There’s a reason why so many barbecue joints around the US describe their cooking as “Texas style.” That’s because here in the Lone Star State, we’ve perfected the art of perfectly smoked meats. Whether you’re a resident or are simply passing through, there’s no better way to embrace this delicacy than touring our authentic Texas barbecue trail. The following route will take you to 6 of the most mouthwatering local joints around the Dallas area. And the best news of all? You can schedule a private tour with National Charter Bus Dallas and bring all your friends and family along!

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1. Hutchins BBQ
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Our tour of Texas barbecue begins just north of Dallas in McKinney. You'll smell the smoker as soon as you pull into the parking lot. Specialties like brisket-stuffed jalapeños and burnt tips are the reason this spot has such a strong following. Plus the meat is cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. And in case this wasn't temptation enough, Hutchins also offers a menu of free desserts! Choose favorites such as banana pudding or soft serve ice cream to end your meal with a bang. To learn more, visit their website here. Address: 1301 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069.
2. Peggy Sue BBQ
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Located near the SMU campus, Peggy Sue BBQ is an authentic Texas barbecue joint whose recipes have stood the test of time. While they have all the classic barbecue offerings (including delicious burnt tips), you might also try some of their incredible sandwiches. Photographed above is the delicious smoked turkey barbecue sandwich. And if you're hankering for dessert, don't hesitate to order the fried apricot pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To check their hours of operation, visit their website here. Address: 1301 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069. Address: 6600 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205.
3. Pecan Lodge
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Pecan Lodge is considered by many to be the absolute best barbecue in Dallas, and possibly in the whole state of Texas. The line during lunchtime may test your patience, but rest assured, the food will be well worth your wait. Pork ribs, brisket, fried chicken, sausage...you name it! After you wait in line, you and your friends can grab a picnic table outside, outfitted with a roll of paper towels. That's how you know this barbecue means business. People also rave about the cole slaw and homemade peach cobbler. To learn more, visit their website here. Address: 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226.

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4. Lockhart Smokehouse
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Lockhart Smokehouse is a true Texas experience. This is the kind of place that values time-tested recipes and quality over quantity. The menu is somewhat limited, but you'll be delighted when you see the meat cut to order right before your eyes. Decadent sides include baked beans, mac & cheese, and spicy potato salad. Lockhart Smokehouse is considered one of the very best Dallas barbecue joints, and it won't take you long to understand why. To learn more, visit their website here. Address: 400 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208.
5. Smokey John's BBQ & Home Cooking
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Famous Smokey John's BBQ may seem underwhelming from the exterior, but this place is nothing short of an institution in the Dallas barbecue scene. Step inside and you'll be greeted by the heavenly smell of smoked meats and homemade sides. The food is served cafeteria-style, and the place is almost never empty. Whatever you decide to order will come with a healthy dose of Texas toast or homemade cornbread. You'll see why so many Texans swear by this family-run joint. To learn more, visit their website here. Address: 1820 W Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75235.
6. Angelo's
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Last but certainly not least, we arrive at Angelo's. Only in Texas could you find brisket served over a baked potato. These and other delightful menu items await you at Angelo's, which may not look like much from the outside, but packs a big punch in flavor. Since 1958, this unassuming joint has served up some of the best ribs in the business. You can also enjoy an ice cold beer on the side for a real treat.To learn more, visit their website here. Address: 2533 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76107.
So are you ready to hit the road and taste some of the best barbecue in the country? You can click here and learn more about how National Charter Bus Dallas will take you around from one spot to the next safely and in style!
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What are your thoughts on this delicious barbecue trail through Texas? Is this a trip you would take? We’d love to hear from you! To learn more about National Charter Bus Dallas and all of its offerings, you can visit the website here. You can also check out National Charter Bus’s helpful guide on bus rental prices and charter bus quotes.

Looking for more tasty barbecue restaurants in Texas? Visit this amazing BBQ town in Texas.

More to Explore

authentic Texas barbecue trail

Elisa Regulski | March 27, 2020

What kind of BBQ is Texas known for?

Maybe we’re biased, but we think BBQ in Texas is a cut above the rest. Some states insist on smothering their meat with loads of sauce and spices. In Texas, we know the best dishes come from salt, pepper, and smoke. You don’t need anything fancy when you cook the meat low and slow. Texans also adore brisket. If you’re lucky enough to get some of the burnt ends, you’ll jump for joy. These crispy and flavorful morsels are what foodie dreams are made of.

What are the best BBQ restaurants in Texas?

There are so many wonderful barbecue restaurants in Texas. The Salt Lick, located in Driftwood, has been delighting hungry visitors for decades, and they continue to grow in popularity. As soon as you walk inside, you’ll be greeted with the wonderful smell of smoked pork, brisket, and turkey. There’s even a BBQ pit located right by the hostess stand. If this doesn’t make you hungry, nothing will.

What are the best food tours in Texas?

If you have a Texas-sized appetite, you’re in luck. There are so many tasty food tours in Texas that will shuttle you from place to place. If you find yourself in the capital city, embark on a journey with Austin Eats. This local business takes you to some of the best breweries, restaurants, and food trucks in Texas’ weird city. Each stop is loaded with personality and flavor.

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Featured Addresses
1301 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069, USA
6600 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205, USA
2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226, USA
400 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
1820 W Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
2533 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA