I hated some of the top picks when I tried them last go ‘round, but I’m a bit of a traditionalist, which this list hasn’t rewarded in a while.
As someone that doesn’t live in Texas but has tried about 9 of these places between Austin, Houston, and Dallas, I wouldn’t argue with any of the name they listed. All were/are great, and Hutchin’s Texas Twinkie is so good that it can place the restaurant all by itself.
If any of y’all are familiar with the Austin BBQ scene, you’ll remember Valentina’s. That place was so good - nothing else like it. They started out with a food truck, then failed spectacularly when they tried to scale the business up to a huge brick and mortar.
This is a great interview, and it’ll make you hungry.
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I was friends with Miguel in college. Good guy. I just wish he would’ve mentioned that he could BBQ back then. Hopefully he turns things around.
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Where did he go to college?
GW’s in the Valley is legit. So is Teddy’s
Truth isn’t overrated but I don’t see what makes it so hyped
Pit Room is the best bbq in the loop in my opinion
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St. Edward’s University in Austin.
When i went to truth i was underwhelmed by the brisket (maybe because they gave me lean and not any from the point). But the sides deserve respect. The desserts as well. I havent tried anyone else of the top 10 but my next 3 to try eventually would be.
Franklins
Blood bros
Pit room
The ones ive had ranked based overall (i dont have bbq often at all so i stay local) and i think sides are important so im biased.
Killens (10-15 years ago was amazing havent been back since)
Truth (recently, didnt get soft meat)
Pinkertons (recently, the potato something was sour but meat was great)
Gaitlins
Pappas
Terry blacks (5 years ago wasnt impressed tried it on a quick trip to austin)
Give Brett’s out in Katy a try sometime - really good. He went to BBQ school working at Louie Mueller’s.
I was pleasantly surprised by Pizzitola’s the last time I went there. The ribs are always outstanding, but they really stepped up their game for other BBQ. It’s not Top 50, but still very good.
I’ve heard Bar-A in Montgomery is outstanding, so I need to give that one a try sometime.
I think the Terry Black’s in Lockhart is much better than Austin, for whatever reason.
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We helped Jerry Pizzitola get started when he bought the spot from the old guy who ran it. We upgraded the pit and worked on his rubs and timing. I worked for his dad, Joe, and ran Regal Ranch back in the day
I think the Burnt Bean’s sides rock.