Eating Texas Barbecue: A Sport for the Dedicated
Eating Texas barbecue is a sport. It takes discipline, dedication, time and money. Garland resident Greg Artkop has all of it. Since 2017, he’s traveled around Texas, visiting Texas Monthly’s top 50 barbecue joints two consecutive times. He started his third tour a few days ago, and he expects to spend one year completing the journey.
After all those miles and all that meat, we asked for Artkop’s best bites, war stories and barbecue tips. For those who are new to the world of Texas barbecue, it’s essential to understand that it’s not just about the food; it’s an experience that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to try new things.
As a seasoned barbecue enthusiast, Artkop has developed a deep appreciation for the art and science of Texas barbecue. He’s learned that the best barbecue joints are not just about the meat, but about the atmosphere, the service, and the overall experience. In this article, we’ll delve into Artkop’s favorite barbecue spots, his tips for ordering, and his most memorable experiences on the barbecue trail.
Best Barbecue Meal?
Pecan Lodge in Dallas is Artkop’s go-to spot for the best barbecue meal. He said without hesitation that Pecan Lodge’s brisket, sausage and pulled pork were his gateway into “new-school” Texas barbecue — a cultural shift that occurred in Texas around 2010, confirms barbecue expert Daniel Vaughn. No longer just meat and sides on a plate, Artkop learned that this style of barbecue was equal parts science and art.
Pecan Lodge “likely put me on my current path of barbecue insanity,” Artkop said. For those who are interested in trying Pecan Lodge, Artkop recommends ordering the brisket, sausage, and pulled pork. He also suggests trying their sides, such as the mac and cheese and the baked beans.
Pro Tip for Ordering Barbecue
Get the turkey. A barbecue joint that makes great smoked turkey probably does everything else well, too, Artkop said. Plus: It makes for great leftovers. When ordering barbecue, it’s essential to be adventurous and try new things. Don’t be afraid to ask the pitmaster for recommendations or to try something that’s not on the menu.
Artkop also recommends ordering a variety of meats and sides to get a sense of the barbecue joint’s overall quality. He suggests trying the brisket, sausage, and ribs, as well as the sides, such as the coleslaw and the baked beans. By trying a variety of items, you’ll get a sense of the barbecue joint’s strengths and weaknesses.
Favorite Barbecue Joint Right Now
InterStellar BBQ in Austin is Artkop’s favorite barbecue joint right now. He went big on his first visit in 2022, ordering brisket, jalapeño popper sausage, Frito pie sausage, peach tea glazed pork belly, Tipsy Turkey (smoked turkey brined in beer, citrus and herbs), beet salad, jalapeño slaw, potato salad and banana pudding. “It was the first time that everything on the tray was outstanding,” he said, “a complete meal experience. It’s been outstanding every time I have visited since.” He’s been three more times.
Artkop recommends trying the Tipsy Turkey, which is smoked turkey brined in beer, citrus, and herbs. He also suggests trying the peach tea glazed pork belly, which is a unique and delicious twist on traditional barbecue.
Best Sides
Tater tot casserole at Truth BBQ in Houston and spicy bok choy from LeRoy and Lewis in Austin are Artkop’s favorite sides. When it comes to sides, Artkop recommends trying something unique and different. Don’t be afraid to try something that’s not on the menu or to ask the pitmaster for recommendations.
Artkop also recommends trying the coleslaw and the baked beans, which are traditional barbecue sides. He suggests trying the coleslaw with a variety of meats, such as the brisket and the ribs, to get a sense of how the flavors complement each other.
Best Cocktail
Ranch Water at Pinkerton’s Barbecue in San Antonio is Artkop’s favorite cocktail. “I’m not kidding, Pinkerton’s makes the absolute best Ranch Water in the state,” he said. When it comes to cocktails, Artkop recommends trying something unique and different. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for recommendations or to try something that’s not on the menu.
Artkop also recommends trying the beer, which is a traditional barbecue drink. He suggests trying a variety of beers, such as IPA and lager, to get a sense of how the flavors complement the barbecue.
Most-Visited Barbecue Joint
