Russell Petek

Best barbecue in central Texas! The sausage was succulant and tasty, the mac and cheese was creamy, the ribs were tender and full of flavor. The brisket was dark and crusty with a pink smoke ring. It was smoky, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. And the banana pudding!! It was light, creamy, and tasted like fresh bananas. A perfect comfort food dessert. You definitely have to try Helberg Barbecue.

Chuck Hodge

Just outside of Waco, worth the trip. Big, comfortable place, no hype or focus group decor. The focus is the food and the service and both are top notch. Found this place on Texas Monthly’s list and the biscuit was better than a few in the top 10, great flavor, good texture, bark that was a pleasure, not a chore. The jalapeño sausage was good too. The mustard potato salad was good and I liked the jalpeno, pickles and pickled red onions. At 1:30 on a Wednesday, the line was short, looking forward to going back.

Scott Tarwid

Helberg Barbecue absolutely delivers on every level. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the energy—warm, bustling, and unmistakably Texas. The line was moderately long when we arrived, but it moved fast thanks to a friendly, talkative staff who clearly enjoy what they do. Everyone behind the counter was upbeat and engaging, and the service set the tone for an excellent meal. And the food… unbelievable. Every tray coming out looked like a masterpiece, and ours was no exception. The brisket was tender with perfect bark, the ribs were cooked to that ideal balance of smoky and juicy, and the sandwiches were stacked high with melt-in-your-mouth meat. Even the sides were standouts—creamy mac, flavorful greens, street corn, potato salad—nothing felt like an afterthought. This is the kind of barbecue that makes you stop mid-bite just to appreciate what’s happening. With food this consistently fantastic, Helberg Barbecue absolutely deserves its spot on the Texas Monthly BBQ list—honestly, I’d put it in the Top 10 without hesitation. The quality, the flavor, the atmosphere, and the service all come together to create a truly memorable experience. If you’re anywhere near the area, it’s worth the trip. This is Texas barbecue done right.

+3

Cindy O

I have to say that I’m glad I listened to the reviews because this place is delicious. The brisket was perfect: 10. The banh mi was amazing: 10. I really appreciated that their coleslaw is not smothered in mayo and it actually feels fresh because often times when eating barbecue there’s no healthier side dish to choose from: 9. The mac & cheese Brisket balls were pretty good, but I would say I don’t care to order them again: 8. I’m not a chicken person, but this chicken is the bomb! The smokiness and the way they make that skin so crispy and flavorful was very enjoyable. A 10! I know you might think I’m just giving 10s to everything but I rarely ever rate food a 10. The Mac and cheese for me was a 5. It has a very weird powdery texture and it’s tastes like vegan mac and cheese. It was just weird. Wouldn’t recommend it. Finally the mustard potato salad was an 8 for me. Very tasty I’m just not a potato salad gal. Hopefully I get to come back soon.

Matthew McGuire

One of the best dining experiences available in central Texas. We had six people together as a group and ate around lunch on a Sunday. The crowd was amazing. People would point out delicious plates, such as the brussel sprouts, and many others. We finished the meal with banana pudding. The dining experience is highly recommended.

+5

Lee S

The BBQ sandwiches are always delish! Love the fact you can choose "lean" or "mixed" with the slices. The street corn side is not-to-be-missed :D Always a clean space, with terrific BBQ 👍👍

Mark Kahny Jr

Wow, what an incredible experience. Drove up from Austin to see how the BBq compares. This place is outstanding and can compete with all the big names. This establishment starts off with a clean and inviting atmosphere. Plenty of space and seating. The staff was young, but friendly and efficient. We tried damn near everything on the menu to include the smash burger, hot chicken sandwich, 1/2 smoked fried chicken, fatty brisket, ribs, jalapeño sausage, pork steak and tallow fries. It was all delicious and the meats were spectacular. The tallow fries were really good and the smash burger was terrific. If I had to be critical of anything, would be the hot chicken sandwich could use more spice, but it was still a great item! I looked around and all of the sides looked great, didn’t get any today. Was very impressed with Phil, the owner. He was a good runner and busser as well setting the example of a hard working owner. Was also impressed with the clean bathrooms. This place while far away for me will be on my top 10 list and will be back for sure. If you’re nearby or looking for a BBq road trip, I highly recommend this place. Texas Bucket list needs to add this stop.

+6

Uncle Sean

“You know it’s serious when the pitmaster walks out with a camera crew and stamps your chest.” TL;DR: Pulled into Helberg BBQ with the Side Dish Queen for a late Friday lunch, early dinner. No line. Straight to the counter. Brisket, turkey, sausage. Sides? She picked three winners: chimichurri slaw, street corn, and mustard potato salad. Banana pudding was mandatory. The brisket bark? Divine. Turkey with pesto? Glorious. Sausage? Hot, snappy, just the way I like it. Then came the surprise; Phillip Helberg himself stepped out, stamped my orange shirt, shook my hand, and gave me stamp #25. Halfway done, full belly, and one happy Queen. Let me set the stage. Friday afternoon. Sun high, stomach empty, and a BBQ itch only Woodway could scratch. My wife (aka the Side Dish Queen) was in tow, which meant I wasn’t leaving without at least three sides and a banana pudding. We pulled up to Helberg BBQ at 4:15 PM; not a single person in line. It felt like a trap. Or a blessing. Turns out, it was divine intervention wrapped in brisket. We stepped up to the counter and I didn’t blink. • Brisket: That bark could hold a sermon. Smoky, peppery, cooked with conviction. • Turkey: Thin-sliced, tender, laid back in a blanket of basil pesto. Absolutely stunning. • Sausage: Snapped louder than my knee in a cold front. Spiced just right. Juicy but behaved. And then came her royal selections: • Chimichurri Slaw: Bright and tangy, just enough punch to make the meat sing. • Street Corn: Loaded, creamy, topped with lime and seasoning like a backyard blessing. • Mustard Potato Salad: Cold, bold, and heavy on the love. Now let’s talk banana pudding. That creamy swirl with ginger snaps and banana slices danced like it was made by someone’s praying grandmother. They say it is a family recipe. And just when I thought the tray was the highlight, a staff member leaned over and said, “Hang tight, we’re calling Phillip.” Out comes Phillip Helberg, flanked by a camera crew, cool as smoke in February. He stamped my shirt like it was a BBQ baptism. We chatted meat and the madness of collecting these Top 50 stamps. Then I grabbed our tray, grinning like a fool, and slid into a booth with the Side Dish Queen. Every bite confirmed it. Helberg is the real deal. Clean dining room. Family friendly. Kind folks. Portions that don’t pretend. Flavors that preach. Stamp count: 25 down. 25 to go. Halfway through the holy pilgrimage. If you’re looking for brisket and blessings, Helberg delivers both.

+9

Brennan Russo

The pork steak and ribs were outstanding and you cannot miss the sides! Might be some of the best sides Ive ever had at a bbq spot! Service was also top notch! So kind and efficient. The portion sizes are also very generous for most barbecue standards. Tons of locals eating as well which is always fun and how you know it’s a staple of the community with excellent food!

Walter Awe

Helberg BBQ is an excellent barbecue place. I got a sliced brisket sandwich that was excellent great smoke flavor. My wife got a chopped brisket sandwich it was also excellent. Both had generous portions. I absolutely loved their chimichurri slaw.

Cass Chamberlain

These folks brisket taste like a hug from a smoked angel! I’m a lifelong Texan, and I’ve had a lot of the greats, but this place has em whooped. I first ate here years ago and told everybody this is the spot for brisket. It’s been about two years since my last visit and I love the new location and the brisket hasn’t changed a bit. Their street corn side is definitely a good choice as well, and lord have mercy I could slap a ghost over the banana pudding! I ain’t never had pudding that good! One thing I would love though is if they brought back that jalapeño smoked Gouda they used that have, it was absolute fire, and the cheddar one doesn’t hit the same.

Howard Cotton (Howie)

I'm visiting here for a couple weeks, from the East Coast, and I asked my brother to take me to the best BBQ in the Waco area, in his opinion. Did not disappoint. Great staff. Awesome Texas hospitality from the other guests in line to the employees. Your BBQ is amazingly good. The only thing I didn't care for, and it's not a deal breaker, was the slaw. Not bad, just different I'm used to. I understand that tastes are subjective, and I wouldn't kick the coleslaw outta bed, but I may try a different side next.

+7

Jane W

We were just passing through a small town off the highway today and stumbled on this place — hands down some of the best Texas BBQ we’ve ever had! The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, the ribs were perfectly smoky, the sausage was juicy with a nice kick, and even the burger was incredible. We had to hit the road after, but next time we’re passing through, we’ll definitely stop again to enjoy more of this amazing food!

Nick Storti

Top tier BBQ spot in Waco. The brisket is super juicy and flavorful and it just falls apart. The sides are also phenomenal. Make sure to get the tallow fries, as they have excellent flavor. The banana pudding is super light and fluffy, and is an excellent dessert after a big portion of meat. The location is very clean and the staff was very helpful and friendly while ordering.

Jeff Vaughan

I was pleased to see sides I haven't seen at other BBQ joints, in particular the sweet and savory watermelon salad. The pork steak and turkey was unique and delicious. The brisket was lightly smoked, tender and moist. The dining room was tidy and spacious. The meat prices per pound were very reasonable. I look forward to returning again soon.

+3