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Austin is known for its fantastic live music, energetic neighbourhoods, and, of course, some of the greatest BBQ in the country. If you’re a fan of smoked meats, you should really explore the places Austin has to offer. Austin's BBQ culture is diverse, mouthwatering and ultimately unforgettable. The options range from classic Texas-style beef brisket to the inventive new versions of barbecue. Check out our list of the best bbq places in Austin in 2024 below.

1. Franklin Barbecue

Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702 Hours: Tue-Sun, 11:00 AM until sold out

Franklin Barbecue is one of the most famous BBQ restaurants in Austin, if not the entire country. It was established by Aaron Franklin in 2009 and has grown to become a citywide symbol for real barbecue. People begin to queue outside far in advance of opening hours, simply to sample their famous briskets. But it’s no doubt, as they strike the perfect mix between softness and smoke. The menu is straightforward but delicious with traditional offerings like pulled pig ribs, sausages and brisket. The beef brisket is unquestionably the star of the show. But don't overlook the turkey or homemade sausages either—they're fingerlicious. Although waiting may take long, it is absolutely worth it.

2. La Barbecue

Address: 2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702 Hours: Wed-Sun, 11:00 AM until sold out

Another heavyweight on the stage of Austin’s BBQ scene is LeAnn Mueller and Ali Clem’s La Barbecue. Situated to the east part of downtown, it is a very hot place. It boasts of an awesome Central Texas-style meat smoking procedure applied to barbecue flavours. The deep rich bark-encrusted flavor makes its brisket compare favorably with Franklins’. Try their beef ribs – they are really a must – huge, soft and very flavorful. La Barbecue in Austin also offers some creative sides, like chipotle coleslaw and jalapeño cheese sausage, which complement the smoky meats perfectly. Similar to Franklin’s place, La BBQ Austin shuts its doors quickly so it is better to be among first visitors.

3. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Address: 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Terry Black’s Barbecue gives a taste of true Texas best BBQ with a pinch of family history in it. Run by twin brothers Mark and Michael Black, Terry Black’s is an extension of the Black family’s Lockhart BBQ tradition. Local residents and tourists alike have come to love this Austin’s BBQ place in no time. The brisket at Terry Black’s is tender and flavored with fat that has rendered perfectly adding richness to it. Their pork ribs and sausage are also highly recommended. What sets Terry Black’s apart is the variety of sides available. The servers will bring them to you once you make your choice from their long list of these goodies. Our choice is creamy mac and cheese, green beans or potato salad. The place feels homely due to the large eating room space where visitors can observe chefs on duty.

4. Micklethwait Craft Meats

Address: 1309 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702 Hours: Tue-Sun, 11:00 AM until sold out

Micklethwait Craft Meats has become a well-known truck with BBQ in Austin. This trailer located off Rosewood Avenue presents traditional BBQ with craftsmanship being its main focus as well as using high quality ingredients, especially when cooking their dishes. Micklethwait’s brisket is an excellent choice, but what makes Micklethwait different from other barbecue joints are their innovative sausages such as lamb chorizo and duck or cherry varieties. Everything on your plate is freshly made — the bread, pickles and they even make moon pies. Among other things, Micklethwait has a variety of amazing sidedishes, including lemon poppy seed coleslaw and jalapeno cheese grits. They are described as out of this world. This BBQ eatery is also known for its relaxed environment and creative menu, which no doubt will attract fans of barbecued meat.

5. Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew

Address: 6610 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78757 Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew has good barbecue in a good atmosphere. Found in the north of Austin city, this place is family-friendly and relaxed where you can have smoked meat at its best. The beef brisket at Stiles Switch is amazing as it tastes smoky with a bite that melts in your mouth. You should also try the beef ribs which are spicy and very large. Among other things in their menu are craft beers that they produce locally, making it a great spot to get a meal while having fun with friends or relatives. At Stiles Switch, don't forget to order sides like corn casserole and smoked macaroni cheese for varieties less common. Whether you’re staying in Austin or having a tour in Texas state, getting to this joint is worth it. As it will give you an experience of what traditional barbeques taste like.

6. Leroy and Lewis Barbecue

Address: 121 Pickle Rd, Austin, TX 78704 Hours: Wed-Sun, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Leroy and Lewis Barbecue tries to redefine traditional Texas best BBQ by taking a modern approach. This food truck, located at Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden, serves up creative smoked meats from locally sourced sustainable ingredients. It’s not just about doing brisket or pork ribs; instead Leroy and Lewis opts for some unknown cuts such as the ones done with barbacoa style beef tongue and smoked beef cheeks. They also feature innovative recipes on their seasonal menus including cauliflower burnt ends or smoked beets amongst other items. If you're looking for something different than your typical Texan fare then Leroy and Lewis Barbecue – is your choice. With richly flavored smoke-infused meat interwoven with strange Tex-Mex tastes it is a dining experience that you’re unlikely to forget.

7. Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ

Address: 11500 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748 Hours: Tue-Sun, 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM

Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ is a place where traditional barbeque meets Texas-Mexican flavors. This truck located in South Austin has become famous for its smoked meats with a Mexican twist. Here the star of the show are their brisket tacos made with tender slow cooked meat and topped with fresh salsa, guacamole and homemade flour tortillas. You can also have pulled pork, which is excellent, or smoked carnitas if you prefer them served as either tacos or platter. For those looking for something different from the usual Southern fare served at most joints in Texas — Valentina’s should be a top choice. This food joint combines smoky rich meat choices mixed with uncommon Tex Mex flavors that result in an extraordinary meal.

8. Interstellar BBQ

Address: 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N, Austin, TX 78750 Hours: Wed-Sun, 11:00 AM until sold out

Although it’s one of the relatively new Austin’s BBQ places, this particular joint has quickly become well known due to its quality pork roasts. Situated in the North Austin neighborhood, the restaurant prides itself on using finest ingredients and paying attention even to small details. The slow-smoked beef brisket is amazing here plus it has got deep smoky flavor together with good bark on it. For those who prefer pork ribs, we recommend ordering theirs as they come glazed slightly sweetly. All natural taste of the meat shines through, making them stand out from other ‘cue places in town. You will also find some interesting sides like smoked scalloped potatoes or Mexican street corn. Interstellar BBQ is definitely the place to go if you want some really good barbeque.

9. Distant Relatives

Address: 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744 Hours: Thu-Sun, 11:00 AM until sold out

Distant Relatives is a mobile eatery with an unusual mix of Texas best BBQ and African influences. Located at Meanwhile Brewing Co., this exciting place adds something special to the Austin BBQ scene. The barbecue at Distant Relatives is amazing, especially the pulled pork and smoked chicken. What sets them apart, however, are their sauces and sides that draw from African cuisine. The combination of mustard sauce with a pinch of spice goes well with the smoke coming from meats while black-eyed pea salad as well as spiced corn pudding add depth and complexity to the meal. Distant Relatives is not just a barbeque place; it’s a gastronomical experience that celebrates the rich heritage and diverse cultural influences which make Texas BBQ so cherished.

10. The Original Black’s BBQ

Address: 3110 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705 Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM

The Original Black’s BBQ in Austin is an outpost of the famous Black’s BBQ from Lockhart, Texas. Since 1932, Black’s has been one of the oldest names in Texas barbecue and one of its best-known ones. This venue, which lies north of the University of Texas campus, brings quality and tradition to this great city. The brisket at Black’s is a real Texan classic which is smoked slowly for hours until it reaches perfection. A must-try are also beef ribs renowned for their flavor richness along with tenderness in texture. Besides, there are other complementing foods such as creamed corns made from scratch in Black’s together with pinto beans or coleslaws. Thus, if you want to experience genuine central Texas barbecue, then look no further than The Original Black’s BBQ. Whether you have always wanted to visit or just became fond recently you will love the dedication to quality and tradition that have made Black’s a BBQ Austin TX legend.

All in all, Austin’s BBQ scene is as diverse as it is delicious. From traditional places like Franklin Barbecue or Terry Black’s to new wave spots like Leroy and Lewis and Distant Relatives, those who adore barbeques can find everything in Austin. These ten spots should definitely be on your list whether you’re craving traditional smoked brisket or something a little different. So gather some friends, visit as many of these great barbecue joints as possible, and get ready to enjoy the tastiest Austin’s bbq places.

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