We analyzed over 1,800 reviews from Yelp and local food communities to find the best BBQ in East Texas. From legendary smokehouses to hidden roadside gems, these are the spots where the brisket is always tender and the smoke rings tell the story.
East Texas takes its barbecue seriously. Here are the 5 best places to get smoked meat in the Tyler area and beyond.
1. Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.5 · 1,324 reviews
The undisputed king of East Texas BBQ. With over 1,300 reviews and decades of history, Stanley’s has earned its legendary status. The line can be long, but the brisket is worth every minute of the wait.
🍖 Must-Order: Smoked Brisket Platter, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwich
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive before 11:30 AM on weekends or expect a 30+ minute wait. The chopped beef sandwich is the locals’ secret—ask for it “wet” with extra sauce.
2. Sunbird Barbecue
📍 Longview · ⭐ 4.9 · 21 reviews
The highest-rated BBQ in the region, Sunbird is a newer operation that’s quickly building a devoted following. The attention to craft is evident in every slice of brisket.
🍖 Must-Order: Smoked Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork
💡 Insider Tip: They smoke in small batches, so get there early before the best cuts sell out.
3. Country P’s BBQ & Catering
📍 Palestine · ⭐ 4.8 · 25 reviews
A hidden gem about 45 minutes from Tyler, Country P’s is worth the drive. The brisket has a perfect smoke ring and the ribs fall right off the bone.
🍖 Must-Order: Smoked Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwich
💡 Insider Tip: Call ahead for large orders—they do excellent catering for events.
4. Yall’s Barbecue N’ Produce
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.7 · 30 reviews
A local favorite that combines classic East Texas BBQ with a produce market. The brisket platter is the star, but save room for their homemade sides.
🍖 Must-Order: Smoked Brisket Platter, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwich
💡 Insider Tip: Grab some fresh produce on your way out—their tomatoes and peppers are excellent.
5. Brisket Love Barbecue & Icehouse
📍 Lindale (15 min from Tyler) · ⭐ 4.4 · 174 reviews
Part BBQ joint, part icehouse hangout, Brisket Love has carved out a devoted following in Lindale. The casual vibe and quality smoked meats make it a go-to for locals.
🍖 Must-Order: Smoked Brisket Platter, BBQ Burger, Pulled Pork Sandwich
💡 Insider Tip: The BBQ Burger is a sleeper hit—smoked meat on a burger with all the fixings.
How We Picked These Spots
We don’t take paid placements or sponsorships. Our selections are based on:
- Review analysis: We read hundreds of reviews to find patterns—which cuts get raved about, what brings people back.
- Local reputation: The spots that East Texans recommend to visitors, not just chain alternatives.
- Smoke quality: Consistent praise for brisket, ribs, and classic sides.
Know a BBQ joint we should try? Let us know—we’re always hunting for the next great pit.
Last updated: January 2026