Texas Monthly has released its list of the Top 50 barbecue restaurants in all of Texas -- no small undertaking, seeing as how the magazine reportedly sampled 319 different BBQ joints in the Lone Star State.
The Top 10 included restaurants in Houston, Wolfforth, Port Lavaca, Aledo, Austin, San Juan and Port Neches. The No. 3-ranked restaurant resides in Fort Worth (see below). The top-ranked BBQ joint in all of Texas, per TM, is Seguin's Burnt Bean Co.
And while it would certainly be a fun road trip for Texas foodies, we don't expect you to drive all over the state sampling the 50 (or even Top 10) rated barbecue restaurants. So, with only your stomach in mind, we've assembled a list of the five barbecue joints within 50 miles of Southlake that Texas Monthly rated in its Top 50. We also put together a list at the end of the article mentioning TM's "honorable mention" BBQ restaurants that can be found in the metroplex.
Be sure to wear your stretchy pants!
Texas Monthly's Top 50 BBQ Joints Near Southlake
Goldee's Barbecue
TM Ranking: No. 3
Distance from Southlake: 26 miles
If you're in Fort Worth and seeking an unparalleled barbecue experience, Goldee's BBQ is a must-visit destination. It was the No. 1-rated BBQ joint by Texas Monthly in 2021 and "fell" to No. 3 in 2025. Per the magazine: Goldee's is praised for its "food that’s "close to perfection," including standout brisket, spareribs, sausage, and innovative dishes like Laotian sausage with jeow som sauce.
Cattleack Barbecue
Distance from Southlake: 20 miles
Cattleack Barbeque in Dallas is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts, offering a blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes that have earned it widespread acclaim.
Panther City BBQ
Distance from Southlake: 29 miles
Panther City BBQ has earned a spot on the Michelin Guide's recommended list as well as Texas Monthly, highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation in the barbecue scene. Their meats are slow cooked over 100% post oak wood using offset smokers, ensuring a rich, smoky flavor in every bite.
Smokey Joe's BBQ
Distance from Southlake: 39 miles
Under the leadership of second-generation owner Kris Manning, the restaurant has maintained its commitment to quality while evolving to meet modern tastes. Beyond serving delicious barbecue, Smokey Joe's actively contributes to the community by providing food to shelters, youth basketball camps, and the Ronald McDonald House.
Slow Bone BBQ
Distance from Southlake: 23 miles
Since opening in 2013, Slow Bone BBQ has garnered acclaim for its expertly smoked meats and innovative approach to traditional barbecue. Their brisket, whether lean or fatty, is renowned for its luxurious texture and deep flavor, achieved through hickory smoke and a coffee rub.
Texas Monthly's Honorable Mention BBQ joints close to Southlake:
Hurtado Barbecue, Smoke 'N Ash BBQ (Arlington)
Brix Barbecue, Smoke-A-Holics BBQ (Fort Worth)
Zavala's (Grand Prairie)
Hutchin's (McKinney)
Patriotic Pig Smokehouse (North Richland Hills)