DFW has quietly become one of the best BBQ metros in Texas. Here is the definitive ranking after visiting 30+ spots.
S Tier (destination BBQ)
- Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum) — The Hot Mess brisket sandwich is legendary. The beef rib on weekends is worth the wait. James Beard semifinalist multiple times. Source: Texas Monthly Top 50.
- Terry Black's (Deep Ellum) — Austin transplant that earned its DFW spot. Consistent brisket, great sides. Less line than Pecan Lodge most days.
- Cattleack BBQ (Farmers Branch) — Thursday and Saturday only. If you know, you know. The ribs are the best in DFW. Source: Texas Monthly Top 50.
A Tier (excellent)
- Heim BBQ (Fort Worth, multiple) — The bacon burnt ends put them on the map. Fort Worth's finest.
- Goldee's (Fort Worth) — Texas Monthly #1 in 2021. Some say it has slipped, but the brisket is still elite.
- Hutchins BBQ (McKinney, Frisco) — Massive operation, consistent quality. The beef rib is a monster.
B Tier (very good)
- Slow Bone (Design District) — Underrated. The pulled pork sandwich is one of the best in DFW.
- Ten 50 BBQ (Richardson) — Great brisket, excellent value. Less pretentious than Deep Ellum spots.
- Hard Eight (multiple) — Open pit, choose your own meat. Fun experience, solid food.
The DFW vs. Austin debate: DFW BBQ is more accessible. In Austin, you wait 3 hours for Franklin's. In DFW, Pecan Lodge wait is 45 min max and you have 5 elite alternatives within 20 minutes. DFW wins on depth.
Source: Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ list, James Beard Foundation, personal visits 2024-2026
The DFW vs Austin BBQ take is correct. We have better depth. Austin has Franklin and then a massive drop-off. DFW has 6-8 elite spots.