carnitas, which are made with pork shoulder that’s been slow-smoked until tender and then shredded and served with a variety of toppings.

What sets Valentina’s apart from other barbecue restaurants is their fusion of flavors. The use of Mexican-inspired ingredients like avocado, salsa, and queso fresco adds a unique twist to classic barbecue dishes. The restaurant also offers a variety of homemade sauces that pair perfectly with their flavorful meats.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket Breakfast Tacos – Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ’s signature dish, the brisket breakfast tacos are filled with tender and flavorful brisket, scrambled eggs, and cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It’s a perfect way to start the day and experience the fusion of Tex-Mex flavors.

Smoked Carnitas – The smoked carnitas at Valentina’s are made with pork shoulder that’s been slow-smoked until tender and then shredded. The meat is packed with flavor and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as avocado, queso fresco, and salsa.

Brisket – The brisket at Valentina’s is slow-smoked for up to 16 hours, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that’s packed with flavor. It’s served sliced and can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich or taco.

Pulled Pork – Valentina’s pulled pork is slow-smoked for several hours until it’s fall-apart tender. The meat is then pulled apart by hand and served with a side of barbecue sauce or in a taco with toppings like cilantro and onions.

Beef Rib – The beef rib at Valentina’s is a meaty and flavorful dish that’s slow-smoked until tender and juicy. The meat is seasoned with a dry rub and has a bold, smoky flavor that pairs well with a side of queso and chips or coleslaw.

The service at Valentina’s is efficient and friendly. Customers line up to place their order at the counter and then take a seat to wait for their food. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations or answer any questions customers may have.

Customer Reviews:

“The brisket breakfast tacos at Valentina’s were amazing. The brisket was so tender and flavorful, and the eggs and cheese were the perfect addition. The salsa was also really good. Highly recommend!”

“The smoked carnitas were delicious. The meat was so tender and had a great smoky flavor. I loved the variety of toppings, too. Can’t wait to come back and try more!”

“The brisket at Valentina’s was some of the best I’ve ever had. It was so tender and juicy, with a perfect smoky flavor. The queso fresco and avocado salsa were also great. Love the fusion of flavors!”

In summary, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique twist on classic barbecue. The fusion of flavors, mouth-watering meats, and friendly service make for an enjoyable dining experience. Don’t forget to try the brisket breakfast tacos! They have earned the rank of the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Austin.


5. La Barbecue - Barbecue Restaurants in Austin

La Barbecue

Address: 2027 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm
Phone Number: (512) 605-9696

La Barbecue, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in East Austin. The interior of the restaurant is a casual and laid-back space with picnic tables and a covered outdoor seating area. The menu features classic Texas-style meats, including brisket, pork ribs, sausage, and beef rib, as well as unique sides like chipotle slaw and mac and cheese.

One of the signature items on the menu at La Barbecue is their brisket. The meat is slow-smoked for up to 14 hours over oak wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that’s sliced to order. Another popular item is the beef rib, which is a meaty and flavorful dish that’s slow-smoked until tender and juicy.

What sets La Barbecue apart from other barbecue restaurants is their attention to detail in the smoking process. The pitmasters use only high-quality meats and carefully monitor the temperature and smoke levels to ensure the best possible flavor and texture. They also offer unique sides that are made from scratch and add a flavorful twist to classic barbecue dishes.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – La Barbecue’s signature dish, the brisket is slow-smoked for up to 14 hours over oak wood until it’s tender and juicy. It’s sliced to order and can be enjoyed with a side of barbecue sauce or on its own.

Pork Ribs – La Barbecue’s pork ribs are slow-smoked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. They’re seasoned with a dry rub and have a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with classic barbecue sides like potato salad and coleslaw.

Sausage – La Barbecue’s sausage is made in-house using a blend of beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and other spices. The sausage is then slow-smoked until cooked through and served sliced on a plate or as a sandwich on a soft roll.

Beef Rib – La Barbecue’s beef rib is a meaty and flavorful dish that’s slow-smoked until tender and juicy. The meat is seasoned with a dry rub and has a bold, smoky flavor that pairs well with a side of coleslaw or mac and cheese.

Smoked Turkey Breast – For a leaner protein option, La Barbecue offers smoked turkey breast that’s brined and then slow-smoked until juicy and tender. It’s sliced to order and can be enjoyed with classic barbecue sides like pinto beans and cornbread.

The service at La Barbecue is friendly and efficient. Customers line up to place their order at the counter and then take a seat to wait for their food. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations or answer any questions customers may have.

Customer Reviews:

“The brisket at La Barbecue was some of the best I’ve ever had. It was so tender and juicy, with a perfect smoky flavor. The chipotle slaw was also really good. Can’t wait to come back!”

“The beef rib was amazing. It was so meaty and packed with flavor. The mac and cheese was also really good. Highly recommend this place!”

“The pork ribs at La Barbecue were delicious. They were fall-off-the-bone tender and had a great smoky flavor. The staff was friendly and helpful. Love this restaurant!”

In summary, La Barbecue is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for classic Texas-style barbecue with a unique twist. The high-quality meats, scratch-made sides, and friendly service make for an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t forget to try the brisket! They can definitely be counted among the top Barbecue restaurants in Austin.


From tender brisket and juicy pork ribs to homemade sides and sauces, these top barbecue restaurants in Austin deliver a mouth-watering dining experience that’s sure to satisfy any barbecue lover. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Austin, be sure to check out these top barbecue spots for a taste of the city’s best.



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