I’m not saying I’d wrestle a longhorn for a plate of brisket, but after tasting the smoky, melt-in-your-mouth magic at this Austin gem, I’d at least consider a stern staring contest with one. This isn’t just barbecue—it’s a culinary comet blazing through Texas, leaving a trail of satisfied sighs and sauce-stained napkins. By the time I stumbled out, belly full and heart fuller, I understood why this spot was crowned one of the nation’s top casual dining experiences.
Tucked in a nondescript strip mall in Northwest Austin, the building doesn’t scream “gastronomic greatness” at first glance. It’s a humble, low-slung affair sandwiched between a beauty salon and a karaoke bar, with a parking lot that feels more suburban sprawl than foodie destination. Yet, the line snaking around the corner before the doors even open hints at the treasure hidden within.
This is Interstellar BBQ, a place where pitmaster John Bates has turned a former sandwich shop into a barbecue supernova. Bates, once co-owner of Noble Sandwich Co., traded pastrami for pork belly in 2019, driven by a passion to elevate Central Texas barbecue beyond the classics. His philosophy? Use the finest ingredients, cook low and slow over post oak, and never skimp on creativity or quality.
Stepping inside, I’m hit with the primal perfume of smoked meat, a siren song that could lure even the staunchest vegan. The menu reads like a love letter to barbecue, with brisket so tender it collapses like a house of cards under a fork, peach tea-glazed pork belly that’s equal parts sweet and smoky, and a “tipsy turkey” brined in local beer that’s juicier than a summer peach. Each bite feels like a revelation, as if Bates has cracked the code to some ancient, meaty alchemy.
The sides, oh, the sides—they’re not just supporting actors but co-stars in this smoky saga. Smoked scalloped potatoes, layered with cream and crowned with a caramelized parmesan crust, are so decadent they could star in their own Netflix special. The jalapeño coleslaw snaps with heat and crunch, while the free ranch-style beans, studded with pork, are a generous nod to Texas tradition.
What sets Interstellar apart is its refusal to play it safe. Bates and his team treat barbecue like a canvas, painting with bold strokes—think Frito pie stuffed into a sausage or a lamb taco draped in salsa verde that sings with cilantro and spice. This isn’t just barbecue; it’s a masterclass in balancing tradition with audacious invention, all while using top-tier ingredients and a meticulous, one-batch-at-a-time approach.
The ambiance is as unpretentious as a backyard cookout, yet there’s a palpable energy in the air. The dining room, with its simple wooden tables and chalkboard menu, hums with anticipation as locals and pilgrims alike shuffle in, trays piled high. The staff, moving with the precision of a pit crew, dish out smiles and insider tips with equal enthusiasm, making you feel like you’ve just been invited to the best party in town.
I watch a group of regulars debate the merits of the jalapeño popper sausage versus the kielbasa, their laughter mingling with the clink of soda cans and the rustle of butcher paper. A couple nearby marvels at the banana pudding, which, I can confirm, is so velvety and nostalgic it could make a grown Texan weep. Every table seems to share a collective reverence, as if we’re all in on a delicious secret.
The line outside is a testament to Interstellar’s cult status, but it’s not just hype—it’s earned. Texas Monthly ranked it #2 in their 2021 list of the state’s best barbecue joints, and a 2024 Michelin star has only lengthened the queue. Yet, the wait is part of the ritual, softened by a coffee/tea bar and complimentary water handed out by staff who know you’re about to taste something life-changing.
To visit, head to 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N, Suite 105, Austin, TX 78750, but arrive early—doors open at 11 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and meats often sell out by early afternoon. Pro tip: order online for pickup to skip the line, and don’t sleep on the daily specials, which might include a smoked confit duck leg or a lamb shoulder that’s gamey, rich, and unforgettable. Bring stretchy pants and a cooler for leftovers; you’ll want to savor this magic later.
Interstellar BBQ isn’t just a meal; it’s a pilgrimage to the heart of Texas barbecue, where every bite tells a story of craft, passion, and a little bit of weirdness that makes Austin, well, Austin. John Bates and his crew have created a place that doesn’t just feed you—it transports you, leaving you starry-eyed and dreaming of your next visit. In a state where barbecue is practically a religion, Interstellar is the cathedral you didn’t know you needed to worship at.