Nestled in the heart of Texas, The Salt Lick BBQ restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural and culinary experience that has become a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike. Known for its smoky, tender meats and the rich history behind its recipes, The Salt Lick has garnered a reputation as one of the finest BBQ joints in Texas. This article delves into the history, menu offerings, dining experience, and the overall impact of The Salt Lick on Texas BBQ culture.

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The History of The Salt Lick

Humble Beginnings

The Salt Lick was founded in 1967 by Thurman Roberts Sr. and his wife Hisako. Located in Driftwood, Texas, just outside of Austin, the restaurant began as a small, family-run establishment. Thurman built the original pit himself using stones from the land, and the pit remains the heart of the restaurant’s operation to this day. Hisako, with her Japanese heritage, helped incorporate unique flavors and cooking techniques into the traditional Texan BBQ style.Thurman’s inspiration for opening The Salt Lick came from his family’s deep roots in BBQ, which stretched back generations. His ancestors were cattle drivers who learned the art of smoking meat to preserve it during long cattle drives. Thurman’s vision was to create a BBQ restaurant that captured the essence of these old-fashioned techniques, with a modern twist.

Growth and Popularity

The restaurant’s early days were modest, serving only a handful of customers. However, word of mouth about the mouthwatering BBQ began to spread, and by the 1970s, The Salt Lick had gained a loyal following. As Austin grew and became a cultural hub, The Salt Lick’s reputation grew with it. It became a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts from all over Texas and beyond.Over the years, The Salt Lick has expanded its operations. While the original location in Driftwood remains the centerpiece, the restaurant now has additional outposts at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Round Rock, and other pop-up locations at events and festivals.

The Menu: A BBQ Lover's Paradise

Signature Dishes

The Salt Lick is renowned for its extensive menu, featuring a variety of BBQ dishes that reflect the heart and soul of Texas BBQ. The restaurant’s signature item is undoubtedly its slow-cooked brisket. Cooked for hours over an open pit, the brisket is known for its smoky flavor, tender texture, and rich, mouth-watering aroma. The unique dry rub used on the brisket, passed down through the Roberts family, gives it a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other BBQ joints.

Another popular dish is the pork ribs, cooked until the meat easily falls off the bone. Glazed with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce, these ribs have become a fan favorite. The Salt Lick’s sausage, which is made in-house, is another must-try. Its bold flavors and perfect snap make it a quintessential part of any BBQ plate.

Sides and Sauces

No BBQ experience is complete without sides, and The Salt Lick delivers on this front as well. The restaurant’s side dishes are simple yet incredibly flavorful, designed to complement the star of the show: the smoked meats. Some of the most popular sides include coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. The coleslaw is crisp and refreshing, while the potato salad is creamy with just the right amount of tang. The baked beans, cooked with a hint of the restaurant’s BBQ sauce, are smoky and hearty.

Speaking of sauces, The Salt Lick is also famous for its BBQ sauce. Unlike traditional Texas BBQ sauces, which tend to be more tomato-based, The Salt Lick’s sauce has a unique mustard-vinegar base, giving it a tangy, slightly spicy flavor. This sauce is so beloved that it’s sold by the bottle at the restaurant and online, allowing fans to bring a piece of The Salt Lick home with them.

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Desserts

While BBQ might be the main attraction, The Salt Lick’s dessert offerings should not be overlooked. The homemade pecan pie, with its flaky crust and gooey, sweet filling, is the perfect way to end a meal. Another standout is the peach cobbler, made with fresh peaches and topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. These classic Southern desserts offer a sweet contrast to the smoky, savory BBQ.

Conclusion

The Salt Lick BBQ restaurant is a true Texas treasure, offering a dining experience that combines rich history, mouthwatering food, and a welcoming atmosphere. From its humble beginnings as a family-run business to its current status as a BBQ landmark, The Salt Lick has remained committed to the art of BBQ. Its tender brisket, smoky ribs, and unique sauces have left an indelible mark on Texas BBQ culture, and its family-style dining fosters a sense of community and togetherness. For anyone looking to experience authentic Texas BBQ in a beautiful setting, The Salt Lick is a must-visit destination.