Best BBQ in Austin — Franklin, la Barbecue & the Whole Smoked Lineup

Austin is arguably the BBQ capital of the world — Central Texas-style brisket smoked low and slow over post oak until the bark cracks and the fat renders into silk.

Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue is the most famous BBQ joint in America. Aaron Franklin’s brisket has been called perfect by everyone from food critics to other pitmasters. The line starts forming at 6 AM for an 11 AM opening, and they sell out daily — usually by 1 PM. Is the 4-5 hour wait worth it? For BBQ pilgrims, yes. For everyone else, there are excellent alternatives with shorter lines.