Franklin's — Review by Eating With Tod
Austin, United States — Barbecue
The reviewer visited Franklin's, the world's most famous barbecue restaurant in Austin, arriving at 4 a.m. to be first in line. They ordered a $400 meat platter and were blown away by the brisket, slow-cooked for over 12 hours, calling it one of the best pieces of meat they've ever eaten.
What was great: The brisket with perfect smoke ring, exceptional tenderness, and rich flavors of salt, butter, and smoke. Outstanding quality of meat preparation.
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
Franklin's signature offering is their legendary brisket, which underwent a grueling 12-hour slow cook that resulted in an absolutely stunning final product. The brisket featured an impeccable smoke ring and incredible tenderness, with the meat practically falling apart when bitten into. The flavor profile was complex and layered, combining saltiness, smokiness, and a rich buttery quality that created what the reviewer described as one of the best pieces of meat they've ever had. The $400 platter that was ordered showcased the restaurant's premium offerings and included various cuts of quality barbecue meat.
The Experience
The reviewer woke up at 4:00 a.m. to secure their spot in line, managing to become the first customer of the day. This dedication speaks to Franklin's reputation as the most famous barbecue establishment on Earth and reflects the high demand and limited availability that draws barbecue enthusiasts from around the world.
Value and Pricing
At $400 for a full platter, Franklin's represents a significant investment, though the reviewer's glowing assessment of the quality and the exceptional nature of the brisket suggests the pricing aligns with the exceptional quality delivered.
Notable Moments
The saltiness, the battiness, the butteriness, it's got the lot. Actually one of the best pieces of meat I've ever put in my mouth.
The Verdict
Franklin's fully lives up to its reputation as the world's most famous barbecue establishment. The brisket is absolutely worth the early morning wait and premium price point. This restaurant is essential for serious barbecue lovers and anyone visiting Austin seeking an authentic Texas barbecue experience.