Once a sleepy prairie town, Frisco is now a booming suburb at the heart of North Texas.
While its shiny sports complexes and business towers draw crowds, this city has never lost its love affair with barbecue.
In Frisco, you’ll find both steadfast traditionalists keeping the Texas smokehouse heritage alive—and newcomers ready to experiment with brisket tacos, craft brews, and gourmet sides.
Expect a mix of family-friendly spots, hip patios, and smoky legends that turn a simple lunch into a local event.
1. Hutchins BBQ
A cornerstone of North Texas barbecue, Hutchins is revered for melt-in-your-mouth brisket that arrives with bark so black and glistening it practically snaps.
The sausage is house-made, the ribs always hit that juicy-sweet spot, and every meal comes with complimentary banana pudding and peach cobbler (a local signature).
Don’t skip the burnt ends if they’re available, and expect lines—especially on weekends.
2. Tender Smokehouse
Located just off Main Street, Tender Smokehouse is Frisco’s answer to big Texas barbecue—giant trays of smoked brisket, spicy sausage, and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Locals rave about the loaded baked potato bursting with chopped brisket and cheese, as well as the mac ‘n’ cheese topped with a mound of pulled pork.
The family-run vibes make every visit welcoming.
3. 3 Stacks Smoke & Tap House
Plenty of space, a stellar craft beer selection, and some of the best smoked turkey and brisket in town.
3 Stacks is known for legit barbecue with a modern twist—think brisket queso, smoked wings, and a funky list of house sauces including their popular “Sweet Heat” and “Espresso” blends.
Patio-friendly, with live music on weekends.
4. Lockhart Smokehouse (Plano, short drive away)
While technically in Plano, it’s a go-to for Frisco residents.
This branch of the Lockhart legacy is all about the “no forks, no sauce unless you ask” experience.
Pit-smoked ribs and shoulder clod are served up on butcher paper, accompanied by pickles, onions, and white bread—the Texas classic way.
5. The Smokin’ Oven
A newer kid on the block but with serious pit credentials, The Smokin’ Oven wows with jalapeño-cheddar sausage and chicken that’s smoky yet impossibly juicy.
The sides are scratch-made—don’t miss the creamed corn or tangy slaw—and the Friday night BBQ nachos draw a neighborhood crowd.
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