With National Brisket Day a little over one week away, it’s only fitting that one of Texas’ famed destinations for all things smoked meat is once again gaining notice. As barbecue joints across the Lone Star State battle it out to become top dogs, a popular destination is continuing to collect accolade after accolade.
“Established in 2009, Franklin Barbecue has been a staple of the Texas and Austin barbecue scenes for years and has gained a worldwide reputation for its mouthwatering brisket and barbecue sides,” Business Insider writes. “Eater reported that Anthony Bourdain visited the spot for an episode of No Reservations in 2012, where he waited in line for over an hour. The barbecue was apparently well worth the wait since he called the brisket ‘earth-shatteringly good.'”
This is far from the first time Franklin Barbecue has received recognition. Southern Living has ranked Franklin Barbecue as the No. 1 barbecue joint in Texas for five straight years. It was ranked the No. 1 barbecue joint in America by LoveFood.com and was the only Texas barbecue joint included in the Robb Report’s list of the 100 Greatest American Restaurants of the 21st Century.
The recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand and Texas Monthly honors, co-owners Aaron and Stacy Franklin expanded in November 2025 with Franklin Backyard, a private event space dedicated to catering and special events at 2027 Anchor Lane, Austin, TX 78723.
Read the full list from Business Insider here.
Find it: 900 E. 11th St., Austin, TX 78702
Dining and Cooking