19 Top-Rated BBQ Restaurants In Texas
Texas takes its barbecue seriously, and you’ll find some of the best smoked meats in the entire country right here.
From brisket that melts in your mouth to ribs with the perfect bark, each restaurant brings its own special touch to the table.
I’m excited to share with you the top spots where pitmasters work their magic every single day.
1. Burnt Bean Co. – Seguin
Earning the top spot on Texas Monthly’s 2025 list means something special happens here every day.
The address is 1801 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155, and you’ll want to arrive early because the lines get long fast.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail in every bite of meat that comes off the smoker.
The brisket has become legendary among barbecue fans who drive from all over the state just to taste it.
You’ll notice the perfect smoke ring and tender texture that only comes from hours of careful cooking.
I recommend trying their house-made sausage alongside the brisket for a complete experience.
The sides are made fresh daily and complement the smoky flavors perfectly.
2. LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue – Austin
Creative approaches to traditional smoking techniques make this Austin favorite stand out from the crowd.
Located at 121 Pickle Rd, Austin, TX 78704, this spot brings innovation to every plate they serve.
The pitmasters here aren’t afraid to experiment with different cuts and flavor combinations that you won’t find anywhere else.
Their beef cheeks have earned a devoted following, and the rotating specials keep regulars coming back to see what’s new.
Each visit offers something different, making it impossible to get bored with the menu.
I love how they balance respect for tradition with bold new ideas that push barbecue forward.
The outdoor seating lets you enjoy your meal in the Texas sunshine while soaking up the smoky aromas.
3. Goldee’s Barbecue – Fort Worth
Consistency and quality have propelled this Fort Worth establishment into the upper ranks of Texas barbecue.
You’ll find them at 4645 Dick Price Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76140, where the parking lot fills up before they even open.
Every meat they serve meets incredibly high standards, from the perfectly seasoned turkey to the fall-off-the-bone ribs.
The team here understands that great barbecue requires patience, and they never rush the smoking process.
You can taste the difference in every single bite, whether you order a pound or just a few slices.
I suggest getting there when they open because popular items sell out quickly on busy days.
Their banana pudding makes the perfect sweet ending to a savory feast.
4. Redbird BBQ – Port Neches
Southeast Texas finally has a barbecue destination that rivals anything you’ll find in the big cities.
The address is 2401 Nall St, Port Neches, TX 77651, and locals will tell you it’s worth the drive no matter where you’re coming from.
What makes this place special is the combination of old-school techniques with fresh, quality ingredients sourced locally.
The brisket develops a crust that crackles when you bite into it, while the inside stays moist and flavorful.
They also smoke their meats low and slow, never cutting corners to speed up the process.
I appreciate how they’ve brought top-tier barbecue to an area that didn’t have many options before.
The friendly staff makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular.
5. GW’s BBQ – San Juan
South Texas barbecue gets a spotlight at this hidden gem that’s been winning awards left and right.
Located at 709 N Nebraska Ave, San Juan, TX 78589, this family-run operation serves up flavors you won’t forget.
The mesquite wood they use for smoking gives the meat a distinctive taste that’s different from Central Texas styles.
Their pork ribs have a sweet and savory glaze that keeps customers ordering plate after plate.
You’ll also find unique sides that reflect the region’s cultural influences, adding extra character to every meal.
I recommend trying their homemade tortillas alongside the barbecue for a true South Texas experience.
The portions are generous, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home with you.
6. InterStellar BBQ – Austin
Out-of-this-world flavors earned this Austin spot its cosmic name and its stellar reputation.
You’ll find them at 1235 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702, where the lines stretch down the block on weekends.
The pitmasters here have mastered the art of the perfect bark on their brisket, creating a caramelized exterior that seals in all the juices.
Their house-made pickles and onions provide the perfect tangy contrast to the rich, smoky meats.
Each meat is cooked to exact specifications, ensuring that every customer gets the same excellent quality.
I love their commitment to using sustainable practices and supporting local farmers whenever possible.
The casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy your meal without any pretension or fuss.
7. Dayne’s Craft Barbecue – Aledo
Small-town charm meets big-time flavor at this Parker County favorite that’s making waves across the state.
The address is 101 FM 1187, Aledo, TX 76008, and it’s become a must-stop for anyone traveling through the area.
Attention to craft shows in every aspect of their operation, from the wood selection to the final presentation.
The beef ribs here are massive and packed with flavor, requiring both hands and plenty of napkins.
They also offer a rotation of specials that showcase different smoking techniques and seasoning profiles throughout the week.
I think the family-friendly environment makes it a great choice for bringing kids along for a barbecue adventure.
The outdoor space provides plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the Texas weather.
8. LaVaca BBQ – Port Lavaca
Coastal Texas barbecue takes center stage at this Gulf Coast establishment that’s earned statewide recognition.
Located at 202 E Main St, Port Lavaca, TX 77979, this spot combines seaside atmosphere with serious smoking skills.
Fresh Gulf seafood sometimes makes appearances on the menu alongside traditional smoked meats, creating unique fusion options.
Their brisket maintains the classic Texas style while the sides often feature local ingredients from nearby farms.
The salt air and laid-back vibe add something special to the overall dining experience that you can’t replicate inland.
I recommend pairing your barbecue with one of their cold drinks while watching the sunset from their outdoor seating.
The location makes it perfect for a beach trip that includes world-class smoked meats.
9. Evie Mae’s BBQ
West Texas barbecue excellence thrives at this Lubbock-area spot that’s been drawing crowds for years.
The address is 3519 Keuka St, Wolfforth, TX 79382, and it’s worth the trip even if you’re coming from far away.
The wide-open spaces of West Texas influence everything here, from the generous portions to the welcoming hospitality.
Their beef ribs are enormous and cooked to perfection, with meat that pulls away from the bone effortlessly.
The dry rub they use creates a flavorful crust that doesn’t need any sauce, though they offer excellent options if you want them.
I love how they’ve put Wolfforth on the map as a barbecue destination that rivals anything in bigger cities.
The relaxed pace lets you take your time and truly savor every bite.
10. CorkScrew BBQ – Spring
Ranked number two on Yelp’s national list, this Houston-area powerhouse has earned every bit of praise it receives.
Located at 26608 Keith St, Spring, TX 77373, they’ve built a reputation that extends far beyond Texas borders.
The competition background of the pitmasters shows in the precision and consistency of every plate they serve.
Their brisket has won numerous awards, and one bite will tell you exactly why judges keep recognizing their work.
They also excel at pork ribs, sausage, and sides that complement rather than compete with the star attractions.
I suggest arriving early because they often sell out of popular items before closing time.
The dedication to quality over quantity means they’d rather run out than serve anything less than perfect.
11. Tyler’s Barbecue – Amarillo
Panhandle pride runs deep at this Amarillo institution that’s been serving exceptional barbecue for years.
You’ll find them at 2014 Paramount Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79109, where locals and travelers alike gather for outstanding smoked meats.
The high plains climate creates unique conditions for smoking meat, and the team here has mastered working with it.
Their turkey breast stays incredibly moist despite hours in the smoker, defying the usual challenges of cooking this lean meat.
The sauce selection ranges from traditional to spicy, giving you plenty of options to customize your meal.
I think their commitment to maintaining quality while serving a high volume of customers is truly impressive.
The casual dining room feels comfortable whether you’re in work boots or headed to a business meeting.
12. Miller’s Smokehouse – Belton
Central Texas tradition meets modern excellence at this Bell County favorite that’s climbing the ranks.
The address is 101 N Main St, Belton, TX 76513, and the historic downtown location adds charm to the experience.
Family recipes passed down through generations form the foundation of their smoking techniques and seasoning blends.
Their sausage is made in-house using traditional methods that create the perfect snap when you bite into it.
The sides taste like something from a Sunday family dinner, with recipes that have been perfected over decades.
I appreciate how they honor the past while still innovating and improving their craft with each passing year.
The friendly service makes you feel like part of the family, even on your first visit.
13. Tender Smokehouse – Celina
North Texas has found its barbecue champion in this rapidly growing town just north of Dallas.
Located at 217 W Walnut St, Celina, TX 75009, they’ve quickly become a destination worth the drive from anywhere in the metro area.
The name says it all, with meats that practically dissolve on your tongue after hours of careful smoking.
Their pulled pork has a perfect balance of smoke and seasoning, working beautifully on its own or piled high on a sandwich.
The growth of Celina has brought more customers, but the quality has never wavered despite increased demand.
I recommend trying their loaded baked potato topped with your choice of meat for a hearty, satisfying meal.
The modern space feels clean and welcoming while still maintaining that authentic barbecue joint atmosphere.
14. Franklin Barbecue – Austin
Perhaps the most famous barbecue restaurant in Texas, this Austin legend has people waiting in line for hours every single day.
You’ll find them at 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, where the line starts forming before dawn on most mornings.
The brisket here set a new standard for what Texas barbecue could be, inspiring countless other pitmasters across the state.
Owner Aaron Franklin wrote the book on brisket literally and his techniques have influenced an entire generation of smokers.
The wait is long, but fans insist that first bite makes every minute worthwhile.
I suggest bringing chairs, snacks, and good company to make the wait more enjoyable and pass the time.
The camaraderie in line has become part of the experience, with strangers becoming friends over their shared love of barbecue.
15. Snow’s BBQ – Lexington
Saturday mornings mean barbecue magic in this tiny town between Austin and Houston.
The address is 516 Main St, Lexington, TX 78947, and they’re only open one day a week, making each visit feel special.
Miss Tootsie, the legendary pitmaster, has been featured in national media and earned praise from barbecue experts worldwide.
The brisket and pork steaks draw crowds who set alarms early to make the drive and get there when they open.
Limited hours mean limited quantities, so arriving late often means missing out on the best cuts.
I love the community atmosphere where everyone gathers for this weekly tradition that’s been going strong for decades.
The simplicity of the operation just great meat, basic sides, and friendly service keeps the focus exactly where it should be.
16. Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor
History hangs in the smoky air at this Taylor institution that’s been serving barbecue since 1949.
Located at 206 W 2nd St, Taylor, TX 76574, the building itself has become as famous as the meat they serve.
The walls are blackened from decades of smoke, creating an atmosphere you simply cannot replicate in a newer establishment.
Their beef ribs are massive, requiring serious appetite and dedication to finish one on your own.
Four generations of the Mueller family have kept the fires burning and the traditions alive through changing times.
I think experiencing this place is like stepping back in time to when barbecue was simpler but no less delicious.
The no-frills approach lets the quality of the smoking speak for itself without any modern distractions.
17. Cattleack Barbeque – Dallas
Dallas barbecue reached new heights when this spot opened and started serving meats that rival anything in the state.
You’ll find them at 13628 Gamma Rd, Dallas, TX 75244, where the smell of smoking meat greets you from the parking lot.
The Thursday through Sunday schedule means they’re constantly preparing fresh meats without trying to stretch things across a full week.
Their pork ribs have a bark that crunches satisfyingly before revealing tender, juicy meat underneath.
The sides are made from scratch daily, with recipes that change seasonally to take advantage of fresh ingredients.
I appreciate how they’ve brought Central Texas-style barbecue to North Texas without compromising on quality or authenticity.
The industrial location might seem odd at first, but the food makes you forget all about the surroundings.
18. Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue
Unexpected combinations create magic at this unique spot that pairs artisan chocolate with traditional Texas barbecue.
The address is 306 W Main St, Tomball, TX 77375, and the concept might sound strange until you taste how perfectly it works.
Barbecue and chocolate might seem like an odd pairing, but the rich, complex flavors complement each other beautifully.
Their smoked meats follow traditional Texas methods, while the chocolate side of the business creates unique desserts and treats.
The combination has earned them a following among people who appreciate both sweet and savory done to perfection.
I suggest trying their chocolate bourbon pecan pie after a plate of brisket for a truly memorable meal.
The creativity and willingness to break rules while respecting traditions makes this place stand out from typical barbecue joints.
19. Marshall’s Bodacious BBQ
Consistency across multiple locations has made this chain a reliable choice for quality barbecue throughout Texas.
With restaurants in Longview, Marshall, and other East Texas cities, they’ve proven that expansion doesn’t have to mean sacrificing standards.
Each location maintains the same commitment to slow-smoked meats and made-from-scratch sides that built their reputation.
The chopped beef sandwich has become their signature item, piled high with tender meat and served on a fresh bun.
Their catering services have made them a go-to choice for events, parties, and gatherings across the region.
I think their success shows that good barbecue can scale up while keeping quality high if you stick to your principles.
The family-friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices make them accessible to everyone who loves great smoked meat.
