Austin’s most talked‑about smoker hums behind a trailer, and the locals swear it’s the best outdoor dining room in Texas. At LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, creativity meets live‑oak smoke, turning offcuts into cult favorites and side dishes into destinations. Lines form early, sellouts happen fast, and every picnic table feels like a front‑row seat to the pitmaster’s stage. If you crave flavor that’s bold, inventive, and unmistakably Austin, this is your must‑eat map pin.
Where to Find the Magic
Set your GPS to 5621 Emerald Forest Dr, Austin, TX 78745, and follow the scent of post oak. LeRoy and Lewis anchors a beloved trailer park setup with shaded picnic tables and a chill, dog‑friendly vibe. Doors open at 11 AM (closed Tuesdays), and lines often snake around the lot—arrive early for the widest selection. Expect $20–30 per person, brisk service once you order, and a team that knows their craft. It’s casual, communal, and perfectly Austin: music in the air, cold drinks nearby, and trays of smoked brilliance landing table after table.
The Brisket Benchmark
At LeRoy and Lewis, brisket isn’t just a staple—it’s a statement. Sliced to order with a peppery bark and buttery, rendering fat, it’s rich enough to skip sauce yet versatile with their house blends. Fans praise its tenderness and deep flavor, even without heavy smoke overwhelm. Portions lean mindful, so consider sharing across the menu. Pair it with a tangy slaw or chori‑papas for balance. If you’re chasing the perfect bite, ask for fatty slices. Pro tip: plan an early lunch—brisket sells out on busy weekends, and you’ll want first pick.
Bacon Ribs: The Cult Favorite
Bacon ribs are the showstopper—smoky, luscious slabs that eat like a love letter to pork. The rub leans savory-sweet, with a glaze that caramelizes under smoke for a sticky, finger‑licking finish. Portions are generous, yet they vanish fast; regulars know to order them the moment they reach the counter. Balance the richness with pickles or the grainy salad. If they’re sold out, consider the flat iron or beef cheeks for similar wow. Either way, bacon ribs embody the trailer’s playful, chef‑driven ethos—unapologetically indulgent and outrageously memorable.
Inventive Cuts, Big Payoff
LeRoy and Lewis shines with offcuts turned headliners: flat iron, tri‑tip, and silky beef cheeks when available. These cuts soak up smoke differently, delivering textures from steak‑like juiciness to spoon‑tender comfort. Ask the cutter for the day’s peak; they’ll steer you right. Tri‑tip brings a rosy, beef‑forward slice, while flat iron offers marbled richness. Cheeks are limited and often sell out mid‑rush. Share family style to sample widely. This is where the trailer flexes its culinary chops—serious technique, chefly curiosity, and a commitment to local sourcing.
Sides That Punch Above Their Weight
Forget afterthought sides—this trailer’s playbook is ambitious. Chori‑papas bring chorizo‑kissed potatoes with crispy edges; chili Frito pie layers spice and crunch; cornbread arrives with butter and strawberries for a sweet-savory duet. The kale Caesar slaw and grainy salads cut the smoke with brightness. Not every side is a unanimous hit, but the highs are undeniable. Order two or three to build contrast around your meats. The result is a tray that moves—rich to refreshing, crunchy to creamy—without ever feeling heavy‑handed.
Beat the Line Like a Local
Lines are part of the ritual, but strategy helps. Arrive before 11 AM on weekends, or target weekday afternoons to dodge peak waits. Watch for sell‑out notices on their socials and order decisively at the counter. If the line’s long, grab a drink and settle into the vibe—staff often keeps spirits up. Parking is limited, so rideshares help. Seating is plentiful outdoors with shade and a lively atmosphere. Most importantly, stay flexible: have a backup meat in mind if a favorite runs out.
Atmosphere: Austin to the Core
This is the archetype of Austin outdoor dining: picnic tables, string lights, dogs napping under benches, and the hum of conversation mixing with the perfume of oak smoke. The team’s hospitality reads genuine, and the scene feels communal rather than crowded. It’s modern, unfussy, and functionally designed so food stays center stage. Expect families, foodies, and travelers sharing space with locals on lunch break. As the sun drops, the trailer park glows and the music softens—an easy, irresistible hang that turns quick meals into lingering evenings.
Plan Your Perfect Visit
Quick essentials: Wednesday–Monday, 11 AM to evening (closed Tuesdays). Budget $20–30 per person, more if you feast. Check the website for specials and seasonal sides. The Google rating sits strong at 4.5 from well over a thousand reviews, reflecting passionate fans and a few dissenters about waits and value. Call +1 512‑945‑9882 for questions, or navigate to 30.2098566, -97.7873058. For newcomers, start with brisket, bacon ribs, and two sides; add tri‑tip if available. Then claim a picnic table, breathe in the smoke, and let Austin’s best outdoor dining room do the rest.