True Hill Country BBQ at Burnet Feed Store BBQ

After visiting the amazing Reveille Peak Ranch just northwest of Burnet, we decided to stop in at Burnet Feed Store BBQ, a Texas Hill Country landmark since 1977. But this spot wasn’t always a BBQ Joint.

Burnet Feed Store BBQ Origins

In 1977, James and Drucilla Banner opened the Burnet Feed Store to provide for local ranchers in the Hill Country around Burnet. The Banners eventually sold the company, and though the business continued under new ownership, profits declined through most of 2000-2007. In December 2007, the place went up for sale. It was purchased by Lorenzo Romero and Rucker Ashmore. These two had the vision of turning Burnet Feed Store into a Hill Country BBQ restaurant, and that’s exactly what they did.

One of the largest restaurants in Burnet with seating for over 120, the Burnet Feed Store BBQ is now one of the busiest spots in Burnet on any given day.

Burnet Feed Store BBQ First Impressions

This was the second time we had thought of stopping in for a bite. The first time, we decided against it because the reviews on Yelp! were mixed. But Brit and I were in the mood for some Q, and we finally decided to take the shot.

We’re glad we did.

When you first walk in, the counter is on your right and reminiscent of a cafeteria style counter. Grab a tray and move to your left. The board above will tell you all of your food options. From brisket and ribs to turkey and sausage, the Burnet Feed Store BBQ has choices for meat lovers everywhere. As you move toward the cashier, you can choose from sides, desserts and drinks to complete your meal. Pay the cashier and you are off to your table.

The seating area is really a huge barn with several booths that line the walls and table style, family-friendly seating in the center of the room.

When it comes to BBQ, I’ll almost always have sweet tea if available. We love sweet tea, but have kind of become sweet tea snobs. So we’re always a little leery when trying out a new joint. I’m happy to report that Burnet Feed Store BBQ’s sweet tea did not disappoint the first time we filled our glass, though for some reason the refill was not as good.

A small condiment wagon is available with pickles, jalapenos, onions and several BBQ sauces to compliment your meat. The day we went, there were three sauces available: regular, spicy and lemon. I liked the regular the best; Brit preferred the lemon.

Burnet Feed Store BBQ Meal Review

In my opinion, brisket defines the quality of any BBQ joint. Burnet Feed Store BBQ offers both moist and lean brisket. Both were tasty, but the moist had too much fat on it. That of course contributes to the weight, which affects price. Regardless, it was BBQ done right and we both enjoyed the brisket. I think it was sliced way too thick, but the meat was tender and flavorful.

Our sides were green beans and fried okra. The green beans were better than average and the okra was a bit too salty. Still, they were nice additions to the slab of meat that we each had before us, and many other sides were available.

I’ve heard good things about the turkey, but we didn’t try it on this go-round.

Burnet Feed Store BBQ Final Thoughts

We’ll definitely go back when we’re in the Burnet area. The employees were really nice, the atmosphere was classic Hill Country and inviting, and the food was pretty darn good. If you do stop by, try out the turkey and let me know what you think. I’m actually really curious about it.

If you are interested in other BBQ joints we’ve covered recently, take a look at Johnny T’s BBQ and Salt Lick BBQ.

 

@EricHighland asks:

What is your favorite BBQ joint in Texas Hill Country?