AUSTIN, Texas — Southern Living magazine recently named its top barbecue spots across the U.S., with Franklin Barbeque in Austin representing Texas.
The 16-year-old restaurant was highlighted for its “Flawless prime-grade brisket, tender pork ribs, and snappy jalapeño cheddar sausage…,” according to the publication.
Aaron Franklin and his wife Stacy Franklin first started selling meats from a trailer back in 2009. In 2015, Aaron Franklin received the James Beard Award for “Best Chef,” becoming the first-ever pitmaster to do so. He was recognized in the southwest portion of the U.S., beating out chefs in Arizona, New Mexico and several others in Texas.
Franklin Barbecue has become well known for its long lines, starting during opening at 11 a.m. Tuesdays-Sundays. The restaurant serves menu items such as pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad, slaw and the Bourbon Banana Pie.
It has also welcomed a number of celebrity customers, from Jimmy Kimmel to President Obama, according to the company’s website.
Southern Living also named Franklin Barbeque the #1 BBQ restaurant in Texas for the past 3 years.
Of those on this year’s list, roughly half have been operating for more than 50 years, while the other half were established within the past 25 years. Outside of Texas, other restaurants recognized include Southern Soul Barbecue in Georgia and The Joint in Louisiana.
The top spots were decided upon by more than 10,000 Southern Living customers through a virtual survey.
Franklin Barbecue can be found at 900 E. 11 St., and the restaurant does not accept reservations.