Aaron Franklin, of PBS fame, is THE bbq king, and his famous bbq joint is in Austin.  This was Billy’s #1 on places to visit for the entire trip.  Billy started smoking meat after watching his show and receiving Aaron’s book from yours truly last Christmas.  He may or may not keep it on his bedside table next to his bible.  We had been really bummed because their pit room suffered a fire in August, and was closed until further notice.  BUT… luck was on our side, and they reopened the Tuesday before Thanksgiving!!

Specifically, only Tuesday and Wednesday, because they would be closed for the holiday.  We debated on which of the two days to go, and thought Wednesday would be our best bet, since Tuesday was their grand re-opening (it’s a really popular place, with lines that start in the wee hours of the morning!).

First woman in line

Was it worth waking up at 4am and waiting in line until they opened at 11am?  Yes.  Yes it was.

Aaron & Billy

They do everything right.  The brisket was melting in our mouths!

If you’re ever in the area, you must go.  I got in line around 4:45am and the atmosphere was really fun.  The staff would come out to check on everyone, and there was coffee around the corner.  We left feeling stuffed and happy!

And, another gorgeous sunset – a beautiful ending to a long and delicious day!!