Every four years, Texas Monthly comes out with its list of the Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas, which barbecue fans throughout the state and elsewhere count on. Just like in previous editions, this 2025 guide includes both classic barbecue spots, younger places just gaining popularity, and stars from different regions who are helping change Texas barbecue.
This year’s ranking goes beyond the best brisket to represent the amazing range, talent, and cultural background of Texas BBQ.
Burnt Bean Co. Claims the #1 Spot
At the top of the 2025 list is Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin. This simple place has become famous for its amazing meats and interesting food offerings. In an article, barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn noted that the restaurant echoes small-town Texas, praising in particular the restaurant’s short ribs and beef back ribs.
The accolade shows how Burnt Bean mixes favorite dishes with interesting, current ideas to keep customers happy. This #1 spot proves that small, rural barbecue restaurants often match or beat the big cities in terms of passion and taste.
Austin Grabs Top Spots in 2025
Austin is still the king of barbecue across Texas, with eight of its restaurants and mobile trucks on Texas Monthly’s 2025 Top 50 BBQ list. In first place is Lewis Barbecue, which was again a hit with our panel. Beef cheeks and recipes that use the whole carcass make La Rosière Paris an easy pick for foodies.
A Michelin star awarded in 2024 made its reputation stronger across the country. Sixth place went to Interstellar Barbecue. While the number fell slightly from 2021, its smoked brisket and sausage are still a hit with customers.
A City Full of BBQ Depth and Variety
The Top 10 represents only a section of the Austin barbecue scene, as other restaurants still made the list. Even now, after many years, Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue can assure a strong showing to visitors. Briscuits and KG BBQ have brought new energy to the scene, as KG BBQ mixes Egyptian seasoning with Texan cuisine.
Mum Foods takes on a deli kind of feel, unlike Stiles Switch, which sticks to the classic style. Several of them received honors on the 2023 “Best New and Improved” list, and elevating them to the Top 50 reflects Austin’s approach to growth that preserves BBQ history.
Honorable Mentions Still Bring the Heat
Some excellent joints did not make the top fifteen. The magazine also recognizes other great places, with Micklethwait Barbecue, Distant Relatives, Terry Black’s Barbecue, and Rollin’ Smoke BBQ cutting this year in Austin.
These places may not make the Top 50 list, but their BBQ is well worth trying. A lot of players could find their way to the Top 50 in the near future.
Statewide Representation and Regional Pride
Even though Austin stood out, other parts of the state had a good year, too. You can still find excellent barbecue from Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and parts of the Hill Country and East Texas.
While the complete listing was hidden by website restrictions, it seems there was strong participation from many areas of the state. Besides brisket and ribs, today’s Texas BBQ focuses on culture, trying new things, and combining global styles with local customs.
The Evolution of Texas Barbecue
The 2025 list highlights the way Texas barbecue has been changing. Restaurants are now focusing on making aged favorites, international dishes, and improving their side dishes. You’ll find house-made pickles, fresh options for tortillas, seasonal desserts, and choices for vegetarian guests in the best restaurants now.
At the same time, the essentials remain sacred: bark-covered brisket, juicy ribs, and snappy sausage. The best joints honor tradition while moving the cuisine forward, and Texas Monthly’s list captures that balance perfectly.
