by Erin Chambers - 9246 Reviews - 161 List
From backyard BBQ parties to smoky feasts in the Hill Country, we've got your ultimate guide to grilling and chilling in Austin this summer.
Updated: May 19, 2008
For the optimum effect, mow the lawn one or two days before the party and decorate the yard with colored lights and tiki torches. Don't forget to borrow chairs from your neighbors and stock up on bug spray and other items you may not have on-hand.
The national chain of all things barbecue stocks charcoal and gas grills, fryers, smokers, accessories and even BBQ cookbooks.
Find grills, grill covers and accessories by Charmglow, Char-Broil, Weber and Blue Ember. Don't get caught short; take in your empty propane tank for a full one.
If you're serving Corona and Dos Equis at your BBQ fiesta, consider a pinata from this family-owned store on the East Side.
This party-planning emporium helps you decorate for a special occasion with themed paper plates, Mylar message balloons and other festive doodads and trinkets.
Covers the party spectrum with rentals, supplies and gifts for small gatherings, weddings and other special events where barbecue is often served.
Great BBQ starts with quality ingredients. Buy your meat, veggies and other supplies the day of your party to ensure freshness and buy a range of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) so everyone will find something they like.
Wanna try flounder, blue crabs or shrimp on the barbie? Find grill-ready fresh seafood at this budget-friendly market.
Talk one-on-one with the butcher to select the cuts of meat you want, plus find veggies, supplies, drinks and more.
The country's first national certified organic market offers high-end meats, side dishes and other BBQ necessities.
Find professional-grade cookware, BBQ tools, cutlery and kitchen gadgets. If you really want to impress your guests, register for a BBQ cooking class to perfect your skills.
Shop for summer wines, imported beers, fancy side dishes and ready-to-eat meals at this gourmet wine and food store.
Find a great selection of beers to complement your food options, plus pick up last-minute groceries, cigars and other supplies you might need to satisfy your guests.
Think global and shop local at this specialty store offering gourmet goodies from local growers and producers.
Central Texas has some of the best BBQ restaurants in the country, so there's no shame in letting the pros do the cooking for you. To-go orders are convenient for picnics and trips to the lake.
Want to host a party but not up for the mess? This catering service delivers BBQ meals from County Line, Green Mesquite, Threadgill's and Texas Rib King.
This downtown meat purveyor specializes in tender smoked brisket that's Dubya-approved (he was a regular when he lived in Austin).
Texas-sized barbecue platters please the pickiest of brisket seekers at this classic Austin favorite on Lake Austin.
It's worth the drive to Driftwood for amazing all-you-can-eat BBQ. Remember--it's BYOB, so don't feel shy about walking in with your cooler.
Lou Lambert adds an upscale touch to BBQ with this fancy eatery in the bustling Second Street District. Live music on the weekends.
Come to this Austin staple for melt-in-your-mouth brisket coupled with local and touring live music acts.
Order rich, smoky pork ribs at the counter in this tiny white building on the corner of East 11th. It's perfect for a quick pick-up on your way to the park.