The Salt Lick's Taco Bar
Fast food · Austin
Über The Salt Lick's Taco Bar
En The Salt Lick's Taco Bar, te damos la bienvenida a un rincón de Austin donde la auténtica barbacoa Texana se encuentra con el sabor más genuino. Nuestra experiencia y tradición, unidas a nuestras famosas salsas y adobos, te transportarán directamente a Texas en un ambiente rústico y relajado. ¡Ve...
En The Salt Lick's Taco Bar, te damos la bienvenida a un rincón de Austin donde la auténtica barbacoa Texana se encuentra con el sabor más genuino. Nuestra experiencia y tradición, unidas a nuestras famosas salsas y adobos, te transportarán directamente a Texas en un ambiente rústico y relajado. ¡Ven a disfrutar de una experiencia culinaria única que te hará sentir como en casa!
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The Salt Lick BBQ is a Texas institution known for its delicious BBQ and lively atmosphere. Customers rave about the brisket, ribs, and sausage, as well as the sides like coleslaw and potatoes. The service is generally friendly and efficient, even with large crowds.
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Tip: Visit on a Saturday around 4:30 pm to avoid the dinner rush, or be prepared for a wait. Consider sharing a larger plate if you have a smaller appetite.
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Bewertungen von The Salt Lick's Taco Bar Austin
I was visiting Austin for a work trip and someone recommended this BBQ spot stating it was the best in Texas so I had to go try it! The service was so quick and friendly, there was plenty of seating and parking, so there was no wait for, but we did go during the week so keep that in mind. Food was traditional BBQ and was super tasty! We ordered the beef ribs, brisket and sausage with a side of Mac and cheese, my favorite was the ribs and sausage but it was all incredible. I recommend if you are in the area.
Clearly one of the best BBQ places on planet earth. The bison ribs are incredible and huge! Something special they put in there potato salad definitely. Took my wife here for the first time and we will definitely be coming back soon. Not sure about the servers name but he was great on point super fast and had a great attitude. Honestly pretty fairly priced especially for BBQ in the greater Austin area. I have to say since moving here this is definitely the best barbeque spot overall. The pork ribs and brisket is really good also. Very filling was unable to eat it all so had leftovers. Parking lot is huge but luckily we got here early in the day close to noon when the crowd isn't so bad. Just a regular size plat is plenty if you ask me. Also there bread and pickles are both good as well. The smell of this place is amazing reminds you that you live in Texas. BBQ beans are great and love the Mac also.
The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood feels less like a restaurant and more like stepping into a Texas tradition that’s been preserved exactly the way it should be. Tucked into the heart of Hill Country wine country, the drive alone sets the tone. You’re surrounded by rolling views, open sky, and that unmistakable quiet that makes you slow down before you even arrive. The entrance often greets you with live country music and genuinely friendly faces, which immediately makes the experience feel personal. It’s BYOB, which makes it even better. You can bring your favorite beer and settle in, or walk over to their wine building and grab a bottle or their sangria, which is one of my favorites. It’s perfectly balanced, fruity without being overly sweet, and ideal for a warm Texas afternoon. Before you’re even seated, you walk past the pit. This alone is worth the visit. The open fire, the meats hanging in every direction, and that deep smoky aroma create a moment that feels almost ceremonial. You know immediately you’re in the right place. The best way to eat here is family style with the all you can eat option. It’s reasonably priced for the quality and quantity, and it turns the meal into a shared experience rather than just another dinner. The brisket is my favorite, tender, flavorful, and exactly what Texas brisket should be. The coleslaw stands out because it’s tangy and slightly sweet without any mayo, which makes it incredibly refreshing alongside the heavier meats. My husband swears by the ribs, and after trying them, I agree completely. The outdoor seating area is shaded by beautiful trees that keep everything cool and comfortable, even on warmer days. If the wait gets long, ordering to go and sitting outside is honestly one of the best ways to enjoy it. It feels relaxed, unhurried, and somehow even more authentic. Salt Lick isn’t just about the food, though the food alone would justify the drive. It’s the atmosphere, the tradition, the music, and the setting that make it unforgettable. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Texas barbecue has the reputation it does.
This is the best BBQ experience I have had. Salt Lick is exactly what a Texas BBQ place should look like and taste like. Everyone there was very helpful and friendly. Most importantly I can say enough about the food. The BBQ was perfect and the sides were perfectly executed. The beans were perfect. The cole slaw was perfectly dressed. The potatoes were what I would imagine what they were like way back in the days of old. This place is a must see.
The Salt Lick BBQ is not just about great barbecue — it’s the whole experience that makes this place special. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere feels warm, authentic, and very Texas. The open space, rustic setting, and relaxed crowd create a welcoming vibe where you actually want to slow down and enjoy your time. The live music adds a lot to the charm. It’s not too loud or distracting — it perfectly complements the environment and gives the place a fun, lively energy without taking away from conversation or the food. Whether you’re there with friends, family, or out-of-town guests, the vibe feels social, friendly, and genuine. Being BYOB is another big plus. It makes the experience feel more personal and relaxed, like a backyard BBQ but on a much higher level. People are clearly there to enjoy good food, good music, and good company, and that positive energy really shows. On top of all that, the food quality was excellent. The brisket was tender and flavorful, the sausage was spot on, and both the bison rib and beef rib were incredibly juicy and satisfying. Everything felt well-prepared and true to classic Texas BBQ. Overall, The Salt Lick delivers great food, an amazing atmosphere, and a memorable experience. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to come back to — not just to eat, but to enjoy the whole vibe.
Perfect Texas Hill Country spot. The food is delicious and comes out super fast, service was spot on. The ambiance is exactly what you're looking for in a family BBQ joint. They had live music and the outdoor seating is plentiful. We enjoyed the little bar in the back for drinks but the venue itself it BYOB. We saw many parties with large coolers for their drinks of choice
We drove out just past Austin to Driftwood to finally visit The Salt Lick BBQ, and it lived up to the experience people always talk about. The original ranch location is huge, beautiful, and genuinely charming, and that unmistakable smell of barbecue the second you arrive. We went on a Friday morning, which turned out to be the perfect choice. Unlike the packed weekends, we could really enjoy the setting without long lines or crowds. The food was excellent across the board. The brisket was tender and flavorful, but what surprised us just as much were the side dishes, which were clearly made with care and didn’t feel like an afterthought. And then came dessert: a warm cobbler with peaches and berries topped with ice cream, which was absolutely incredible and the perfect way to end the meal. Service was wonderful. Our waitress was incredibly sweet, attentive, and impressively efficient — warm without hovering, and everything came out smoothly. Overall, it was a fantastic experience: great food, a stunning ranch setting, and genuinely kind service.
Finally made it to the Salt Lick today. I have to say that the hype is well deserved. Everything was amazing. Winners of the day: the turkey (you MUST have the turkey!), the bison and beef ribs. I FINALLY understand the fascination with burnt ends! The sausage is homemade and addictive. The brisket and pulled pork are better with the bbq sauce. Which you can buy at their general store (just saying). Prices are quite reasonable. Went on a Monday afternoon, so it was quiet and relaxed. Our server was awesome and all his recommendations were on point. (I'm sorry I forgot your name but you recommended the turkey and the peach cobbler. Thank you!) There's plenty of parking but they do have a reputation for lengthy lines on the weekends so plan accordingly! You can also call in your order ahead, so that might save you a headache. There are picnic areas and kids zone. Do yourself a favor and make it a day trip, you won't regret it!
Ribs and Brisket tender and full of flavour. Sausage too. Server was quick, food was quick & friendly The manager Chasity (did I spell that right?) was awesome. Bought this cool T-Shirt. Big property with lots to do before or after your meal.
Setting up the reservation for our 30 guests was easy through the email provided. This was a wedding reception location at the request of my Daughter. We were able to book the Star Garden, if gladly do it again. The greenery entrenched lattice that completely costs the top and back of the seating area gives a very intimate dining experience with the low output chandeliers in place. It gives a forest like experience(a positive) to the evening as the sun sets. We couldn't be happier. They have never failed us. Our server, Chelsea was amazing. She crushed the service and was prompt in her efforts. She made the evening seem like a simple party of 4 with how calm an very accommodating she was.
This is my favorite BBQ since first trying it way back in 1994. The Family Style gives you the most bang for your buck and you have to make sure to save room for a slice of peach cobbler. Today was especially nice because music from The Cure was playing in the inside portion of the restaurant, so I was able to enjoy my favorite band with my favorite food, God is good!!
I have heard legends of The Salt Lick for a long time. Personally, I think most Texas BBQ gets talked about with a bit too much hyperbole, but that may just be the Okie in me talking. Well, I finally had the chance to try The Salt Lick, and I gotta say… Believe the hype. It was better than I could have imagined. Seriously, so of the best BBQ I’ve ever had anywhere. Got to try the sausage, the pulled pork, the turkey, and, my favorite, the Bison ribs. Check this out if you have the chance. Amazing food and great atmosphere!
I’ve been visiting the Salt Lick since I was a little girl, and now I come with my own family. My little one and I got the smaller portioned plates but this was still too much food for us. (If you have a smaller appetite, I suggest sharing one larger plate with someone who has your same appetite). My older son and husband chose the larger plates and didn’t have any leftovers. Staff were courteous, funny and friendly; food came out quickly and was delicious. If you don’t like the cut they serve you, they will gladly serve you another cut you’d prefer. Also, it’s no longer cash only, they accept card payment!
My personal experience at Salt Lake was great overall. The service and friendliness were easily a 10/10 — from the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed. The lady up front who helped us was especially friendly and made the experience even better. As for the food, I’d give it a solid 7/10 overall. The brisket was good quality (7/10) — was it out of this world? No, but it was still enjoyable and well prepared. The coleslaw and sausage were both excellent, 10/10. I also really liked that you can choose your beers, which is a nice touch and adds to the experience. Even though the brisket wasn’t mind-blowing, the overall quality, atmosphere, and service absolutely make this place worth it. I’d happily give this restaurant 5 out of 5 and would come back again.
Great overall experience. Weather was perfect. Low 80s on 12/26 so ate on tge patio. Live music. Pretty much ideal. Service was good, fast. BBQ was solid and reliable. Not disappointed at all. This place handles high volume crowds well and is very efficient. Overall great time for a party of 6 at 4pm.
Salt Lick near Austin absolutely lives up to its legendary reputation. From the moment you see the massive open pit with flames licking the grates and sausages hanging above the smoke, you know you’re in for something special. Every dish we tried was packed with bold, authentic Texas barbecue flavor. The brisket was tender and juicy with a perfect smoke ring, the sausage had that satisfying snap and deep, smoky richness, and the ribs were beautifully glazed and cooked just right. Even the sides held their own—classic, comforting, and clearly made to complement the meat rather than distract from it. The sandwiches were equally impressive, piled high with flavorful, smoky meat and served on soft buns that soaked up every bit of goodness without falling apart. This is the kind of place where nothing feels rushed or overdone—just honest, expertly prepared barbecue served in a rustic, welcoming setting. Salt Lick isn’t just a meal; it’s a full Texas BBQ experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the Austin area or anyone who truly appreciates great barbecue.
Bbq is really delicious. We got the family style and it was all you can eat. Once you were done with the platter or sides the server would bring you another one. Everything was really tasty. Our server was really courteous and helpful. The bbq sauce is a bit on the sweet side. If you are visiting Austin would definitely recommend eating here.
I came here on my own as part of a BBQ and Wine Tour where I had the most amazing meal. I had the Bison Rib and Brisket where I personally thought the brisket was better then Terry Blacks which I'd had the day before (Terry Blacks brisket is still incredible but Salt Lick's was just that bit better) My server was super helpful and friendly especially as I was on my own and was happy to help with I had any questions. Highly recommend!
Visited on a Saturday around 4:30 pm to avoid the dinner rush. The atmosphere was relaxed, with a very warm welcome. I tried “Thurman’s Choice,” which allowed me to enjoy brisket, pork rib, and sausage in one meal. The meats were cooked just right—flavorful without being too salty or greasy.
Salt Lick BBQ is a must-visit for anyone who loves true Texas smoky aroma from the open pit hits you in the best possible way. The brisket is tender with a perfect bark, and the ribs practically fall off the bone while still holding great flavor. Their signature sauce is slightly sweet and tangy—especially when paired with the moist brisket. Sides like the potato salad and coleslaw are simple but complement the meats well. The atmosphere is lively, rustic, and welcoming. Prices are reasonable for the quality and portions. Overall, Salt Lick delivers classic, satisfying BBQ that feels authentically Austin.
Some of the best barbecue in Texas. A big restaurant, short wait for a table (with no reservation), lovely team and excellent service. Food was amazing, perfect brisket, ribs and sides dishes. Good value for money, well worth a stop or even a special trip here. Really friendly people around, suitable for families and large groups. Plenty of parking, big open spaces and meat smoked on site. Really a great place to go.
Absolutely loved this place! The food was amazing. Haberno chicken had a hint of spice and full of flavor. It was paired with the augratin potatoes, green bean casserole and some beans. The potatoes were so creamy and delicious. The best bbq that I ever had. We also tried the brisket and ribs. The place had a great vibe and service was fantastic.
The Salt Lick BBQ — the best BBQ I’ve had in Texas! The food was absolutely amazing — smoky, tender, and full of authentic flavor. The atmosphere made it even better: a true Texas vibe with a cowboy musician playing guitar and singing live. It felt like more than a restaurant — it was a whole experience filled with great food, music, and southern hospitality. A must-visit if you’re ever in Texas!
Last time I visited here was about 10 years ago. I love the BBQ! Personally I don’t like coleslaw at all cause Mayonnaise, but I love Salt lick coleslaw. It’s light, fresh and unique. I ate two servings of it. The potato salad and the beans are tasty, too. I brought our dog during the trip and they have outdoor area that you can enjoy you meal with you pups. Very pet-friendly. The host is very friendly. Out waitress is nice, too. Oh man… I already miss the food. ❤️❤️
We absolutely loved our visit to The Salt Lick- it’s an institution for a reason! The location is huge with tons of seating, and also has an adjoining winery. The food was absolutely delicious! The sides were simple, but very good. My absolute favorite thing I ate was the sausage, it was quite possibly the best I’ve ever had. We will absolutely be back, and would recommend a visit to anyone looking for a great Texas BBQ experience!
Visiting The Salt Lick BBQ was an unforgettable experience and one of the best meals I’ve had in Texas. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, perfectly fitting that true country vibe. The rustic setting, the smell of smoked meats in the air, and the lively environment make it the kind of place where you instantly feel at home. The highlight for me was definitely the brisket — it was cooked to perfection, tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor that melts in your mouth. Every bite had that balance of rich seasoning and slow-cooked goodness that makes Texas BBQ famous. It’s the kind of brisket you can’t stop thinking about long after the meal is over. Another thing I loved is that you can actually bring your own beer or drinks, which makes the whole experience even more fun and relaxed. Pairing your favorite beverage with such incredible BBQ adds a personal touch that really sets this place apart. Overall, The Salt Lick isn’t just about the food (though it’s amazing) — it’s about the whole experience: the flavors, the setting, and the atmosphere. A true Texas gem that I can’t wait to return to.
The Salt Lick BBQ is one of the best BBQ places I’ve ever been to! The food was really good, but the Brisket could’ve been a bit better. The service was really nice and were pretty quick with the food with the many other people there! The atmosphere was also really nice and Texas with trees and a cat! Overall, definitely come here when around Austin!
Awesome BBQ about 1/2 hr from Austin. We loved the rustic country location and down home atmosphere. Seating is at Wooden picnic tables with patio lights. You can peek into the kitchen for a view of all the delicious meats on the open pit. My husband enjoyed a few rounds of the all you can eat bbq brisket, sausage and pork ribs. The brisket is the bomb! High marks for the chocolate chip pecan pie as well.
Wash Rinse Repeat Eat. Years and Years of Practice. Salt Lick has the secret formula to deliver Delicious BBQ to your seat in a No Holds Barred fashion. Go ahead opt in for the Beef Rib. It's OK if you cant finish take it home with you and enjoy this delicious masterpiece either on the car ride home, or the next day for some morning beef rib and eggs breakfast plate. AYCE in today's day in age of dining is hard to deliver a Great experience at an exceptional rate. Sal Lick provides all these intangibles for their customers. BYOB sure this location even provides their customers with the luxury of this perk. If you are still not convinced to check this historic BBQ mecca then I guess A.] You are Vegan or B.] You may be from New York City. Not that there's anything that's wrong with that. Enjoy All! ☆☆☆☆
Loved the atmosphere of this place. Food came out quick and service was good. The ribs however were not fall off the bone, and the Mac needed flavor but the brisket made up for it. They also gave generous portions.
The alternative to going all the way into Austin. Quite a festive atmosphere with the Halloween theme. Even at 2 pm on a weekday, the place was pretty mobbed. Still, plenty of open tables, though we waited maybe 12 - 15 min to be seated - empty tables all around us! I think they have to manage the capacity bc the BBQ pit looks like the limitations factor. We got bison ribs, pork ribs & brisket. The ribs were uniformly great: tender, flavorful, great bark. The pork ribs looked amazing (nephew wolfed them down without sharing), pink & tender. Bison was also great, tender without being too fatty. The brisket was also tender & pretty juicy (not dry like other reviews reported), but suffered from insufficient flavors, despite the sauces on the table. I think you can't really add flavor to BBQ meats after the fact. The sides (baked beans, coleslaw, potatoes) that came with the plates were meh. The potatoes were the best among the lot. A shame there were no greens whatsoever, but it's a TX BBQ, and I guess they don't consume greens much. Didn't order dessert.
We were disappointed in our experinece at the Salt Lick. The rustic cabins where the food is served are quaint but noisy and not so comfortable, and having to walk from one side of the property to the other so you can spend $6 for a bottle of beer - that you then carry back to your table - does not make for an enjoyable lunch. Unfortunately the plates were somewhat mediocre. My wife's ribs were delicious, but the brisket was full of fat, my brisket was the same, mostly fat, but the sausage was delicious. The baens were OK Neither of us could eat what we thought was potato salad on top of chopped lettuce or maybe coleslaw. It was a disappointment all round.
Drove 1 hr late Saturday afternoon to get there because we were entertaining someone from out of town who wanted ro go there. I hadn't been in about 20 years. They expanded the place so they could handle more business so that was good, no wait, The problem I had was the prices - they're a little higher than I see around where I now live. We bought "small" plates for $14.95 and it was 1/2 slice of turkey and 1 slice of brisket. Around here we receive more for such a price. It's an interesting place with a good atmosphere but for me it isn't worth the drive as we have several BBQ places around here with good atmospheres. Service was very fast and the server was great. There is a gift shop there and our visitor from New Hampshire (she used to live in Austin a long time ago) did purchase a tshirt to take home to her husband.
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18300 Ranch to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
Austin, TX 78619
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What people say about The Salt Lick's Taco Bar
The Salt Lick Experience: A True Texas BBQ Pilgrimage
If you've spent any time around Austin, you've undoubtedly heard whispers, or perhaps full-throated shouts, about The Salt Lick. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s an institution, a rite of passage for anyone craving authentic Texas barbecue. From the moment you arrive, the air tells the story. That unmistakable scent of wood smoke, the sight of the massive open pit with flames dancing and sausages slowly smoking above – it’s a sensory prelude to what’s to come. Even on a busy Saturday, or a su
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{ "title": "The Salt Lick: Where Austin's BBQ Hype Meets Reality", "content": "<p>Alright, y'all. Let's talk about a place that’s practically a Texas institution: <strong>The Salt Lick</strong>. You hear the legends, the grand pronouncements about Austin BBQ, and sometimes, if you're like me, a little skepticism creeps in. But after finally experiencing it firsthand, and hearing what others have to say, let me tell y...
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