Sam’s BBQ (5)

2000 E. 12th, 478-0378

Sunday-Thursday, 10am-2am; Friday-Saturday, 10am-3am

This ramshackle landmark, owned and operated by the Mays family, is where generations of musicians and clubgoers are known to go for some great down-home barbecue after a night of revelry onstage and off. Stop by and visit the Mays family for great barbecue, traditional sides, and a friendly “neighborhood picnic” atmosphere. Recommended: the delicious chopped-beef sandwich, the spicy Elgin Hot Sausage wrap, or some tender sliced barbecue brisket. The adventurous might opt for the mutton – a Southern barbecue staple – but be warned that it can be greasy (all the better for soaking up the alcohol). If you’re too tired to stick around, get it to go.

This article appears in March 2 • 2007.

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Mexico City native Claudia Alarcón has made Austin home since 1984. She worked her way through college in the local restaurant industry, graduating from the University of Texas in 1999. She has been a Chronicle contributor for 15 years and presents lectures and workshops on topics related to the foodways of Mexico, both locally and internationally.