Best BBQ in Austin

Come hungry, as a Texas-style barbecue means generous helpings on big plates. Patience is required because long lines, called barbe-queues by the locals, are common at several top joints that serve until they're sold out.

Franklin Barbecue

When planning your Austin itinerary, schedule a food experience at Franklin Barbecue—a local spot Bon Appetit magazine has called the best in the country. Be sure to bring your appetite and your patience, you may have to wait up to three hours to enjoy the eats at this lunch-only spot. The wildly popular BYOB restaurant usually sells out daily around 2 p.m., so go early for the tender and flavorful brisket and famed espresso sauce that lives up to the hype. If you're especially hungry, order the Tipsy Texan, a sandwich weighing in at about a pound stuffed with brisket, sausage, onions, pickles and coleslaw.

La Barbecue

Fall off the bone brisket and ribs beckon meat lovers to wait in line for hours at La Barbecue where pit master John Lewis has perfected the smoker. You'll taste spices generously sprinkled in with the usual salt and pepper. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, a keg of free Lone Star beer keeps you happy while you wait. Get there early, as there are usually people already in line when La Barbecue opens at 11 a.m. This outdoor joint is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew

Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew’s is known throughout the state for having some of the best fatty brisket and beef ribs. Try their noteworthy smoked turkey and chicken with cold local craft beer. Pair your favorite meal with a corn casserole side that's out of this world. On a hot Austin day, cool off inside this popular BBQ joint, located in the 1950s-era historic Violet Crown Shopping Center. You might recognize the barbecue's spacious vintage interior from the 1990s film “Dazed and Confused,” starring native Texan Matthew McConaughey.

Lamberts Downtown Barbecue

If you're staying at a hotel in downtown Austin, head over to Lamberts Downtown Barbecue. This sit-down restaurant elevates the barbecue experience with table service. Enjoy your meal in comfort in the carefully restored 19th-century former general store. A gas-fired oak smoker produces fancy brisket rubbed with brown sugar and coffee, as well as pork ribs prepped with fennel, coriander and a maple glaze. For the truly unusual, you might find wild boar or smoked rainbow trout on the menu, although the selection changes daily. After dinner is done, you can head upstairs for nightly live music in the bar and lounge. A wine list, decadent desserts and after-dinner drinks also make Lamberts ideal for a romantic night out.