Welcome, or welcome back to the Austin Pedal Party Blog! We are (if not already) about to be your new favorite spot to find out all you ever needed to know about visiting our favorite city in Texas. Austin is one of those mixed-up kind of places, the sort of place where you can find a little of everything you seek, maybe a lot if you’re lucky. Today, you are probably here because you need to figure out how to get your grub on with some classic Texas barbecue. No matter what Google search brought you here to the blog, we sure are glad that you’ve arrived. Go ahead and add the blog page to your favorites, you will want easy access. For now, take a few minutes to learn about a handful of the best barbecue spots in all of Austin, we even mention a Vegan option. While this list may not feature every single BBQ joint, this is a great place to start checking those fall-apart briskets and succulent ribs off of your to-do list. Texas absolutely is bigger and because of that, there’s always more room for another restaurant. We just can’t say no to a good plate and some leftovers.
Terry Black’s BBQ
4.7 ★
Run by Terry Black’s very own twin sons, this family owned, and operated barbecue joint can be found on Barton Springs road and is open every day! From 10:30 am through 9:30 pm, you can stop by for jalapeño cheese sausage, turkey sandwiches and much more. Passed down for generations, Terry Black’s menu is classic, tasty and filling. Three locations throughout all of Texas must be doing something right. Click on their “How To Cut a Brisket” link for an interesting 60 second tutorial. We do not accept any responsibility for anyone who ends up cutting their brisket in a way that does not exactly match the video. Even here at Austin Pedal Party, there are some things that we like to leave to the professionals.
InterStellar BBQ
4.7 ★
Known for being more than an “out of this world” name, their menu features nothing less than astronomical barbecue options and is tucked away right on Ranch Road. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am until they run out, you might want to plan ahead before making the trip to InterStellar. Lucky for you, you won’t have to take a spaceship to enjoy their peach tea glazed pork belly or gouda mac n cheese. Flavortown might have a new location to consider, population YOU at InterStellar BBQ.
Smokin’ Beauty
4.6 ★
These guys really cracked the code! By mixing the two distinct flavors of some of our favorite styles of food, both Vietnamese and BBQ, Smokin Beauty is an off the beaten path gem that is worth seeking. You wouldn’t believe some of the combinations that they come up with! Whether it’s tasting them put Pho broth in the queso or serving up tender smoked BBQ brisket via Bahn-mi you really can’t go wrong on this menu. Try the Spicy pork belly Bahn-mi or the smokin’ fries (to share, its loaded with bbq brisket!) and you will soon learn how delicious this combination of Vietnamese and barbeque can be. They feature a well-crafted drink menu and several times a week have live musical acts to accompany your dining experience. Smokin’ beauty is a culinary adventure that blurs the lines between two types of cuisine and is sure to leave a lasting impression. Also, they get some big points for having best bahn-mi bread in town! For a particularly exciting evening make sure to catch them on Fridays for their weekly swing music jam. They showcase some excellent local musicians so the best swing dancers in town all pack the house.
Black’s BBQ
4.5 ★
True fans will remember when Black’s BBQ put down roots in their Lockhart location, also known as the Smoked Meat Capital of Texas. While both menus don’t vary, they don’t have to. Come out any day to Guadalupe street and find out why the original 1932 slow smoking method has not needed to change over all these years. Spare ribs, barbecue chicken, and more is waiting for you at Black’s BBQ. Even if Lockhart isn’t on your list of places to consider (this time) you won’t have to miss out on a moment of flavor when you come into this restaurant.
Sam’s BBQ
4.3 ★
12th street in east Austin is one of those places that time left alone, keeping the old-school vibes that locals and tourists both seem to love. Classic, like their menu, Sam’s BBQ is family owned and has been in operation since the 50s. Texas is always good to the restaurants that deserve it, and Sam’s is one of them. We love a menu that is easily navigated, but still entirely fulfilling. Simple and straight to the point, Sam’s BBQ is where you can’t go wrong.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
4.7 ★
Remembering the name of this place won’t seem too hard after one trip to their Rosewood Ave location. Once you recognize the small trailer, there’s no missing this setup. Stand out sides paired up with all the classics you want, Micklethwait Craft Meats is open Thursday through Sunday, ready to aid in your perfect weekend getaway. Listed on the Southern Living “The South’s Top 50 BBQ Joints” compilation, we probably don’t even have to mention those from scratch sides menu to get you in for a visit. But hey, don’t forget that they make all their sides from scratch every day.
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Brown’s Bar-B-Que
4.8 ★
Known mostly for their way too affordable prices, Brown’s Bar-Be-Que is the best deal you will find in Austin. Keep an eye out for the red trailer parked next to Corner Bar on south Lamar boulevard and know you have made a great choice. Ask about their home made potato salad or vinegar coleslaw to go with your mouth watering brisket or award winning ribs. Brown’s is the kind of location where you will only stop coming back every single day to save the waistband in your pants. For those who don’t mind letting the trusty old eating pants get altered, Brown’s Bar-B-Que has something for you on the menu. Also, on Sundays by spending $15 at corner bar you get a FREE meal voucher for browns BBQ, so basically two drinks and a BBQ meal for $15, quite a serious deal!
Stiles Switch
4.6 ★
Violet Crown shopping center is where you’ll find Stiles Switch, the BBQ joint that feels like home from the moment you walk inside. From your Texas Frito Pie appetizer to your plate of St. Louis ribs, your entire experience at Stiles Switch will leave you waiting to come back and to try more! Save some room (if you can) to see why “Shane’s Favorite Chocolate Cake” is so great on any day except Monday when they are closed. Leave all the flash and glam for another venue, Stiles Switch keeps their focus on what matters, providing a solid plate for every patron. Here in Austin, the proof is in the Frito Pie and Stiles Switch has no reason to lie about how awesome their selection is.
Moreno BBQ
4.8 ★
One great indicator of what places serve the highest quality bbq must be the timing. If their list of hours mentions that they will serve until the food runs out, you can be sure of a solid brisket sandwich. Check their social media to find out what the daily specials are/if they are already out of everything by the time you would arrive. You haven’t lived truly until you have taken a whack at the grilled cheese and brisket sandwich. Find Moreno BBQ in the Cherry Creek Plaza and come in sometime.
Sassy’s Vegetarian Soul FOOD
4.7 ★
Parked on Fruth street, Sassy’s is the soul food food truck right out of all your greatest plant-based dreams. Chicon N Waffles and a Pokechop Sandwich are two of many vegetarian and vegan comfort food plates. Who says you have to give up on the joys of some good, old fashioned barbecue just because you’ve stopped eating meat? Let us know how the Cajun mac n cheese turns out!
Big O’s Pit BBQ
3.9 ★
Chopped beef doesn’t get any better than Big O’s, the locally owned pit that hasn’t changed much since initially opening in the seventies. Not that we would ever want it to. Even if all you are wanting is a taste of the iconic brown bag special, you aren’t going to leave their Burnet road location feeling anything but content. According to their website, you can even BYOB if you want! That sounds like one heck of a great deal to us!
Iron Works Barbecue
4.4 ★
Apparently Jay Leno himself has taken to raving about his meals at Iron Works Barbecue, and we think that makes this restaurant more than worth a mention. Direct yourself to Red River street just above the Rainey street district any day except Sunday, as the lord knows that truly heavenly barbecue should be allowed a day of rest. Once you have fallen in love with their spices and sauces, you can even order your own jars from their online store. There’s no telling what dish you will end up stuck on, but the menu is huge, and they even offer top tier catering.
Charm Korean BBQ
4.2 ★
For a truly interesting treat, if you have not had Korean BBQ (or you have already and need more) then look no further than Charm Korean BBQ located on Howard lane. Try a little of everything on the regular menu, or go full force with an “all you can eat” selection, you can’t go wrong with either option. Even some tofu options are available, giving something for all the picky eaters on this menu. Its quite different than your classic American barbeque options and worth mentioning because Korean BBQ is not only delicious but it makes for a really fun dining experience!
Green Mesquite
4.3 ★
First, second and third time is the charm with one of any three locations here in Austin. Green Mesquite has been known for “smoking the good stuff” since 1988. Large portions, great prices and even greater flavors all combine into daily specials and regular menu items like chili cheese fries. Ask about their BBQ for four deal for an even better savings experience! No matter where you are in Austin, you can find a location close to your activities for the day. We won’t blame you if you end up wanting to only eat at Green Mesquite the entire day. Who says you can’t have barbecue for breakfast, lunch and dinner?
Vic’s Barbecue
4.2 ★
Monday through Saturday, lunch and dinner only, head over to Vic’s Barbecue on Burleson road can’t wait for you to order a combo plate. Standard BBQ menu items are only the first stop when sitting down to make your pick at Vic’s. Not just brisket and ribs, Vic’s also boasts and array of seafood platters. Surf and turf has never filled you up like it will at Vic’s Barbecue so hurry on in and see what all the fuss in south Austin is about.
CONCLUSION
There you have it! If you didn’t know where you wanted to have a plate of barbecue, now your only problem should be choosing from one on this list. Fifteen might seem like a large number when making lists but believe us, this is just the tip of the BBQ iceberg that exists here in Austin. Down here in Texas, we love to eat, and many restaurants are being added to this rapidly growing city every day. We encourage y’all to try all that’s on the list but these are the favorites we have found (so far!). After any amount of time spent eating in Austin, even if it isn’t barbecue, you will understand why we are such foodies around here. Either way, we hope you use the hashtag #AustinPedalParty for your social media posts so we know that you found our article! If there’s any restaurant that you feel should have made it to the list, don’t hesitate to reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram. We are always happy to have feedback from our guests!
Now, for the special treat that we know you have been waiting for. While you are here, marking the blog page as a favorite, don’t forget that we are pushing something amazing. You and up to 13 of your friends! Here at Austin Pedal Party, we have #PedalParty bike tours for all occasions and we would love to show you personally how cool Austin can be. If you haven’t heard of us yet (or just have not put two and two together) just know that we are the providers of your new favorite way to explore the Austin area. With up to 14 seats available and prices that you can’t beat, you will want to bring your whole crew to explore while riding on the safe and Eco-Friendly party bike. There’s no better way to make your way through Austin, just watch the happy people riding by the next time you are downtown. You won’t be able to miss the giant bike with everyone yelling “woo” from up top. For more information, take a moment to click around the website before you leave. Until next time, we hope you are having the time of your life while visiting with us here in our favorite city.