Texas Style Barbecue

Lockhart, TX - A small town with approximately 11,600 people, it is also known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas. After seeing an episode of BBQ Paradise on The Travel Channel and knowing it's only a short 45 minute drive from Vincci's house, of course we have to go there. So on a Saturday morning, we jumped in the car, and started to head south for a filling Saturday. We arrived to this quaint little town shortly before noon. Our goal in Lockhart was to have a competitive analysis. We want to know who is the best in the BBQ Capital of Texas. Our two stops: Kreuz and Smitty's.

Our first stop was Kreuz. Kreuz is the bigger (by square footage anyway) of the two. When we walked into Kreuz, it is well lit has has a wide open feel, and the aroma of smoked meat filled the entire restaurant. We took a few minutes to look over the menu and decided what to order, and proceeded to the counter. On our agenda, Smoked prime ribs, jalapeno sausage, lean pork shoulder, and beef ribs. It was interesting to see that the ordering counters were right in front of the fire pits, as if they are tempting us to order one of everything. Of course, it was a hot summer day in Texas, so you have to admire the pit masters for preparing the meat in such environment under the sweltering heat.

Kreuz's bbq pit

After our prized treasure was obtained in the neatly wrapped butcher paper, we proceeded to the next counter for our sides. Some sauerkraut, German potatoes, and good ol' fashion carbonated beverages in the classic glass bottle. We found ourselves a table, set the spread down and were ready to feast!

BBQ feast!!

Kreuz did not disappoint! The smoked prime rib and lean pork shoulder was moist and tender, while the jalapeno sausages had just the right kick without over-powering spiciness. The beef ribs, while not falling off the bone, were much better than average comparing to the beef ribs that one can order from the usual barbecue restaurants. The regular sausage links, however, was a bit too greasy for my taste. The dining area was somewhat cafeteria like, but it was still an enjoyable experience. We ate half our order, neatly packed up what we have left in order to conserve room for our next stop, and began to head to Smitty's.

Smitty's BBQ pit

Driving upon Smitty's, you can definitely tell it is an older establishment. We parked the car against the curb in front of the rustic screen door, and walked through the dark corridor. For a few moments, we were wondering if there's even electricity at Smitty's. Then we walked into the light...tada...the ordering counter! The setup at Smitty is a lot like Kreuz, but in a smaller scale. The ordering counter were again in front of the brick fire/smoke pits, with the butcher's table in front of the registers. For a fair comparison, we tried to order the same meats. However, Smitty's do not offer beef ribs or jalapeno sausage. Their side offerings are also different. There are no sauerkraut or German potatoes to be had. However, they do have BBQ sauce upon request. We decided the big blocks of cheddar cheese might not go well with our barbecue, so we just got our drinks, sat down, and began our competitive analysis.

We were impressed with Kreuz smoked prime ribs, but the smoked prime ribs from Smitty's were out of this world! Maybe it's age of older brick fire/ smoke pits, or the more experienced pit masters. The smoky flavor was infused in the meat and the seasoning was just right. The smoked prime ribs were smoked to perfection! Slightly caramelized on the outside, with hot pink center that melts in your mouth! The lean pork shoulders were equally impressive. While barbeque sauce was offered, it would only mask and take away the true flavor of the meats!

We were completely stuffed when we left Smitty's, but who can only have only one meal! We ordered more food to go from both places, and proceeded to leave the BBQ Capital of Texas back to the Capital of Texas.

So what's the verdict? Well, in our opinion, you have to go to both places to get the best of both worlds. This would be my recommendation: Get the smoked prime ribs, lean pork shoulder, and sausage from Smitty's, and get the beef ribs and jalapeno sausage from Kreuz. Oh, don't forget to get some German potatoes and sauerkraut! Just remember to bring plenty of cash because neither of these places take credit cards! Just go there with an empty stomach and be preparing for a smoking good time!

Kruez Market: http://www.kreuzmarket.com/about.shtml
619 N. Colorado St.
Lockhart, TX 78644-2110

Smitty's Market: http://www.smittysmarket.com/
208 South Commerce
Lockhart, Texas 78644