Top 5 Places for BBQ Breakfast in Austin
Ultimate Morning Feast Spots
Austin has steadily become one of the premier destinations for barbecue in the United States, drawing food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. While many associate this Texas city with its legendary brisket and ribs, BBQ breakfast is an emerging trend that brings a flavorful twist to the morning meal.
Exploring the top places for BBQ breakfast in Austin offers a delicious start to the day, blending smoky meats with classic breakfast staples. For anyone eager to experience the city's unique approach to morning barbecue, this guide will provide a curated list of must-visit spots known for their mouth-watering offerings. With a mix of well-established favorites and innovative newcomers, there's something to satisfy every palate.
1) Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats is a beloved spot in Austin for barbecue. Established in 2012, it has made a name for itself with high-quality, scratch-made offerings. This barbecue trailer is parked in East Austin and known for its brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, sausage, and smoked turkey.
Breakfast options include pulled pork and brisket paired with jalapeño cheese grits, a local favorite. Guests can enjoy their meals outdoors with covered seating available. The attention to detail in their house-made sides, such as lemon poppy slaw, complements the rich, smoky flavors of the meats.
Micklethwait Craft Meats operates with a clear focus on delivering an exceptional culinary experience, making it a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts.
Address: 1309 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702
Contact: +1 512-791-5961
Website: Micklethwait Craft Meats
2) Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue offerings, making it a must-visit spot in Austin. Known for attracting long lines, this iconic eatery serves some of the best smoked meats in the city.
Their brisket is particularly noteworthy, boasting a perfect blend of smoky flavor and tenderness. In addition to brisket, offerings include ribs, sausage, and turkey, all prepared with meticulous care.
Visitors can pair their meal with well-crafted sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, and beans. The combination of hearty meats and flavorful sides ensures a satisfying dining experience.
Located at 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, Franklin Barbecue is a staple for both locals and tourists seeking top-tier BBQ. They are open from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: +1 512-653-1187
Website: Franklin Barbecue
3) La Barbecue
La Barbecue stands out as a premier spot for BBQ breakfast in Austin. Renowned for its perfectly smoked brisket, this establishment promises a mouth-watering experience.
The brisket is tender and flavorful, drawing rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Another popular choice is their succulent pulled pork, which pairs perfectly with their homemade pickles and tangy sauces.
For those who prefer lighter fare, the turkey options are both juicy and packed with taste. Additionally, La Barbecue offers a variety of sides, including creamy coleslaw and rich, smoked scalloped potatoes.
The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a comfortable place for breakfast. With its central location, it’s easily accessible for a hearty morning meal.
Address: 902 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Contact: +1 512-605-9696
Website: La Barbecue
4) Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is a notable spot in Austin for enjoying BBQ breakfast. Located in the historic Violet Crown Shopping Center, this restaurant captures a nostalgic Austin vibe.
The menu features exceptional Texas BBQ. Customers can anticipate a mix of smoked meats and traditional breakfast items. Their craft brews also add a unique twist to the breakfast experience.
Their indoor air-conditioned space provides comfort, while the patio offers a relaxed outdoor setting. This makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew 6610 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 380-9199
stilesswitchbbq.com
5) Kerlin BBQ
Kerlin BBQ stands out in Austin for its flavorful barbecue breakfast offerings. People often rave about the succulent brisket and tender meats that are smoked to perfection. The options are diverse, catering to traditional barbecue lovers and those looking for something unique.
Known for its peach tea-glazed pork belly and smoked scalloped potatoes, Kerlin BBQ provides a delicious start to the day. The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed morning meal.
Service at Kerlin BBQ is efficient, ensuring that customers can enjoy their breakfast without long waits. Reviews highlight the consistently high quality of food, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For anyone looking to indulge in a hearty barbecue breakfast in Austin, Kerlin BBQ is a must-visit destination.
2209 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702-4601
+1 512-412-5588
Visit Website
The History Of BBQ Breakfast In Austin
Barbecue breakfast in Austin has a rich and flavorful history, shaped by the city's diverse culinary influences and the ever-evolving nature of its BBQ scene.
Origins And Popularity
BBQ breakfast in Austin traces its roots to the early smokehouse traditions that established the city as a BBQ hotspot. Pioneers of Austin BBQ began experimenting with breakfast offerings as early as the 1990s.
Local pitmasters recognized the demand for morning meals that incorporated their expertly smoked meats. This led to the creation of BBQ breakfast tacos and brisket breakfast plates. These early endeavors quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike, fueling the rise of BBQ breakfast as a staple in many Austin eateries.
Influences And Evolution
The influences on BBQ breakfast in Austin are as varied as its residents. The city's multicultural backdrop introduced a fusion of flavors and styles. Tex-Mex cuisine played a significant role, merging traditional BBQ with breakfast favorites like tortillas and salsas.
As more chefs entered the BBQ scene, they added unique twists such as smoked pork belly with peach tea glaze or brisket served atop egg dishes. This evolution has kept BBQ breakfast fresh and exciting, ensuring it remains a beloved tradition within Austin's vibrant culinary landscape.
Signature BBQ Breakfast Dishes
Austin's barbecue joints are known for their unique breakfast offerings that harmoniously blend traditional BBQ elements with classic morning fare. Highlights include Brisket Breakfast Tacos and Smoked Sausage and Eggs, both of which provide a mouth-watering start to the day.
Brisket Breakfast Tacos
Brisket Breakfast Tacos are a beloved staple in Austin. These tacos bring together tender, smoky brisket with scrambled eggs, cheese, and often a touch of salsa. The brisket, seasoned and slow-cooked, delivers deep flavors that pair perfectly with the soft, fluffy eggs.
At many eateries, these tacos are served in warm, fresh tortillas, adding another layer of texture and flavor. Toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, and hot sauce can be added for a personalized touch. This dish combines the best of BBQ with the comfort of breakfast, making it a must-try for both locals and visitors.
Smoked Sausage and Eggs
Smoked Sausage and Eggs is another favorite on Austin's BBQ breakfast menus. The sausages, smoked to perfection, bring a robust and hearty flavor profile to the table. Their smoky, savory taste is complemented by simple, well-prepared eggs, whether scrambled, fried, or poached.
This dish often includes sides such as potatoes, toast, or biscuits, allowing diners to enjoy a complete, satisfying meal. The combination of rich, smoky sausage with eggs offers a balanced and fulfilling breakfast option that highlights the best of BBQ traditions.
Pairing Drinks With BBQ Breakfast
The perfect drink pairing can elevate any BBQ breakfast experience. From robust coffee selections to flavorful local craft beers, finding the right beverage to complement your BBQ breakfast is essential.
Popular Coffee Choices
Espresso: The bold and rich flavor profile of an espresso pairs wonderfully with the smoky and savory elements of BBQ dishes.
Cold Brew Coffee: This chilled option offers a smooth and refreshing contrast to the heavier BBQ flavors. It's particularly enjoyable during warmer mornings.
Lattes: A latte, whether it's a classic or flavored variant, provides a creamy and balanced partner for BBQ breakfasts featuring eggs, bacon, and smoked meats.
Local coffee roasters in Austin often provide unique blends that capture the essence of the region, enhancing the BBQ breakfast experience. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the attention to detail and craftsmanship in these local brews.
Local Craft Beers And Beverages
Light Ales: A crisp and light ale can provide a refreshing balance to the rich and smoky flavors of BBQ breakfast items. Look for options from local Austin breweries.
IPAs: The hoppy and slightly bitter notes of an IPA offer a great counterpoint to the sweetness of BBQ sauces and the richness of smoked meats.
Hard Ciders: For a less traditional, yet delicious, pairing, hard ciders bring a fruity and slightly sweet element that complements a variety of BBQ dishes.
Exploring local craft beers not only adds variety but also supports the vibrant local brewing community. Austin's breweries frequently experiment with flavors, offering customized brews that can enhance any BBQ breakfast spread.
