Eat Your Way Through the BBQ Capital of Texas
Kansas City-style. Carolina-style. Memphis-style. Texas-style. We aren’t here to tell you how to enjoy your barbecue- just where! Whether you like your meats pit-style, rotisserie-style or any other way under the sun, you’ll find it and more in Lockhart, the BBQ Capital of Texas.
Located near San Marcos, roughly half-way between Austin and San Antonio, Lockhart is a small town with a lot of flavor- in more ways than one! It’s four well-known barbecue joints draw visitors from far and wide looking to sample the best barbecue in the great state of Texas. So put on your comfy pants, maybe consider a bib, and let’s head to Lockhart for some of the best barbecue you’ll ever taste.
Must-try BBQ restaurants in Lockhart, Texas
Chisholm Trail BBQ– This Lockhart spot has been serving up slow-cooked barbecue since 1978. With 19 side dishes and 9 meats on the menu, you won’t have any trouble finding something you like at this local hot spot. The pit masters at Chisholm Trail have more than 30 years combined experience serving up some of the best BBQ in the BBQ Capital of Texas.
Smitty’s Market– Located in downtown Lockhart, Smitty’s Market has been owned and operated by the same family, the Schmidts, since 1948. This barbecue hot spot operates in a building that was established in 1924. Try one of their nine different types of smoked meats, or, if you’d rather prepare your own food, you can pick up cold sausages and meats to prepare your way at home. Try one of their many sides and round out your meal with some Blue Bell ice cream. Yum!
Kreuz Market– In 1900, Charles Kreuz Sr. purchased the first barbecue market in Lockhart from founder Jesse Swearingen, who opened the original market in 1875. Kreuz Market has been owned and operated by the same family for more than 100 years- so you know the recipes must be a family secret and truly delicious! Today Kreuz Market sells 16 different types of meats plus a myriad of sides in addition to merchandise. Plus, they offer shipping! Enjoy this spot on your travels and then ship some home and enjoy it there, too.
Black’s Barbecue– Five generations of members of the Black family have owned and operated this local spot that first opened its doors in 1932. Serving up Texas-style barbecue, Black’s offers up delicious sides like marshmallow sweet potatoes and mac and cheese. You’ll love the various meats and flavors you can find at this Lockhart joint, and you can even hit this spot up if your travels take you elsewhere in Texas, as Smith’s has locations in other spots around Texas such as New Braunfels and Austin.
Bon Appetit, friends!
Lockhart area lodging
Just a quick 20 minutes from Lockart you’ll find Pecan Park Riverside RV, located in San Marcos. An ideal spot for a summer getaway, Pecan Park is situated along the San Marcos River. Spend your day eating great barbecue and your evening enjoying the sights and sounds along the water. This RV Park offers up plenty of amenities that will you make you feel right at home, including an indoor heated pool, a kiddie pool, a kid’s play area, free WiFi and more. You’ll love this serene setting and well-maintained campground. Happy trails!
