8 Barbeque Restaurants in Austin That Locals Swear Serve the Best Brisket, Ribs, Sides, and More

So you're looking for barbeque restaurants in Austin TX huh? You probably searched for something like “Austin barbeque restaurants” or “barbeque restaurants Austin” or maybe even “barbeque restaurants that are affordable in Austin” Well don’t worry you came to the right place. You didn’t really think Google would lead you askew or astray did you? 

Of course this is the place you are looking for! If you live in Austin, are just there for an afternoon, or have a friend or loved one who is there. this list will feature some of the best barbeque restaurants in Austin for a lunch or dinner you can find. This list features some older restaurants and some newer restaurants but it features some of the best reviewed restaurants on the internet in Austin. 

There is sure to be something on the list that peaks your interest, or at least peaks your appetite. And whenever you find what it is we provide links to every restaurant's menu so you can decide what you want ahead of time. We’ll even let you know if one of the barbeque restaurants in Austin accepts our quality and convenient digital GiftYa gift cards.

Why Go GiftYa for Barbecue Restaurants in Austin?

As a reminder a GiftYa digital gift card is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. A gift card that functions just like every other gift card. It lets you make purchases at a participating bar, restaurant, or store up to the face value of the gift card. However, unlike traditional gift cards. GiftYa digital gift cards come with a few additional benefits. 

For instance, unlike a traditional gift card, a GiftYa can be sent straight to your phone in seconds. That way you don’t need to deliver a GiftYa in person if you want to give it as a gift. You don’t even have to go to a store in person if you want one for yourself. You can just visit the GiftYa website and pick one up today.

Since GiftYa cards are sent directly to your phone you never have to worry about misplacing them or forgetting to take them with you. In most instances you are going to have your phone with you so in most instances you will have your GiftYa cards right in your pocket. In addition to that, your GiftYa also keeps track of the balance for you. Which is so much nicer than having to try to remember how much was left over on those antiquated plastic gift cards. I mean you can’t write it on them very easily so idk what you’re supposed to do if you don’t use the total value the first time? Just guess the next time you are in town? 

Virtual GiftYa Cards make the perfect gift for loved ones and for anybody who likes to explore Austin or travel. These virtual gift cards can be sent and received within seconds. Usually with a special message inside with well wishes towards a loved one or special friend. The virtual gift cards are as easy to send as an email or a text message and can be purchased for nearly ten thousand different merchants and businesses. You can personalize the gift message, and send it directly to your recipient’s phone, all within seconds. 

GiftYa’ digital format provides not only a speedy delivery but also a convenient way to store and maintain different gift card balances. You don’t need to worry about having that particular gift card for that particular establishment on that particular day, as long as you have your phone, GiftYa cards are with you. Check out the list of top barbeque restaurants in Austin below, including several that accept GiftYa!  

Terry Black’s Barbecue

Famous 4th-Generation Pitmasters Serving up Brisket, Chicken, and All Your Other Favorites

1003 Barton Springs Rd | Bouldin Creek | terryblacksbbq.com

If you’re looking for fan-favorite barbeque restaurants in Austin, your first stop should be Terry Black’s Barbecue. Run by 4th-generation pit-masters, these folks know what they’re doing, so it’s no wonder the restaurant practically has a cult-following. If you arrive and find that you’ll have to sit and wait for a spell, don’t worry -- Terry Black’s has a spacious, casual seating area where you can enjoy a refreshing brew.

Locals love their brisket -- it’s tender, moist, and always, always worth the wait. Pair with one of their delicious housemade sides and round out your meal with some sweet pecan pie, and you’re sure to leave satisfied with your bona fide Texas BBQ meal.

Consider stopping in early -- they have been known to run out of some items as the evening goes on!

“I want to settle this argument for everyone's sake. I came to visit Austin from California and heard wonders from Terrys and Franks BBQ. This place is just a different level. The service was outstanding and the food left me wishing I could live In Austin to eat this every weekend.

Shout out to the best BBQ place there is in Austin and arguably in the WHOLE USA!!!!” - Yelp Review 

Treat yourself or a loved one to Terry Black’s Barbeque in Austin and enjoy one of the best barbeque restaurants you can by grabbing a GiftYa digital gift by following the link!

Franklin Barbeque

Serving Quality Meats and an Authentic Austin BBQ Experience for Over a Decade

900 E 11th St | East Austin | franklinbbq.com

Aaron and Stacy Franklin opened the doors of Franklin Barbeque in 2009, and boy, what a wild ride it has been since! Dedicated to giving visitors the line experience and serving some of the tastiest meats in the Lonestar State -- pulled pork, pork ribs, sausage links, and brisket in both the fatty and lean variety -- it’s no wonder Franklin Barbeque has become a stable in Austin’s bustling BBQ scene.

It might be difficult when you’re staring down a plate piled high with juicy smoked meats, but try to save room for dessert when you stop in. You’ll love Franklin Barbeque’s desserts -- whether you order Bourbon Banana Pie, a Little Banana Pie, or their classic Pecan Pie, you’ll be glad you did!

“Franklin BBQ is the GOAT of all BBQs.Their brisket - pure bliss. That moment when you bite into something and you just can't believe something is that good. The flavor on this I will say was mind-blowing. Look at those smoke rings!!!!” - Yelp Review

Franklin Barbeque is one of the thousands of restaurants that accept digital GiftYa gift cards but it is also among one of the highest rated barbeque restaurants in Austin!

La Barbecue

Pick Up Your Favorite BBQ Items, or Dine In and Enjoy Free Beer While You Wait

2401 E Cesar Chavez St | East Austin | labarbecue.com

Dinner at La Barbecue is all about the experience -- and by that, we mean the hometown, neighborhood barbecue joint experience. Of course La Barbecue is included on this list because the good people of Austin can’t stop talking about their mouthwatering array of meats and sandwiches, but there’s more to the story here than that.

If you’re looking for authentic Austin BBQ in a low-key, laid-back environment, La Barbecue is your spot. The staff at La Barbecue even serve up free beer to patrons waiting in line. Free beer, free refills, and moist, tender brisket? Sounds like a winning combination to us. 

“Favorite restaurant that I tried in Austin? la Barbecue, no doubt. The free beer definitely helped, but the food here was also worthy.” - Yelp Review 

We don’t have a GiftYa for La Barbecue… yet! Check back soon to see if La Barbecue has joined the list of thousands of local and national merchants partnering with GiftYa to bring you a superior gift card experience.

Slab BBQ & Beer

Chill Vibes and Hot Takes on Southern Flavors

9012 Research Blvd | Austin | dopebbq.com

Slab BBQ & Beer isn’t your mom’s classic southern barbeque. Since 2006, the Slab BBQ team has been shaking up the barbeque scene in a food truck, originally named Sugar Shack BBQ. They opened their first brick and mortar location in 2014, and have quickly expanded to serve up sweet, savory sandwiches and slabs of slow-cooked meat in Memphis, the Carolinas, Alabama, and Texas.

Sit back and savor a variety of delicious flavors -- Slab BBQ and Beer serves everything from St. Louis pork ribs to tangy Texas barbeque and everything in between, so everyone’s sure to find something to enjoy.

“This is an easy to find place that gives you a feel of a comfortable locals/neighborhood place. Lots of TVs and some covered outside seating as well. Gotta say I haven't eaten such great bbq for years AND took home enough for another meal. This is my new go-to for Austin BBQ!” - Yelp Review 

SLAB BBQ & Beer is one of the best barbeque restaurants in Austin and they accept GiftYa digital gift cards and you can grab one for yourself or someone on your list by following the link!

Lambert’s Downtown BBQ

Texas BBQ Perfection Right in the Heart of Downtown Austin

401 W 2nd St | Warehouse District | lambertsaustin.com

Mouthwatering barbecue classics? Check. Live music? Check. Homemade sauces and sides? Check and check. If you’re looking for all the flavor of an authentic austin barbeque restaurant with an elevated atmosphere, Lambert’s is your place. They’re serving up all your BBQ favorites -- fried green tomatoes, frito pie, and of course juicy slabs of chicken, beef, and pork.

If barbecue is your idea of a perfect evening out, consider Lambert’s Downtown BBQ for your next special occasion or date night. You’ll be glad you did.

“My new favorite barbecue restaurant in Texas... and high up on my list of date night spots... why??

I walked into this beautiful historic building, sat in a beautiful leather booth, saw the prices and thought, "we must be paying these crazy bbq prices for the rent and decor." I couldn't believe 4 oz of only brisket was $29! But goddamn, it is the best damn brisket I've ever had.” - Yelp Review 

Grab a digital GiftYa gift card to Lamberts Downtown Barbecue and treat yo self to one of the best barbeque restaurants in Austin!.

The Salt Lick BBQ

World-Renowned Barbeque Restaurant Taking Austin by Storm

18300 FM 1826 | Driftwood | saltlickbbq.com

Ask Austin locals where to find some of the best brisket in town, and you’ll hear all about The Salt Lick BBQ. Not only can you get plates piled high with some of the juiciest, most flavorful brisket in the Lonestar State, you can also enjoy a full range of classic sides like cole slaw, potato salad, and beans to round out your meal.

We’re pretty sure you’ll be full after that, but if you think ahead and save room for dessert, your tastebuds will be met with out of this world cobblers and delicious pecan pie.

The Salt Lick BBQ is cash only and BYOB, so be prepared!

“This is the original location, so go here for the best experience. Huge picnic grounds, winery, and restaurant. Also a general store. It's BYOB, so you can bring your own cooler, or go buy drinks from the little shop. There's a super cool large meat smoking pit for a photo opp. Restaurant is a sitdown experience. Fast and friendly service!” - Yelp Review 

Unfortunately you can’t grab a GiftYa to The Salt Lick BBQ just yet -- be sure to check back!

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Barbeque 

A Taste of Texas Hill Country Barbeque in Austin

217 Congress Ave | Downtown | coopersbbqaustin.com

Located on the historic 200 block of Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Barbeque is a local favorite for delicious food, live music, and a good time. With a live music stage, a gorgeous rooftop garden, and a lovely oak-shaded patio, you’ll get the true southern experience with the look, feel, and taste of an authentic Austin BBQ joint.

Operated by the Wootan & Cooper family, Cooper’s Old TIme Pit Barbeque is the proud home of the original “Big Chop.” Whether you’re craving brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, sirloin, or something else, you’re sure to leave satisfied if you stop into Cooper’s for your BBQ fix.

“Some of THE JUI-CI-EST, most tender brisket I have had in a long, long time!!! Stopped in for a quick lunch. Meat sold by the pound and they slice it for you when you order. There is complimentary sauce, baked beans, onions, and bread at the condiment station. I'm definitely going to stop back in here next time I'm in Austin.” - Yelp Review 

Cooper’s Old TIme Pit Barbeque is one of the best barbeque restaurants in Austin and they accept GiftYa digital gift cards. Grab one for yourself or someone on your list by following the link!

The Original Black’s Barbecue

Relax While You Chow Down on Some of the Best BBQ Ribs in Austin

3110 Guadalupe St | University of Texas | blacksbbq.com

If you want delicious BBQ in Austin and you want it fast, The Original Black’s Barbecue is sure to please. Order your meat by the pound and grab a seat, no waiting for a server to come around and check on you or take an order. It’s just you, yourself, and a plate piled high with beef ribs, fatty brisket, pulled pork, jalapeno sausage, or whatever else your heart desires.

Enjoy the casual atmosphere and hang out on their wooden deck, or take your food to go. There’s no wrong way to enjoy a meal from The Original Black’s Barbecue.

“One of those meat-by-the-pound joints where you order at the counter and take a tray to your seat.  Definitely appreciate the fast casual format instead of having to deal with waiters/waitresses to get your meat not immediately.  And wow, everything beef I tried was just great!” - Yelp Review 

Grab a GiftYa digital gift card to The Original Black’s Barbecue by following the link right HERE and enjoy some of the best barbeque restaurants in Austin you can find!

There you go, you finally have it -- a list of barbeque restaurants you can find in Austin. You will be sure to find something that fits your appetite and your wallet somewhere on that list, I’m sure of it. And don’t worry the list is composed of some of the best reviewed barbeque restaurants in Austin on the internet so you can be sure everything on the list has been well vetted.

But even if you didn’t find what you’re looking for here, GiftYa has something to offer for everybody when they are in Austin looking for barbeque restaurants. And remember you can grab a GiftYa digital gift card to the participating restaurants for you or a loved one and send them instantly and keep track of everything digitally.. 

But even if you pick a restaurant that doesn’t accept GiftYa you are sure to get a delicious meal in Austin. There is a real diversity of cuisine offered just on this list alone. With everything from perfectly cooked brisket to mouthwatering bbq chicken, you are sure to find the restaurant that meets your needs somewhere in Austin. And if you don't, GiftYa is available in countless other cities all across America!