### Key Facts
* Franklin Barbecue, Austin's most iconic spot since opening in 2011, sells brisket by the pound at around $34/lb (2023 prices) and typically sells out by 1-2 PM daily, drawing lines of 4-6 hours on peak days.
* La Barbecue, founded in 2012 by pitmaster Missy Cocha, offers beef ribs at $8 each and has been named Texas Monthly's #1 BBQ joint in 2013 and 2017.
* Micklethwaite Trailer Park BBQ, a bonus East Austin gem since 2016, is praised for its $25/lb turkey (often called the best in Texas) and brisket, with no lines under 30 minutes even on weekends.
* Austin boasts 15+ top BBQ spots per The Infatuation's guide, with Central Texas-style 'cue emphasizing oak-smoked brisket sold by weight (typically 1/3 to 1 lb per person).
### Important Details
Texas BBQ in Austin revolves around Central Texas style: simple, smoky meats like brisket, ribs, and sausage with minimal seasoning, cooked low-and-slow over post oak. Iconic joints like Franklin Barbecue set the standard-its fatty brisket with black crust and pink smoke ring is legendary-but spots like La Barbecue add flair with creative links, while Terry Black's offers a more accessible two-story experience with consistent beef ribs. Micklethwaite stands out as a trailer-turned-market powerhouse, blending old-school technique with items like jalapeno-cheddar sausage.
Ordering by the pound is key: most places sell meat loose (not plated), so gauge portions-1/2 lb total meat per hearty eater pairs well with sides. Lines are a rite of passage, but Franklin now uses an online pre-order system via their app (released 2021) to skip waits, while others like Micklethwaite rarely exceed 20-30 minutes. Sides elevate the meal: creamy potato salad, vinegar-tangy slaw, and pinto beans are classics-avoid heavy sauces, as true BBQ shines on its own.
Etiquette matters for first-timers: specify "fatty" or "lean" brisket, get sauce on the side, and use butcher paper for that authentic picnic vibe. The Infatuation highlights creative twists too, like KG BBQ's fusion elements, but stick to purists for the full experience.
### Practical Tips
* **Beat the lines**: Pre-order at Franklin via app (slots book weeks ahead); arrive by 10 AM at La Barbecue; hit Micklethwaite post-11 AM weekdays.
* **Order smart**: Get 1/3 lb brisket + 1 link sausage per person ($20-30 total); pair with potato salad, slaw, and beans-skip cornbread if watching carbs.
* **Pro move**: Visit mid-week or right at open (11 AM most spots); BYOB isn't allowed everywhere, so check rules.
**Summary:** Austin's BBQ scene, led by Franklin, La Barbecue, and gems like Micklethwaite, rewards savvy ordering by the pound and strategic timing-master these for smoky perfection without the hassle. Your meat lover's trail ends with full bellies and local cred.
