While several regions in the U.S. have claims to fame when it comes to next-level barbecue — i.e. South Carolina or Missouri — Texas is a different beast. Using its own restaurant and review data, Yelp compiled a list of the top barbecue cities in the nation, and two cities in the Lone Star State reigned supreme.
Taking the No. 1 spot on the list is Austin, Texas, of course. The state capital is a barbecue hub for a reason, and it’s even home to the only Michelin-starred, American-style barbecue joints in the world: La Barbecue, Leroy and Lewis and InterStellar BBQ.
Yelp users pointed out the simple seasonings of Austin barbecue that doesn’t overpower the quality of the meat, but instead lets it shine. They also praised InterStellar and Salt Lick BBQ for the perfectly tender meat they serve up.
People travel far and wide and wait in lines that wrap around several blocks for a taste of the world-famous smoked meats from heavy hitters like Franklin Barbecue and Terry Black’s, so it’s no surprise Austin earned the top ranking. Additionally, searches for “Texas BBQ” on Yelp were up by 63% in the first quarter of 2025, showing that interest is growing.
Drive 80 miles south — about an hour-long ride from Austin, depending on that pesky Interstate 35 traffic — and you’ll hit the No. 2 barbecue city in the nation on Yelp’s list: San Antonio. Known for attractions like the Alamo and the famous Riverwalk, Military City also holds its own in the Texas barbecue scene.
According to Yelp's data, users highlight San Antonio’s mix of classic barbecue and fusion spots like Reese Bros Barbecue. Some top-rated joints include Curry Boys BBQ, Smoke Shack and Garcia Barbecue.
The city is also home to a thriving food truck and casual barbecue scene. Nelson’s BBQ food truck ranked No. 28 on Yelp’s 2022 Top 100 Places to Eat in Texas and is known for the sweet and earthy flavor the mesquite wood imparts on their meats. Nelson’s is currently closed as they work to repair damage from a recent break-in, so be sure to check their social media for updates on when they’ll be serving up their delicious plates next.
Full list of top barbecue cities in the U.S.:
- Austin, Texas
- San Antonio, Texas
- Kansas City, Mo.
- Memphis, Tenn.
- Charleston, S.C.
- Greenville, S.C.
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Tulsa, Okla.
- Durham, N.C.
- Nashville, Tenn.