Dallas might be famous for its steakhouses, Tex-Mex, and die-hard Cowboys fans, but there’s a smoky tradition that’s earned a cult following: Texas barbeque. From brisket smoked for hours over post oak to ribs slathered in tangy sauce, we’ve found a pit for every craving. After devouring a frankly irresponsible amount, we’ve compiled the definitive guide to the city’s finest. Here are the 7 spots where smoke meets sublime.
Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ
$$ | (214) 944-5521 | WEBSITE
Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ is one of our favorite spots in Dallas for tender brisket, juicy meats, and smoky flavors. And judging by the line out the door during dinner hours, we’re not alone. But another reason you should visit the welcoming Bishop Arts shop is for their standout burnt ends and spicy sides. Our go-to plates are the brisket—sliced thick and falling apart—and the Armadillo Poppers—a stunner that comes with a kick of heat and creaminess.
Show up for a laid-back meal, watch the smoke roll until your order comes out, and choose from the unique condiment bar they have to round out your feast.
Slow Bone BBQ
$$ | (214) 377-7727 | WEBSITE
Located in Dallas, this sit-down barbecue joint is equal parts meat haven and comfort food destination. And while you can certainly go for a hefty sandwich piled with brisket, pickles, and sauce, why not get all of that on a generous meat plate? We usually get the ribs or brisket plate, which comes with two sides like the horseradish potato salad and flavorful beans.
They offer portions from regular all the way up to family-style, which works when a massive helping of tender turkey eases the craving for authentic Texas barbecue. Make sure you throw in satisfying hush puppies to round out the meal.
Pecan Lodge
$$ | (214) 748-8900 | WEBSITE
You forget everything you thought you knew about barbecue at this Dallas institution. There are smoked meats galore and they come as tender brisket, succulent burnt ends, and even crispy fried chicken. No matter which you choose, the flavors are deep, smoky, and have a satisfying richness. When it comes to standout dishes, we love the Hot Mess and the beef rib. They’re both piled with juicy, fall-apart meat and you’ll want to drag each bite through sauces like tangy barbecue or spicy vinegar.
The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make every visit feel like a Texas-sized celebration.
JOA Korean BBQ
$$$ | (972) 241-3900 | WEBSITE
JOA Korean BBQ stays open until 11 p.m. on weekends, making it one of the neighborhood’s favorite spots for Korean barbecue cravings after a night out in Dallas. No matter when you happen to find yourself at the restaurant, order the Prime Short Rib, grilled to perfection with a savory blend of tender meat, smoky marinade, and slices of garlic. We also love the Pork Belly, cooked with layers of crispy edges, sesame oil, and scallions with a nice char around the edges.
Like most popular spots, you may have to wait for a table and overhear conversations about someone’s “long week”—until they get handed a plate of something that will make it completely worthwhile.
Cattleack Barbeque
$$ | (972) 805-0999 | WEBSITE
Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:30am to 2pm—yes, you read that right—this unassuming North Dallas barbecue joint is one of our favorite places to grab brisket in town, no matter the wait. So it’s not shocking that their melt-in-your-mouth brisket is equally impressive. The bark is super crispy, so you get a nice crackle even under a mountain of smoky flavor and tender meat. Go for their smoked ribeye, smoked pastrami beef ribs, or pork ribs, which are all packed with smoky goodness.
It’s counter service only, so grab a fresh plate and head to one of their rustic wooden tables with the scent of hickory and spices wafting through the air along the way.
Off the Bone Barbeque
$ | (214) 565-9551 | WEBSITE
As the name implies, Off the Bone Barbeque is all about the barbeque, and they do it exceptionally well. But they also do brisket, sausage, and everything in between on the same outstanding level. So it’s no surprise that their sides are fantastic—and are an ideal complement on a day when you can’t choose between meat and vegetables. Their collard greens and charro beans stack flavor, texture, and a savory depth on top of quality ingredients—which does a really good job balancing the meal.
The combination is like a glorious Southern feast that you can savor (but only if you want to).
Heim Barbecue on Mockingbird
$$ | (469) 397-4346 | WEBSITE
Heim Barbecue on Mockingbird is a longtime spot, but the self-service setup is quickly becoming one of our favorite places for brisket, burnt ends, and chicken covered with smoke. The meats here lean Texas style, with a juicier, smokier flavor and a tender texture that’s never too dry or tough. We like the half chicken, but it’s the bacon burnt ends that we think of often. Each bite is packed with sweet crispiness, smoky richness, and that insane tenderness.
You can grab your order at the counter here, or find a seat and dig in surrounded by casual coolness, welcoming staff, and a bustling dining room full of people doing exactly the same.
