Round Rock's Best BBQ [Updated 2025]

Throughout my culinary journey, I've had the pleasure of sampling several BBQ joints right here in my hometown.

After reviewing 12 standout locations, I've discovered a rich tapestry of flavors and techniques that make each one unique.

From slow-smoked briskets bursting with flavor to mouthwatering ribs that fall off the bone, there's something for every BBQ lover.

Join me as I take you through my top picks, each offering a taste of authentic Texas BBQ that will leave you craving more!

Shaws Country Kitchen

Highlights
Delicious brisket baked potato
Meatiest, most flavorful ribs
Amazing potato salad
Friendly family-owned atmosphere
Affordable and well-seasoned BBQ

Shaws Country Kitchen is a delightful gem I stumbled upon, and what a treat it was! From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that only a family-owned establishment can provide. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable meal.

Now, let’s talk about the food—specifically, the delicious brisket baked potato that left my taste buds dancing. This hearty dish was loaded with meaty brisket and paired perfectly with their amazing potato salad. Each bite was a beautiful combination of flavors that had me savoring every morsel.

And let's not forget about the ribs! Juicy and packed with flavor, they were hands down the meatiest and most delightful I’ve tried. The seasoning on the ribs was just right.

If you’re searching for affordable and well-seasoned BBQ that makes you feel part of the family, Shaws Country Kitchen is the place to be. Don't miss it—your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best ramen in Austin.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit

Highlights
New management improvement
Generous servings of beef
Excellent, attentive service
Clean and pleasant atmosphere
Delicious, well-seasoned ribs

Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Round Rock is a delightful surprise, especially with its new management breathing fresh life into the establishment. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the clean and pleasant atmosphere—a far cry from the typical dive you might expect from a BBQ joint. The staff’s excellent, attentive service made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. I sampled their generous servings of beef, and wow! The flavorful and tender meat was cooked to perfection. But the real star of the show was undoubtedly the ribs—each bite was a symphony of well-balanced seasonings that danced on my palate. I can confidently say that they are among the best I’ve had!

Overall, my visit to Dickey's was a fantastic experience. With its newfound zing and delightful offerings, this spot is a must-visit for anyone in search of the best BBQ in Round Rock. For those who appreciate a well-crafted meal and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is sure to leave you both satisfied and smiling!

You might also want to check out the best pho in Austin.

Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q

Highlights
Delicious brisket and ribs
Must-try breakfast tacos
Friendly and attentive service
Spacious restaurant location
Fresh ingredients used

At Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q, the air is thick with the mouthwatering aroma of smoked meats that instantly transports you to barbecue heaven. As I stepped in, I was greeted by the friendly staff, whose warmth made me feel right at home. I dove into the delicious brisket and ribs, each bite bursting with smoky goodness and tenderness that practically melts in your mouth.

But hold up—before you dive into the meats, be sure not to miss their must-try breakfast tacos! I kicked off my meal with one, and let me tell you, the combination of fresh ingredients in that taco was simply divine and the perfect way to start any day.

The spacious restaurant left plenty of room for families and BBQ enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. Overall, my experience at Rudy’s was nothing short of exceptional. From the scrumptious food to the attentive service, I can confidently say that Rudy's stands out as a top contender for the best BBQ in Round Rock. If you’re in the area and craving mouthwatering barbecue, this is one spot you simply cannot miss!

You might also want to check out the best donuts in Austin.

Smokey Mo's BBQ

Highlights
Consistent recipe since 2013
Moist turkey, flavorful chicken
Great peppery sauce
Clean, inviting dining area
Friendly, attentive staff

Smokey Mo's BBQ truly delivers a delightful culinary experience that keeps me coming back for more. Established in 2013, their consistent recipes reflect an unwavering commitment to quality. As I stepped inside, I was welcomed by a clean, inviting dining area that effortlessly set the stage for a memorable meal.

The highlight of my visit was the moist turkey and flavorful chicken, both cooked to perfection and bursting with smoky goodness. Each bite was a celebration of meticulous seasoning that had me longing for more. Paired with their great peppery sauce, the flavors danced on my palate, bringing a delightful kick that felt just right—not overpowering, yet memorable.

What really stood out, however, was the friendly and attentive staff. Their warmth made me feel as though I was part of a big family gathering. It’s evident that Smokey Mo’s passion for barbeque extends beyond the food; it encompasses the entire dining experience.

In a city teeming with BBQ options, Smokey Mo's BBQ shines brightly. Whether you're a local or just passing through Round Rock, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in their offerings—you won’t be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Cedar Park.

PoK-e-Jo's

Highlights
Tender, delicious meats
Friendly, helpful staff
Relaxing dining atmosphere
Best smoked chicken in Round Rock
Excellent pickled cucumbers

When it comes to BBQ in Round Rock, PoK-e-Jo's takes the cake—or should I say, the brisket! As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendly staff who made me feel right at home. It’s hard to resist the aroma of their tender, smoked meats wafting through the air; it almost lured me right off my seat!

I decided to indulge in their celebrated smoked chicken, and let me tell you, it was heavenly—so moist and flavorful that you could almost hear it singing. My taste buds danced with delight as the smoky goodness enveloped each bite. I also highly recommend pairing your meal with their excellent pickled cucumbers; they add a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the rich meats.

The dining atmosphere is a nice mix of casual and comfortable, making it a great spot for family dinners or catching up with friends. PoK-e-Jo's is indeed a contender for the best BBQ in Round Rock, and if you're on the hunt for deliciousness, you simply can't miss out on this gem! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best pasta in Austin.

Liberty Barbecue

Highlights
Unique menu items
Vibrant atmosphere
Friendly and professional staff
Must-try local barbecue
Family-friendly dining experience

Ah, Liberty Barbecue — a true gem in Round Rock! Upon stepping inside, I was instantly embraced by the vibrant atmosphere that radiates warmth and authenticity. The unique menu items had my taste buds tingling with anticipation. Where else could one find such a delightful twist on classic Texas barbecue?

I eagerly ordered the brisket and was rewarded with slices so tender, they practically melted in my mouth. The smoky flavor was a delightful dance on my palate, enhanced by their signature barbecue sauce — a blend of sweet and savory that complemented the meat without stealing the show.

But let me not forget to mention the friendly and professional staff. They were not just servers; they were passionate barbecue aficionados eager to guide me through the menu and share their personal favorites. It felt like being part of a barbecue-loving family.

In the end, Liberty Barbecue is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a family-friendly dining experience that captures the heart of Texas. If you're in Round Rock and searching for the best barbecue, you absolutely must make a stop here! You won't regret it.

You might also want to check out the best tacos in Austin.

The Salt Lick - Round Rock

Highlights
Tender and smoky brisket
All-you-can-eat family style
Lively and fun atmosphere
Attentive and friendly service
Delicious dessert options

I recently had the pleasure of sinking my teeth into the mouthwatering delights at The Salt Lick - Round Rock, and let me tell you, it’s an experience you won't want to miss! The tender and smoky brisket left me wanting more, each bite bursting with the flavor that only slow-smoked perfection can deliver.

What truly sets this gem apart is its all-you-can-eat family style dining, inviting you to indulge in a smorgasbord of barbecue bliss. The lively and fun atmosphere made it feel like a celebration, where each plate was a toast to the art of good eating. I haven’t experienced service quite like this anywhere else; the attentive and friendly staff made sure my iced tea was never empty, all the while sharing stories that added an authentic touch to the experience.

And oh, don't forget to save room for dessert! Their sweet treats are simply irresistible. If you’re hunting for the best barbecue in Round Rock, The Salt Lick is a must-visit—where the flavors are unforgettable and the fun is endless!

You might also want to check out the best queso in Austin.

Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ

Highlights
High-quality ingredients
Delicious chili dogs
Self-serve beer wall
Family-friendly atmosphere
Unique dining concept

Visiting Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ was a delightful experience that tantalized my taste buds and left me yearning for more. Nestled in the heart of Round Rock, this spot isn’t just about BBQ; it’s an entire culinary adventure. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for families, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Let’s talk about the star of the show—the high-quality ingredients. Each dish is crafted with care, and I was particularly impressed by their delicious chili dogs. Topped to perfection, they are a mouthwatering blend of flavors that simply demands attention. As if that wasn’t enough, the self-serve beer wall adds a unique twist, allowing diners to sample local brews at their own pace.

What sets Crave apart is its innovative approach to dining. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to indulge in great food and savor every moment. If you’re in Round Rock and in the mood for BBQ with a fun twist, Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ is a must-visit for a flavorsome adventure!

You might also want to check out the best pancakes in Austin.

Bill Miller Bar-B-Q

At Bill Miller Bar-B-Q, I was greeted with the enticing aroma of hickory smoke, instantly making my mouth water. The brisket was a revelation—tender, juicy, and kissed with a perfect smoky bark that had me coming back for seconds. Their homemade BBQ sauce was a delightful blend of spice and sweetness, perfect for dousing over their crispy fries. While the ambiance felt cozy and inviting, it was the food that truly stole the show. If you're seeking a place where nostalgia meets flavor, Bill Miller is a must-visit in Round Rock's BBQ scene. Delicious!

You might also want to check out the best soup in Austin.

amigos bbq grill

Amigos BBQ Grill is a delightful gem in Round Rock, where the smoky aroma dances through the air and beckons you inside. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a warm atmosphere and a friendly smile. The brisket was absolutely falling apart tender, with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Pair it with their house-made sauce for an explosion of flavors that will dance on your palate. The sides are equally impressive, especially the creamy coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch. If you're hunting for mouthwatering BBQ, Amigos is a must-try destination!

You might also want to check out the best dim sum in Austin.

Brotherton's Black Iron Barbecue

Brotherton's Black Iron Barbecue is a delectable haven for BBQ lovers! The moment I walked in, the smoky aroma enveloped me, enticing my taste buds. I indulged in their brisket, which was an absolute masterpiece—tender, flavorful, and perfectly charred. The house-made sides, especially the jalapeño cornbread, were a delightful complement, adding just the right amount of spice. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, making it an inviting spot for friends and family. Overall, if you’re on a quest for top-notch barbecue in Round Rock, Brotherton's delivers a mouthwatering experience that you'll want to revisit again and again!

You might also want to check out the best taco trucks in Austin.

Uncle Dan's Backyard BBQ

Uncle Dan's Backyard BBQ is a delightful gem that made my taste buds dance with joy! The moment I stepped in, the smoky aroma wrapped around me like a warm hug. I opted for the brisket, and it was simply divine—tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. The homemade BBQ sauce added a sweet and tangy kick that elevated every bite. And let’s not forget the sides; the creamy coleslaw was the perfect companion! Overall, Uncle Dan's offers a casual charm while serving up some of the best BBQ in Round Rock. Don’t miss out on this backyard treasure!

You might also want to check out the best crawfish in Austin.