Barbecue is a way of life in Austin, a long-standing legacy of Texas culture that has taken centre stage across the city. While the flavours and techniques reflect the traditio. On top of that, Austin is filled with an array of BBQ spots, but the choice can often be slightly overwhelming, especially if you are new to the city. We have put together a few of our top BBQ joints in the city for the ultimate carnivorous connoisseur.
The nationally recognised BBQ scene is proving such a success that the city has found themselves to be the home of award winning Pitmaster Aaron Franklin, owner of Franklin BBQ. On top of that, Austin is filled with an array of BBQ spots, but the choice can often be slightly overwhelming, especially if you are new to the city. Which is why we have put together a few of our top BBQ joints in the city for the ultimate carnivorous connoisseur.
Franklins BBQ
Can you even start a conversation about the Austin BBQ scene without mentioning the incredible (and don’t forget award-winning) Franklins BBQ?! Since opening up their first trailer in 2009, Aaron and Stacy Franklin have only grown from winning then James Beard award to writing a New York Times best selling cookbook. With queue’s starting from 7am it is no surprise that Franklins BBQ is a favourite throughout the city. Their world-famous fatty mouthwatering brisket is a serious show stopper in our eyes. The caramelized crust gets gets us every time.

LA Barbecue
Let’s hear it for the girls with one of the original BBQ food trucks in Austin. Tracing her routes back all the way to 1949, when her grandfather opened the Taylor, TX institution, Louie Mueller Barbecue, LeAnn Mueller has got BBQ in her blood. LA Barbecue now hold a full time residency within Quickie Pickie, the perfect spot for catching the sun and hanging out with friends - if you’re still up for the good vibes after the infamous meat coma we almost always leave with.

Salt Lick BBQ
Providing one of the ultimate BBQ experiences, Salt Lick's is the go-to BBQ hotspot for getting your fix. This is especially a great spot for any newcomers to Austin to really see the Pitmasters at work. Whilst being immediately greeted by the giant pit, piled high with all sorts of meat, you know you’re going to be there for the long run. Salt Lick BBQ also just happens to be BYOB and a great little spot for enjoying live music on the patio.

Micklethwait Craft Meats BBQ
Sitting outside at one of Micklethwait’s picnic tables surrounded by your friends is truly a reminder of those backyard traditions back home when everyone would come round, you’d light the BBQ and just have a big old garden party. We know you’re probably sold already, but as if the meat at Micklethwait wasn’t enough (seriously… it is insane), the sides are really something that are out of this world. From lemon poppy slaw to jalapeno cheese grits, you’ll seriously be going all day trying to get as much as you can possible have.
