Wimberley’s barbecue scene is the sort of treasure you only find by word of mouth or following that irresistible smoky aroma drifting from hickory pits. Over the years, I’ve made a habit of seeking out a plate of ribs or brisket every time I roll into town—sometimes guided by a local tip, occasionally trusting my nose. If you appreciate barbecue that radiates authenticity and refuses to hide behind fancy tricks, you’re in the right place.
Every spot on this list has earned its spot through more than just hype. From falling-off-the-bone meats to sides that taste like someone’s grandmother still runs the kitchen, Wimberley’s best BBQ rivals anything you’ll find deeper in the Hill Country. In this guide, you’ll discover flavors that stick with you, and maybe even a new favorite haunt. Whether you’re a smoked sausage loyalist or brisket chaser, these recommendations are built on miles of tasted barbecue and a commitment to sharing only the best.
1. Kelly’s Hill Country Bbq
It’s easy to drive past Kelly’s Hill Country Bbq, but the scent guarantees you’ll pull a U-turn. This spot feels like you’ve been invited to someone’s backyard cookout, where big smokers handle all the heavy lifting. Once, I spent a whole lunch here just listening to the satisfying crackle of the fire and watching pitmasters work.
The brisket steals the spotlight—tender and layered with a peppery bark that Texans quietly judge everywhere else by. Their ribs travel the same road: just enough smoke, just enough chew. If you like sides, don’t skip their housemade potato salad. Looking for a true taste of Wimberley? This is where you’ll find it, plate after plate, every time.
2. Ruffino’s Place Barbeque & More
(512) 847-2151Call
Ruffino’s Place feels like the kind of hidden gem that regulars try to keep secret. I came in once on a rainy afternoon and ended up staying longer than planned, chatting with folks at neighboring tables and sampling my way down the menu. The vibe is small-town friendly, but the barbecue has big-city ambition.
Their sausage links are locally loved—juicy, expertly seasoned, and perfectly smoked. The sliced beef sandwich takes things up a notch, stacked high and dripping with flavor. Grab a side of beans that soak up the drippings and you’ll understand why people keep coming back. At Ruffino’s, everything is simple, satisfying, and unmistakably Wimberley.
3. Miss Mae’s Bar B Que
Miss Mae’s Bar B Que sits comfortably on FM 2325, but it’s the kind of place you remember for its heart more than its address. My first visit involved a local telling me to “trust Miss Mae,” and so I did—happily. There’s a warmth here that stretches from the friendly service right down to the last bite.
Their turkey is something special: smoky, incredibly moist, and good enough to make you forget other meats exist for a moment. If you lean brisket, you’ll find it melts at the touch of a fork. The homemade sides, especially the creamed corn, deliver enough comfort to turn any day around. When you want barbecue done right, Miss Mae’s delivers every single time.
4. The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que
The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que is a name that pops up in every serious barbecue conversation, and there’s a good reason why. I remember winding down the gravel drive for the first time and seeing plumes of smoke curling above the oak trees. The energy is infectious—families, groups of friends, all drawn to those legendary open pits.
The beef ribs are a rite of passage here, hefty and rich with just the right amount of char. Brisket is another essential, but don’t skip their house sausages, which snap apart with every bite and burst with classic Hill Country flavor. Their potato salad and pickles cut through all the richness, making every plate feel balanced. Salt Lick stays true to its old-school ways, serving up Texas barbecue in a setting made for lingering.
5. Jacks Roadhouse
(512) 392-3340Call
Jacks Roadhouse offers a down-home vibe that turns even a weeknight into something memorable. On my last visit, I found myself sitting on the patio, local band tunes in the background, cold drink in hand, and a spread of barbecue on the table. The atmosphere is equal parts laid-back and lively, making it easy to stay awhile.
Order their smoked chicken—tender, juicy, and kissed with smoke that lingers in every bite. The brisket sandwich is another winner, stacked high and dripping with flavor. The sides, especially their tangy slaw, complement the meat without overwhelming it. Here, barbecue is an experience, from first bite to last laugh with new friends.
6. Aj’s Ranch Road Grill
Aj’s Ranch Road Grill feels like a best-kept secret, especially if you find yourself craving barbecue after midnight. I once wandered in after a football game, hungry for something real, and left impressed by both the food and welcoming staff. The family-run energy shows in every fresh-made dish.
Their smoked brisket tacos steal the show—packed with tender, smoky meat and bright house-made salsa. If you’re more traditional, order the ribs, where each bite blends charred edges with just the right amount of tenderness. Late hours mean you can satisfy cravings at almost any hour, making this spot a favorite for students and locals alike. It’s barbecue with a Tex-Mex twist and a hometown soul.
7. Black’s Barbecue San Marcos
Black’s Barbecue San Marcos carries a reputation built over decades, and somehow still manages to feel like you’ve discovered it yourself. The first time I visited, the smoky scent practically pulled me inside. Sitting out on the patio, I watched locals dig into heaping plates with a kind of reverence reserved for the classics.
Order the beef brisket—slow-smoked, peppery, and rich enough to linger in your memory. The turkey is another highlight: juicy, tender, and bursting with oak-fired flavor. Don’t overlook the southern sides, like creamy mac and cheese or buttered green beans. Black’s proves every day that tradition and top-tier barbecue can easily go hand in hand in Wimberley’s vibrant food scene.
8. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse might be a chain, but it doesn’t shy away from the flavors that get barbecue fans talking. My visits here usually start the same: with fresh-baked bread landing on the table and a feeling I’m in for a satisfying meal. There’s a sense of energy—line dancing, friendly servers, and a menu stacked with crowd-pleasers.
The fall-off-the-bone ribs set the bar high: perfectly smoked, just sweet enough, and always juicy. For something hearty, try their hand-cut steak paired with a classic barbecue sauce. Their made-from-scratch sides, like the seasoned green beans, round out the meal. At Texas Roadhouse, you’ll find those bold, comforting flavors that keep any evening lively.
9. The Salt Lick-S J G Corp
The Salt Lick-S J G Corp captures everything people love about a Hill Country barbecue tradition. My memories here revolve around laughter echoing under the pavilion and platters stacked with barbecue you make room for, even when you’re full. There’s something about their open-pit style that draws locals and travelers back time after time.
Their turkey is a must—a smoky, tender cut that stands out even among the heavy hitters. Sliced brisket is another staple, served with a tangy house sauce that balances the smoke without overpowering it. Even the sides do their part: crisp slaw and pillowy bread keep you circling back for just one more bite. For a true taste of tradition, this spot never disappoints.
10. The Pitch
(512) 667-6900Call
The Pitch proves you don’t have to be in the heart of the countryside to find barbecue worth talking about. I ended up here on a local recommendation and quickly understood why it’s a favorite—good tunes, relaxed atmosphere, and plates that make you forget about everything but flavor.
The pulled chicken sandwich deserves attention, juicy and paired with a sauce that brings out the best in every bite. The smoked sausage is also worth a shot, offering that satisfying snap and seasoned just right. Grab a table with friends, share a round of sides, and let the relaxed spirit of The Pitch remind you why barbecue is really about community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best BBQ spots in Wimberley, TX?
Some favorites include Kelly’s Hill Country Bbq, Miss Mae’s Bar B Que, and Ruffino’s Place Barbeque & More. Each brings a unique twist—brisket at Kelly’s, tender turkey at Miss Mae’s, seasoned sausage at Ruffino’s.
Is there a BBQ place in Wimberley with vegetarian options?
Most barbecue joints stay focused on smoked meats, but a few offer veggie sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and grilled corn. If you’re after something more substantial, call ahead to check the day’s menu.
Do any BBQ restaurants in Wimberley offer catering or takeout?
Yes, several local spots, including The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que and Black’s Barbecue San Marcos, provide catering and convenient takeout. Great for picnics or large groups.
Can I find late-night BBQ in Wimberley or nearby?
AJ’s Ranch Road Grill stays open late—sometimes until 3am. A rare find for barbecue cravings after dark.
Are the BBQ places in Wimberley kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Most local barbecue restaurants have casual, welcoming atmospheres with options for all ages.
What BBQ dish is Wimberley most known for?
Brisket gets a lot of attention, but smoked turkey and sausage are also local favorites. Many spots also serve comforting homemade sides.