The Best Barbecue Restaurants in San Antonio, TX
Anyone who knows real barbecue knows that a joint is defined by the quality of its brisket. Brisket is the ultimate measuring stick because its rich, beefy flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and smoky bark deliver the most iconic and satisfying experience in slow-smoked meat—something that’s hard to replicate and varies widely in quality.
Brisket is a lot like wine: its depth and boldness can range. You can get quick, punchy brisket that hits your taste buds like a cheap wine hits your senses—or you can get high-quality brisket so good, it feels like a glimpse of what heaven tastes like.
While every barbecue spot in San Antonio has its own appeal—from standout sides to inviting atmospheres—this list is ranked primarily on brisket, followed by overall menu, environment, and price. Without further ado, here’s our list of the best barbecue restaurants in San Antonio:
1. Reese Bros Barbecue - Our Rating: 9.4/10
If brisket is the measuring stick, Reese Bros Barbecue is getting our top spot for best barbecue in San Antonio. Its exceptional brisket is tender, flavorful, and expertly smoked. It's not just the brisket that shines; the South Texas-inspired sides, like poblano mac & cheese and queso fundido sausage, elevate the entire experience. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, with shaded outdoor seating, overhead fans, and a small bar for drinks.There’s ample parking in their private lot and it’s conveniently located on the Eastside, just minutes from downtown, it’s one of the few elite BBQ joints in the city that doesn’t require a long drive. This Bon Appétit-featured spot blends classic Texas BBQ technique with bold regional flair, making it a must-visit whether you're a local or visiting.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Queso Fundido Sausage, Poblano Mac & Cheese
2. 2M Smokehouse - Our Rating: 9.2/10
2M Smokehouse was once the undisputed top BBQ spot in San Antonio, and while the quality is still excellent, it’s lost a bit of its edge in recent years—especially compared to newer standouts like Reese Bros. Prices remain high, partly due to its lasting reputation, and small details like skimping on utensils detract slightly from the overall experience. That said, the BBQ is still some of the best in town. 2M is known for blending Central Texas barbecue with Mexican influences, offering standout dishes like Prime Angus brisket, tender ribs, and house-made serrano-Oaxaca sausage. Helmed by nationally acclaimed pitmaster Esaul Ramos, it’s a must-visit for both locals and BBQ enthusiasts from afar. Don’t miss the unique sides like Chicharoni Macaroni and house-made pickles. 2M recently hit the Michelin Recommended list and also in their best barbecue in Texas list.
Featured Dishes: Prime Angus Brisket, Ribs, Serrano-Oaxaca Sausage, Chicharoni Macaroni
3. Burnt Bean (Seguin) - Our Rating: 9.2/10
Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin is a standout BBQ destination that blends bold Tejano flavors with classic Texas barbecue. Their brisket is exceptional, the pork ribs and sausage are consistently strong, and on weekends, you can splurge on the massive beef Dino rib (available only Saturdays and Sundays). Don’t skip the sides like the bacon ranch taters. Expect a wait, especially on weekends; they typically open at 11 AM, so arriving 15–30 minutes early is a good idea. Co-founded by pitmaster Ernest Servantes, Burnt Bean has earned national acclaim, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand. With inventive specials like brisket huevos rancheros and menudo, it’s one of the most innovative and celebrated barbecue spots in Texas.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Pork Ribs, Beef Dino Rib, Bacon Ranch Taters
4. Black’s BBQ (Lockhart) - Our Rating: 9.0/10
Black’s BBQ in Lockhart is a Texas barbecue institution, established in 1932 and known for its deep family roots and traditional slow-smoking techniques. While it’s a bit of a drive from San Antonio, it’s absolutely worth the trip for anyone seeking a true classic BBQ experience. The standout item here is the massive, flavorful beef rib, though their brisket, pork ribs, and smoked sausage also hold their own. With its historic charm and rich legacy, Black’s remains a must-visit destination for barbecue purists.
Featured Dishes: Beef Rib
5. Salt Lick (Driftwood) - Our Rating: 8.8/10
Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood is a Hill Country icon—and our go-to spot for taking out-of-town guests who want the full Texas barbecue experience. While the BBQ itself is solid, what really sets Salt Lick apart is the setting: rustic charm, communal picnic tables, and an open-pit smoker that creates an unforgettable visual and dining experience. It’s especially great for groups and heavy eaters thanks to their all-you-can-eat options. At $33, it can be a great price for heavier eaters. Their signature tomato-free, mustard-based sauce gives everything a distinct flavor, and they’re known for shipping their BBQ nationwide. It’s a place as much about the vibe as the food—and both deliver.
Featured Dishes: Smoked Brisket, Pork Ribs, Hill Country Sausage
6. B Daddys - Our Rating: 8.5/10
B-Daddy’s BBQ is one of the best barbecue spots on San Antonio’s northwest side, located in the laid-back town of Helotes. It rarely has long waits, offers plenty of outdoor seating, and serves up consistently good brisket at fair prices. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, often featuring live music on the patio, making it a great place to relax with family or friends. It’s also a fun excuse to explore Helotes if you’re in the mood for a mini day trip. Known for its hearty plates and backyard vibe, B-Daddy’s is a go-to for reliable, no-fuss Texas BBQ.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Jalapeño Sausage
7. Pinkerton's - Our Rating: 8.4/10
Pinkerton’s brings its acclaimed Houston-style BBQ to downtown San Antonio, offering mesquite-smoked meats in a sleek, urban setting. The food is undeniably high quality—with standouts like brisket, glazed pork ribs, and jalapeño cheddar sausage—but be prepared to pay premium prices. It’s one of the best barbecue spots in the city, especially if you’re looking for an upscale experience. Located right next to Legacy Park, it’s also great for families or groups who want to grab food and hang out on the lawn, enjoy live music, or let the kids run around. With its mix of bold flavors and downtown energy, Pinkerton’s strikes a balance between elevated and approachable.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Glazed Pork Ribs, Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage
8. 225 Urban Bbq - Our Rating: 8.3/10
225 Urban Smoke is a hidden gem on San Antonio’s BBQ scene, serving up a flavorful fusion of classic barbecue and Cajun comfort food. Alongside solid smoked meats like brisket, you’ll find Southern staples like catfish, red beans and rice, chicken and sausage gumbo, boudin balls, and jambalaya. It’s a great pick if you're in the mood for BBQ with a Cajun twist. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and the menu offers something a little different from the standard Texas fare—perfect for those who want variety without sacrificing flavor.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Catfish, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Red Beans & Rice, Boudin Balls, Jambalaya
9. Cooper’s (Lockhart) - Our Rating: 7.9/10
Cooper’s in Lockhart is a classic Texas BBQ stop, known for its rustic, open-pit style and generous portions. While the brisket is solid, the real star here is the legendary “Big Chop”—a massive, juicy pork chop that’s become a signature of the place. The setting is relaxed and casual, perfect for those who appreciate old-school barbecue traditions without any frills. If you’re making the trip to Lockhart, it’s worth visiting—though if you're choosing just one BBQ stop in the area, many lean toward Black’s for overall quality.
Featured Dishes: Pork Chop, Brisket, Jalapeño Sausage
10. Rudy’s - Our Rating: 7.9/10
Rudy’s is a well-known BBQ chain throughout San Antonio, offering fast, casual service and consistently good oak-smoked meats. Set in a gas-station-style eatery, it delivers a no-frills, grab-and-go experience that’s both convenient and affordable. While it may not offer the depth or craft of higher-end spots, it’s still a solid choice for quick, tasty barbecue—especially if you’re new to Texas BBQ or want something reliable without a long wait. It's also one of the more budget-friendly options in town.
Featured Dishes: Moist Brisket, Smoked Turkey, Creamed Corn
11. Smoke Shack - Our Rating: 7.8/10
Smoke Shack is a popular fast-casual BBQ spot near The Pearl, known for its affordability, quick service, and wide variety of menu options. Originally a food truck, it now offers indoor seating and a strong lineup of Southern-style sides and inventive BBQ twists. One standout is the two-slider plate—a favorite for those looking to try a mix without breaking the bank. The brisket grilled cheese and pulled pork are also crowd-pleasers, and the mac & cheese is a worthy side. While it may not be a top-tier destination for purists, it absolutely hits the spot and still delivers real Texas BBQ flavor at a great value.
Featured Dishes: Brisket Grilled Cheese, Pulled Pork, Mac & Cheese, Two-Slider Plate
12. B&B Smokehouse - Our Rating: 7.7/10
B&B Smokehouse is a longtime staple on San Antonio’s Southside, known for serving consistent, classic Texas BBQ in a casual, approachable setting. It’s a drive-through-friendly spot with fair prices, making it great for a quick and satisfying meal. While the barbecue is solid across the board, they also serve surprisingly good burgers and have several kid-friendly options, making it a versatile choice for families. The atmosphere is spacious and welcoming, and the service is fast and friendly—everything you want from a neighborhood BBQ joint with roots in tradition.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Smoked Turkey, Sausage, Burgers
13. Barbecue Station - Our Rating: 7.7/10
Barbecue Station is one of the most affordable BBQ spots in San Antonio, ideal for those looking for a quick, no-frills taste of traditional Texas barbecue. Located in a converted gas station, it’s a family-run joint known for its mesquite-smoked meats and nostalgic vibe. While it doesn’t offer the creative variety of some newer spots, it sticks to the classics—brisket, sausage, and all the traditional sides. It’s a solid option if you're after something simple, smoky, and reliably good without spending a lot.
Featured Dishes: Brisket, Sausage, Potato Salad
14. Two Bros BBQ - Our Rating: 7.6/10
Two Bros BBQ Market is a casual, family-friendly spot in San Antonio known for its outdoor picnic areas and medium-sized playground, making it a solid choice for parents who want to relax while the kids burn off some energy. The BBQ is good—not elite—but dependable, and the setting is ideal for laid-back meals. The complex also includes a nearby coffee shop, and Walker Ranch Park, with its walking trails and additional playground, is just down the road. With dedicated parking and a varied menu, it’s a convenient and welcoming option for family outings.
Featured Dishes: Cherry-Glazed Baby Back Ribs, Brisket, Mac & Cheese