Finding the best BBQ in Fredericksburg, TX is a little like chasing smoke—it’s everywhere, but there are a few spots where the scent is strongest. Spending time in this Hill Country town taught me one thing: everyone has a brisket story here, and the locals can point you to a dozen joints faster than you can say “sweet tea.” Whether you’re in it for a smoky rack of ribs or a simple plate of sausage, Fredericksburg takes its barbecue seriously, serving it with a side of authentic Texas hospitality.
As someone who has followed a trail of mesquite and oak through this part of Texas, I can say there’s a whole spectrum of BBQ styles waiting here—some traditional, some with creative twists, all forged in wood-fired pits. This isn’t about trendy facades or touristy gimmicks. Instead, you’ll discover family recipes, slow-cooked secrets, and the kind of meals that linger in memory long after the plate is clean. If you’re hungry for a true taste of Fredericksburg, read on—your next favorite spot is likely just ahead.
Where to find the best bbq in Fredericksburg, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Fredericksburg, TX:
- Backwoods BBQ
- Eaker Barbecue
- David’s Old Fashioned Pit BBQ Restaurant
- Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ
- Mesquite At The Warehouse
- Dutchman’s Market
- Bankersmith
- Rex’s Smokehouse
- Alamo Springs Cafe
- David’s Old Fashion Pit
1. Backwoods BBQ
Backwoods BBQ sits just outside downtown Fredericksburg, offering a relaxed setting and a menu focused on smoky tradition. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t a rushed affair—pitmasters here give brisket and ribs the time they deserve, and the flavor shows.
What impressed me was the attention to detail. You’ll find the meat tender with a deep, natural smokiness. The staff are relaxed but know their stuff, suggesting sauces but never overpowering the quality of the meat.
The brisket is a must. It’s carved thick, carries a deep smoke ring, and is tender without falling apart. If you’re hungry, try a combo plate with turkey and sausage, which showcases a range of textures and flavors. Backwoods BBQ is where you taste classic Texas with every bite.
2. Eaker Barbecue
Eaker Barbecue brings a creative twist to the Fredericksburg BBQ scene, and it’s easy to see why it earned a spot on the Texas Monthly Top 50 list. The draw here is the balance between classic smokehouse technique and a hint of Korean flair. Owners Lance and Boo Eaker make you feel like a regular whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
On my last stop, the standout was the Gochujang ribs—savory, slightly spicy, and layered with flavor you won’t soon forget. For a sampler, the brisket and turkey hold their own, both moist with just the right amount of smoke. Pair your plate with scratch-made sides for a full Eaker experience.
If you love BBQ with personality and a story, start here.
3. David’s Old Fashioned Pit BBQ Restaurant
David’s Old Fashioned Pit BBQ Restaurant keeps things classic, slow-smoking meats the way they’ve done for generations. I found the park-side pit and welcoming staff to be the kind you’d expect in a small Texas town—friendly, no fuss, and focused on the food.
You’ll taste the time and care in every bite. Their brisket and turkey, served by the plate or pound, showcase plenty of smoke and tenderness, perfect for a laid-back lunch. On my last visit, I couldn’t resist a thick slice of brisket layered on a soft roll, paired with a generous side of beans.
Daily specials make each stop a little different, but the emphasis on real, old-fashioned barbecue never changes.
4. Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ
+1 830-262-8922
Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ proves that great barbecue and lively Tex-Mex flavors can share a plate. Nestled along US 290, this spot stands out for those who crave something a little different from the usual barbecue fare. My last meal here was a lesson in fusion comfort food.
The menu is all about merging smoky Texas traditions with bright Tex-Mex accents. Try the smoked brisket tacos—a personal favorite—for their balance of rich, wood-fired beef and fresh, zesty toppings. The smoked chicken is another winner, juicy enough to need nothing more than a squeeze of lime.
Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ makes you rethink what Hill Country BBQ can be: inventive, full of flavor, and always satisfying.
5. Mesquite At The Warehouse
Mesquite At The Warehouse combines rustic ambiance with a kitchen determined to do justice to old-school barbecue. The setting feels a bit like the heart of a Texas smokehouse, but without any pretense—just good food and easy conversation. My stop here left a lasting impression thanks to the smoldering aroma of mesquite that greets you before you reach the door.
The mesquite-smoked brisket is a must-try, its bark crackling with flavor and the interior juicy from long, patient cooking. Their smoked turkey also deserves mention, equally succulent and full of subtle smoke.
Whether you’re dropping in for lunch or settling in for a long dinner, Mesquite At The Warehouse turns traditional barbecue into an experience you’ll want to repeat.
6. Dutchman’s Market
Dutchman’s Market is equal parts butcher shop and BBQ landmark, where you’re greeted by the aroma of smoked meats the moment you walk in. What sets this place apart is the market feel—here, you can take home hand-cut sausages or sit down for a no-frills lunch pulled right from the pit.
If I could pick one highlight, it’s the house-made sausage. Smoky, peppery, and full of snap, it’s what you picture when you think Texas barbecue. The brisket here has deep flavor, sliced to order and never dry.
For those looking to pack a picnic or feed a crowd, Dutchman’s offers meats by the pound and all the sides you need. It’s casual, classic, and always packed with locals for good reason.
7. Bankersmith
Bankersmith isn’t just a BBQ spot—it’s an experience in the middle of a historic Texas ghost town. With a dance hall, saloon, and regular live music, it’s as much a destination as it is a restaurant. Visiting Bankersmith, I felt like I’d stepped onto a movie set, only here the soundtrack is the sizzle from the smoker.
The menu is broad but centers on solid BBQ fare. The brisket here gets rave reviews for good reason—slow-cooked until it’s tender and smoky, with just the right amount of bark. Don’t miss the pulled pork tacos, packed with flavor and a favorite on busy festival weekends.
For anyone craving atmosphere with their barbecue, Bankersmith is impossible to top. Local artists, live bands, and smoky plates keep both newcomers and regulars coming back.
8. Rex’s Smokehouse
Rex’s Smokehouse leans into Hill Country traditions, serving up barbecue that lets every cut of meat shine. The no-nonsense setup makes the food the star, and it’s the kind of spot where conversation drifts over the scent of slow smoke from the pit.
On my last visit, the brisket stole the show—moist, with a smoky edge that comes from hours over oak. The turkey here is anything but boring, juicy and subtly seasoned so you taste every layer of flavor.
If you want to taste why Fredericksburg BBQ has a reputation beyond town limits, start with a plate from Rex’s. Order up, take a seat, and settle in for a straightforward, satisfying meal.
9. Alamo Springs Cafe
Alamo Springs Cafe is a bit off the beaten path, but that’s where the best barbecue often waits. Known for its laid-back vibe, this spot doubles as a general store and cafe, creating a truly Texas Hill Country feel. On my last visit, live music mingled with the aroma of mesquite, making it a true escape from town bustle.
The menu is broad, but you’re here for barbecue. The smoked brisket sandwich is a highlight—thick-sliced and piled onto a soft bun, it’s smoky, tender, and full of flavor. The house sausage has a loyal following for good reason: all snap and spice, with smoke in every bite.
If you like your meal with a side of country charm, Alamo Springs Cafe is the answer.
10. David’s Old Fashion Pit
David’s Old Fashion Pit anchors itself in barbecue tradition, slow-smoking every cut over a real fire. The park-side pit and unfussy dining space create an atmosphere rooted in small-town charm. Each time I stop here, it feels like a community gathering, where regulars and newcomers share tables and stories.
The brisket stands out—tender, juicy, with a rich smoke ring and a flavor that doesn’t hide behind heavy sauce. A plate of smoked turkey is a close contender: moist, lightly seasoned, and a perfect partner for the homemade sides piled next to it.
Whether by the plate or the pound, the food at David’s Old Fashion Pit keeps people coming back for honest, classic Texas barbecue.
More Things to Try in Fredericksburg, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What BBQ is Fredericksburg, TX known for?
Fredericksburg is best known for traditional Texas barbecue, especially slow-smoked brisket, sausage, and turkey. The area’s BBQ joints often feature wood-fired pits using oak or mesquite for that signature smoky flavor.
Where can I find the best brisket in Fredericksburg?
You’ll find standout brisket at Eaker Barbecue, Backwoods BBQ, and Cranky Franks Barbeque Company. Each place offers brisket with its own unique smoke, bark, and seasoning style.
Are there any BBQ spots with gluten-free options?
Yes, Backwoods BBQ offers gluten-free options. Many BBQ joints in town provide simple meats and sides that are naturally gluten-free—just double-check with staff for specific choices.
What are must-try BBQ dishes in Fredericksburg?
Brisket tops the list, but don’t skip house-made sausages or smoked turkey. If you want something different, try Gochujang ribs at Eaker Barbecue or smoked brisket tacos at Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ.
Can I get BBQ by the pound for takeout or catering?
Absolutely. Most BBQ restaurants in Fredericksburg, including David’s Old Fashion Pit and Dutchman’s Market, offer meats by the pound for takeout and catering.
Are there vegetarian or non-meat options available?
Barbecue shops focus on smoked meats, but several places offer sides like potato salad, beans, and coleslaw. Alamo Springs Cafe also serves classic Texas sides that work as a meatless meal.
Is Fredericksburg, TX BBQ family-friendly?
Nearly every BBQ spot in town is relaxed, informal, and family-friendly. Many have kid-friendly menus and plenty of space for group dining.
When is the best time to visit BBQ restaurants in Fredericksburg?
Arrive early for lunch or dinner, especially on weekends, as popular spots sell out. Outdoor festivals and live music events often draw extra crowds—go for the food, stay for the atmosphere.