Q: i have some international students who think bbq is the stuff in a mcdonalds meal. I am trying to show them some real bbq, the kind served on butcher paper, without sauce and get laughed at if you ask for a fork. Anyone know of a place that is close to austin? The only places i have been to are outside of houston and there has to be some good places near austin, I am in the south part.
A: I am going to give you a list of some of the great BBQ spots around town that I enjoy. I will present them in no particular order and will try to provide a brief overview of each locations specialties. * The Green Mesquite - Good all-around bbq for any occasion. They have especially good brisket. * Rudy's - It is a Texas chain and is known for its smoked turkey, chopped beef, and of course, the sauce. * Ben's Long Branch - This is a classic East Austin experience. Great ribs and brisket. * Artz Rib House - The name says it all. Get the large order of their country style ribs. (this is one of my favs) * Iron Works BBQ - Good all-around bbq and their specialty is beef ribs. *County Line - pretty good all-around bbq and their specialty is smoked turkey. They use to offer great homemade bread, too. (this one is not my favorite, but others seem to like it) * The Salt Lick - While their bbq may not be the best in Texas, their family-style dining atmosphere is something everyone needs to experience. It is well worth it for you and some friends to load up a cooler full of beer, head down south, and feast for a couple of hours. * Uncle Billy's Brew and Cue - This is a fairly new place that not only serves bbq but also makes home brew. I have yet to visit myself, but several of my friends have tried it and liked it. * There are also many great and historic bbq joints within an hour's drive fo Austin, so I would definitely recomend making some road trips to these places once you get settled: Lockhart, TX - Blacks BBQ, Kreuz BBQ, and Smitty's Market Llano, TX - Laird's and Inman's Mason, TX - Cooper's (this is the original - Llano and Marble Falls have one, too). Elgin, TX - Southside Market Seguin, TX - Davila's Taylor, TX - Taylor Cafe Sorry for the long answer, but I do love and appreciate good bbq. I hope this helps, and happy eating!