San Antonio, December 28, 2025

San Antonio is home to a rich barbecue culture, marrying traditional techniques with unique flavors. Featuring local favorites like Burnt Bean Co. and Reese Bros. Barbecue, this guide highlights the top eight establishments where smoked meat enthusiasts can indulge in culinary excellence. As small businesses flourish, barbecue lovers are encouraged to support these local gems that make San Antonio a prime destination for BBQ lovers.

San Antonio BBQ: 8 Must-Visit Spots for Smoked Meat Lovers

San Antonio, Texas, is celebrated for its vibrant barbecue culture, where a blend of traditional cooking techniques and innovative flavors create a unique dining experience. Local entrepreneurs have embraced this culinary art form, demonstrating remarkable resilience and creativity in serving up expertly smoked meats. Reduced regulatory hurdles have encouraged the growth of these small businesses, allowing them to flourish in a competitive environment. Let’s explore eight top spots in and around the city that are not to be missed by barbecue enthusiasts.

1. Burnt Bean Co.

Located in nearby Seguin, Burnt Bean Co. has garnered accolades as the top barbecue joint in Texas by Texas Monthly’s 2025 list. The restaurant is lauded for its “barbecue perfection,” merging traditional techniques with inventive flavors. In November 2024, Burnt Bean Co. stood out as the only San Antonio-area restaurant featured in Michelin’s inaugural Texas guide.

2. Reese Bros. Barbecue

Reese Bros. Barbecue, located within San Antonio, is renowned for its exceptional brisket, which is tender, flavorful, and meticulously smoked. The menu is complemented by South Texas-inspired sides such as poblano mac & cheese and queso fundido sausage. This charming eatery boasts an inviting atmosphere with shaded outdoor seating and a small bar for drink options.

3. 2M Smokehouse

2M Smokehouse expertly fuses Central Texas barbecue with Mexican influences, showcasing highlights like Prime Angus brisket, tender ribs, and house-made serrano-Oaxaca sausage. Notably, this establishment has earned recognition in the Michelin Recommended list, showcasing its prominence in Texas’s barbecue scene.

4. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q

Established in 1989, Rudy’s has expanded into a chain with 34 locations spanning Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado. Its casual, Texas-style atmosphere combined with consistently flavorful smoked meats has made Rudy’s a staple among barbecue lovers.

5. Pinkerton’s Barbecue

Located in downtown San Antonio, Pinkerton’s Barbecue specializes in both sliced and chopped brisket, along with beef ribs and an array of barbecue sandwiches. This establishment has achieved noteworthy recognition in Texas Monthly’s best barbecue in Texas list, reflecting its commitment to quality.

6. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que has been a legendary name in barbecue since its establishment in 1962 in Llano and has since expanded to New Braunfels in 2008. Known for its authentic pit-cooked meats, Cooper’s has solidified its legacy in Texas barbecue history.

7. Granzin’s Bar-B-Q

Granzin’s Bar-B-Q, a family-owned establishment located in New Braunfels, prides itself on high-quality meats and traditional barbecue techniques. This local favorite continues to attract both residents and visitors, contributing to the rich barbecue tapestry of the region.

8. Black’s Original Barbecue

Also located in New Braunfels, Black’s Original Barbecue shares a commitment to high-quality meats and traditional cooking methods. This family-owned restaurant has become a beloved choice for barbecue enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors.

These eight establishments not only signify the diverse barbecue offerings available in San Antonio and its nearby areas but also represent the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the local economy. Supporting these local businesses fosters community growth and highlights the rich culinary traditions that Texas is known for.

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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.