Many local barbecue snobs turn up their noses at Rudy's because it's a chain (albeit Texas-based) with hokey decor, but plenty of Austinites count this as their "go-to" choice for brisket, ribs, or sausage. Takeout is brisk, but many a diner chows down at the vinyl-covered picnic tables. Three kinds of brisket—regular, extra moist, and extra lean—are cooked with a dry spice over wood fired with oak (not mesquite). Go for the extra moist unless you're watching your waist. The peppery "sause" (available bottled) is added at the table. Aside from brisket, there are pork and baby back ribs, pork loin, prime rib (not worth the extra cost, we think), and even turkey breast. Sides are uniformly good, especially the creamed corn, which has a cult following.
Reviewed by ladybug98 from New York City, NY on 2/25/09
This is what I would consider "fast food barbeque" sold a la carte. The food is served on a tray for you to carry outside to a picnic table to enjoy your meal. The brisket is tender, the turkey is extra moist and flavorful. The pork rib was a little dry and lacked flavor but it was edible. The creamed corn was delicious and a welcomed change to the common sides served with Austin BBQ. The sauce was good, not really special but it was good. Definitely worth checking out.
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