Close your eyes and picture it: a roaring fire burns over scorching logs while full racks of ribs roast delicately. Over a hundred pounds of brisket caramelize over the flames, producing a crispy, smoky crunch. Sausage links hang above, soaking up all of the scrumptious flavor the flames have to offer. If this image makes you hungry, then this massive BBQ pit near Austin will make your mouth water uncontrollably. Legendary barbecue lives at The Salt Lick, and you haven't lived until you've tasted it.
Venture 30 minutes south of the city and treat your tastebuds to an exhilarating experience.
The Salt Lick Barbecue sits deep in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Much like its beautiful views, this barbecue restaurant has been dazzling visitors for decades.
Built in 1967, The Salt Lick has been going strong for over 50 years.
The restaurant's roots took hold many years before this, however. Flashback to Mississippi in the mid-1800s. There, James Howard courted a young woman named Bettie. She never promised that she could love him, but she agreed to marry him if he cared for her and took her to Texas. He agreed to her terms, and the couple made their way to Texas in their run-down wagon.
The recipes have stayed in the family for generations.
While on the road to Texas, Bettie Howard made her mouthwateringly delicious barbecue. Her technique consisted of searing meat and slow cooking it over coals.
This scrumptious barbecue was finally served to the masses thanks to Bettie's grandson, Thurman Roberts.
One day, Thurman and his wife Hisako created a list of 54 things they could do to make money. Barbecue was 14th on that list. Lucky for us, the first 13 things didn't work out!
Behold: the most majestic barbecue pit in all the land.
It's almost hard to believe something this delicious exists in the world, and yet here it is.
As you approach the roaring fire, you can smell the smoky meat reaching perfection.
Every so often, a pit master swoops in to drizzle more sauce on top of these mouthwatering creations.
The Salt Lick cooks their brisket between 20-24 hours, ensuring that it's juicy and wildly flavorful.
In the end, you're left with what most people refer to as "the best barbecue in the world"
The Salt Lick is located at 18300 FM 1826 in Driftwood, Texas, and it's open every day from 11 am to 10 pm. You're welcome to bring your own alcohol or enjoy the wine made from the Salt Lick Cellars. This iconic BBQ restaurant is cash-only, so head to an ATM before you arrive!
Have you tasted the delicious barbecue at The Salt Lick?
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