Sitting between Austin and Dallas along the I-35, Waco is much more than just “that city with the silos.”
It’s a real-deal Texas barbecue hub, brimming with old family smokehouses and up-and-coming pitmasters.
Waco’s ‘cue is known for seriously good brisket, peppery rubs, and sides that could steal the show.
From classic counters with butcher paper to quirky, modern joints, Waco’s BBQ scene never leaves you hungry.
Guess Family Barbecue
A must-stop for barbecue fans, Guess Family Barbecue epitomizes the Central Texas tradition: prime brisket with a peppery crust, juicy sausage, and ribs that pull clean from the bone.
The ambiance is laid-back, with picnic tables and friendly staff who know their smoke.
Try their brisket taco (a local favorite), and don’t sleep on creative sides like smoked gouda mac or the scratch-made Texas Caviar.
Vitek’s BBQ
A century-old Waco legend, Vitek’s is all about tradition and hearty eating. Their “Gut Pak” is famous—layers of Frito chips, chopped brisket, beans, cheese, and barbecue sauce, loaded up in a basket for one glorious mess of a meal.
Ribs, sausage, and pulled pork get serious smoke, and the Texas toast and creamed corn round things out perfectly.
The energetic, college-town vibe fits the city’s Baylor U spirit.
Uncle Dan’s Bar-B-Que & Ribhouse
Uncle Dan’s is laid-back, affordable, and consistently good.
They do all the classics—think smoky ribs, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, peppery sausage, plus crunchy fried okra and creamy potato salad.
Their spicy barbecue sauce gives everything an extra zing, and regulars swear by the generous platters and friendly staff. It’s barbecue nostalgia, Waco-style.
Tony DeMaria’s Bar-B-Que
Operating since 1959, Tony DeMaria’s earns local love for its bare-bones, time-tested approach.
The menu is simple: brisket, links, ribs, and chopped beef piled high on butcher paper, with just enough sauce to tie it all together.
The setting is old-school diner, and the brisket is all about smoke, not frills. Arrive early—when they run out, you’re out of luck.
Red Wagon BBQ
A local upstart with rave reviews, Red Wagon stands out for generous portions and housemade everything.
Brisket is sliced thick, beans are slow-simmered, and BBQ plates are massive.
Their jalapeño cheddar sausage and loaded fries are a huge hit with college students and families alike.
The inviting, downhome setting makes it a perfect place to gather over “Texas-sized” meals.
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