Nobody does barbecues like Texas does it. And barbecue in Austin is always a hot topic, especially when it comes to brisket. Where to get it, what to get, and who has the best in town? We asked Austin.com contributor Exploring Amanda to share some of her top brisket recommendations in Austin.
Here are the best places to get brisket in Austin!
Valentinas
They WILL sell out of brisket so trust me when I say you should get there early. Don’t forget to order chips and guac! It’s some of the freshest guacamole in my opinion, simply because they use so few ingredients. Pro tip – they also sell delicious breakfast tacos! Something else to note, they are closed Monday and Tuesday so you definitely need to be aware of that. There’s also a rumor floating around that they are moving to a new location in Buda. Anyone have confirmation on this?
La BBQ
La BBQ has a new location as well and is also closed on Monday and Tuesdays. In order to beat the line, I recommend ordering to-go. However, if you really want the whole experience you should check out their new location on East Cesar Chavez. They use smoked veggies with their shells and cheese to give it a little Austin flavor. You must try it!
Terry Blacks
Expect a line here if you plan on going in the evenings or weekends! The sides, desserts, and, of course, the meats are all prepared fresh daily and if you’re lucky you can even get a tour of the smokehouse on site. The smells alone will drive you crazy while you wait in line. In true Austin fashion, on weekends they serve drinks while you wait in line. Now that’s some good southern hospitality, y’all!
Franklins
No matter what you say, I can’t be convinced that the BBQ at Franklins isn’t worth the wait. Because it is! I’ll wait all day long for that fall off the bone beef rib and perfectly smoked brisket. Not to mention they also serve drinks in line, so at least you’ll be entertained. They are also closed on Monday and Tuesdays, opening at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. If you want to make sure you actually get some food, I recommend getting in line at around 7 a.m.! During the 2020 pandemic outbreak, they did start implementing curbside pick up (which is thankfully still in place if you don’t want to spend all morning in line).
Slab BBQ
Slab offers a different take on BBQ here in Austin and since they have a few locations, it’s convenient to wherever you are. I like to call it Memphis, Carolina, Alabama meets Texas BBQ. Try a sandwich! I recommend the ChickeN.W.A Be sure to ask for the off menu mac and cheese brisket (you’re welcome). They are now a cashless restaurant so plan accordingly.
Looking for more from Exploring Amanda? Head over to Amanda’s Instagram and TikTok where you’ll find travel tips, hot spots, un-filtered advice, one-of-a-kind motivational messages, and more!
Featured photo via La BBQs Instagram
