San Antonio's Best Brisket [Updated 2024]

Having sampled and reviewed 15 different establishments, I’ve narrowed down my favorite spots that truly elevate this classic Texas dish.

From mouthwatering tenderness to that perfect smoky flavor, each location offers a unique take that will tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you're a lifelong brisket enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this guide will help you navigate the rich barbecue scene of San Antonio.

Prepare for a culinary journey that showcases the artistry behind one of Texas's favorite foods!

Smoke Shack BBQ

Highlights
Exceptional brisket flavor
Delicious mac 'n' cheese
Warm and inviting atmosphere
Friendly and attentive staff
Unique sausage options

Smoke Shack BBQ is a delightful find tucked away in the heart of San Antonio. As I stepped inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, and I was immediately greeted by the friendly and attentive staff. Their enthusiasm matched the delicious aroma wafting from the smoke pit, setting the stage for a memorable meal.

Now, let’s talk brisket. The exceptional flavor of the brisket here is nothing short of legendary. Every bite was a perfect balance of tenderness and smoky goodness, with the meat practically melting in my mouth. Accompanied by their rich and creamy mac 'n' cheese, my taste buds were having a party!

But wait, there's more. I couldn't resist trying their unique sausage options, which added a delightful twist to my barbecue adventure. Whether you’re a brisket aficionado or a casual barbecue lover, Smoke Shack BBQ is a must-visit. You’ll leave with a satisfied palate and a smile, knowing you just enjoyed some of the best brisket San Antonio has to offer!

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The Barbecue Station

Highlights
Perfectly cooked brisket
Friendly and helpful staff
Clean and well-lit dining area
Hidden gem with old-time vibes
Excellent side dish options

In search of the ultimate brisket, I stumbled upon The Barbecue Station, a hidden gem that exudes old-time BBQ vibes with a splash of freshness. Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the welcoming atmosphere; the clean and well-lit dining area sets the perfect stage for what I hoped would be a brisket revelation.

As I indulged in what can only be described as brisket perfection, I was thrilled by the rich, smoky flavor and just the right amount of tenderness. Every bite melted in my mouth, leaving me craving more. The seasoning was spot-on, complementing the meat without overshadowing its natural flavor.

But it wasn't just the brisket that impressed me; the friendly and helpful staff truly elevate the experience. They were happy to recommend their excellent side dish options, which made my meal even more delightful. If you ever find yourself in San Antonio and are on the hunt for brisket that sings with flavor, look no further. The Barbecue Station is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your palate and warms your heart.

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Holy Smoke BBQ & TaquItos

Highlights
Amazing food truck
Delicious Holy Grailed Cheese
Perfect spot for downtown dining
Wonderful surprise near downtown
AMAZING brisket

Let me start by saying that this place is a hidden gem! Tucked away in the heart of San Antonio, Holy Smoke BBQ & TaquItos is not your typical barbecue joint. It's a delightful food truck that serves up some of the best brisket in town.

Upon arrival, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant atmosphere and the aroma of smoky goodness wafting through the air. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm, adding to the joyful ambiance of the place.

Now, let's talk about their brisket. Oh. My. Goodness. It was absolutely AMAZING! Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, each bite was like a little piece of barbecue heaven. The smoky flavor permeated every fiber of the meat, making it a true delight for my taste buds.

But wait, there's more! Holy Smoke BBQ & TaquItos also offers a unique twist on a classic: the Holy Grailed Cheese. Sandwiched between two slices of buttery Texas toast, this gooey masterpiece combines melted cheese with smoky sliced brisket. It's a decadent delight that will leave you wanting more!

In addition to the outstanding food, the location itself is a perfect spot for downtown dining. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite during your lunch break or enjoying dinner under the stars, Holy Smoke BBQ & TaquItos offers a vibrant and friendly atmosphere that adds to the entire dining experience.

To summarize, Holy Smoke BBQ & TaquItos is a wonderful surprise near downtown San Antonio. With their AMAZING brisket and delicious Holy Grailed Cheese, it's a must-visit for any barbecue enthusiast. So, don't miss out on this hidden gem - it's time to indulge in some extraordinary Texas brisket!

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Bushwood BBQ

Highlights
Awesome food
Delicious menu
Tender brisket
Not dry turkey
Good sausage

As soon as I entered the cozy and inviting atmosphere of Bushwood BBQ, I knew I was in for a treat. The menu tempted me with its mouthwatering selection of barbecue delights, making it hard to decide where to start.

I opted for the tried and true – their brisket. Let me tell you, this was no ordinary brisket. The moment the tender, smoky slices touched my tongue, I was in flavor heaven. The bark had a delightful crust, giving way to a juiciness that seemed to melt in my mouth. Each bite was a perfect balance of smokiness, seasoning, and tenderness. It was the epitome of barbecue perfection.

I also couldn't resist trying the turkey, and boy, am I glad I did. It was anything but dry or mundane. The turkey was incredibly moist and succulent, having absorbed all the wonderful flavors during the smoking process. The juicy and flavorful meat practically begged to be devoured.

And let's not forget about the sausage. It had just the right amount of snap, bursting with flavor in each bite. It was truly a delightful addition to the overall barbecue experience.

Bushwood BBQ truly impressed me with its awesome food and delicious menu. Their attention to detail and dedication to creating high-quality smoked meats is apparent in every bite. If you find yourself in San Antonio craving some outstanding barbecue, be sure to give Bushwood BBQ a visit. You won't be disappointed.

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Dignowity Meats

Highlights
Triple D favorite
Delicious brisket
Great service
Amazing sandwiches
Highly recommended

Let me start by saying that Dignowity Meats is not just any ordinary barbecue joint, it's a triple D favorite! As soon as I walked in, I could already tell that I was in for a treat.

Their brisket is nothing short of delicious. The rich smoky flavor penetrates every bite, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy. The meat is perfectly cooked, with a beautiful bark on the outside and a tender and juicy inside. You can tell that they take pride in their craft and put in the time to create a quality product.

The service at Dignowity Meats is top-notch. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their menu. They're always there to assist you with any questions or recommendations you might need. Their passion for what they do shines through in everything they do.

Now, let's talk about the sandwiches. Oh boy, they are truly something special. Each creation is a masterpiece, piled high with mouthwatering brisket and accompanied by a selection of their delicious sauces. The combination of flavors and textures is simply amazing.

In conclusion, Dignowity Meats is a hidden gem in San Antonio that will satisfy even the most discerning barbecue lover's cravings. From their scrumptious brisket to their top-notch service, this place has it all. If you're looking for an exceptional barbecue experience, Dignowity Meats comes highly recommended.

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El Monte BBQ

Highlights
Flavorful brisket
Delicious BBQ sauce
Cozy outdoor seating
Tender and juicy ribs
Worth trying again

Walking into El Monte BBQ, I was immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of smoked meat wafting through the air. It was a promising start to what turned out to be an unforgettable meal.

Let's talk about their brisket. Oh boy, was it flavorful! The meat was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of smoky goodness. Each bite was a melt-in-your-mouth experience, leaving me craving for more. And let's not forget about their delicious BBQ sauce. It perfectly complemented the smokiness of the brisket, adding a sweet and tangy kick.

The outdoor seating at El Monte BBQ was cozy and inviting. I found myself enjoying the warm Texas weather while savoring every bite. The ambiance was relaxed and laid-back, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

Now, let's talk about their ribs. Oh mama, those ribs were simply divine! They were so tender that the meat practically fell off the bone. The smoky flavor was infused throughout, creating a heavenly combination of rich flavors.

All in all, my experience at El Monte BBQ was absolutely worth trying again. The flavorful brisket, the delicious BBQ sauce, the cozy outdoor seating, and the tender and juicy ribs all contributed to a memorable dining experience. If you're in San Antonio and looking for the best brisket, I highly recommend giving El Monte BBQ a visit. You won't be disappointed.

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Augie's Barbed Wire Smokehouse

Highlights
Best brisket
Melt in your mouth tender
Creamy and flavorful sides

Walking into Augie's Barbed Wire Smokehouse, my senses were immediately aroused by the tantalizing smell of smoke and meat. As I approached the counter, I knew I was in for a treat.

Without hesitation, I ordered their famous brisket. And let me tell you, it was the best brisket I've ever had. The meat practically melted in my mouth, its tenderness was unparalleled. Each succulent bite was packed with juicy flavors that left me craving for more.

What impressed me even more was the attention to detail that went into the sides. From the rich and creamy mac and cheese to the tangy coleslaw, Augie's truly knows how to complement their star attraction. The sides were almost as impressive as the mouthwatering brisket itself, creating a harmonious combination that I simply couldn't resist.

But what sets Augie's apart from the rest is not only the quality of their food, but also the warm and friendly atmosphere. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, ready to answer any questions and provide recommendations. And let's not forget the charming decor that added to the overall laid-back and enjoyable dining experience.

In conclusion, Augie's Barbed Wire Smokehouse is nothing short of a brisket lover's paradise. With their unbeatable brisket, unforgettable sides, and welcoming ambiance, they have truly earned their place as one of the best brisket joints in San Antonio. Whether you're a local or a visitor, do yourself a favor and make a stop at Augie's to indulge in their incredible brisket.

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Augie's Alamo City BBQ Steakhouse

Highlights
Real BBQ southern Texan food
Friendly staff
Plenty of seating
Extraordinary service
Delicious meals

Firstly, let me start off by saying that Augie's Alamo City BBQ Steakhouse truly captures the essence of real BBQ southern Texan food. From the moment I stepped through the door, the intoxicating aroma of smoky goodness filled the air, and my taste buds were instantly aroused.

The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home. They were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, eager to answer any questions I had about their brisket selection.

Even though the restaurant was bustling with hungry patrons, there was plenty of seating for everyone. I settled into a comfortable booth and eagerly awaited my meal.

When the brisket arrived, I couldn't help but be impressed by the extraordinary service - perfectly sliced, tender, and juicy, it was a true work of art. Each bite melted in my mouth, bursting with smoky flavor and a hint of spice. It was brisket perfection.

Augie's Alamo City BBQ Steakhouse truly delivers on flavor, but they also understand the importance of a well-rounded meal. Alongside the magnificent brisket, their delicious meals were complete with delightful sides, such as creamy mac and cheese and tangy coleslaw, complementing the star of the show.

In conclusion, Augie's Alamo City BBQ Steakhouse is a must-visit for any brisket aficionado. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every bite, and their brisket is a shining example of the best San Antonio has to offer. So grab your appetite and head on over to Augie's - you won't be disappointed.

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Two Bros. BBQ Market

Highlights
Best BBQ in San Antonio!
Huge and delicious Big Bros sandwich
Juicy and perfectly smoked meat
Good choice of sides
Amazing interior and outside

Let me start by saying that Two Bros. BBQ Market deserves its spot on the list of the best briskets in San Antonio! As soon as I walked in, the delicious aroma of barbecue immediately enveloped me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

The highlight of my visit was their Big Bros sandwich. Let me tell you, it lived up to its name! Piled high with tender, smoky brisket, and topped with their signature sauce, this sandwich was a carnivorous delight. Each bite was a juicy and flavorful explosion of perfection.

But the brisket itself was the true star of the show. It was juicy and perfectly smoked, with just the right amount of pink smoke rings. The meat was tender, practically melting in my mouth. I could taste the expert craftsmanship and dedication that had gone into its preparation.

Two Bros. BBQ Market also offers a good choice of sides to accompany their star attraction. Whether you're in the mood for creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, or classic potato salad, you won't be disappointed.

The interior of the restaurant is equally impressive. Its rustic yet modern design creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. And if you prefer to dine outside, they have a charming patio area where you can enjoy your meal under the Texas sky.

Overall, my visit to Two Bros. BBQ Market left me thoroughly satisfied. From the delicious brisket to the enjoyable dining atmosphere, it's clear why this place is renowned as one of the best barbecue joints in San Antonio. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in their mouthwatering smoked meats – you won't be disappointed!

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Blanco BBQ

Highlights
Pork ribs highly recommended
Plenty of seating available
Good selection of ice-cold beer
Fried okra and green beans amazing
Friendly and professional staff

First and foremost, let me start by saying that Blanco BBQ knows how to do pork ribs right. The smoky and tender meat practically melts in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. It is no surprise that these ribs come highly recommended.

The atmosphere at Blanco BBQ is just as delightful as their food. There is plenty of seating available, which is a relief in a city where barbecue joints can get pretty crowded. Whether you're dining solo or bringing along a group of friends, you are sure to find a comfortable spot to enjoy your meal.

Now, let's talk about the drinks. Blanco BBQ offers a good selection of ice-cold beers that perfectly complement their barbecue menu. Sipping on a cold brew while indulging in their delicious brisket is a match made in heaven.

Aside from their exceptional meats, Blanco BBQ also surprises with their sides. The fried okra and green beans are simply amazing. The okra boasts a satisfying crunch, while the green beans are seasoned to perfection. These sides make the ideal accompaniment to the star of the show – the brisket.

To top it all off, the staff at Blanco BBQ is both friendly and professional. They are always ready to assist, ensuring that your dining experience is as enjoyable as possible.

Overall, Blanco BBQ is a perfect contender for the title of the best brisket in San Antonio. From the heavenly pork ribs to the mouthwatering sides, this barbecue joint has got it all. So if you find yourself in San Antonio, be sure to stop by Blanco BBQ for a memorable barbecue experience.

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RUSTY BUCKET JAWSMACKING BBQ

RUSTY BUCKET JAWSMACKING BBQ is a hidden gem in San Antonio, where the tantalizing aroma of smoky goodness hits you as soon as you walk in. Every bite of their brisket is a joyride of flavors, tender like a love confession. The melt-in-your-mouth experience left me craving for more. A must-try for any brisket connoisseur in San Antonio.

B&B Smokehouse

B&B Smokehouse in San Antonio is a carnivorous haven for all the brisket enthusiasts out there. Their tender and smoky brisket pieces are downright addictive. Trust me, I couldn't stop myself from getting seconds! With a blend of perfect seasoning and an outstanding cooking technique, B&B Smokehouse is the definition of brisket bliss in San Antonio.

Pinkerton's Barbecue

Pinkerton's Barbecue in San Antonio is a smoky haven for brisket lovers. The juicy, tender, and flavorful slices left me in brisket bliss. The perfectly balanced blend of spices and smoke creates a delightful symphony of flavor that will leave you craving more.

True Texas BBQ

My taste buds were tickled and my carnivorous cravings were satisfied at True Texas BBQ in San Antonio. The succulent, fall-off-the-bone brisket had a perfect balance of smoky flavor and tender juiciness. This place is a must-visit for any true BBQ lover.

The Big Bib BBQ

The Big Bib BBQ in San Antonio is a carnivorous paradise! This joint knows how to serve up some seriously juicy and tender brisket. The smoky flavor is simply irresistible – it's like a lip-smacking symphony in your mouth. Trust me, this place will leave you drooling for more!