The place has that “new-age barn bar” vibe—clean lines, bold colors—feels like it could turn into a lively neighborhood watering hole if it stayed open late enough. Overheard the crew raving about the cheesecake special, which instantly went on my “next time” list.

The brisket? Silky smooth and richly smoked with a bark that means business. Honestly some of the best we've ever had.

This joint has been on the Texas Monthly list every time it has come out which is 8 (that’s correct, eight times) including a 1973 Texas Monthly article titled  The World’s Best Barbecue Is in Taylor, Texas. Or Is It Lockhart?