Austin, Texas isn't just the live music capital of the world—it's ground zero for American barbecue. Central Texas-style BBQ is revered globally, and Austin has more legendary pitmasters per square mile than anywhere else. The focus here is simple: quality meat, salt and pepper, post oak smoke, and time.
What Makes Central Texas BBQ Special
Unlike Kansas City (sweet, tomato-based sauce), Carolina (vinegar-based), or Memphis (dry rub) styles, Central Texas BBQ is all about the meat. The rub is simple—just salt and black pepper—and the smoking is done low and slow over post oak wood. Sauce is optional, served on the side, and honestly? The best brisket doesn't need it.
The Meats
🥩 Brisket
The king. Order "moist" for fattier point, "lean" for flat.
🍖 Beef Ribs
Massive, beefy, and incredibly rich. Often sold by the bone.
🐷 Pork Ribs
Tender, smoky, and perfect with a bit of sauce.
🌭 Sausage
House-made links, often with jalapeño and cheese.
🐔 Turkey
Smoked turkey breast—leaner option that's still delicious.
🥓 Pulled Pork
Less common in Texas, but great when offered.
Legendary Austin BBQ Spots
Franklin Barbecue
⏰ Wait: 2-4 hours | Get there by 8am
The most famous BBQ in America. Aaron Franklin's brisket is transcendent—perfect smoke ring, beautiful bark, impossibly tender. Worth one pilgrimage.
la Barbecue
⏰ Wait: 1-2 hours
Run by a Franklin alum. Excellent brisket, shorter lines, and great beef ribs. The "el sancho" brisket sandwich is incredible.
Terry Black's BBQ
⏰ Wait: 30-60 minutes
Lockhart BBQ royalty with an Austin location. Great for groups, shorter waits, consistently excellent meat.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
⏰ Wait: 30-60 minutes
Trailer-style BBQ with inventive sides. The jalapeño cheese grits and chipotle slaw are standouts.
Interstellar BBQ
⏰ Wait: 15-45 minutes
Newer spot with excellent quality and shorter waits. Great option for BBQ without the Franklin commitment.
Stiles Switch BBQ
⏰ Wait: 15-30 minutes
North Austin favorite with solid brisket and quick service. Great for locals who want BBQ without a wait.
Surviving the Lines
- Arrive early - For Franklin, get there by 8am (they open at 11am)
- Bring drinks - Most places allow coolers with beer
- Bring chairs - You'll be standing/sitting for a while
- Go on weekdays - Lines are significantly shorter Tuesday-Thursday
- Order online - Some spots now offer preorders to skip the line
🏆 The Verdict
Worth the wait: Franklin (at least once), la Barbecue
Great BBQ, less wait: Terry Black's, Interstellar, Stiles Switch
Best beef ribs: la Barbecue, Terry Black's
Best sides: Micklethwait Craft Meats