Austin, TX is known for its amazing barbecue restaurants, and the city has become a haven for meat-lovers. From traditional Texas-style BBQ to inventive fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone. This guide will help you find the best BBQ joints in Austin, TX.
- Vegetarian & Vegan BBQ Options
- New & Innovative BBQ Joints
- BBQ Joints with Live Music
- The Best Traditional BBQ
- BBQ Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
- BBQ Joints with Unique Sides & Drinks
- Family-Friendly BBQ Joints
- The Best Cheap Eats
1. Vegetarian & Vegan BBQ Options
- Vegan-friendly BBQ Revolution offers tasty vegan & vegetarian dishes. The vegan-friendly BBQ Revolution is a great place to go for a meatless meal. They offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes, including BBQ seitan sandwiches, vegan tacos, and vegan brisket. The restaurant also has a wide selection of sides and salads, giving diners plenty of options. The BBQ Revolution strives to be a place where everyone can enjoy delicious, vegan-friendly BBQ.
- The Vegan Nom offers unique vegetarian BBQ & craft beers. For a unique twist on traditional BBQ, try the vegetarian BBQ at The Vegan Nom. They serve up vegan tacos, sandwiches, and bowls with a variety of sides. The Vegan Nom also has an extensive selection of craft beers and vegan-friendly desserts. You can enjoy your meal in the cozy, laid-back atmosphere of the restaurant or take it to go.
- The Jackalope serves vegan BBQ & friendly atmosphere. The Jackalope is a great spot for vegan-friendly BBQ. Their vegan brisket is made with seitan and their BBQ sauce is made with coconut sugar. They also offer vegan pulled pork, vegan ribs, and vegan sausage. The restaurant has a fun and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. It’s a great place to enjoy a delicious vegan meal!
2. New & Innovative BBQ Joints
Austin is constantly evolving and so is the BBQ scene in the city. New and innovative BBQ joints are popping up all over the city, offering creative dishes and flavor combinations that will satisfy any meat-lover’s cravings.
At [insert restaurant name], they offer a unique take on the classic Texas-style BBQ. They offer dishes like smoked pork belly tacos, smoked beef brisket ramen, and smoked beef brisket nachos. The restaurant combines the flavors of Texas-style BBQ with Asian and Mexican flavors, creating a unique and flavorful experience.
[Insert restaurant name] is another great place to try out some inventive BBQ dishes. This restaurant is all about fusion, offering dishes like Korean-style BBQ tacos, smoked brisket pho, and smoked chicken kimchi fried rice. The restaurant blends the flavors of Texas-style BBQ with Korean and Vietnamese cuisine for a flavor experience you won’t find anywhere else.
At [insert restaurant name], you’ll find a combination of traditional Texas-style BBQ and Mexican flavors. The restaurant offers tacos, burritos, and quesadillas filled with smoked brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken. They also offer dishes like smoked pork belly enchiladas and smoked beef brisket fajitas.
These new and innovative BBQ joints are offering creative dishes and flavor combinations that are sure to satisfy any meat-lover’s cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Texas-style BBQ dish or something a little more inventive, these restaurants have something for everyone.
3. BBQ Joints with Live Music
If you’re looking to make a night of it, Austin’s BBQ joints have you covered. Enjoy a night out with some of the best BBQ in town and live music to make the experience even more enjoyable. The atmosphere of a good BBQ joint and the sound of live music make for the perfect evening.
Whether you’re looking for a blues band at an old-fashioned smokehouse or a honky-tonk in a modern BBQ joint, Austin has it all. For a classic Texas BBQ experience, check out Iron Works BBQ. They have a large outdoor seating area where you can enjoy live music while you eat. Meanwhile, Stubb’s BBQ serves up their famous brisket while a variety of local and national acts take to their outdoor stage.
If you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, try The Ginger Man. This gastropub serves up sandwiches, salads, and some of the best BBQ in town. The outdoor area features a full bar and live music from a variety of artists. Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew has a huge outdoor patio and live music in their beer garden. There’s also a great selection of local beers on tap to accompany your meal.
So whether you’re looking for a traditional Texas-style BBQ experience or a night out with a side of live music, Austin’s BBQ joints offer something to suit everyone’s tastes. With so many great options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a night out and some great BBQ.
4. The Best Traditional BBQ
When it comes to traditional Texas-style BBQ, Austin, TX is king. From classic brisket to smoked ribs to succulent pulled pork, the city’s BBQ joints offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Austin has some of the best traditional BBQ joints in the Lone Star State. Here are a few of the best spots to get your fix of Texas-style, smoked meat.
The first spot to check out is The Salt Lick BBQ. Located just outside of Austin in Driftwood, this family-run restaurant has been around since 1967. Here, you can enjoy all the classic BBQ favorites like brisket, pork shoulder, and spare ribs, each smoked for hours over local oak and pecan wood. They also serve up delicious sides, like their signature coleslaw and potato salad.
The next spot to try is Terry Black’s Barbecue. This popular Austin joint has been run by the same family since 1932, with their signature BBQ sauce made from a secret family recipe. From the classic brisket to the tender pork ribs, this restaurant is sure to satisfy any meat lover.
Gatlin’s BBQ is another top spot for traditional Texas-style BBQ. Located in Houston, this is the perfect place to go for a quick, delicious meal. All of their meats are smoked for hours over a combination of pecan, oak, and hickory wood, giving them an unforgettable flavor.
Finally, for a truly unique experience, head to Franklin Barbecue. Just a short drive from downtown Austin, this restaurant is renowned for its high-quality meats and creative sides. From beef rib to smoked turkey and burnt ends, Franklin Barbecue has something for everyone.
No matter which BBQ joint you choose, you’re sure to have a delicious experience. So, next time you’re in Austin, be sure to try some of the best traditional BBQ joints in the Lone Star State.
5. BBQ Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
When you think of BBQ, the first thing that comes to mind is often the smoky, delicious smell of slow-cooked meat. But why not add an extra element to your meal and enjoy it in the great outdoors? Austin, TX has some of the best BBQ restaurants in the world, and many of them have outdoor seating that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
Take La Barbecue, a legendary BBQ spot in East Austin. This restaurant has a large outdoor patio that overlooks the city, making it the perfect spot to enjoy your meal with a view. And it’s not just the aesthetic that makes this restaurant stand out—their BBQ is some of the best in the city. Try their famous brisket, which has been slow-smoked over oak wood for hours.
If you’re looking for more of a Texas-style BBQ experience, then you’ll want to check out The Black Sheep Lodge. This restaurant has a large outdoor seating area and offers up all the classic Texas BBQ dishes, like beef ribs and brisket. They also have a great selection of craft beers to pair with your meal.
If you prefer to keep your BBQ experience a bit more traditional, then you’ll want to visit Stubb’s BBQ. This Austin institution has been serving up classic BBQ since 1968, and their outdoor patio is the perfect place to take it all in. From their famous beef ribs to their slow-smoked pulled pork, you’ll be sure to enjoy a truly authentic Texas BBQ experience.
When it comes to BBQ in Austin, TX, there’s no shortage of options. But if you want to enjoy your meal with a view and some fresh air, then these BBQ restaurants with outdoor seating will definitely hit the spot.
6. BBQ Joints with Unique Sides & Drinks
When you think of BBQ, sides typically come to mind like coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, and beans. But the BBQ joints in Austin, TX have taken side dishes to the next level. From creative takes on traditional sides to unique options that you won’t find anywhere else, these restaurants have something for everyone.
At [BBQ Joint], you can find several unique sides like fried okra, squash casserole, and jalapeño cheese grits. For a unique twist on the classic coleslaw, try the BBQ joint’s version with a honey-buttermilk dressing. And for those looking for an extra kick, try the fire-roasted jalapeños with a side of ranch.
The drinks at these Austin BBQ joints are just as exciting as the sides. Try a classic Texas sweet tea or a Mexican coke with your meal. For something a bit more adventurous, go for the [BBQ Joint]’s signature drink, the [Drink], which is a blend of [Ingredients]. Or, if you’re looking for something more traditional, check out the selection of beers on tap.
Whether you’re looking for traditional sides or something more adventurous, the BBQ joints in Austin, TX have something for everyone. So come on down and enjoy a delicious meal with unique sides and drinks to accompany your meal.
7. Family-Friendly BBQ Joints
With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Austin, TX is home to some of the best family-friendly BBQ joints in the country. From traditional Texas-style BBQ to kid-friendly dishes, these restaurants provide an enjoyable dining experience for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or just a casual night out, these BBQ joints are sure to please.
Micklethwait Craft Meats is a great option for families looking for a casual dining experience. They offer classic, Texas-style BBQ in a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of options for kids. The restaurant also has an outdoor patio and live music, making it a great spot for an enjoyable evening out.
For a more upscale experience, Freedmen’s Bar is a great choice. This restaurant offers an elevated take on classic BBQ dishes, like their famous smoked brisket. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, making it a popular spot for adults. Additionally, Freedmen’s Bar has a play area for kids, complete with games and toys.
For a unique experience, try Dai Due Taqueria. This restaurant serves up inventive fusion dishes, like their smoked brisket tacos. They also have a great selection of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for families with dietary restrictions. Plus, the restaurant is located in a historic building, with a charming atmosphere that the whole family will love.
No matter what type of BBQ experience you’re looking for, these family-friendly restaurants provide an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family. From traditional Texas BBQ to inventive fusion dishes, these BBQ joints in Austin, TX will make your next family outing a memorable one.
8. The Best Cheap Eats
If you’re looking for great BBQ without breaking the bank, Austin, TX is the perfect place. There’s no shortage of delicious low-cost meals in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a classic BBQ plate or something a little more unique, these BBQ joints have you covered.
The first stop for budget-minded meat-lovers should be The County Line. This Austin staple offers generous portions of classic BBQ at prices that won’t break the bank. Try their famous brisket plates or pulled pork sandwiches, and don’t forget to order a side of their legendary mac and cheese.
For something a little more inventive, check out The Salt Lick. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up amazing dishes since 1967, and their menu features some truly unique fusion dishes. Try their delicious kimchi-brisket tacos or their smoked-jalapeno quesadillas. Don’t forget their array of delicious sides, like the potato salad and coleslaw.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew. This spot offers a wide variety of classic BBQ dishes, and they also have an impressive selection of local beers. Try their famous baby back ribs or their famous burnt ends, and don’t forget to order a side of their homemade jalapeno mac and cheese.
These BBQ joints offer some of the best cheap eats in Austin, TX. From classic BBQ to fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone. So, don’t forget to check out these amazing restaurants for a budget-friendly meal.
