So, you're in Austin, Texas, and you're craving BBQ. Not just any BBQ, though—you want the good stuff, the kind that's juicy, tender, and full of smoky flavor that stays with you long after you've left the restaurant. I mean, this is Austin, after all, where BBQ is practically a way of life. Whether you're a local looking for new spots to explore or a visitor Googling "BBQ near me" while you wander the city, Austin's BBQ scene has so many options, it’s almost overwhelming. So, where do you start?
I've been there. You’re in the heart of Texas BBQ country, and every corner has a pit master with a secret recipe, smoky brisket, and fall-off-the-bone ribs. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I’m going to help you out with a solid list of the 10 best BBQ places in Austin, whether you're looking for something nearby or worth the drive. You really can’t go wrong with any of these spots. Let’s dive in!
1. Franklin Barbecue
(Near Downtown Austin)
Okay, let’s just get this one out of the way first. You probably already know about Franklin Barbecue. It’s basically the BBQ spot that everyone in Austin—and beyond—talks about. It’s kind of a pilgrimage for BBQ lovers. And yes, the hype is real. Aaron Franklin has perfected the art of slow-smoking brisket to the point that it melts in your mouth. It's that good.
But—and this is a big but—be prepared to wait. Like, a long wait. People line up for hours, sometimes starting at 8 a.m. for a taste of Franklin’s legendary brisket. I know, it sounds a bit intense, but once you get that first bite, you’ll understand why people are willing to stand in line for what feels like forever. The brisket, the pulled pork, the ribs—it’s all just next-level.
Nearby tip: If you're anywhere near downtown Austin, Franklin Barbecue is within reach. But don’t sleep in. If you arrive too late, they sell out. Yep, that happens.
Must-try: Brisket is a no-brainer here. Get some sausage on the side, too, if you can.
2. La Barbecue
(East Austin)
If you’ve ever searched for "BBQ nearby" while in East Austin, La Barbecue has probably popped up on your radar. And if it hasn’t, it should. La Barbecue is run by LeAnn Mueller, part of Texas BBQ royalty, and it serves some of the best BBQ in Austin without the insane lines you’ll find at Franklin.
The brisket here is so flavorful—smoky, with that perfect bark (you know, the crispy outer layer). The pulled pork is tender, and the ribs? Don't even get me started. It’s the kind of BBQ that’ll have you thinking, "Why don’t I eat BBQ more often?"
One thing I love about La Barbecue is the vibe. It’s casual, laid-back, and unpretentious, which is kind of perfect for a BBQ spot, right? It’s all about the food here—nothing fancy, just good, solid BBQ.
Nearby tip: Located in East Austin, this spot is easy to get to if you’re hanging around in that part of town. The lines can be long, but they move pretty fast.
Must-try: The beef rib is a monster—huge, smoky, and delicious.
3. Micklethwait Craft Meats
(Close to Downtown)
Now, let’s talk about Micklethwait Craft Meats. This spot is a little off the beaten path—tucked into a cozy trailer—but don’t let that fool you. This is some serious BBQ. And I’m all about those hidden gems, the places that maybe don’t get as much buzz but are just as good. Micklethwait is exactly that.
Their brisket? Fantastic. Their homemade sausages? Incredible. What I love here is that they’ve got a bit more creativity with the sides—like jalapeño cheese grits or lemon poppyseed coleslaw, which you just don’t find at most BBQ joints. It feels like a real treat when you get your plate, and everything’s just a little bit different from the norm, but still rooted in Texas BBQ traditions.
Nearby tip: Micklethwait is not too far from downtown, making it a great stop if you’re exploring the city and want something nearby but not in the middle of all the tourist spots.
Must-try: The brisket is top-notch, but the house-made sausages are where it’s at. Don’t skip those.
4. Terry Black’s BBQ
(South Austin)
This is another name that comes up a lot when people are looking for great BBQ in Austin. Terry Black’s BBQ is a family-run operation, and it shows in the quality of the food and the warmth of the service. If you want to experience real, no-nonsense Texas BBQ, this is a solid pick.
What’s great about Terry Black’s is that it’s super consistent. Every time I’ve been, the brisket is perfectly smoky and tender, the ribs are packed with flavor, and even the sides, like the mac and cheese, are fantastic. It’s the kind of place where you can bring out-of-town friends, and they’ll leave Austin talking about that meal for weeks.
Nearby tip: If you're staying in South Austin or visiting that area, Terry Black's is incredibly convenient. It’s a great spot for tourists, but locals swear by it too.
Must-try: Go for the brisket, and make sure you get a side of the creamed corn. Trust me.
5. Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew
(North Austin)
Heading north? Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is a bit of a hidden gem for those in search of BBQ nearby in North Austin. It’s got a cool, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for grabbing some BBQ and a cold beer.
Now, here’s where Stiles Switch shines—they’ve got great BBQ across the board. The brisket’s got that perfect smokiness, the ribs are tender, and the sausage has that satisfying snap when you bite into it. It’s the kind of place where you can’t go wrong, whether you’re there for lunch or dinner. And if you’re in the mood for a beer, well, you’re in luck—they’ve got a solid selection of local brews to wash down all that BBQ goodness.
Nearby tip: If you're in the northern part of Austin, Stiles Switch is the spot you’re looking for. It’s less crowded than the downtown joints, making it a great place to unwind with some BBQ and a beer.
Must-try: The ribs here are killer, but don’t sleep on the sausage either.
6. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
(South Austin)
Here’s something a little different—Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ combines two of Austin’s best food traditions: BBQ and Tex-Mex. And you know what? It works. You get smoky brisket in a taco, ribs with salsa, and this fusion of flavors that is just so satisfying.
Valentina’s is more laid-back than some of the other places on this list, and that’s part of its charm. The tacos are huge, and the portions are generous. It’s a place where you can grab your BBQ with a little Tex-Mex twist, sit outside, and enjoy the Austin sunshine. Plus, it’s perfect if you’re looking for BBQ that’s nearby but with a bit of a different spin.
Nearby tip: It’s located in South Austin, so if you're hanging around that area, it’s a short drive. And trust me, it’s worth it.
Must-try: Get the brisket taco. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed in a BBQ taco.
7. The Salt Lick BBQ
(Driftwood, Just Outside Austin)
Okay, this one’s a little outside Austin, but The Salt Lick is so iconic that it deserves a spot on any Austin BBQ list. Located in Driftwood, just a short drive from the city, Salt Lick is known for its all-you-can-eat BBQ feasts and the fact that it’s set on this beautiful property with picnic tables and a BYOB policy.
The BBQ here is legendary—brisket, ribs, sausage, you name it. What makes Salt Lick unique is their sauce, which has a sweet, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky meat. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to settle in for the afternoon and just keep eating until you can’t anymore.
Nearby tip: It’s about a 30-minute drive from Austin, but if you’ve got the time, it’s worth the trek. Plus, the atmosphere is unbeatable, especially if you’re with a group.
Must-try: Everything. Seriously, go for the family-style option and try it all.
8. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
(Downtown Austin)
Located right in the heart of downtown, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a classic Texas BBQ spot that’s been serving up amazing BBQ for decades. What sets Cooper’s apart is their pit-style cooking method, which gives their meats that incredible smoky flavor.
When you walk in, you get to choose your meat directly from the pit—a fun experience if you’re new to Texas BBQ. The brisket is great, but the real standout here is the beef ribs. They’re massive, tender, and full of flavor.
Nearby tip: If you're downtown and looking for BBQ nearby, Cooper’s is a convenient option, and the pit-to-plate experience is a fun way to enjoy your meal.
Must-try: The beef ribs are enormous and packed with flavor. Definitely get one of those.
9. Rollin Smoke BBQ
(East Austin Food Truck)
Sometimes the best BBQ in Austin comes from a food truck, and that’s exactly the case with Rollin Smoke BBQ. Located in East Austin, this truck serves up some of the juiciest, most flavorful BBQ in town, and it’s got that classic Texas BBQ vibe.
The brisket is the star of the show here, but the pulled pork is also fantastic, and the sides are top-notch (the mac and cheese is particularly indulgent). Rollin Smoke is a bit under the radar compared to some of the bigger names on this list, but if you’re looking for BBQ nearby in East Austin, it’s a hidden gem you don’t want to miss.
Nearby tip: Perfect for anyone hanging out in East Austin. It’s a great spot to grab some BBQ and head to a nearby park or brewery.
Must-try: The brisket is phenomenal, but don’t skip the pulled pork.
10. Brown’s Bar-B-Que
(South Lamar Food Truck)
Last but not least, Brown’s Bar-B-Que is another food truck that consistently serves up some of the best BBQ in Austin. It’s located on South Lamar, and while it might not get as much attention as some of the bigger BBQ joints, it’s so worth a visit.
The brisket is tender and smoky, the ribs are perfectly seasoned, and the sausage has that ideal snap when you bite into it. Plus, the truck is right outside a bar, so you can grab your BBQ and enjoy it with a cold beer in hand.
Nearby tip: Brown’s is a solid option if you’re in South Austin and don’t want to deal with the long lines of the bigger places. Plus, who doesn’t love BBQ and beer?
Must-try: The brisket and ribs combo is unbeatable.
Let the Map Help You with More Places
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of incredible BBQ in Austin, Texas, and this list just scratches the surface. Whether you’re looking for BBQ nearby or willing to venture a little further, these spots represent the best of what Austin has to offer. From legendary places like Franklin Barbecue to hidden gems like Micklethwait and Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ, you really can’t go wrong.
So, the next time you’re craving some smoky brisket or ribs that fall off the bone, hit up one of these spots and indulge in some of the best BBQ around. Your taste buds will thank you.
More from Legit Kitchen: