Central Texas is bringing the heat to the national barbecue scene with Lockhart's very own Barbs B Q earning a spot on The New York Times' "America’s Best Restaurants" list. This women-run establishment has quickly grabbed attention for its unique approach to classic Texas barbecue since its opening in spring 2023. Known for their brisket with a "smoky, peppery crust," as KVUE reports, Barbs B Q is one of only three Texas restaurants celebrated on this year's revered list.
The New York Times recognized Barbs B Q's capacity to stand out, according to My San Antonio, for their mastery in blending flavors "like no other," and owner Chuck Charnichart's contributions to the already dense barbecue market. The accolade is impressive, considering the restaurant has been operational for just over a year, carving itself a place in the esteemed national ranking. Customers show up in droves to Lockhart for a taste of their menu, which operates on a Saturday and Sunday service from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.
Moreover, Barbs B Q doesn't just impress with its meats; as the NYT notes, the culinary delights extend into their side dishes with regional twists like chamoy-inspired pork ribs and poblano-based green spaghetti—a nod to Charnichart's South Texas roots. The Lockhart restaurant, with its range of offerings starting at $19 per half-pound for beef ribs, not only received NYT's nod but was also a semifinalist nominee for the James Beard Awards in the Best New Restaurant category, further solidifying its burgeoning reputation.
In an industry known for its competitive nature and steep traditions, Barbs B Q is said to honor the centuries-old craft while also pushing the envelope. As they acknowledged via their Instagram, "It is so beautiful for all of our care and hard work to be recognized. The restaurant industry is a very thorny rose...the pressure and physicality that erodes us as we dive deeper is overridden by the kindness and magical feeling when Y O U step into our doors," KVUE reported. While the stakes are high, the recognition from a publication as esteemed as the NYT uplifts the morale and spirit of this local hotspot.
Those interested in savoring Barbs B Q's acclaimed fare can find the establishment at 102 E. Market St. in Lockhart, where brisket and innovation meet. Fellow Texas restaurants Simply South in Irving and Viola and Agnes' Neo Soul Cafe in Seabrook also share the limelight in this year's NYT list, according to KVUE. The Lone Star State continues to make its mark on the culinary map with its innovative and diverse restaurant scene.
