Doesn't Recommend

JoJoATX

Joined 5 years ago

Decent Ribs, Poor Brisket, Angry Owner. I took 2 friends to Texas Rib Kings over St. Patrick's Day and it was less than a satisfying experience. We passed up Artz and the County Line to go to TRK in search of the finest barbecue we could find. However, what we found was an entirely empty resteraunt with two employees guarding the parking spaces closest to the door. They got angry with us for parking there because they assumed we were going elsewhere and then were only mildly apologetic when we said we were in search of Austin's best ribs and heard they resided inside. It was a bit alarming that we were the only patrons in the entire resteraunt at peak dinner hours but I'd read the reviews and I wanted my ribs. The ribs weren't a disappointment, they were pretty good. I had both beef and pork and they were both of good quality and were tasty, the brisket left something to be desired. When I got to the register the owner was less than friendly and put all 3 meals on my ticket. I figured that'd be fine as they were out of towners and when I handed him my card for buy 7 plates, get the 8th free and he marked off one plate. I asked him about it and said that I bought 3 and wondered if I could get 2 more plates crossed off for my paid total of 3. He was very short with me and said, "Son, if I gave away free things I'd never stay in business." I'm 28 with grey hair, calling me son was derogatory. We were the only 3 people in his resteraunt, he should have been at the very least friendly if not downright accomodating. It was as if he was angry that he had to stand up to ring us up and for the life of me I can't figure out why he'd offer the promotion if he had no intention of honoring it.

Bottom line, good ribs, poor brisket, mediocre sides. The ribs are worth the price, the service, attitude of ownership and ambiance of an empty resteraunt make it a poor selection for dinner, especially when entertaining guest. I rate it a D, the only thing seperating it from an F is the ribs. CountyLine from here on out.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Editorial Review by Citysearch Editors. Bring out the bibs and lemon handy wipes. This old-fashioned rib joint is an all-you-can-eat paradise.

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bradley902

Joined 7 years ago

THE BEST BBQ IN AUSTIN. Hey, I've lived in austin all my life and I've tried every BBQ in town, Texas Rib Kings is hands down the best in austin. There sauce is the greatest and brisket and sausage to die for I've seen a few other reviews saying the brisket is dry, don't listen to them go check this place out. You can get a drink, one side and a brisket sandwich for 5 dollars at lunch. That's a bargain for what your getting. I eat here atleast once a week.

GREAT FOOD

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jayala2k

Joined 11 years ago

Great Ribs Average BBQ. Good atmosphere with very friendly staff.

The Ribs were fantastic but the rest of the entrees at our table were average or below.

Doesn't Recommend

pojoaquekat

Joined 8 years ago

The worst brisket ever. I went in to get a brisket lunch plate to go. It was probably a little after the lunch rush, but I don't think it is any excuse. It took one guy 30 minutes to wait on two of us. I paid over $8 for the driest, toughest, most tasteless brisket I've ever had in my life and some mediocre sides (which kept me from starving since I could not even eat the brisket). The barbecue sauce was decent, but no amount of it could save that nasty brisket. I will never set foot in the place again.

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lipsmacking

Joined 10 years ago

A Brisket Lover's Haven. I think this is the most overlooked BBQ joint in Austin! Forget the drive to Salt Lick, forget the lines at Rudy's; I actually like Texas Rib Kings sauce better, they have generous portions and wonderfully tender Brisket. And I am VERY PICKY about my Brisket! The staff have always been warm and friendly. You can stop in for an inexpensive lunch, or, my favorite: the FAMILY PAK! You can have great BBQ in your house for everyone at good price. Do it!!!!

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pulsar88

Joined 11 years ago

Forget the Salt Lick. Best BBQ in town. The meats are tender and the sauce is spicy.

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dellbill

Joined 11 years ago

BEST BBQ ANYWHERE!. I've had BBQ in several states and in many Texas establishments as well. Texas Rib Kings always comes through. If you aren't concerned as much about atmosphere as you are hospitality and just great food, Texas Rib Kings is easily the best BBQ in the state and possibly anywhere. And with a price that won't have you checking your bank statement.