House Park Bar-b-q

Let me tell you the number one reason I love this place and REALLY hope they make it back from the fire. When I was in high school, in the eighties, we would often go here for lunch. When we would get back to fifth period, people (the ones who knew) would ask, "you went to House Park didn't you?" That's because when you leave, you come away smelling like the barbecue pit - and that's a good thing in Texas. The barbecue is excellent as are all the fixings and sides. The decor, walls, photos, everything on the inside is coated with decades of soot - browned and leathered. It's such an experience. If you're not afraid of a little oak smoke while you order, you'll love it. If you're sensitive about that, they have tables outside too. Though not ever one of the "trendy" barbecue joints in Austin, it's definitely one of the best and most iconic in my book.

House Park Bar-B-Que is a holdout from the era of when Austin was a smaller city, more closely related to its small town counterparts. Stepping through the door you're immediately reminded that this is a no-frills BBQ joint, that smokes their food on-site. The walls are covered with clippings and posters of days past The person at the counter greeted us with a friendly, "Hello, what will you have today?" I ordered the half chicken plate with sides of potato salad and beans. I was glad to see the chicken wasn't of the now-too-common ginormous, tough and stringy variety, but rather of the size I would smoke at home (young medium-sized and tender). They use oak for their smoking and the chicken was lightly seasoned with the smoke providing the majority of the delicious flavor. The mustard potato salad was decent as were the beans. Onions and sliced bread were self-service, the sauce was thin and not overpowering. The pricing is fair, about $12.50 including a fountain drink or iced tea. They offer RC on the fountain and related drinks. If you go, spend the time to read the items on the walls and soak in the history while enjoying the food.

My friend has been telling me to eat here for awhile. Finally did and had a great meal. Once you get near the front door and smell that smoke it's impossible to turn around. Got the beef plate which came with three classic sides. Beans are never a hot item for me but these were good. Potato salad was ON POINT. And yeah, their slogan does describe the meat. Sauce compliments instead of overpowers. Only qualm is I love coleslaw and this one was middle of the road for me. Employees were cool and so was the atmosphere/interior. No line just real people and good food. Will be back again 100%

I’ve been skeptical of going to a restaurant with a cheeky slogan of “don’t need no teef to eat my beef.” I only came here after one of the folks from LaBarbeque recommended it. If an authentic BBQ place needs to a bit rundown, the interior fits the bill. I was offered brisket and half chopped beef sandwich since I was undecided. Foolishly, I took a knife for the brisket. It would be impossible to find a more tender cut of brisket, and the chopped beef has an equally lovely flavor. Despite the owner needing a new rhyming dictionary, I’ll be taking a lot more walks along Shoal Creek around lunchtime, and I can leave my dentures at home.

This is not only the oldest (since 1943) but one of the very best BBQ restaurants in Austin! Always consistently good with the best chopped beef sandwich in town! Simple no nonsense menu with terrific side options. If you haven’t given this place a try be sure and put it on your list. I garuntee you will be pleasantly surprised.