If you’re a native Texan, then you know barbecue is one of our four main food groups here in the Lone Star State! With so many great options here in Austin it seems we’re not only the State Capital of Texas but the BBQ Capital as well. If you’re already an Austinite or just planning a weekend getaway, make sure to visit my top picks!

1. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ (11500 Manchaca Rd, Austin TX, 78748)

Valentina’s earns the top spot on my list because it’s the perfect combination of my two favorite Texas food groups – Barbecue and Tex Mex! Here you can get juicy smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork in tacos on homemade flour tortillas, or in a sandwich. Fix it up with their house-made salsas, queso, and guacamole! Then finish it with an ice-cold Mexican Coke or Big Red. This hot spot is only 6 minutes away from Camden Shadow Brook!

Photo courtesy of Brittney Garcia

2. Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew (6610 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752)

If you’re a Camden Lamar Heights resident, then you already know about this gem a few blocks away! They combine their slow-smoked meats and house-made sides with a nostalgic old Austin atmosphere. There is even a wide selection of cold Texas craft brews on tap. If you’re looking for a deal – check out their Daily Specials during the week! Fun Fact: Part of the movie Dazed & Confused was filmed here! You might run into Matthew McConaughey!

3. Terry Black’s BBQ (1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704)

This family has been barbecue royalty since 1932 and Black’s BBQ in Lockhart, TX is also in their bloodline. I’d recommend trying their beef rib – it’s GIANT. They’re only a 13-minute drive from Camden Gaines Ranch! Can’t make the trip to Austin? Terry Black’s also has a location in Dallas right in the heart of Deep Ellum, just a mile from Camden Farmers Market.

Photo courtesy of Brittney Garcia

4. Liberty Barbecue (103 E Main St, Round Rock, TX 78664)

A fairly new addition to downtown Round Rock, Liberty BBQ has the feel of a traditional sit-down restaurant and features “Steak Night” once a week to go along with their steakhouse vibe. But make no mistake - the brisket runs the show out here. I also recommend trying their smoked turkey. Their Trash Fries, french fries topped with juicy brisket, cheddar cheese, bacon, ranch, and fresh pico de gallo are the best! Did I mention it’s only 7 minutes away from Camden La Frontera and 12 minutes from Camden Amber Oaks?

Photo courtesy of Brittney Garcia

Whether you’re into brisket, sausage, or ribs - no one does it quite like the Lone Star State! It’s even more convenient having your Camden apartment just minutes away from so many mouthwatering options! Looking for some more great foodie options in Austin? Check out these three outstanding places to eat when you live at a Camden!