Out on the West Texas high plains, Amarillo’s barbecue is shaped by both cattle country tradition and the wide-open cowboy spirit.
This is brisket land, sure, but pitmasters here love to experiment—mesquite-smoked turkey, spicy house sausage, and yes, even a nod to Tex-Mex flavors.
With Route 66 running through town, Amarillo’s BBQ is as much about hospitality as it is about hickory.
1. Tyler’s Barbeque
A local legend—Tyler’s is rustic, casual, and absolutely obsessed with perfect brisket.
The smoke ring is deep, the ribs are fall-apart tender, and the regulars will steer you toward the brisket chili as a must-try side.
Service is fast and friendly, but nothing’s rushed in the pit room.
2. Spicy Mike’s Bar-B-Q Haven
Family-run and fiercely local, Spicy Mike’s does both the old Texas classics and crowd-pleasing specialties: green chile queso sausage, smoked turkey legs, and fire-roasted corn.
Folks love the jalapeño poppers and the spicy, pepper-vinegar house sauce—a flavor bomb that lingers.
3. Dyer’s BBQ
One of Amarillo’s oldest barbecue joints, Dyer’s is all about consistency: rich, meaty ribs, hickory-smoked brisket, and house-made spicy beans that can almost upstage the meat.
The “Texas Sweet” sauce is a beloved staple, and on Thursdays you’ll find a crew of locals out for the smoked catfish special.
4. Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q
A Texas chain with unmistakable Amarillo heart, Rudy’s delivers barbecue in a no-frills, cafeteria-style setting.
The juicy smoked turkey and creamed corn are local favorites, and you can top everything with “Sause” that balances sweet, tang, and mild heat.
Grab a pound to-go for road trips.
5. Big Texan BBQ
Famous for the 72-ounce steak challenge, Big Texan’s barbecue offerings are actually a locals’ secret—especially their smoked prime rib, sausage, and fall-off-the-bone baby backs.
The wild west décor is pure Amarillo, and you’ll likely be serenaded by a cowboy band while you chow down.
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