There's A Small Town In Texas Known For Its Truly Epic BBQ
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 21, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Most people would be surprised to hear that Lockhart has a population of less than 15,000 considering how well-known it is for BBQ. Four of the most iconic joints in Texas can be found in this tiny town, and we’re taking you on a tour of them all. Hope you’re hungry!
Way back in 1900, a grocery store like none other in the state of Texas was born. It was the only place around that smoked the meat low-and-slow in brick pits and served it on butcher paper, just like German meat markets do.
Since then, it's grown from a market where customers would sit down and enjoy some BBQ after grocery shopping to a full-scale restaurant. What sets Kreuz apart from all other joints? You won't find any forks, knives, or sauce here.
Barbecue sauce is really just a way to mask sub-par meat, and it's absolutely unnecessary. The shoulder clod, pork ribs, and jalapeno-cheese sausage are all so tender and flavorful that you wouldn't dream of altering them in any way. Oh, and the sides like baked beans, German potato salad, and fluffy white bread are pretty scrumptious as well.
Kreuz is located at 619 N Colorado St., Lockhart, TX 78644.
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Next up is Smitty's. It's actually located in the building that originally housed Kreuz Market, and the smoke-lined walls tell stories of over a century of heart and soul poured into the barbecue by both companies.
Upon walking in, you'll be immediately hit with a massive dose of nostalgia. The no-frills eatery is full of vintage decor sure to bring you back to the good old days.
You'll want to order the brisket, shoulder clod, prime rib, and sausage, as well as a hearty helping of mac and cheese on the side. There's barbecue sauce if you want it, but try the meat first before adding any — chances are it won't be necessary. Oh, and come bearing cash because Smitty's is so old-fashioned that it doesn't accept credit cards.
Smitty's is located at 208 S Commerce St., Lockhart, TX 78644.
Easily the most iconic joint in Lockhart, Black's is the oldest BBQ restaurant in Texas operated by the same family. It's been around since 1932, which has given the pitmasters plenty of time to perfect their craft before passing it down to the next generation.
Ordering is done cafeteria-style, so sides and desserts are up first with the butcher block at the end of the line. It gets pretty packed around lunchtime, but don't fret if you get there later — the brisket never runs out, and it's the most popular item on the menu.
Definitely load up on the brisket — rubbed with a secret blend of seasonings and smoked over local Post Oakwood, it's fall-off-the-bone tender and absolutely delectable. The giant beef ribs, smoked turkey breast, and sausage are all solid picks as well.
Black's is located at 215 N Main St., Lockhart, TX 78644.
We've arrived at our final stop of the day (I know, you're devastated. There's no way in tarnation you're full yet!) Just as Smitty's is to Kreuz, Chisholm Trail is to Black's — it was actually opened by a former employee in 1978.
There's a drive-thru that you'll want to take full advantage of since you probably can't even walk at this point. The three-meat plate comes with three sides, and we suggest getting the brisket, pork ribs, and sausage along with plenty of veggies (since your diet could use some fiber right about now.)
