Always Trying: Texas BBQ

On July 25, 2011, we decided to take on the Austin area IKEA in Round Rock. Not only were we sincerely in need of shelving, but we were also ready to use one of our gift cards! Oh, wait - you wouldn’t know about that, would you?

FILL-IN TIME! Our dear friends from Pittsburgh, Brandi and Tim gave us a really thoughtful going-away gift: gift cards to the “best of” restaurants in Austin. We’re food lovers, so, you know, it was AWESOME.

Anyway, since were we headed north for the shopping excursion, we grabbed our gift certificate to The Salt Lick. During the drive, there are signs that say “You Can Smell Our Pits from Miles Away,” which made me giggle and gag at the same time. I don’t know about miles, but when we pulled into the parking lot, the aroma was mouth-watering. There was ample seating outside which would be awesome when not 104 degrees. Walking in the front door you are warmly greeted with some of the Southern Hospitality and an impressive view of the barbecue pit.

Steve chose to go with the Plate: your choice of three out of four meats (brisket, pork ribs, turkey, and sausage), potato salad, cole slaw, and baked beans. I opted for the seemingly smaller Pulled Pork Sandwich. That was possibly the most tender meat I have ever tasted and the barbecue sauce is unlike any others I’ve had. For dessert, we ordered the Blackberry Cobbler, which had good flavor, but was almost overwhelmingly sweet. I also have to mention that the sweet tea is always flowing!