San Antonio, Texas is known for its rich history, culture, and delicious food, especially when it comes to barbecue.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we've put together a list of the best BBQ restaurants in San Antonio.
As a local, I've had the pleasure of trying out many different BBQ joints in the area. From traditional Texas-style brisket to mouth-watering ribs, San Antonio has it all.
Each restaurant on this list has its own unique flavor and style, but they all have one thing in common: delicious BBQ.
Whether you're a native San Antonian or just visiting, these restaurants are a must-try.
So grab a bib, some wet wipes, and get ready to taste some of the best BBQ you've ever had.
1. B&B Smokehouse
B&B Smokehouse is a family-run BBQ joint that specializes in house-smoked meats and Texas-style burgers. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including marbled brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage.
Customers can choose between lean, regular, and fatty brisket. The sides include coleslaw, baked potatoes, creamed corn, and green beans.
The BBQ sauce is sweet with a little kick, and the prices are reasonable for the quantity and quality of food. The staff are friendly and professional, and the service is quick, even during busy hours.
Customers can dine in, take out, or use the drive-thru. B&B Smokehouse is a great place for BBQ lovers looking for a delicious and authentic Texas experience.
2. BBQLIFE By Chris
BBQLIFE By Chris is a laid-back barbecue joint that specializes in mesquite-smoked BBQ plates, served with a variety of sides.
The portions are generous and the meat is juicy and flavorful. The brisket and sausage are standouts, while the sides are tasty and satisfying.
The staff is friendly and the service is prompt. The restaurant is small and lacks indoor seating, but the food makes up for it.
If you're in the mood for some authentic, no-frills barbecue, BBQLIFE By Chris is definitely worth a visit.
3. The Barbecue Station
The Barbecue Station is a must-visit for any BBQ lover.
The wood-smoked meats are cooked to perfection and the classic sides are delicious. The brisket is particularly tender and flavorful.
The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. The no-frills setting adds to the authentic Texas BBQ experience.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for true, delicious BBQ.
4. Smoke Shack BBQ
Smoke Shack BBQ is a down-home mobile smoke shack that has earned a lot of buzz for its classic BBQ meals and sides.
They offer scrumptious Texas BBQ at reasonable prices. Customers rave about the juicy brisket, finger-licking ribs, and the flavorful turkey.
The coleslaw has a bit more vinegar than some are used to, but it's still delicious. Sides like mac and cheese and creamed corn are highly recommended.
The service is friendly and quick, and the atmosphere is laid back. Smoke Shack BBQ is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for some delicious BBQ in town.
5. 2M Smokehouse
If you're looking for some of the best BBQ in town, 2M Smokehouse is the place to be. The brisket is juicy and tender, and the sausage is packed with flavor.
The spiced onion "relish" and sliced pickles are a delicious twist on the traditional BBQ toppings.
The sauce is sweet and savory, with a hint of maple. The outdoor seating is casual but comfortable, and the service is friendly.
Be prepared for a bit of a wait, but it's worth it for the amazing food.
6. Pinkerton's Barbecue
If you're a fan of authentic Texas-style BBQ, Pinkerton's Barbecue is a must-visit spot. The smoked brisket is juicy and tender, while the sausage and pork ribs are packed with flavor.
The jalapeno in the baked beans adds a nice kick, and the mac and cheese is delicious.
The Man Bear Pig sandwich, with pulled pork and brisket, is a must-try.
The atmosphere is family-friendly, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. Don't forget to save room for the blueberry cobbler dessert.
7. Rusty Bucket JawsMacking BBQ
Rusty Bucket JawsMacking BBQ is a must-try for those who love authentic Texas BBQ.
The meats are tender and full of flavor, and the homemade sauces are tangy and delicious. The sides are equally impressive, with creamy mac and cheese and flavorful beans.
The atmosphere is fun and welcoming, with antique decor and picnic tables.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. Don't miss out on this hidden gem for a great meal.
8. Curry Boys BBQ
Curry Boys BBQ is a hidden gem that serves up delicious BBQ with a twist. Their fusion of barbecue and curry creates a unique flavor that is sure to impress.
The brisket is tender and juicy, while the smoked sausage with penang curry and noodles is a must-try.
The creamed corn elote and spicy cold noodles are excellent sides to complement the main dishes.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or dinner. Don't miss out on this flavorful dining experience!
9. Smith's BBQ
Smith's BBQ is a hidden gem that offers some of the best barbecue in town.
The meat is tender and full of flavor, especially the ribs which are a showstopper. The brisket is also good, although a little dry.
The sausage and chicken are decent, and the sides are delicious. The prices are more than reasonable for the amount of food served.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the service is stellar. It's cash only, but definitely worth a visit for some smoked meat.
10. Blanco BBQ
Blanco BBQ offers delicious BBQ with perfect smoke taste. The restaurant offers fast service and plenty of seating.
The portions are Texas-sized and the sides are also really good. The restaurant also has a play area for kids.
The staff is friendly and helpful. The restaurant is clean and organized. The BBQ sauce is so good that customers won't walk away hungry.
Blanco BBQ is a great place for families to enjoy some really good BBQ.
11. Reese Bros Barbecue
Reese Bros Barbecue is a Tex-Mex inspired outdoor restaurant that serves ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Their signature dish is the brisket, which is tender, juicy, and flavorful.
The sides are also noteworthy, with the poblano mac and cheese and street corn being customer favorites.
The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is lively and colorful. The covered outdoor seating with fans and water spray cooling makes it comfortable to dine even in hot weather.
Reese Bros Barbecue is a must-try for anyone looking for classic BBQ with a Mexican twist.
12. DeeWillie's BBQ
DeeWillie's BBQ is a casual smokehouse restaurant that offers classic BBQ dishes and sides.
The brisket and sausage are particularly delicious, while the sweet potato casserole is a must-try. The atmosphere is informal, but the service is top-notch.
Although the restaurant turns into a bar after 9 pm, it's not recommended to dine there after that time.
If you're looking for finger-licking BBQ in the area, DeeWillie's is definitely worth a visit.
13. Pure Country Smokin Barbecue
Pure Country Smokin Barbecue is a must-visit restaurant for all barbecue lovers. The meats are cooked to perfection and the sides are homemade, making for a truly authentic dining experience.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with large tables for groups and animals on the property for kids to enjoy.
The customer service is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff. Don't leave without trying the banana pudding, it's a real treat.
If you're in the area, make sure to stop by for some mouth-watering barbecue.
14. South BBQ & Kitchen
South BBQ & Kitchen is a laid-back barbecue joint that serves up some seriously delicious smoked meats.
From the perfectly cooked brisket to the fall-off-the-bone ribs, every dish is packed with flavor. The tex-mex sides are a must-try, especially the loaded tater tot casserole and creamed elotes.
The staff is friendly and helpful, making the dining experience even better. Although the prices are a bit steep, the quality of the food is definitely worth it.
So, if you're looking for some authentic southern Texas BBQ, head over to South BBQ & Kitchen and indulge in some mouth-watering dishes.
15. Augie's Barbed Wire Smokehouse
Augie's Barbed Wire Smokehouse is a rustic BBQ joint that serves up juicy and perfectly seasoned meat.
The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, with a play area for kids.
The pork ribs fall off the bone and the brisket is succulent and delicious. The sides are tasty, with options like creamed corn and mac & cheese.
The draft brews are a perfect pairing to the generous BBQ plates. If you're in the mood for some comfort grub, Augie's is the place to go.
16. Garcia Barbecue
Garcia Barbecue is a must-visit for anyone who loves delicious barbecue.
Their brisket, pulled pork, and beef ribs are cooked to perfection and always juicy. The staff is friendly and professional, and the service is top-notch.
The barbecue sauce is a must-try, and the sides are the perfect complement to any meal.
Whether you're in the mood for a sandwich or nachos, Garcia Barbecue has got you covered. Don't miss out on this amazing barbecue experience.
17. Jones Sausage & BBQ House
Jones Sausage & BBQ House is a classic-style barbecue restaurant that serves up some of the best smoked meats in town.
The family-owned joint has been around for years and has become a staple in the community. The brisket is tender and juicy, the ribs are smoky, and the sausage is bursting with flavor.
The homemade sides like potato salad and beans are a perfect complement to the meat. Although it lacks a dining area, the friendly staff and quick service make it easy to get your food to go.
If you're looking for some delicious barbecue, Jones Sausage & BBQ House is definitely worth a visit.
18. Bar-B-Q Republic
Bar-B-Q Republic is a must-visit for anyone looking for some of the best barbecue in town.
The restaurant offers a variety of grilled and smoked meats, including brisket, turkey, and chicken, all cooked to perfection. The sides are just as impressive, with creamy potato salad and delicious brisket beans.
The restaurant has a fun and easygoing atmosphere, with a friendly staff that is always happy to serve you.
And if you have room for dessert, be sure to try the freshly baked chocolate cake. Bar-B-Q Republic is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for some mouthwatering barbecue.
19. El Monte BBQ
El Monte BBQ is a small, no-frills outpost for BBQ standards. They serve up delicious brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and other smoked meats.
The Angus brisket is incredibly moist, juicy, and flavorful. The creamed corn is also a must-try.
The service is great and the staff is friendly. The prices are reasonable, and the outdoor area is quaint.
The only downside is that they don't sell BBQ chicken. It's a perfect spot for anyone looking for a taste of South Texas-style BBQ.
20. Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse
Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse is a must-visit for any barbecue lover. The meats are tender and flavorful, and the sides are homemade and delicious.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is clean and welcoming.
The prices are reasonable, and they offer great specials on family packs and turkey legs on Sundays.
Don't miss out on the creamed corn and the brisket. Highly recommended!
