Austin Restaurants

The Salt Lick

The Salt Lick Review

When Texans argue about the relative merits of barbecue joints, the Salt Lick usually winds up at or near the top of the heap. Getting here entails a 30-minute drive southwest of Austin, but diners who make the trek are rewarded with finger-licking-good ribs, beef, chicken, turkey, and sausage slow-cooked over an open pit and accompanied by a tangy sauce (unusual for central Texas) and the usual sides. Slaw is fresh and crisp, not smothered in mayo. If you can manage it, top your meal off with peach cobbler or pecan pie. The area is dry, alcohol-wise, so if you want anything stronger than Dr Pepper, bring it with you. It's cash-only, but there's an on-site ATM. Salt Lick 360 (3801 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., West Lake. 512/328-4957), in town, is a fancier offshoot of the original barbecue joint.

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Member Reviews

  • ladybug98, from New York City, NY
    2/25/09

    Go early or be prepared to wait! But it is so worth it. Long communal picnic tables fill the barn-like restaurant with a fireplace at one end. The staff is very attentive, making sure that you are satisfied and constantly offering refills of iced tea. The brisket melts in your mouth and the pork ribs are delicious. Can't beat the $6.00 half chicken, which is so moist and covered with their secret sauce. Speaking of which, the sauce was very flavorful. You definitely need to save room for desert. The pecan pie is 2 inches thick, easily, with very large pecans at the top and 2 scoops of ice cream to boot. YUM!

    Ratings details: Food: 4 | Atmosphere: 5 | Service: 5 | Value: 5
  • krishelle, from Austin, TX
    2/2/09

    The meat is juicy and the habanero sauce has the perfect amount of heat. Try the family style only if you are very hungry or from out of town for the full experience. If the brisket is not mouth watering then ask for more- the second go around will be. Turkey is also a great option, and a bit lighter. Don't forget to save some room for Blackberry Cobbler a la mode. Oh, and BYOB - how awesome is that?

    Ratings details: Food: 5 | Atmosphere: 5 | Service: 4 | Value: 4
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