Franklin Barbecue, located at 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, is a world-renowned barbecue destination known for its legendary smoked meats, especially brisket. Founded by Aaron and Stacy Franklin, this humble barbecue joint has earned numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award, for its mastery of Central Texas-style barbecue. The restaurant is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts, with lines that stretch for hours, becoming part of the full experience.
The Menu: Texas Barbecue at Its Best
Franklin Barbecue offers a focused menu of expertly smoked meats and classic sides. Guests can enjoy their famous smoked brisket, tender pork ribs, house-made jalapeño sausage, and savory pulled pork. The brisket, in particular, is revered for its perfect texture and flavor—best enjoyed without any sauce or bread. For sides, guests can choose from potato salad, pinto beans, coleslaw, and to finish the meal, there’s the iconic pecan pie.
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The Wait: Worth Every Minute
One unique aspect of Franklin Barbecue is its long wait times. It’s not uncommon for customers to line up hours before the restaurant opens. The wait, however, is seen as part of the experience, with fellow BBQ lovers sharing conversations and excitement as they anticipate the meal ahead. For those looking to skip the line, Franklin Barbecue offers a preorder option for large orders of five pounds or more.
Location and Contact
Address:
900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11 AM until sold out
Phone: (512) 653-1187
The experience at Franklin Barbecue goes beyond just food—it’s about enjoying a Texas tradition in a communal, laid-back setting, where the reward is some of the finest barbecue in the state.