Set in the piney woods of East Texas, Tyler is a rose-scented city where the love for smoke and spice runs deep.
Here, barbecue is a proud tradition—brisket is king, ribs must have the perfect pink ring, and the sides are made from family recipes.
Whether you want a honky-tonk with house bands or a drive-thru smoke shack, Tyler barbecue is bold, tender, and never rushed.
Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q
A Tyler institution since 1958, Stanley’s is Texas barbecue at its finest.
The cherry-wood-smoked brisket and famous pork ribs draw crowds, but insiders know the “Mother Clucker” sandwich—piled high with smoked chicken, spicy sausage, and melted cheese—is also a can’t-miss.
There’s live music, sweet tea, and legendary brisket tacos that seal the deal.
Ribmasters
Ribmasters is beloved for its old-school, stick-burner smokiness and hearty portions.
Brisket, ribs, turkey, and sausage are all standouts, but the homemade sides—like creamy corn casserole and tangy potato salad—make the meal complete.
The pitmasters love to chat barbecue if you ask!
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
A Texas classic with locations statewide, Rudy’s brings serious smoked goodness and an easygoing, cafeteria-style experience.
Their moist brisket is melt-in-your-mouth, and the creamed corn is legendary.
Order family-style and try a bottle of their signature “Sause.”
Bodacious Bar-B-Q
With cave-like smokehouses and a drive-thru line that fills up quick, Bodacious is an East Texas tradition.
Don’t miss their sliced brisket, spicy sausage links, or spicy jalapeño beans.
The sauce is slightly sweet and smoky, served on the side so you can slather to taste.
Pat Gee’s Barbecue
If you want truly old-school, follow the backroads to Pat Gee’s, open just a couple days a week and run out of a simple cedar shack—they’ve been doing it the same way since 1963.
The sauce is thin and vinegary, the brisket is sublime, and the house-made bread is perfect for sauce-mopping.
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