Barbecue is kind of our signature thing here across the whole state of Texas, but one town rises above all the rest. Lockhart, a quaint little hill country community, has arguably the highest concentration of good barbecue joints in the state and possibly the country. These four restaurants have been around for nearly a century or even longer, slow-smoking and seasoning their meat to absolute perfection, and they will leave you absolutely stuffed because you just won’t be able to stop eating. Everyone needs to visit the BBQ capital of the world.

1. Kreuz Market
Yelp/David S.
Yelp/Daniel S.
Kreuz has been around since 1900, giving it plenty of time to perfect its craft - and it's certainly done so. The most popular cuts of meat are the shoulder clod (lean brisket), pork chops, both varieties of sausage, and pork ribs. No barbecue sauce is used during cooking, yet the food is still more exceptional than almost any other barbecue joint - a real testament to the skill and passion behind each bite you take. There are also no forks available, so be prepared to get a little messy. Regular customers suggest going after the lunch rush on weekends to avoid long lines. To learn more, visit the website for Kreuz Market.
2. Smitty's Market
Yelp/Eric B.
Yelp/P. Luly W.
Smitty's is another meat market in Lockhart, and an extremely underrated one compared to Kreuz. Ironically, this is Kreuz's former location and was founded by the owner's sister after a disagreement. Similar to Kreuz, you'll find shoulder clod, brisket, sausage, and ribs (both pork and prime.) However, the glaring difference is that Smitty's offers barbecue sauce for your dipping or sopping pleasure. Now, don't go thinking the meat is lower quality and they're relying on the sauce to mask that - it's just as scrumptious without condiments, but the staff realizes that everyone has differing preferences. Oh, and just a heads up - credit cards aren't accepted here, so make sure to pay a visit to the ATM beforehand. Visit the website for Smitty's Market to learn more.

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3. Black's
Yelp/Jay B.
Yelp/Gene L.
Arguably the most famous barbecue joint in Lockhart and one of the top in Texas, Black's is the oldest restaurant in the state continually operated by the same family. It's cafeteria-style, so you go down a line picking out your meats, sides, and dessert. Don't be shy - chances are you'll be overwhelmed and want to try everything, and that's exactly what you should do. Dinosaur beef rib, brisket, two types of pork rib, three types of sausage (plain, garlic, and jalapeno cheddar), and turkey...the options are endless, delicious, and all deserving of a spot on your plate and in your belly. Visit the Black's BBQ website for more information.
4. Chisholm Trail BBQ
Yelp/Croco Stimpy ..
Yelp/Chisholm Trail Barbq
Located in the south part of town away from the previous three places, Chisholm Trail is probably the least well known joint in Lockhart - but one look at this picture has me wondering why. Brisket, pork ribs, and homemade sausage are what you see here, and they're all slow-smoked and seasoned to perfection. Just look at the sauce smothered on those ribs...mmm mmm. Finger-lickin' good, y'all. And there's even a drive-thru, so if you went on a barbecue tour of the town and are too full by this point to stand up, looks like you're in luck. To learn more, visit the website for Chisholm Trail BBQ.

Have you ever eaten at these delicious BBQ restaurants in Texas? Do you think they earn Lockhart the title of “BBQ capital of the world?”

For more delicious eats, check out this Texas barbecue road trip.

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More to Explore

BBQ capital of the world

Elisa Regulski | September 22, 2020

What are the best places to get BBQ in Texas?

There are so many wonderful BBQ restaurants in Texas. After you’ve visited Lockhart, take the drive down to Austin and try the famous Franklin BBQ. People wait in line for hours just to devour some of their perfectly smoked brisket. If you don’t mind waiting in line, you should also drive up to Snow’s BBQ in Lexington. This small town joint shot to fame after a Texas Monthly article named them the best BBQ in Texas. If you’re a BBQ lover, visiting this iconic eatery is a must.

What kind of BBQ is Texas known for?

Alabama is known for its white sauce. North Carolina has its vinegar-based sauce. But here in Texas, we know that truly good BBQ doesn’t need sauce at all. Here, meat is the star of the show, and brisket reigns supreme. Sure, you’re likely to find traditional sauces on the table, but you won’t want to smother your meat in it.

What are the best food towns in Texas?

Lockhart isn’t the only amazing food town in Texas. For more excellent eats, head to the town of Fredericksburg. This charming little city is home to lovely farm-to-table eateries, delicious German restaurants, and amazing wineries. People come from all around just to dine, shop, and explore. Need more ideas to fuel your foodie adventure? Check out our list of the best food towns in Texas. No matter where you go, you’ll be met with mouthwatering cuisine and fantastic service. Gas up the tank and hit the road! A scrumptious adventure awaits.

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Featured Addresses
Kreuz Market, 619 N Colorado St, Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
208 S Commerce St, Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
Black's Barbecue Lockhart, 215 N Main St, Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
1323 S Colorado St, Lockhart, TX 78644, USA