Widely hailed as America's best barbecue, with legendary brisket and espresso BBQ sauce drawing worshippers and celebrities alike. The catch: epic lines, so arrive early (think 10 a.m.) and hungry.
“Proprietor Aaron Franklin is to barbecue as homebrewers are to beer. He has created his own niche with craft brisket on par with the dispensaries in legendary Lockhart.”
– BlackBook
Fodor's
"If Central Texas is the hub of the state's best barbecue, then Franklin Barbecue is the gold standard." Full review
Gayot
12.0
"In less than two years, Aaron Franklin opened a small trailer dispensing barbecue that then evolved into a brick-and-mortar eatery." Full review
Not For Tourists
"Pork ribs & peppery brisket. It's good."
Bon Appétit
"America’s best BBQ—and the whole world knows it." Full review
The Infatuation
9.3
"This truly is the best BBQ in Texas, and maybe in the country." Full review
Tasting Table
"Aaron Franklin's notoriety for his distinctive espresso barbecue sauce lags far behind the demand for his legendary brisket. " Full review
Time Out
"Franklin’s house-made sausage is spicy, flavorful and oozing with juices. The hype is real, and you should really believe it." Full review
i
The brisket is seasoned and smoked to juicy perfection.
Travel + Leisure
"Line up at 10 a.m. with the other ’cue worshippers at Austin’s Franklin Barbecue, run by trailblazing pit master Aaron Franklin." Full review
The Infatuation
"The barbecue at Franklin Barbecue is the best in Austin, the best in Texas, the best in America, and the best in the universe" Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"A heavyweight in Austin’s barbecue scene, Franklin draws lines that are as epic as their world-renowned brisket." Full review
i
Just be sure you plan ahead—come early, come during the week, and be patient.
From barbecue to mermaids, the towns and burgeoning cities that comprise Texas Hill Country are collectively some of the most unique destinations in the country, combining timeworn culinary traditions with offbeat activities and irreverent lore. Read more
Experts' Choice Award 
Fodor's
Gayot
Not For Tourists
Bon Appétit
The Infatuation
Tasting Table
Time Out
Travel + Leisure
Condé Nast Traveler
