Mann’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Austin, TX 78757
Hours: Open Tue–Sat 11:15–8. Closed Sun & Mon.
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Texas Monthly rating: 4.50
TEXAS MONTHLY SAYS: 2008: Building used to be: A KFC.
Owner Jim Mann and his jovial staff served us fatty brisket, pork ribs, loin, and pulled pork that offered a surplus of smokiness and juice. (The salty sauce worked well with the loin.) Jim’s wife, Sallie, makes sides from Southern family recipes. Her black-eyed peas, lima beans, and cornbread perfectly accompanied the meat. Come on Fridays for free homemade ice cream (especially during peach season).
2008: Owner Jim Mann and his jovial staff served us fatty brisket, pork ribs, and pulled pork that offered a surplus of smokiness and juice. (The salty sauce worked well with the loin.) Jim’s wife, Sallie, makes sides from Southern family recipes. Her black-eyed peas, lima beans, and cornbread perfectly accompanied the meat. Come on Fridays for free homemade ice cream (especially during peach season).
BBQ SNOB SAYS: 2009: A spot in TEXAS MONTHLY’s Top 50 brings high expectations. I was pleased that the pit boss quickly asked if I wanted lean brisket or “some with a little more flavor.” I opted for the fatty brisket as well as two enormous spare ribs. The brisket was outstanding with a deep black crust, a nice smoke line, and wonderful smoky flavor throughout. The fat was well rendered, and the meat was tender and moist. This was just what I needed to restore my faith in Austin barbecue. Then I tried the ribs. What a disappointment. The meat fell from the bone and the fat was well rendered, but the smokiness and overall flavor were missing. Usually a joint that can nail a brisket doles out good ribs without breaking a sweat, but not on this day. At least I got to finish it off with some free ice cream.
