Best BBQ in Texas

Where can I find the best BBQ in Texas?

Everything's bigger in Texas, including the state's love for barbecue. Texas barbecue is the envy of pitmasters ‘round the world from dry rubs in Hill Country to saucy slabs in Dallas.

Whether you're a Texas native enjoying a staycation or visiting from out of town, we've got your guide to seven Texas BBQ joints you won't want to pass up.

1. Black's Barbecue (Lockhart)

Opened in 1932, Black's Barbecue claims its fame as Texas' oldest BBQ restaurant. The original location in Lockhart dishes up brisket, ribs, and some of the best smoked sausages in the state. Plus, there are additional locations in New Braunfels, San Marcos, and Austin, so you can stop at the nearest one.

2. Franklin Barbecue (Austin)

Franklin Barbecue is no joke. Pitmaster Aaron Franklin welds each smoker himself and has become an international barbecue sensation. The brisket, turkey, and pulled pork are all hits, but get there early; this Texas BBQ joint is known to attract long lunch lines.

3. Cousin's Bar-B-Q (Fort Worth)

Join the family of fans at Cousin's Bar-B-Q, where hand selected hickory provides the perfect smoke for sausage, ribs, and more. This family-run joint now features six locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, so pick your favorite and head out for some lip-smacking goodness.

4. Two Bros. BBQ Market (San Antonio)

Texas BBQ needs not one, but two brothers to make it perfect. Located in North San Antonio, Two Bros. BBQ Market smokes some of the best brisket in the state. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try their Cherry Glazed Baby Back Ribs. Enjoy a laid-back roadhouse atmosphere inside or head to the extensive outdoor area that includes a playground and sandbox for kids, plus plenty of picnic tables.

5. Lockhart Smoke House (Dallas)

Using a Hill Country-inspired dry rub, Lockhart Smoke House is a hit BBQ joint in Dallas. This haven is always whipping up specials and is known for its shoulder clod, a leaner, beefier cut than brisket. There are also two locations in Plano and Arlington.

6. The Salt Lick (Driftwood)

Starting in 1967 from humble beginnings, The Salt Lick in now a staple in Hill Country. Serving up dishes à la carte or all-you-can-eat family style, this Texas BBQ joint is famous for its BYOB policy, brisket, and bison ribs.

7. Goldee's Bar-B-Q (Fort Worth)

Despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the young pitmasters who opened Goldee's Bar-B-Q in February 2020 are still going strong. This modern barbeque joint has combined tried-and-true techniques with traditional flavors that keep hungry customers coming back for more.

During your next Texas vacation, don't miss out on the best food experience of your life. Head to one of these seven BBQ restaurants to get some grub!

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