Some things don’t change. The longest line at the Texas Monthly BBQ Festival? Austin’s own Franklin Barbecue, which generates epic waits every day it opens. Can’t get enough of that brisket!
Lynn Behrens and Bobby Parsons
Fest planners plant food tents around the arc of the Long Center Terrace. Watering holes go dead center and to the sides. The tents part at the apex for a nested series of lounging spots leading to a small stage on the lawn. For water, restroom and air conditioning breaks, the Long Center lobby serves more than adequately.
Jake Schiffer and Corina Frankie
Good thing, too, because the plaza was mobbed. Franklin’s wasn’t the only tent generating heat. I had some black-peppery ribs, brisket and sausages from my birthplace, Kilgore. And savvy servers gave out substantial baskets of slow-cooked meat, which encouraged more focus on each BBQ provider, rather than promiscuous sampling. Clever that.
Lauren Kelleher and Mansa Angel
I’m not sure what function the fest plays for TM these days. It continues to complement an already platinum regional brand. It pleases those who visit Austin in early fall. And it delights those of us who can’t get enough of the beef, pork, chicken and sides.
Perhaps TM should branch out. Seafood fest in Galveston or Corpus? Soul food fest in Houston or Tyler? Cajun fest in Beaumont or across the border? TexMex Fest in San Antonio or the Valley? Steak fest in Fort Worth or Amarillo?
Attitude fest in Dallas?
Kidding, friends. But worth a thought.