The weekly Chronicle feature “Second Helpings” offers readers the opportunity to sample tasty, bite-sized restaurant listings compiled from new and previous reviews, guides, and poll results. This week’s entries were updated by Chronicle Cuisines Editor Virginia B. Wood from an original publication date of March 17, 2000, when they were written by Greg Beets and Virginia B. Wood. When you need quick, reliable information about Austin eateries, check here.
For years, Central Texas towns such as Lockhart, Elgin, and Taylor have been home to some justifiably famous barbecue joints. Due to recent developments, tiny Spicewood west of Austin is now a necessary stop on the barbecue trail. Some of these places are of the meat market variety and others are full-service cafes. Whatever your pleasure, here’s a partial list of joints within an hour’s drive of Austin that were deemed worthy of inclusion in our 1999 Smokin’ Hall of Fame.
This article appears in March 16 • 2001.