Texas Monthly’s Best Barbecue Joints
The world of Texas barbecue is buzzing after Texas Monthly released its list of the 50 best barbecue joints in the state. On a recent episode of "What’s Eric Eating," CultureMap editor Eric Sandler sat down with three special guests to discuss the list and what it means for the barbecue community.
Guests Share Their Thoughts
The guests included pitmasters from some of the top-ranked barbecue joints in the state. They shared their thoughts on the list and what it takes to be considered one of the best. Servantes, the pitmaster at Burnt Bean, which took the top spot on the list, was candid about his goals and aspirations. "The pressure to be No. 1. You have to be willing to accept it and say you asked for it," he said.
The Pressure to Innovate
Botello, another guest on the show, has a unique perspective on the list. His restaurant, Truth, is one of only two restaurants statewide to make the list in 2017, 2021, and 2025. He believes that to stay on top, you have to constantly innovate and improve. "All of the information to cook a good brisket is out there. I’ve put information out there," he said. "You can buy a Mill Scale or a Moberg [smoker]. So, what’s next? What is going to change the era of barbecue?"
A Different Perspective
Lerma, the third guest, has a different take on the list. He believes that the ranking doesn’t necessarily matter, and that some of the best barbecue joints are the ones that offer an experience, not just great food. He cited Snow’s BBQ, which is located in the small town of Lexington, as an example. "To me, it’s quintessential Texas barbecue that encompasses more than food. You have the history with Tootsie. You have this feeling on Saturday morning that reminds me of a Sunday church pot luck with people coming from all over the world," he said.
Achieving Goals and Looking to the Future
Servantes shared that he’s achieved his goals of making No. 1 on Texas Monthly’s list, earning a spot in the Michelin Guide, and a James Beard Award nomination. He’ll celebrate with a great bottle of champagne and then get back to work serving people barbecue. "I feel like Thanos right now with all the stones. People say, what’s next? What’s next is what I asked for. We’re bringing people from all over the world to try the barbecue and tell my story to everybody," he said.
Conclusion
The world of Texas barbecue is constantly evolving, and the list of the 50 best barbecue joints in the state is a testament to that. With pitmasters constantly innovating and improving, it’s an exciting time for barbecue lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just a fan of great barbecue, there’s something for everyone in the world of Texas barbecue. Listen to the full episode of "What’s Eric Eating" to hear more about the list and the people behind the barbecue.
