Aaron Franklin's brisket has been called the best in the world. The line starts at 6 AM for an 11 AM opening. People bring chairs, coolers, and card games. The question every Austin resident and tourist asks: is it worth it?
The experience: I went on a Saturday in March. Arrived at 6:30 AM. 30 people already in line ahead of me. The line itself is social — people share beer, play cornhole, and talk to strangers. By 9 AM the line stretches around the block. By 10:30 you can smell the smoke.
The food:
- Brisket: Yes. It's the best brisket I've ever eaten. The bark, the smoke ring, the moisture, the flavor. It's perfect. This isn't hype. It's the truth.
- Pork ribs: Underrated. The pork ribs at Franklin are world-class.
- Sausage: House-made. Excellent. The espresso sausage link is unique to Franklin.
- Banana pudding: It's very good but not the reason to come.
Is the 4-hour wait worth it? Once? Absolutely yes. The line is part of the experience. You'll meet people, drink beer at 8 AM, and eat the best BBQ on Earth.
Regularly? No. No brisket is worth 4 hours every weekend. That's why most Austin locals go once a year if at all.
The hack: Franklin does preorders through their website for whole briskets and party packs. Order online, pick up, no line. It's more food than one person needs but split it with friends.
Source: Personal visit March 2026, franklinbbq.com, Texas Monthly #1 BBQ ranking (multiple years)
Unpopular take: la Barbecue across town is 90% as good with 25% of the wait. You're paying the other 10% in hours of your life at Franklin.