bbq restaurants outside of austin

Best BBQ Joints Outside Austin: Your Ultimate Guide

By William LewisMarch 4, 2026

When it comes to Texas, barbecue is more than just a style of cooking—it's a way of life. While Austin is renowned for its BBQ, the surrounding areas are no strangers to the smoky, savory art of low and slow. So, if you're willing to venture outside Austin's city limits, you'll find a wealth of incredible BBQ restaurants that are well worth the drive.

From small-town smokehouses to upscale eateries, the BBQ scene outside Austin is diverse, delicious, and decidedly Texan. Let's explore some of the must-try spots for those craving a taste of real Texas BBQ.

Central Texas Towns

The BBQ trail that starts in Lockhart and winds through Luling, Smithville, and Giddings is as iconic as it gets. These towns have been churning out classic Central Texas BBQ for generations, and each has its own unique twist on the craft.

an outdoor bbq with hot dogs cooking on it and the words 11 best bbq spots in austin, tx

One of Austin’s Best Barbecue Restaurants Is Opening in Lockhart

Start your journey in Lockhart, often referred to as the "BBQ Capital of Texas." Here, you'll find institutions like Black's Barbecue and Kreuz Market, both of which have been serving up mouthwatering meats since the early 1900s. Don't miss the succulent beef ribs at Black's or the legendary Texas sausage at Kreuz.

Luling

Continue south to Luling, where the barbecue is spicy and the atmosphere is laid-back. City Market and Angelo's are two local favorites, both known for their zesty sausage. Pair it with some of their creamy, tangy beans and you'll be in Texas BBQ heaven.

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Right This Way to the Best BBQ in Austin

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While in Luling, take a moment to appreciate the World's Largest Barbecue Pit. Standing at over 18 feet tall and 90 feet in circumference, it's a testament to the town's love affair with wood-fired cooking.

Smithville & Giddings

Roll through Smithville on your way to Giddings and make a pit stop at Serbin Cafe. This unassuming joint serves up some of the best pork ribs in the state, slow-cooked over post oak and seasoned with a perfect blend of salt and pepper.

In Giddings, Hippie Chic Tout Suite offers a modern take on classic BBQ. Their unique menu features everything from pulled pork sandwiches to jackfruit tacos, all smoked with care and served with a side of quirky Texas charm.