Locals Know BBQ Food Tour in Austin Texas

Introduction: What to Expect from the Locals Know BBQ Food Tour in Austin
If you’re visiting Austin and craving authentic Texas BBQ, this three-hour guided tour offers a perfect way to indulge without the hassle of long lines. For $175 per person, you’ll visit five nationally acclaimed barbecue joints in central and east Austin, expertly curated to give you a taste of the city’s famous culinary scene. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Codi, praised for her professionalism and entertaining narrative—you’ll be chauffeured comfortably between stops, allowing you to relax and focus on the delicious bites.

We love how this tour combines culinary exploration with local history, helping you understand what makes Austin’s BBQ so unique. Plus, the chance to meet passionate pitmasters offers an authentic behind-the-scenes look at the craft of BBQ making. The tour also provides an excellent opportunity to skip lengthy lines at some of the most sought-after spots, which often have wait times stretching well beyond your patience threshold.

One small consideration is that since most bookings happen 20 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead if your schedule is tight. The tour is ideal for food lovers eager to explore Austin’s culinary gems in a relaxed, intimate setting—perfect for those who want to combine tasting and learning in one go. Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking to revisit favorites, this tour promises a memorable and flavorful experience.

Key Points

• Five renowned BBQ joints in Austin, including la Barbecue and Micklethwait Craft Meats.
• Skip long lines with VIP access, saving you time for more tasting.
• Meet passionate pitmasters and hear their stories while sampling their best work.
• Learn about Austin’s BBQ culture and the chefs behind the scenes.
• Group size limited to 13 for a more personal, comfortable experience.
• Optional drink package available to enhance the tasting experience.

The Itinerary: What We Loved and What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins promptly at 10:45 am at KG BBQ on Manor Road, a central location easily accessible in Austin. You’ll be chauffeured in a comfortable vehicle, allowing you to relax between stops—no walking long distances or worrying about parking. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

First Stop: la Barbecue and Micklethwait Craft Meats

Your first taste of Austin BBQ kicks off at la Barbecue, known for its smoked meats and creative sides, and Micklethwait Craft Meats, a family-run joint with a reputation for delicious brisket and inventive flavors. These stops set the tone for the day—bold, flavorful, and crafted with care. As one reviewer mentioned, “We got to try what the spot is known for and perhaps something that sets them apart,” which is exactly what this tour delivers.

The Middle Stops: KG BBQ and Mum Foods

Next, you’ll visit KG BBQ, a local favorite with a reputation for authentic Texas flavors, and Mum Foods, which offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Here, you’ll learn about the history of BBQ in Austin and the different techniques used by each pitmaster. The personal stories shared by the guides add a layer of appreciation, transforming a simple meal into a cultural experience.

Final Stop: Smoked Lamb Chops and Hidden Gems

The tour culminates with a stop featuring smoked lamb chops, a slightly unexpected but delicious way to finish. This last taste illustrates the diversity of Austin’s BBQ scene—beyond just brisket and ribs, exploring less common but equally mouthwatering offerings.

The Experience: More Than Just Tasting

Meeting the Pitmasters

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the opportunity to meet the passionate chefs behind the smoke. According to reviews, guides like Codi work for the magazine and are super knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with stories about the history and craft of BBQ. This personal touch makes the experience more meaningful and memorable.

The Food and Drinks

Included are local food samples and non-alcoholic drinks, with an option to add a drink package if you’re looking to enjoy local beers or wines alongside your BBQ. Reviewers have expressed that the quality and variety of the food are worth the price, especially considering the convenience of skipping lines and having a guided expert by your side.

Group Size and Comfort

Limiting the tour to 13 participants ensures an intimate setting where questions are welcomed, and everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed. The transport is private and comfortable, removing the fatigue of walking and the stress of navigating on your own.

Value for Money

While $175 may seem steep at first glance, the value lies in the VIP access, the curated stops, and the insightful commentary from guides. It’s not just a tasting tour but an immersion into Austin’s BBQ culture, with the convenience of not waiting in lines at some of the most popular spots.

Possible Drawbacks

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible, self-guided experience, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, since most bookings are made 20 days in advance, last-minute travelers may find it difficult to secure a spot. Plus, weather can impact the outdoor stops, so checking the forecast is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to explore Austin’s top BBQ joints without the hassle of long waits. It suits travelers who want to learn about the local culinary scene, meet passionate chefs, and enjoy a relaxed, guided day. It’s also a good choice for small groups or couples who appreciate personalized attention and a mix of tasting and storytelling.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone interested in experiencing authentic Austin BBQ in a way that combines quality, convenience, and education, this tour delivers. The chance to sample five different spots in just three hours—minus the lines—means you get a broad taste of the city’s barbecue culture without feeling rushed.

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, turning what could be an ordinary food tour into a lively, engaging experience. If you’re someone who values local stories, behind-the-scenes access, and delicious, well-crafted BBQ, this tour provides a great value for your money.

While it might not be suitable for budget travelers or those wanting total independence, the intimacy and curated nature make it ideal for first-time visitors or BBQ enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation for Texas’s signature cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 20 days ahead, so planning early helps secure your spot.

How long does the tour last?
It is approximately 3 hours, providing enough time for tasting, learning, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers local food samples and non-alcoholic drinks. You can add a drink package to enhance the experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be chauffeured between the BBQ stops, making it a comfortable and stress-free journey.

What stops are included?
Stops include la Barbecue, Micklethwait Craft Meats, KG BBQ, and Mum Foods, ending with a focus on smoked lamb chops and hidden gems.

Can I meet the chefs?
Absolutely. Guides like Codi facilitate meeting the pitmasters, who share their stories and passions.

What’s the group size?
For a more intimate experience, groups are limited to 13 travelers.

Is this suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
This tour is specifically focused on traditional BBQ, so it may not accommodate special diets well. Check with the provider for options.

What about weather?
Since some stops are outdoors, poor weather could affect the experience. The tour offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to weather.

To sum it up, the Locals Know BBQ Food Tour in Austin offers a well-balanced, flavorful, and educational experience for those wanting to taste Austin’s best in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a BBQ novice or a seasoned enthusiast, the chance to skip long lines, learn from passionate pitmasters, and enjoy five top spots makes this tour a highly worthwhile addition to your Austin visit. Just remember to book early, come hungry, and prepare for a fun, mouthwatering journey into Texas’s smoking hot culinary scene.