May is National Barbecue Month, and in Bastrop, Texas, that’s not just a reason to fire up the grill; it’s practically a city ordinance. Here, barbecue is more than a meal. It’s a local tradition, a social event, and, for some, a competitive sport. Whether you’re a brisket buff, a rib rookie, or just in it for the sides, Bastrop’s barbecue scene is ready to serve up smoky satisfaction all month long.
Sizzling Spots: Where to Get Your Barbecue Fix in Bastrop
Let’s get straight to the meat of the matter. Bastrop has a lineup of barbecue joints that could make a grown pitmaster weep with joy. Here are a few must-visit spots, complete with addresses so you can plug them right into your GPS and skip the small talk.
Southside Market & Barbeque
534 Hwy 71 W, Bastrop, TX
This place isn’t just old; it’s legendary. Southside Market has been smoking meats since 1882 and claims the title of the oldest barbecue joint in Texas. Their brisket, sausage, and ribs are slow-smoked and served up with classic sides. Don’t miss the jalapeno slammer if you like your barbecue with a little kick.
Fitties BBQ
1376 Hwy 71 West, Bastrop, TX
Fitties is a local favorite for slow-smoked meats and big Texas breakfast tacos. The brisket breakfast taco is a morning game-changer. They’re easy on the wallet and heavy on flavor, with outdoor seating for those who like their barbecue with a side of sunshine.
Billy’s Pit BBQ
1106 College St, Bastrop, TX
Billy’s is the kind of place where locals buy by the pound, and the brisket might just sell out before dinner. The ribs, sausage, and chicken are all crowd-pleasers, and the sides are homemade. Get there early, or risk missing out.
We Slaughter BBQ
108 State Hwy 95, Bastrop, TX
If you’re a fan of cult classics, this spot is for you. Located at the site of the gas station from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, We Slaughter BBQ serves up smoked meats with a side of movie memorabilia. The brisket is melt-in-your-mouth, and the mac and cheese is worth a detour.
Smoked Love BBQ (Food Truck)
710 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, TX
Smoked Love is a mobile barbecue food truck that puts community first. Their rotating menu features everything from brisket to smoked fruit, using local ingredients and supporting local nonprofits. Every meal helps feed someone in need, so you can feel good about that second helping.
Butcher and Market Spotlight: Where Your Barbecue Begins
Great barbecue starts with great meat, and Bastrop’s local butchers and markets are up to the task.
Bastrop Cattle Company
Online only, based in Bastrop
If you want to take your backyard barbecue to the next level, Bastrop Cattle Company delivers 100 percent grass-fed, grass-finished beef straight from their ranch to your door. No hormones, no antibiotics, just honest Texas beef. You can even buy a half or whole cow, custom-cut for your grill. Free delivery in Bastrop and surrounding areas means you’ll never run out of steaks for your next cookout.
Bastrop 1832 Farmer’s Market
1302 Chestnut St, Bastrop, TX
Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Bastrop 1832 Farmer’s Market is the place to pick up grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken and pork, farm eggs, and local produce. If you want your barbecue to taste like Bastrop, start here.
Bluebonnet Meat Company
Though not right in Bastrop, Bluebonnet Meat Company is a favorite among locals for fresh, clean cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and more. They’re known for their craft and customer service, making them a solid choice for stocking up before a big barbecue weekend.
Grilling Tips: How to Make Your Barbecue Shine
You’ve got the meat, you’ve got the grill, but how do you make sure your barbecue is the talk of the block? Here are a few tips that even seasoned pitmasters swear by:
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Let the Meat Rest: After pulling your brisket or ribs off the grill, let them rest before slicing. This keeps the juices where they belong, in the meat, not on your cutting board.
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Low and Slow Wins the Race: Barbecue isn’t a sprint. Keep your grill temperature low and give the smoke time to work its magic.
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Don’t Peek Too Much: Every time you lift the lid, you lose heat and smoke. Trust the process and only check when you need to.
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Season Generously: Salt and pepper are classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment with rubs and marinades. Just remember, sometimes simple is best.
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Clean Your Grill: A clean grill means better flavor and fewer flare-ups. Scrub those grates before and after each use.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Guesswork is for rookies. Use a thermometer to make sure your meat is cooked to perfection.
Celebrate All Month Long
National Barbecue Month is the perfect excuse to explore Bastrop’s barbecue trail, try out new grilling techniques, and support local ranchers and markets. Whether you’re dining out, hosting a backyard bash, or picking up a brisket from the farmer’s market, Bastrop is ready to make your May delicious. So grab a plate, grab a friend, and get grilling, because in Bastrop, barbecue isn’t just a meal, it’s a way of life.
Sources: blog.goldbelly.com, google.com, napoleon.com
Header Image Source: serjan midili on Unsplash
