Texas BBQ is legendary: slow-smoked meats served with or without sauce, with or without sides. Although Llano, Lockhart and Taylor boast the most storied barbecue grills in the state, Austin stands out with some amazing barbecue options. Whether keeping the bottom line of Texas BBQ, brisket or expanding to include sausage, pork ribs or chicken, barbecue lovers can find locals, high-pitched restaurants and even music venues serving the best of Austin.

Stubb’s: Probably the most famous Austin barbecue originally hailed from Lubbock on the West Texas plains, where hickory-smoked meats and heavenly CB Stubblefield sauce fueled a burgeoning music scene, including Joe Ely and Jimmie Dale Gilmore. In Austin, Stubb’s sauce was bottled informally until the restaurant and music venue named after him opened in Red River. With an outdoor amphitheater and indoor nightclub, concertgoers can enjoy a great time before the show, without losing their parking spot! (801 Red River / Austin, TX 78701 / 512.480.8341)

Iron Works – Downtowners and out-of-towners alike flock to this unassuming corrugated-metal shack, drawn by the aromatic smoke that billows throughout the business district. The Iron Works was previously just that: an iron working business, but in 1978 the building earned a historic designation and the family began serving barbecue. They also offer custom smoking of whatever meat you bring them. (100 Red River / Austin, TX / 78701 / 512-478-4855)

Sam’s – This east side institution serves up delicious dishes late into the night, making it a favorite with local musicians and music fans. The building may look a bit run down, but make no mistake: this is one of the best places in Texas. Sam’s is justifiably famous for its friendly service, music-friendly hours, and an offering not found in many other places in Austin: melt-in-your-mouth lamb. (2000 E 12th St / Austin, TX 78702-1702 / (512) 478-0378)

Green Mesquite: Located just south of the river along “Restaurant Row” in Barton Springs, right next to Zilker Park, this funky and charming spot is one of Austin’s favorite steakhouses. Their meat combos are popular, and they offer other temptations like some of the best fried catfish in the area. The decor is pure South Austin, with neon lights, music signs, comfortable booths, and a checkerboard floor. Cold Shiner Bock in draft, bluegrass in their biergarten – this place is hard to beat. (1400 Barton Springs Rd / Austin, TX 78704 / (512) 479-0485

Lambert’s – A newcomer to the River City barbecue scene, Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue is one of the city’s most unique spots for serving Texas food done right. Located in a renovated building in the thriving 2nd Street shopping and dining district, Lambert’s offers live music, mostly jazz and DJs, as well as grilled steaks, seafood, creative sides and, of course, fine smoked meats. Beef and pork ribs, the ubiquitous brisket, and “fancy” surprises like quail and trout emerge from your oak smoker. (401 W 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *