Austin, Texas, December 5, 2025
LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue in Austin has been recognized as the top barbecue restaurant in Texas, earning accolades for its innovative approach to traditional barbecue. Founded as a food truck in 2017 by pitmasters Evan LeRoy and Sawyer Lewis, the restaurant quickly gained a following for its unique dishes. Its expansion into a brick-and-mortar location in 2024 and subsequent Michelin star award in 2024 continue to solidify its status in the culinary world, ranking second in Texas Monthly’s top barbecue joints in 2025.
Austin’s LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue Named Best in Texas
Austin, Texas – LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue has been recognized as the top barbecue restaurant in Texas, according to a recent report. The Austin-based establishment, which began as a food truck in 2017, has garnered acclaim for its innovative approach to traditional barbecue.
LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue’s Rise to Prominence
Founded by pitmasters Evan LeRoy and Sawyer Lewis, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue started serving customers from a food truck in 2017. Their unique offerings, such as beef brisket, pork chops brined with sweet tea, Duroc pulled pork, chicken, and jalapeno sausage, quickly gained popularity. In 2024, the restaurant expanded into a brick-and-mortar location, continuing to receive accolades for its culinary excellence. Notably, in November 2024, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue was awarded a Michelin star, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Additionally, in 2025, Pitmaster Evan LeRoy was named a James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef Texas, further solidifying the restaurant’s reputation in the culinary world.
Recognition in Recent Rankings
In May 2025, Texas Monthly released its list of the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas, with LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue securing the second position. This ranking reflects the restaurant’s consistent quality and innovation in the barbecue scene.
Other Notable Austin Barbecue Establishments
Austin’s barbecue scene is vibrant, with several other establishments earning recognition. InterStellar BBQ, for instance, was awarded a Michelin star in November 2024, highlighting the city’s growing prominence in the culinary world.
Background on Austin’s Barbecue Culture
Austin has long been celebrated for its rich barbecue heritage. The city’s dedication to the craft is evident in the numerous establishments that have garnered national attention. From traditional joints to innovative newcomers, Austin continues to be a hub for barbecue enthusiasts seeking diverse and high-quality smoked meats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue known for?
LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue is renowned for its innovative approach to traditional barbecue, offering unique dishes like beef brisket, pork chops brined with sweet tea, Duroc pulled pork, chicken, and jalapeno sausage.
When did LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue transition from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar location?
The restaurant expanded into a brick-and-mortar location in 2024, continuing to receive accolades for its culinary excellence.
Has LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue received any prestigious awards?
Yes, in November 2024, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue was awarded a Michelin star, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Additionally, in 2025, Pitmaster Evan LeRoy was named a James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef Texas.
How does LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue rank among other Texas barbecue joints?
In May 2025, Texas Monthly released its list of the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas, with LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue securing the second position.
What other Austin barbecue establishments have received recognition?
InterStellar BBQ, for instance, was awarded a Michelin star in November 2024, highlighting the city’s growing prominence in the culinary world.
Key Features of LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2017 as a food truck; expanded to brick-and-mortar in 2024 |
| Signature Dishes | Beef brisket, pork chops brined with sweet tea, Duroc pulled pork, chicken, jalapeno sausage |
| Awards | Michelin star (2024), James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef Texas (2025) |
| Rankings | 2nd in Texas Monthly’s Top 50 Barbecue Joints (2025) |
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HERE Resources
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Austin: A Comprehensive Guide to Food, Music, and Outdoor Activities
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Austin to Host CultureMap Tastemaker Awards
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Austin’s Best Dish Competition: Local Cuisine Showdown
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