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The Salt Lick BBQ
The Salt Lick BBQ is an authentic Texas Hill Country dining experience. There is no better place to capture the spirit of the region.
Located just a short drive from Austin, this legendary spot offers more than just food. It offers a memory that will stick with you long after you leave. The rolling hills and wildflowers set the perfect stage for what lies ahead.
As you drive down the winding roads of Driftwood, Texas, you will notice the pace of life slows down. The stress of the city melts away. Suddenly, a distinct and delicious aroma fills the air. It is the smell of oak wood smoke and roasting meat.
This scent acts like a beacon, pulling you straight into the parking lot of The Salt Lick BBQ. Your mouth will start watering before you even step out of your car.
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When you walk through the doors, the first thing you see is the massive, open fire pit.
The main pit at The Salt Lick BBQ.It is truly a sight to behold. Sausages and briskets hang above the flames, cooking slowly to perfection. The pit master constantly tends to the meat, basting it with their famous sauce.
This visual spectacle makes for an incredible photo opportunity. It proves immediately that you have arrived at a place that takes barbecue seriously.
Method Matters
One of the most unique things about The Salt Lick BBQ is its cooking method.
Most places in Texas rely strictly on indirect heat from smokers.
Here, they use a combination of methods.
Salt Lick BBQ grill and sauce stage.One of the pit masters was telling me that the meats get smoked in separate smokers on a staggered schedule. Then for the final cook time they are brought into The Main Pit for a finishing grill and sauce application.
This caramelizes the sauce on the outside while keeping the meat juicy on the inside. It creates a flavor profile that stands out distinctively from other Texas BBQ joints.
Wagon train recipes
The history of this place adds a special flavor to the experience. Thurman Roberts founded the restaurant in 1967, but the roots go back much further. He used recipes that his family perfected on wagon trains in the mid-1800s.
You aren't just eating dinner here; you are tasting a piece of Texas history. The rustic limestone walls and wooden tables make you feel like you have stepped back in time.
The Salt lick bBQ fixin's
The sides at The Salt Lick BBQ deserve their own praise.
- The potato salad is creamy and savory, not too mustard-heavy.
- The coleslaw provides a crisp, refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat.
- And then there are the beans...
They are slow-cooked and packed with flavor. You will find yourself scooping up every last bit with the fresh bread they provide.
Their BBQ sauce is not your typical tomato-based barbecue sauce. No. Instead, it is a mustard and vinegar-based concoction that is slightly sweet and tangy. It complements the smoky meat perfectly without overpowering it.
The Salt Lick BBQ's General Store.Many visitors love it so much that they buy bottles of it at Salt Lick's General Store to take home. It is a signature taste that defines the Driftwood Restaurant's scene.
Come hungry
You should definitely come hungry, because the portions here are generous.
The menu features all the classics you expect, like tender brisket, pork ribs, and turkey.
However, the sausage is a real standout.
It has a snap and a spice blend that is absolutely delicious. If you can't decide what to get, don't worry. They also have options that let you try a little bit of everything.
For the full experience, you need to order the "Family Style" meal. This is an all-you-can-eat feast that brings platters of meat and sides to your table.
It is perfect for groups or families who want to share a meal together. You can keep asking for more of your favorites until you are completely stuffed.
It creates a communal, festive atmosphere that brings everyone closer together.
Here is a practical tip you need to know before you arrive:
Bring Cash
The Salt Lick BBQ is a cash-only establishment.
They do have ATMs on-site, but it is just easier to come prepared.
This old-school policy fits the timeless vibe of the restaurant. It reminds you that this place focuses on the essentials: great food and great company.
Another unusual perk of dining here is the BYOB policy.
You can Bring Your Own Beer or wine to enjoy with your meal. This is a fantastic option for visitors who have a favorite bottle they picked up at a local winery.
It allows you to pair a high-end Hill Country wine with world-class barbecue. This flexibility adds a touch of personal luxury to your rustic dining experience.
more than a meal
If you arrive during a busy time, you might encounter a wait. But honestly, waiting here is part of the fun. You can hang out on the beautiful grounds under the shade of ancient oak trees.
Salt Lick BBQ outdoor grounds.There is often live music playing on the patio, setting a relaxing mood. You can sip your drink, listen to tunes, and enjoy the fresh country air while you work up an appetite.
The Salt Lick also owns a vineyard right next door.
You can visit the tasting room before or after your meal. This makes it a complete destination for travelers.
You get to experience the booming Texas wine culture alongside its famous food culture. It elevates the trip from a simple lunch into a full afternoon event.
When comparing Texas Hill Country Restaurants, few can match the capacity and hospitality found here.
The staff treats you like family from the moment you sit down. They are efficient, warm, and always ready to refill your iced tea. This friendly service makes the large, bustling dining hall feel cozy and welcoming.
It embodies the true spirit of Southern hospitality.
full or not... get dessert
Make sure you save a little room for dessert.
The blackberry and peach cobblers are legendary. Served warm with a scoop of ice cream, they are the perfect ending to a savory meal.
The crust is buttery and flaky, and the fruit filling is just the right amount of sweet. It is the kind of comfort food that makes you sigh with happiness.
I don't ever go to Salt Lick without getting my favorite, blackberry cobbler. Even if I am too full to eat it, I'll order it to go and take it with me.
In conclusion, a visit to The Salt Lick BBQ is essential for any discerning traveler.
Salt Lick Dining area (one of many).It combines incredible history, a stunning atmosphere, and mouth-watering food into one package. Whether you are a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a great meal, this place delivers.
Among all the Hill Country restaurants you could choose, this one truly captures the heart and soul of Texas.
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