San Antonio is a city that takes its barbecue seriously. The aroma of slow-cooked meats wafts through the air, enticing passersby to come in and indulge in some of the best barbecue in the country.
And when it comes to spare ribs, San Antonio has no shortage of options.
From traditional Texas-style barbecue joints to modern restaurants with innovative takes on the classic dish, there's a spare rib for every taste bud in San Antonio.
Whether you prefer your ribs dry-rubbed or smothered in sauce, fall-off-the-bone tender or with a little bit of chew, the city has you covered.
But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we've put together this guide to the best places for spare ribs in San Antonio.
We've scoured the city to find restaurants that not only serve delicious ribs but also offer a memorable dining experience.
So whether you're a local looking for a new spot to satisfy your barbecue cravings or a visitor wanting to taste the best of San Antonio, read on to discover the top places to find spare ribs in the city.
1. B&B Smokehouse
B&B Smokehouse is a family-run BBQ joint that serves up delicious spare ribs.
The ribs are smoked to perfection and served naked. The pulled pork and sausage are also top-notch.
The side dishes, especially the green beans, are excellent. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxing. B&B Smokehouse is a must-visit for anyone looking for great Texas BBQ.
2. BBQLIFE By Chris
BBQLIFE By Chris is a hidden gem for barbecue lovers. Their spare ribs are mouth-watering and fall off the bone. The brisket is a bit dry, but the flavors make up for it.
The portions are huge, and the prices are reasonable. Their sides are also worth trying, especially the loaded baked potato.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent customer service. The ambiance is laid-back, and the smell of mesquite smoke adds to the experience.
It's a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal. Highly recommended for those looking for authentic Texas-style barbecue.
3. The Barbecue Station
Looking for some delicious spare ribs in town that will leave you craving for more, then The Barbecue Station is the place for you.
This family-owned eatery serves up wood-smoked meats and classic sides in a former filling station. The brisket is cooked to perfection and melts in your mouth, while the sausage and pork ribs are equally awesome.
The barbecue sauce is tangy and sweet, adding the perfect flavor to the meat. Don't miss out on trying the fresh coleslaw and made-to-order fries, and if you're feeling adventurous, go for the jalapeno mac and cheese.
Although seating is limited, the service is excellent, and the staff is friendly. Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy some authentic Texas BBQ.
4. Pinkerton's Barbecue
Pinkerton's Barbecue is a casual outlet that serves delicious spare ribs. The pork spare ribs are cooked to perfection and fall off the bone with ease.
The mustard-style sauce is a perfect complement to the ribs, and the bacon mac & cheese is a must-try. Although the coleslaw was a bit dry, the meat more than made up for it.
The restaurant also offers a full bar with great drinks and friendly bartenders. The venue is well-known for its homestyle BBQ mains and sandwiches, plus side dishes and desserts.
If you're looking for a tasty BBQ spot in town, Pinkerton's Barbecue is definitely worth checking out.
5. Rusty Bucket JawsMacking BBQ
Rusty Bucket JawsMacking BBQ is a must-visit for all BBQ lovers. The standout dish is undoubtedly the spare ribs, which are cooked to perfection with a delicious rub.
The brisket and sausage are also worth a try, and the sides, including the spicy green beans and cream corn, are excellent.
The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with a quirky decor that adds to the charm of the place.
The service is fast and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. All in all, Rusty Bucket JawsMacking BBQ is a fantastic choice for classic Texas BBQ.
6. Smoke Shack BBQ
Smoke Shack BBQ is a down-home mobile smoke shack that offers classic BBQ meals and sides. Their ribs are some of the best in the city, and the brisket is exceptional as well.
The employees are highly engaged and friendly, which greatly enhances the overall experience.
They have a great selection of sides, including potato salad, Mac and cheese, spicy cream corn, and more.
The restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for great Texas-style BBQ.
7. Reese Bros Barbecue
If you're looking for a delicious barbecue joint, Reese Bros Barbecue is the place to be.
With perfectly cooked brisket, ribs, and turkey, this spot is a meat-lover's paradise. The Tex-Mex twist adds a unique touch to the classic outdoor BBQ experience.
The service is top-notch, and the staff is incredibly friendly. Don't miss out on the poblano mac and cheese and street corn sides.
The covered outdoor seating with fans and water spray cooling makes it pleasant even on a hot day. Head over to Reese Bros Barbecue for a finger-licking good time.
8. South BBQ & Kitchen
South BBQ & Kitchen is a must-try for anyone looking for delicious spare ribs. The brisket is moist and tender, with perfect seasoning and smoke.
The pulled pork and ribs are also amazing. The sides are on point, especially the borracho beans. The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is casual.
BYOB is allowed, so bring your favorite drink. The loaded tater tot potato salad and creamed elotes are must-try sides.
The staff and owners are friendly and make the experience enjoyable. The patio is a great place to relax and enjoy the delicious BBQ.
9. Leon Springs BBQ
Leon Springs BBQ is a down-home Texas BBQ joint that serves up some of the best spare ribs in town.
The cafeteria-style setting offers no-frills dining with indoor picnic tables. The staff is friendly, and the service is quick.
The brisket and turkey are also recommended, and the corn cream is a must-try. Don't forget to order the peach cobbler for dessert.
The BBQ sauce is available to take home. Highly recommended for spare ribs lovers.
10. Garcia Barbecue
Garcia Barbecue is a must-visit place for anyone who loves barbecue. They offer excellent brisket and pork ribs, as well as tasty beans and potato salad.
Their smoked queso nachos with brisket and jalapeno poppers are also worth trying.
The food is reasonably priced, and the owner is friendly.
Garcia Barbecue is a mobile caterer and can be found at the west end of Babcock. Don't miss out on their delicious food!
11. DeeWillie's BBQ
DeeWillie's BBQ is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves spare ribs.
The fall-off-the-bone tenderness of the ribs is unmatched, and the brisket is spot-on.
The sides are delicious, with the sweet potato casserole being a standout. The staff is friendly and provides fast service.
The casual atmosphere and traditional smokehouse eats make for a great dining experience.
12. Jones Sausage & BBQ House
Jones Sausage & BBQ House is a must-visit place for anyone looking for delicious spare ribs.
The homemade sausage is moist and a little spicy, while the brisket has a great bark. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel like part of the family.
The restaurant is a community staple and has been around for a long time. The interior may not be fancy, but the food more than makes up for it.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. If you're in the mood for classic-style barbecue, Jones Sausage & BBQ House is definitely worth checking out.
13. Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse
Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse is a must-visit for anyone looking for great barbecue. The beef ribs are incredibly tender and flavorful, and the pork ribs fall off the bone.
The tri sub is also a crowd-pleaser, with brisket, sausage, and turkey that are all cooked to perfection.
The sides are just as delicious, with a standout potato salad and creamy mac and cheese. The service is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.
Though the prices are a bit steep, the quality of the food makes it well worth it. Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse is a true gem for barbecue lovers.
14. El Monte BBQ
El Monte BBQ is a hidden gem for those seeking quality spare ribs in town.
Their pork ribs are meaty, tender and perfectly smoked, making them a must-try for any BBQ lover. The brisket is also noteworthy, with a tasty bark and tender texture.
Customers rave about the delicious sausage, creamed corn and dip sauce. Although the place is small, it is clean and comfortable, and the service is friendly and helpful.
El Monte BBQ is definitely worth a visit for its affordable prices and mouth-watering BBQ offerings.
15. Blanco BBQ
Blanco BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for some delicious spare ribs. The restaurant's rustic atmosphere and friendly staff make for a comfortable dining experience.
The meat is smoked to perfection, and the portions are generous. The sides are also noteworthy, with options like macaroni and cheese and Cole slaw.
The fish on the Lenten season menu is worth trying too. The restaurant serves multiple combination platters of pulled pork, chicken, sausage, pork ribs, and brisket.
The price is reasonable considering the quality of the food. Blanco BBQ is a great place to take the family out for a memorable meal.
16. Smokin' Gibbs Barbecue
Smokin' Gibbs Barbecue is a local food truck that serves up delicious and huge portions of BBQ. The place looks family-owned and operated, which adds to the charm of the experience.
If you're lucky enough to stumble upon them at an event or follow them on Instagram, you won't be disappointed.
Their spare ribs are a must-try and are cooked to perfection. The overall atmosphere is casual and perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends.
If you're a fan of BBQ, make sure to add Smokin' Gibbs Barbecue to your list of places to try.
