Just north of Austin, Round Rock is a booming Texas city that’s grown beyond its sleepy railroad roots but kept an unshakeable commitment to smoky, meaty tradition.
The barbecue here is both classic and evolving: you’ll find ultra-juicy brisket, snappy sausage, and ribs with that telltale “smoke ring,” plus inventive sides, craft beer, and friendly lines full of BBQ chatter.
Whether you’re looking for a roadside legend or a new-school upstart, Round Rock’s pitmasters have mastered the slow-and-low craft.
1. Liberty Barbecue
Anchored in historic downtown, Liberty Barbecue gives off vintage Texas vibes with a polished, family-friendly twist.
Their brisket is melt-in-your-mouth tender, kissed with oak smoke, and their pulled pork sandwiches run with just enough house sauce for messy, satisfying bites.
Don’t miss their jalapeño cheddar sausage or crispy, golden hush puppies, and if you’re in a group, order the “Pitmaster Platter” for a bit of everything. Southern hospitality abounds, and the patio is perfect for a craft beer and a late Texas afternoon.
2. SLAB BBQ & Beer
While the original SLAB is an Austin favorite, the Round Rock outpost brings its signature, fusion-forward barbecue north.
Known for their saucy, creative sandwiches like “Notorious P.I.G.” (pulled pork, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce on a hoagie) and thick brisket tacos, SLAB celebrates Southern hip-hop and low-and-slow cooking alike.
Their “Texas Trinity”—brisket, ribs, sausage—delivers, and baked mac and cheese is legendary.
Expect a lively, casual vibe with a side of local pride.
3. Smokey Mo’s BBQ
A beloved Texas mini-chain, Smokey Mo’s treats Round Rock like hometown royalty.
Their smoky brisket is unbeatable for a weekday lunch or takeaway, and the turkey breast, thick-cut and peppery, is shockingly good too.
Locals go wild for the loaded baked potatoes and jalapeño creamed corn, and portions are hearty enough to split.
Don’t forget a slice of pecan pie if there’s room—it’s a proper Southern finish.
4. Green Mesquite BBQ
A taste of Austin’s smoky legacy, this Round Rock favorite brings oak-wood tradition and no-fuss counter service.
The brisket is rich and peppery, sausage links snap just right, and pork ribs are the kind that tumble off the bone.
Try their beans with a scoop of extra sauce and enjoy on the patio or through a quick drive-thru window.
Their lunch specials keep locals coming back week after week.
5. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
Texas travelers know Rudy’s gas-station charm and cafeteria trays long before they walk in the door.
While it’s part of a regional chain, the Round Rock location excels at old-school Texas BBQ: slow-smoked brisket, peppery turkey, juicy jalapeño sausage, and cream corn that nearly steals the show.
Order your meats by weight, grab some house BBQ sauce, and enjoy a simple, crowd-pleasing feast with all the Texas road-trip nostalgia.
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