10 All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Buffets In Texas That Outshine The Chains
When hunger strikes in the Lone Star State, nothing satisfies quite like authentic Texas barbecue.
Skip the nationwide chains and head to these local gems where the pitmasters know their craft and the buffets never end.
These 10 all-you-can-eat BBQ spots showcase the true spirit of Texas smoking traditions with generous portions that’ll leave your belt a notch looser and your heart a whole lot happier.
1. The Salt Lick BBQ: Smoky Heaven in the Hill Country
Family recipes dating back to the 1800s make this Driftwood landmark a must-visit BBQ destination.
The massive open pit greets you with dancing flames and mouthwatering aromas that’ll have you drooling before you even sit down.
Their unlimited family-style service brings heaping platters of brisket, sausage, and ribs straight to your table.
Don’t miss their legendary mustard-based sauce – it’s unlike anything you’ll find at corporate BBQ joints!
2. The County Line: Riverside Feasting That Never Stops
Perched along Austin’s lakefront, The County Line transforms BBQ dining into a scenic experience. Their ‘All-You-Care-To-Eat’ option keeps the meat coming until you wave the white flag of surrender.
Succulent beef ribs – massive prehistoric-looking beauties – steal the show here. Between bites, soak in gorgeous water views from their sprawling patio.
Regulars swear the combination of smoked meat and sunset vistas creates some kind of Texan magic you won’t find elsewhere.
3. Sam’s Original Restaurant & BBQ: Small Town, Big Flavors
Tucked away in Fairfield, this unassuming roadside spot has been filling Texans’ bellies since 1953.
The buffet line stretches with smoked treasures – from fall-apart brisket to homemade sausage links that snap perfectly with each bite.
What sets Sam’s apart? Their secret-recipe BBQ sauce that strikes that elusive sweet-spicy balance.
Old-timers drive hours just for their legendary smoked turkey – a surprising standout that converts even the most dedicated beef lovers. Cash only, so come prepared!
4. Texas D Willie’s Smokehouse: Southside Smoke Masters
Hidden in San Antonio’s south side, this family-run joint might not look fancy, but your taste buds won’t care once you hit the buffet.
Their Saturday special unleashes unlimited access to four generations of smoking expertise.
The brisket edges – those magical, pepper-crusted burnt ends – disappear fastest here. Bring stretchy pants and arrive early – locals pack this place by noon!
5. Chisholm’s Restaurant: Cowboy-Sized Portions in Cattle Country
You’ll find Godley locals and hungry ranchers rubbing elbows at this authentic country buffet.
Their pit-smoked offerings change daily, but Thursday’s all-you-can-eat beef rib night has achieved legendary status across three counties.
The smoky perfume hits you from the parking lot – a heavenly warning of what awaits inside. Their homemade peach cobbler deserves its own fan club, providing the perfect sweet finish to a savory feast.
6. Brothers-In-Law’s Bar-B-Que: Houston’s Hidden Treasure
Family feuds created this Houston gem when two brothers-in-law couldn’t agree on barbecue techniques.
Lucky for us, their competitive spirit resulted in a weekend buffet that showcases both styles – wet-rubbed and dry-rubbed meats side by side!
The smoked boudin links represent Gulf Coast BBQ fusion at its finest. Their “Pitmaster Challenge” invites brave souls to sample everything on the buffet – complete it and your photo joins the Wall of Fame.
7. Demeris Bar-B-Q: Houston’s Greek-Texan BBQ Fusion
Greek immigrants who fell in love with Texas BBQ created this unique Houston establishment.
Their Sunday buffet blends traditional smoking techniques with subtle Mediterranean influences – don’t miss the oregano-kissed pork ribs!
Three generations of family recipes fill steam trays with brisket, sausage, and their famous smoked lamb. The cucumber-yogurt sauce alongside traditional BBQ sauce offers an unexpected but delicious pairing.
8. RibCrib: Regional Chain with Local Heart
While technically a small regional chain, RibCrib’s Texas locations have earned their spot through sheer dedication to authentic smoking methods.
Their Tuesday all-you-can-eat rib special transforms the Wichita Falls location into a meat-lover’s paradise.
Four rib varieties await your verdict – St. Louis, baby back, country-style, and beef. The competition-style presentation lets you sample different rubs and sauces side-by-side.
Budget-friendly pricing makes this spot popular with families and college students alike, but the quality rivals much pricier establishments.
9. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que: Hill Country Legend
Cooper’s “all you can eat” approach works differently – pick your meat directly from smoking pits, then return for unlimited refills.
This Llano institution has served presidents and cowboys alike with their distinctive direct-heat method.
The two-inch-thick pork chops have achieved cult status among BBQ enthusiasts. Their peppery “Llano style” approach means minimal sauce – the meat’s natural flavors do all the talking.
10. Crossroads BBQ: Small Town, Big Reputation
In tiny Hearne, Texas, this family-owned spot draws weekend warriors from three counties for their Saturday buffet extravaganza.
The modest building hides pitmaster magic that happens in the backyard smokehouse where post oak imparts distinctive flavor.
Their smoked catfish alongside traditional offerings showcases true Texas innovation.