Franklin vs la Barbecue: The Brisket Battle
When it comes to barbecue, Austin sits on the throne of smoked meats in America—and at the center of this smoky kingdom are two heavyweight contenders: Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue. Both are legends in their own right, both have garnered national praise, and both serve brisket that can make grown men line up before sunrise. But how do they compare? Let’s dive into the brisket battle that defines Austin’s food culture.
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The Legacy of Franklin Barbecue
Aaron Franklin’s East Austin spot is more than a restaurant—it’s a pilgrimage site for barbecue lovers worldwide. Franklin Barbecue has achieved near-mythic status, with lines forming hours before the doors open and brisket often selling out by early afternoon.
What makes Franklin’s brisket special is the attention to detail:
- • Low and slow perfection – brisket smoked 12–18 hours over post oak.
- • Signature bark – pepper-forward crust that gives way to juicy tenderness inside.
- • Consistency – every slice has the same melt-in-your-mouth texture, no matter the day.
The experience is part of the allure. Yes, you’ll wait in line, sometimes three hours or more, but for many, the ritual is as essential as the brisket itself. Franklin represents barbecue at its purest and most perfected.
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The Spirit of La Barbecue
If Franklin is the king of polish, La Barbecue is the queen of attitude. Founded by LeAnn Mueller, daughter of barbecue royalty, La Barbecue brings both tradition and edge. Their trailer-turned-brick-and-mortar in East Austin has become a hotspot for those seeking world-class barbecue with a little less waiting around.
La Barbecue’s brisket leans toward boldness and richness:
- • Flavor-packed bark – heavier on the spice rub, giving an extra punch.
- • Fatty, luscious cuts – they aren’t afraid of serving brisket dripping with rendered fat.
- • Playful menu variety – beyond brisket, expect quirky, crave-worthy sides and occasional specials.
The vibe at La Barbecue is more relaxed. You’ll still encounter lines, but they move quicker, and the atmosphere feels more neighborhood hangout than tourist pilgrimage.
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Head-to-Head: Brisket Breakdown
- • Texture: Franklin’s brisket is like butter—soft, silky, perfectly balanced between lean and fatty. La Barbecue’s tends to be heartier, with a juiciness that leans into richness.
- • Flavor: Franklin is clean, classic Texas brisket. La Barbecue pushes the envelope with bolder seasoning and a smokier kick.
- • Experience: Franklin offers the thrill of saying, “I made the line and survived.” La Barbecue delivers a more laid-back but equally satisfying feast.
- • Accessibility: Franklin sells out daily and requires planning; La Barbecue is easier to approach, with more flexibility in timing.
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Which Should You Choose?
The truth is, you can’t go wrong with either. Franklin is the pilgrimage—essential for anyone who wants to taste barbecue history and benchmark what “perfect brisket” means. La Barbecue is the Austin insider’s choice—equally mouthwatering, with a bit more swagger and approachability.
If you’re visiting Austin for the first time, Franklin is the bucket-list stop. But if you’re a local or want a true taste of the city’s everyday food scene, La Barbecue may win your heart.
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The Final Verdict
There’s no real loser in this battle—just two different paths to brisket glory. Franklin Barbecue is about reverence, tradition, and mastery. La Barbecue is about flavor, community, and boldness. Together, they represent why Austin’s barbecue scene is unrivaled.
The best advice? Try both. Eat Franklin’s brisket for breakfast, nap it off, then hit La Barbecue for dinner. After all, when you’re in Austin, there’s no such thing as too much brisket.