Texas brisket isn’t just food—it’s a way of life. The state has turned slow-smoked beef into an art form, with pitmasters dedicating entire lifetimes to perfecting their craft.
From legendary joints that have been smoking meat since before your grandparents were born to newer spots pushing the boundaries of what barbecue can be, Texas offers brisket experiences that’ll make you understand why people wait in line for hours.
The competition is fierce, the standards are high, and the smoke rings are real. Here is a list of 15 places serving some of the finest brisket you’ll find anywhere in the Lone Star State.
Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue in Austin has earned its legendary status the hard way. Aaron Franklin opened this spot in 2009, starting from a trailer on the side of an interstate, and it’s sold out of brisket every single day since…