Austin BBQ Restaurant Guide: Top 2025 Picks
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Introduction
Austin, Texas, is famous for many things: live music, food trucks, and, of course, its mouthwatering BBQ. As the capital of the Lone Star State, Austin is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the country, offering everything from melt-in-your-mouth brisket to finger-licking good ribs. The city’s BBQ culture is as rich and diverse as the flavors themselves, with each spot adding its own unique twist on this time-honored tradition. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this Austin BBQ restaurant guide will introduce you to the top BBQ spots for 2025 that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
1. Franklin Barbecue
- Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX
- Menu Highlights:
- Brisket
- Sausage
- Pork Ribs
When it comes to Austin BBQ, Franklin Barbecue is the undisputed king. Known nationwide for its perfectly smoked brisket, Franklin has earned its reputation as one of the top BBQ joints in the world. The brisket here is so tender it practically melts in your mouth, with a smoky flavor that is absolutely irresistible. The sausage is another standout, with a perfect balance of spice and juiciness.
Be prepared to wait in line, as this spot is always packed, but it’s well worth it. The rustic, casual atmosphere adds to the charm, and the aroma of wood-fired meats is enough to get your mouth watering as you wait.
Order via DoorDash to skip the line and enjoy Franklin BBQ from home!
2. Micklethwait Craft Meats
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Address: 1309 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX
- Menu Highlights:
- Brisket
- Smoked Sausage
- Beef Ribs
Micklethwait Craft Meats offers an elevated BBQ experience with top-notch meats and house-made sausages. The brisket is perfectly smoked, with a deep, smoky flavor and just the right amount of fat to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture. For something a little different, try the beef ribs, which are meaty, juicy, and full of flavor. Micklethwait also offers a great selection of sides, including creamy mac and cheese and tangy coleslaw.
The ambiance is relaxed and laid-back, with a nice outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying your meal in the Austin sunshine. Don’t forget to check out their homemade BBQ sauces and seasonings, which you can take home to recreate the magic in your own kitchen.
Stock up on your own BBQ seasonings via Amazon to bring the flavors of Micklethwait to your home cookouts.
3. Salt Lick BBQ
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Address: 18300 Farm to Market 1826, Driftwood, TX (just outside Austin)
- Menu Highlights:
- Brisket
- Ribs
- Turkey
If you’re looking for a BBQ spot that’s a bit more iconic, Salt Lick BBQ is a must-visit. Located in Driftwood, just outside Austin, Salt Lick offers a unique experience with its open-air, wood-fired pit cooking. The brisket is smoky and tender, while the ribs have a beautiful char that adds to the flavor. They even offer smoked turkey, which is a great lighter option for those looking to try something different.
The sprawling outdoor seating area offers a beautiful view of the surrounding Texas Hill Country, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal with family and friends. With a variety of BBQ platters and family-style meals, Salt Lick is perfect for groups and special occasions.
4. La Barbecue
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Address: 2027 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
- Menu Highlights:
- Brisket
- Pulled Pork
- Sausage
For some of the best BBQ in Austin, La Barbecue is a spot that should be on your radar. Known for its tender and flavorful brisket, La Barbecue’s smoked meats are cooked low and slow to perfection. The pulled pork is juicy and smoky, and the sausage is a standout with its perfectly balanced seasoning and juiciness. You can also enjoy their fresh sides like potato salad and jalapeño cornbread, which pair wonderfully with the main dishes.
The casual, laid-back vibe of La Barbecue makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Expect a line, but it moves quickly, and the food is well worth the wait.
Order La Barbecue on DoorDash for convenient delivery to your door!
5. Terry Black’s Barbecue
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Address: 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX
- Menu Highlights:
- Brisket
- Beef Ribs
- Sides (Mac and Cheese, Jalapeño Cornbread)
Terry Black’s Barbecue is a family-run establishment that serves up some of the juiciest and most flavorful BBQ in Austin. The brisket is well-seasoned, tender, and packed with flavor, and the beef ribs are some of the best in the city. Pair these meats with their amazing sides, like creamy mac and cheese and sweet, spicy jalapeño cornbread, and you’ve got yourself a complete BBQ meal.
The modern, spacious location offers indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great choice for a group gathering or a casual lunch. With friendly service and consistently excellent BBQ, Terry Black’s is a top contender for anyone craving delicious, Texas-style BBQ.
Conclusion
Austin’s BBQ scene is truly something to behold, with a variety of joints offering everything from perfectly smoked brisket to flavorful ribs and creative sides. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Texas BBQ or new to the scene, these top picks for 2025 provide a delicious representation of the city’s rich BBQ culture.
If you’re craving BBQ but don’t want to leave home, DoorDash makes it easy to enjoy these delicious meals from the comfort of your own space. Don’t forget to share your BBQ experience on X (formerly Twitter) using #EasyYumFood to show us your feast!
For more food inspiration, check out our Restaurant Picks and City Food Guides to discover more amazing eateries in Austin and beyond.