AUSTIN, Texas — Texas is home to several award-winning barbecue joints, but according to Southern Living magazine readers, the best meats in the state can be found in the capital city.
The lifestyle magazine covering all things southern culture named Franklin Barbecue the best in Texas.
The Austin staple has been around for nearly two decades. Like most coveted barbecue joints, a line wraps around the East 11th Street smokehouse on any given day. Regulars know to bring folding chairs and something to drink while they wait, because, as most Texans know, great barbecue is earned with patience.
According to Southern Living, the best barbecue restaurants in each state reflect a mix of old and new, while Texas-style brisket continues to influence the barbecue scene in other southern states like South Carolina and Arkansas.
Winners from each state were chosen through the magazine’s South’s Best poll, which allows readers to vote for their favorites in several categories, including the best southern cities and towns, hotels, cruise lines and more.
In the last 16 years, Franklin's has become a must-visit stop for barbecue lovers and out-of-towners alike. The restaurant proved to be fit for a president after former President Barack Obama visited in 2014. The late chef and food adventurer Anthony Bourdain even paid it a visit for an episode of his Emmy award-winning food travel show “No Reservations.”
At the first ever Michelin Guide Texas ceremony last year, Franklin Barbecue took home a Bib Gourmand for its exceptional quality and moderate price range. In 2015, owner Aaron Franklin made history when he became the first pitmaster recognized in any “best chef” category at the James Beard Foundation Awards, winning the award for best chef in the southwest region of the U.S.
The seventh annual Hot Luck food and music festival, founded by Franklin, kicks off May 22 in Austin. The four-day event features food by renowned chefs from around the country and live tunes.
