Texas is renowned for its barbecue, with the Lone Star State’s slow-smoked meats drawing food enthusiasts from across the globe. While major cities like Austin and Houston boast famous BBQ joints, some of the best barbecue can be found in small towns scattered throughout Texas.
These hidden gem barbecue spots in small Texas towns often serve up mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausages that rival their big-city counterparts. Many of these establishments have been perfecting their craft for generations, using time-honored smoking techniques and closely guarded family recipes. From oak-smoked brisket to tangy sauces, these small-town BBQ havens offer authentic flavors and a slice of Texas culture.
1) Snow’s BBQ in Lexington
Snow’s BBQ in Lexington, Texas has earned a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in the state. This small-town gem is known for its exceptional brisket, pork steaks, and other smoked meats.
Kerry Bexley, the owner of Snow’s BBQ, recognized the demand for quality barbecue in Lexington, a town of just over 1,000 residents. The restaurant quickly gained popularity among locals and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
In 2008, Texas Monthly magazine named Snow’s BBQ the best in Texas, catapulting it to statewide fame. Since then, barbecue lovers from across the country have flocked to this unassuming establishment.
Snow’s BBQ is only open on Saturdays from 8:00 am until they sell out, which often happens early in the day. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure their share of the coveted smoked meats.
The menu features a variety of barbecue staples, including thick-cut pork steaks, pulled pork, and smoked turkey. However, the brisket remains the star attraction, drawing praise from critics and customers alike.
Snow’s BBQ: 516 Main St, Lexington, TX 78947. Website: snowsbbq.com
2) Franklin Barbecue in Austin
Franklin Barbecue has earned legendary status among barbecue enthusiasts. This Austin institution draws crowds willing to wait hours for a taste of their renowned brisket.
Aaron Franklin started the business as a food truck in 2009 before moving to a brick-and-mortar location. His meticulous approach to smoking meats has garnered national acclaim.
The restaurant’s signature item is the moist brisket, known for its perfectly rendered fat and peppery bark. Other popular offerings include pulled pork, turkey, and sausages.
Franklin Barbecue opens at 11 AM and often sells out by early afternoon. Devoted fans line up early in the morning to secure their spot.
The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award for Aaron Franklin in 2015. It continues to be a top destination for barbecue pilgrims visiting Austin.
Franklin Barbecue
900 E. 11th St., Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 653-1187
Website: franklinbbq.com
3) Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor
Louie Mueller Barbecue stands as a beacon of authentic Texas-style barbecue in the small town of Taylor. This iconic establishment has been serving mouthwatering smoked meats since 1949, earning a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in the Lone Star State.
The restaurant’s atmosphere exudes rustic charm, with its smoke-stained walls and simple wooden tables creating an authentic barbecue experience. Patrons are greeted by the enticing aroma of slow-cooked meats as they enter the premises.
Louie Mueller Barbecue is renowned for its expertly smoked brisket, which boasts a perfect bark and tender, juicy interior. Other menu highlights include flavorful beef ribs, succulent sausages, and perfectly smoked turkey.
The restaurant has remained a family-operated business for three generations, with each pitmaster maintaining the high standards set by founder Louie Mueller. This commitment to quality and tradition has earned the establishment numerous accolades and a loyal following.
Visitors can expect generous portions and friendly service at Louie Mueller Barbecue. The restaurant’s popularity often leads to long lines, but many patrons agree the wait is well worth it for a taste of Texas barbecue history.
Louie Mueller Barbecue
206 W 2nd St, Taylor, TX 76574
Phone: (512) 352-6206
Website: www.louiemuellerbarbecue.com
4) Black’s Barbecue in Lockhart
Black’s Barbecue stands as a cornerstone of Texas barbecue tradition in Lockhart. Established in 1932, this family-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Texas-style BBQ for five generations.
The Black family continues to use the same recipes and techniques that made their establishment famous nearly 80 years ago. Their commitment to quality has earned them recognition as one of the best BBQ joints in Texas.
Black’s is known for its expertly smoked meats, particularly their brisket and ribs. The restaurant’s longevity and consistency have made it a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts from around the world.
As part of Lockhart’s “holy trinity” of BBQ establishments, Black’s contributes to the town’s reputation as the barbecue capital of Texas. Visitors can expect a genuine Texas BBQ experience steeped in history and tradition.
Black’s Barbecue
215 N Main St, Lockhart, TX 78644
Phone: (512) 398-2712
Website: www.blacksbbq.com
5) City Market in Luling
City Market in Luling stands as a quintessential small-town Texas BBQ joint. Located on Main Street, this historic establishment has been serving up mouthwatering smoked meats for generations.
The restaurant’s interior maintains a rustic charm, reminiscent of its origins as a meat market. Patrons line up at the counter to place their orders directly with the pitmaster.
City Market is renowned for its trinity of Texas BBQ: brisket, ribs, and sausage. The brisket boasts a perfect bark and tender texture, while the ribs offer a satisfying bite. Their homemade sausage is a local favorite.
A unique aspect of City Market is its signature sauce, which some compare to popular Houston BBQ spots. The sauce complements the meats without overpowering their natural flavors.
Visitors praise the consistently high quality of the barbecue and the authentic small-town atmosphere. Many consider it worth a detour from Interstate 10 for a true Texas BBQ experience.
Address: 633 E Davis St, Luling, TX 78648
Phone: (830) 875-9019
6) Smitty’s Market in Lockhart
Smitty’s Market stands as a cornerstone of Lockhart’s renowned barbecue scene. This historic establishment has been serving mouthwatering Texas-style barbecue since 1948.
Located at 208 S Commerce St, Smitty’s occupies a building with a rich heritage. The restaurant’s interior features original brick pit smokers, creating an authentic atmosphere.
Smitty’s menu showcases classic barbecue offerings. Brisket, shoulder clod, and pork ribs are local favorites. Their sausage, made using traditional recipes, is also highly praised.
The restaurant adheres to time-honored cooking methods. Meats are slow-smoked over post oak wood, imparting a distinctive flavor profile.
Smitty’s Market operates seven days a week. It opens at 7:00 am Monday through Saturday, and at 9:00 am on Sundays. Closing time is 6:00 pm most days, with extended hours until 6:30 pm on weekends.
Smitty’s Market: 208 S Commerce St, Lockhart, TX 78644. Phone: (512) 398-9344. Website: smittysmarket.com
7) Kreuz Market in Lockhart
Kreuz Market stands as a cornerstone of Lockhart’s barbecue scene. Established in 1900, this iconic joint has been serving authentic Texas-style barbecue for over a century.
The restaurant is renowned for its focus on high-quality meats and traditional smoking techniques. Kreuz Market’s pits, which appear to have been in constant use for decades, impart a rich, smoky flavor to their offerings.
Visitors rave about the moist and tender pork chops, which can be easily pulled apart with a fork. The brisket and sausages are also popular choices among barbecue enthusiasts.
In keeping with tradition, Kreuz Market serves its meats on butcher paper without utensils or sauce, allowing the pure flavors to shine through. This no-frills approach has helped cement its reputation as a true Texas barbecue destination.
Kreuz Market: 619 N Colorado St, Lockhart, TX 78644. Phone: (512) 398-2361. Website: www.kreuzmarket.com
8) Pecan Lodge in Dallas
Pecan Lodge stands out as a premier barbecue destination in Dallas. Located in the vibrant Deep Ellum neighborhood, this establishment has garnered numerous awards for its exceptional smoked meats.
The restaurant’s brisket is a standout, often compared to the best in the city. Smoked for 18 hours in massive steel pits, the brisket emerges with a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
Pecan Lodge attracts diverse crowds throughout the day, testament to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. The menu features other barbecue classics alongside the renowned brisket.
While primarily known for its brisket, Pecan Lodge also receives praise for its pork ribs. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional smoking methods contributes to its reputation as one of Dallas’ top barbecue joints.
Pecan Lodge: 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226 | Phone: (214) 748-8900 | Website: www.pecanlodge.com
9) Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que in Llano
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que in Llano stands as a cornerstone of Texas Hill Country barbecue. Known for its “Big Chop” and direct-heat pit cooking method, Cooper’s has earned a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in the state.
The restaurant’s signature offering is the pork chop, a massive cut of meat that draws visitors from far and wide. Cooper’s also serves up traditional Texas favorites like brisket, sausage, and ribs.
Patrons select their meats directly from the pit, where they’re cooked over mesquite coals. This unique serving style adds to the authentic barbecue experience that Cooper’s provides.
The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including being named one of America’s best barbecue spots by Newsweek. Its popularity has led to additional locations, but the Llano original remains a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is located at 604 W Young St, Llano, TX 78643. They’re open daily from 11:00 am, closing at 8:00 pm Sunday through Thursday and 9:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. For takeout orders, call (325) 247-5713.
10) The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood
The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood is a Texas barbecue institution. Founded in 1967 by Thurman and Hisako Roberts, this iconic restaurant has been serving mouthwatering smoked meats for over five decades.
Visitors to The Salt Lick are greeted by the sight of an open pit where meats are smoked using traditional methods. The restaurant’s rural setting in the Texas Hill Country adds to its charm and authenticity.
The menu features classic barbecue offerings, including brisket, sausage, and ribs. Sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and beans complement the smoky meats. For dessert, patrons can indulge in homemade cobblers and pecan pie.
The Salt Lick’s popularity has grown beyond its original location. Today, it’s a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts from around the world.
The restaurant’s BYOB policy and picnic-style seating create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. On busy days, guests can enjoy live music while waiting for a table.
Contact: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
Phone: 512-858-4959
Website: www.saltlickbbq.com
The History of BBQ in Texas
Texas barbecue has deep roots stretching back to the 19th century. The state’s unique blend of cultural influences and regional ingredients shaped its distinctive barbecue traditions over time.
Influences and Traditions
German and Czech immigrants introduced smoke-cooking techniques to Texas in the mid-1800s. They applied these methods to the abundant beef available in the state. Mexican ranch hands contributed barbacoa-style cooking, slowly roasting meat wrapped in leaves.
Native American and African American culinary traditions also influenced Texas barbecue. Slaves often received less desirable cuts of meat, developing techniques to tenderize and flavor tough pieces through slow cooking.
By the early 1900s, meat markets began smoking leftover cuts to preserve them. This practice evolved into dedicated barbecue stands and restaurants.
Regional Variations
Central Texas style focuses on beef, particularly brisket, smoked over oak wood. Sauce is typically served on the side, if at all.
East Texas favors a sweeter, tomato-based sauce and often uses hickory wood for smoking. Chopped beef sandwiches are popular in this region.
South Texas incorporates more Mexican influences, with barbacoa and fajitas featured prominently.
West Texas developed “cowboy style” barbecue, cooking meat directly over mesquite coals.
These regional differences reflect local resources and cultural influences across the state.
Characteristics of Small Town BBQ
Small town BBQ in Texas offers a unique blend of tradition, community spirit, and mouthwatering flavors. These establishments often serve as local gathering spots while showcasing regional cooking techniques passed down through generations.
Community and Culture
Small town BBQ joints are more than just restaurants – they’re community hubs. Locals gather to catch up on news and enjoy familiar faces. Many of these spots have been family-owned for decades, with recipes and techniques handed down through generations.
The atmosphere is typically casual and welcoming. Patrons often find themselves chatting with the pitmaster or owner. Some places feature communal seating, encouraging conversation among diners.
These establishments frequently support local events and causes. They may cater town festivals or donate to school fundraisers. This deep community involvement reinforces their importance as cultural touchstones.
Signature Flavors and Techniques
Texas small town BBQ is known for its distinct flavors and cooking methods. Pitmasters often use local woods like post oak or mesquite to impart unique smoky notes to their meats.
Brisket reigns supreme in many of these establishments. It’s typically slow-smoked for 12-18 hours until tender and flavorful. Beef ribs and sausages are also popular menu items.
Sauces and rubs vary by region. Some spots pride themselves on a minimalist approach, letting the meat’s natural flavors shine. Others offer housemade sauces ranging from tangy to sweet.
Side dishes often feature local ingredients and family recipes. Classics like potato salad, coleslaw, and pinto beans are common accompaniments. Many places offer homemade desserts like peach cobbler or banana pudding.
Tips for Finding Authentic Small Town BBQ
Seek out family-owned establishments that have been around for generations. These often have the most authentic recipes and techniques passed down through the years.
Look for places that use wood-fired pits rather than gas or electric smokers. The smell of burning wood is a good sign of traditional barbecue methods.
Pay attention to the sides offered. Classic Texas accompaniments like potato salad, coleslaw, and pinto beans indicate a genuine barbecue joint.
Check if the restaurant makes their own sauces and rubs in-house. This shows dedication to crafting unique flavors.
Observe the meat-cutting process. Authentic spots often slice brisket and other meats to order right in front of customers.
Take note of limited hours or “sold out” signs. The best small-town spots often close when they run out of meat for the day.
Ask locals for recommendations. Residents of small Texas towns often know the hidden gems that tourists might overlook.
Look for simple, no-frills decor. Plastic tablecloths and basic furnishings are common in authentic barbecue establishments.
Seek out places that offer a variety of smoked meats beyond just brisket, such as ribs, sausage, and pulled pork.
