The Top 30 BBQ Spots in Texas Ranked

Texas barbecue is a cultural icon, luring folks from everywhere to taste its smoky magic. With so many BBQ joints, choosing the best can ignite fierce debates—possibly even bar fights! Everyone’s entitled to their opinion, and that’s what fuels the passion. We’ve rounded up the 30 best BBQ spots in Texas, based on popularity, reviews, and local buzz, though lists like these are always up for debate.

These places have earned loyal fans by serving stellar food. From big-city legends to small-town treasures, each offers something special. Whether you’re planning a BBQ road trip or just curious, this guide will help you find a spot that suits your taste. Texas BBQ is more than food—it’s tradition, passion, and community. It’s early lines, shared stories, and plates of smoky perfection crafted by dedicated pitmasters. Check out our list to see which joints made the cut and why they’re worth a visit. Your new favorite BBQ spot might be just around the corner.

#30 The Salt Lick BBQ

The Salt Lick BBQ stands out for its bold, smoky flavors and signature open-pit cooking style. The meats are cooked with a steady hand and a careful process that brings out a strong, balanced smoke profile. Guests often praise the distinct bark and deep color that signal well-prepared barbecue. What keeps people coming back is the consistency in texture and taste across a wide variety of cuts. Even in a state full of competition, this spot holds its ground by sticking to solid techniques and time-tested methods. Its reputation for satisfying barbecue earns it a firm place on this list.

#29 Slow Bone

Slow Bone BBQ in Dallas earns its place among Texas’ top 30 with its mastery of hickory-smoked barbecue. The meat is smoked low and slow, delivering deep, smoky flavor with a peppery, caramelized crust that melts in your mouth. Each bite balances tender texture and bold seasoning, showcasing true Texas-style craftsmanship. Customers praise the consistent quality, with smoky richness that stands out in every cut. The pitmasters’ attention to detail and traditional techniques shine, creating barbecue that feels both authentic and unforgettable. Slow Bone’s welcoming vibe and loyal fanbase reflect its reputation for serving some of Dallas’ finest BBQ, making it a Texas gem.

#28 Desert Oak Barbecue

Desert Oak Barbecue in El Paso delivers Central Texas BBQ that stands tall among Texas’ top 30. Slow-smoked over pure oak wood, the meats carry a robust smokiness, with a finely tuned balance of peppery seasoning and juicy tenderness. Pitmaster Richard Funk’s precise approach transforms prime cuts into barbecue with a bold, lingering flavor that defines El Paso’s BBQ pride. From food truck origins to a bustling brick-and-mortar, Desert Oak’s time-honored methods produce smoky perfection that keeps fans hooked. Each bite reflects dedication to craft, making this spot a Texas treasure for authentic, soul-warming barbecue that resonates far beyond the desert.

#27 Tender Smokehouse

Tender Smokehouse in Celina has earned a reputation for its consistently high-quality barbecue and relaxed atmosphere. Known for its tender, flavorful meats, the restaurant focuses on bringing out the best in every cut. Whether you’re in the mood for brisket, ribs, or sausage, Tender Smokehouse delivers an authentic Texas barbecue experience. The friendly staff and inviting setting make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Many visitors praise Tender Smokehouse for its excellent service and unbeatable flavors, making it a top choice for barbecue lovers in Celina.

#26 Mimsy’s Craft Barbecue

Mimsy’s Craft Barbecue in Crockett is a hidden gem that quickly became a fan favorite. Known for its inviting atmosphere and friendly service, it offers a unique barbecue experience. The staff takes time with every order, ensuring the meat is cooked perfectly and the flavors shine through. Many visitors appreciate the mix of traditional Texas barbecue with some innovative twists. It’s a great stop for those who enjoy a more intimate dining experience. Whether you’re local or passing through, Mimsy’s Craft Barbecue delivers an authentic taste of Texas, making it a standout in East Texas.

#25 Vera’s Backyard Bar-B-Que

Vera’s Backyard Bar-B-Que in Brownsville delivers Texas BBQ history, ranking among the state’s top 30. As the last commercial spot using traditional underground pits, it smokes meat over mesquite coals for up to twelve hours, yielding an earthy smokiness and velvety richness unlike any other. The time-honored vaquero method produces tender, unseasoned barbecue with a subtle, wood-fired depth that defines South Texas. Pitmaster Armando Vera’s meticulous process ensures unmatched quality, drawing fans to this borderland gem. Vera’s preserves a fading craft, offering smoky, soulful BBQ that embodies Brownsville’s heritage and earns its place as a Texas treasure.

#24 Smokey Joe’s BBQ

Smokey Joe’s BBQ in Dallas blends Texas barbecue traditions, earning its spot among the state’s top 30. Slow-smoked over oak in massive offset smokers, the meats deliver buttery tenderness and a smoky warmth that lingers. Pitmaster Kris Manning’s careful balance of seasoning and smoke creates barbecue with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality, reflecting decades of refinement. Since 1985, Smokey Joe’s has evolved from a takeout window to a Dallas staple, its oak-fired flavor drawing loyal fans. The meticulous process and prime cuts ensure every bite bursts with Texas BBQ soul, making Smokey Joe’s a standout for authentic, heartwarming barbecue.

#23 2M Smokehouse

2M Smokehouse in San Antonio stands out for its dedication to quality and bold flavor. This local favorite has earned statewide recognition for its attention to detail, friendly service, and consistent results. The team behind 2M puts care into every step of the process, from seasoning to smoking, resulting in meats that are rich in flavor and texture. The spot has become a go-to for both locals and visitors looking for a reliable barbecue experience. Its casual setup and welcoming vibe make it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal without the fuss. 2M Smokehouse continues to impress with its steady rise in popularity.

#22 Terry Black’s Barbecue

Terry Black’s Barbecue in Austin has quickly become a staple in the city’s competitive BBQ scene, known for its mouth-watering meats and laid-back atmosphere. Offering a range of classic Texas barbecue options, Terry Black’s is recognized for its tender brisket, juicy ribs, and perfectly smoked sausages. What makes this spot stand out is the combination of tradition and innovation, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The restaurant has gained a dedicated following thanks to its attention to detail, friendly service, and comfortable setting. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Terry Black’s provides an authentic taste of Austin’s best barbecue.

#21 Eaker Barbecue

Eaker Barbecue in Fredericksburg has earned attention for bringing something a little different to the Texas barbecue scene. Owned by a husband-and-wife team, this spot blends classic Texas methods with influences from their Korean-American roots, creating a fresh take that stands out. The result is barbecue that’s both familiar and new, with thoughtful flavor combinations and careful preparation. Locals appreciate the friendly service and calm setting, while visitors are often surprised by the quality and creativity. It’s the kind of place that’s gaining steady popularity through strong word-of-mouth and solid reviews. Eaker Barbecue proves that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand.

#20 1701 Barbecue

1701 Barbecue in Beaumont has quickly become a beloved spot in Southeast Texas. Known for its consistency and welcoming atmosphere, it serves up flavorful barbecue that locals rave about. People appreciate the simple yet delicious menu, with meats that are tender and full of flavor. The staff is friendly and attentive, making each visit feel like a treat. Many also note the balance of smoke and seasoning, giving the meats a distinct and memorable taste. 1701 Barbecue has built its reputation by staying true to the craft and delivering quality every time, making it a must-visit for barbecue lovers.

#19 LJ’s BBQ

LJ’s BBQ in Brenham is a standout spot for anyone craving classic Texas barbecue. This family-friendly joint focuses on serving high-quality meat with a friendly smile. The straightforward setup and efficient service make it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal. Customers appreciate how consistently good the food is, with many saying it’s one of the best places to grab a bite in the area. Whether you’re from out of town or a regular, LJ’s BBQ has something for everyone. It’s a great stop to enjoy traditional barbecue done right, with a personal touch that makes it special.

#18 Miller’s Smokehouse

Miller’s Smokehouse in Belton earns its place on the list thanks to its steady rise and growing reputation for quality barbecue. This family-run spot has built a loyal following through its commitment to consistent cooking and strong flavors. It blends tradition with a personal touch, giving guests an experience that feels both classic and current. Whether it’s the attention to detail in the smoking process or the warm customer service, Miller’s continues to impress newcomers and longtime fans alike. It stands out not just for what’s on the plate, but for the care behind it all.

#17 Micklethwait Craft Meats

Micklethwait Craft Meats in Austin is renowned for its creative approach to Texas barbecue, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. This small, family-run spot offers a unique dining experience, with meats that are carefully smoked and packed with bold flavors. Known for its craft approach, Micklethwait takes pride in using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy, inviting atmosphere and efficient service make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a barbecue connoisseur or just looking for a great meal, Micklethwait Craft Meats consistently delivers, earning its place among Austin’s best barbecue spots.

#16 Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ

Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ in Austin offers a unique blend of barbecue and Tex-Mex that has quickly gained a loyal following. The casual yet inviting space provides the perfect setting for families or groups to enjoy a meal. People love how the restaurant combines classic barbecue flavors with bold Tex-Mex influences, creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re in the mood for brisket or tacos, Valentina’s delivers with attention to detail. It’s this mix of cultures and flavors that has made it a standout in Austin’s already competitive barbecue scene, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike.

#15 Distant Relatives

Distant Relatives in Austin offers a fresh take on Texas barbecue, combining local flavors with a laid-back atmosphere. This relatively new spot has made waves by serving high-quality meats with a focus on sustainability. The team behind Distant Relatives is passionate about crafting delicious barbecue while staying true to their environmental values. It’s not just the food that draws people in, but also the commitment to community and local sourcing. With its unique approach and welcoming vibe, Distant Relatives has quickly gained a strong fan base, making it one of Austin’s exciting up-and-coming barbecue destinations.

#14 Blood Bros. BBQ

Blood Bros. BBQ in Bellaire has become a sensation for its bold, inventive approach to barbecue. This family-owned spot offers a fun, welcoming atmosphere, with food that leaves a lasting impression. Known for their attention to detail, Blood Bros. makes sure every plate is packed with flavor. The restaurant often pushes the boundaries of traditional barbecue, experimenting with unique ingredients while staying true to Texas roots. It’s this combination of creativity and skill that keeps customers coming back for more. With strong community support, Blood Bros. has made a name for itself as a top contender in Houston’s BBQ scene.

#13 Evie Mae’s Pit Barbecue

Evie Mae’s Pit Barbecue in Wolfforth is a rising star in Texas barbecue. With a menu full of mouth-watering options, Evie Mae’s has quickly gained a following for its unique flavors and tender, smoked meats. Known for its innovative approach to traditional barbecue, the spot has developed a loyal customer base. People often mention the perfectly smoked brisket and delicious sides that make the meal complete. The friendly, casual atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a great place for families and groups. Evie Mae’s has firmly established itself as one of Texas’ must-try barbecue spots.

#12 Hurtado Barbecue

Hurtado Barbecue in Arlington has quickly become a standout in the Texas barbecue scene. Known for its impressive selection of smoked meats, Hurtado focuses on delivering bold flavors with a unique twist. The restaurant’s casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for families or friends to gather and enjoy a meal. Customers rave about the rich taste and tender texture of the meats, which are consistently cooked to perfection. Hurtado’s innovative approach to traditional barbecue keeps people coming back for more, earning it a strong following in Arlington and beyond.

#11 Panther City BBQ

Panther City BBQ in Fort Worth has earned a reputation for its innovative approach to Texas barbecue, combining traditional flavors with a creative twist. Known for its expertly smoked meats and unique menu options, Panther City is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Customers appreciate the consistent quality and attention to detail that goes into each dish. Panther City BBQ continues to impress with its bold flavors, solidifying its place as one of Fort Worth’s top barbecue destinations.

#10 Burnt Bean Co.

Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin has quickly gained a reputation as one of Texas’ top barbecue spots. Known for its expertly smoked meats and outstanding flavors, Burnt Bean Co. offers a unique twist on traditional barbecue with a menu that highlights bold and exciting combinations. The family-friendly atmosphere and attention to detail have made it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving tender brisket or flavorful sausages, Burnt Bean Co. delivers consistently delicious results. Its growing popularity has solidified Burnt Bean Co. as one of Seguin’s top destinations for high-quality barbecue.

#9 Cattleack Barbeque

Cattleack Barbeque in Dallas is a top contender in the Texas barbecue scene, offering a menu full of expertly smoked meats and bold flavors. Known for its brisket and sausages, this BBQ spot has earned rave reviews for the consistent quality and delicious flavors that bring customers back. Cattleack’s welcoming environment and top-tier service make it an ideal choice for both locals and visitors. Whether it’s the perfectly cooked meats or the house-made sides, Cattleack Barbeque is a standout in Dallas’ competitive barbecue market, delivering a memorable experience for barbecue lovers.

#8 Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue in Austin is perhaps one of the most famous barbecue joints in Texas. Known for its mouthwatering brisket and tender ribs, Franklin has earned national recognition for its commitment to quality and flavor. The line that often stretches down the block is a testament to the high demand and popularity of this spot. Customers rave about the flavor and tenderness of the meat, which is carefully smoked to perfection. Franklin Barbecue’s dedication to using the best ingredients and maintaining consistency in every dish has earned it a place among the top barbecue restaurants in Texas.

#7 LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue

LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue in Austin is known for its creative approach to Texas barbecue, blending traditional techniques with bold, unique flavors. This popular spot focuses on high-quality meats, cooked to perfection and complemented by inventive sides. Customers love the innovative menu, which features a range of smoked options that push the boundaries of classic barbecue. The laid-back, friendly atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a perfect destination for food lovers looking for something different. LeRoy & Lewis has built a strong reputation for its fresh take on Texas barbecue, making it a must-visit spot in Austin.

#6 Snow’s BBQ

Snow’s BBQ in Lexington is often regarded as one of the best barbecue spots in Texas. Its reputation is built on perfectly smoked meats, particularly its famous brisket. The small, family-run business has become a destination for barbecue lovers from across the state. Snow’s BBQ is known for its commitment to quality, with every dish cooked with care and attention to detail. Although the wait can sometimes be long, the quality and flavor of the food make it well worth the time. Snow’s continues to be a beloved institution in the Texas barbecue scene.

#5 La Barbecue

La Barbecue in Austin has become a must-visit spot for anyone serious about Texas barbecue. Known for its dedication to quality and authenticity, La Barbecue has a reputation for serving some of the best brisket in the state. The service is fast and friendly, and the food speaks for itself. Many locals and tourists alike swear by the tender, smoky meats that keep them coming back. The relaxed vibe of the place makes it a perfect spot to grab a quick bite or hang out with friends. La Barbecue continues to impress with its classic approach and exceptional taste.

#4 Goldee’s Barbecue

Goldee’s Barbecue in Fort Worth is often regarded as one of the best barbecue spots in Texas, earning praise for its outstanding smoked meats and attention to detail. With a focus on classic Texas barbecue, Goldee’s offers a menu filled with tender, flavorful cuts that have earned it a loyal following. The laid-back, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. Goldee’s dedication to quality and its consistent ability to deliver great-tasting barbecue has made it a top choice for barbecue lovers in Fort Worth and beyond.

#3 Truth Barbeque

Truth Barbeque in Houston has become one of the most well-known barbecue joints in Texas. Focusing on high-quality, slow-smoked meats, Truth has built a strong following thanks to its consistent flavor and tender cuts. The restaurant is praised for its perfectly cooked brisket and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. Truth’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional smoking methods has earned it numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the best barbecue places in Houston. Truth Barbeque is a must-try for anyone seeking authentic, flavorful Texas barbecue.

#2 CorkScrew BBQ

CorkScrew BBQ in Spring is widely recognized as one of the top barbecue joints in Texas for good reason. Known for its rich smoke flavor and precise attention to detail, this spot delivers consistently well-cooked meats that draw long lines daily. Brisket is tender with a perfect bark, and every item reflects a strong commitment to the craft. What sets CorkScrew apart is how well it balances quality and simplicity—no shortcuts, just solid barbecue done right. The loyal customer base and strong word-of-mouth are proof of its standing among the best. It’s a must-visit for anyone serious about Texas barbecue.

#1 Interstellar BBQ

Interstellar BBQ in Austin has quickly risen to fame for its unique and bold take on traditional Texas barbecue. Known for its expertly smoked meats and creative menu options, Interstellar has built a loyal following thanks to its high-quality offerings. This spot stands out with its focus on flavor, offering a wide variety of meats, each cooked to perfection. The relaxed, fun atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy barbecue with friends or family. Whether you’re a local or visiting Austin, Interstellar BBQ delivers a memorable and satisfying barbecue experience.

Smoked Traditions: What Makes Texas BBQ Stand Out

Texas BBQ is rooted in slow smoking, with a strong focus on beef, especially brisket. In Central Texas, BBQ joints often season brisket with just salt and pepper and smoke it over oak wood. These places usually don’t serve sauce, letting the meat’s flavor stand on its own. East Texas BBQ is more saucy, often featuring chopped or pulled beef and pork that’s cooked until it falls apart. South Texas has barbacoa, influenced by Mexican traditions, where meat (traditionally beef cheek) is slow-cooked in underground pits. In West Texas, BBQ is grilled over direct heat using mesquite wood, a method sometimes called cowboy-style.

German and Czech immigrants helped shape the sausage-making traditions in Texas, especially in towns like Lockhart and Elgin. Texas has more BBQ joints than any other state, and some of the most iconic ones still use pits that are over 50 years old.

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FAQs About Texas BBQ

What should I expect when visiting a famous Texas BBQ joint?

Expect to wait in line, especially at popular spots. Most places serve meat by the pound, and seating is often first-come, first-served.

Do Texas BBQ joints serve sides?

Yes, common sides include potato salad, beans, coleslaw, pickles, and white bread. Some spots also offer mac and cheese or jalapeño cornbread.

Can I get BBQ for breakfast in Texas?

Yes. Some places open early and serve breakfast tacos with smoked brisket, sausage, or chopped beef.

Is cash still common at Texas BBQ places?

While most now accept cards, a few traditional spots still prefer or only take cash. It’s a good idea to check ahead before you go.

How is Texas BBQ different from other states?

Texas BBQ centers around beef, dry rubs, and long smoking times. Other states like North Carolina focus more on pork and use vinegar-based sauces.