Salt Lick Cellars
Experience legendary Texas BBQ and wine in a rustic, scenic setting. Slow-smoked meats, live music, and a charming atmosphere await.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Salt Lick Cellars
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience legendary Texas BBQ and wine in a rustic, scenic setting. Slow-smoked meats, live music, and a charming atmosphere await.
"A must-visit for authentic Texas BBQ with a charming ambiance and delicious wine."
🚗 Plan for the Drive
It's a bit of a drive from Austin, but the scenic route and destination are worth it! :car:
💰 Split the Bill Easily
Bills can be split up to 4 ways per table, making group dining simpler. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legendary Texas BBQ
Main Dining Area
Savor slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage – the heart of the Salt Lick experience. A must-try for any BBQ aficionado.
Award-Winning Cobbler
Dessert Menu
Don't miss the cobbler combo; it's a sweet, satisfying finale that many rave about.
Rustic Winery Ambiance
Winery Tasting Room & Patio
Enjoy a glass of wine from their adjacent winery, often with live music on the patio.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Texas BBQ Experience
Beyond the BBQ: Wine and Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Going to Salt Lick in Driftwood tomorrow! Recommendations?
🚗 Plan for the Drive
It's a bit of a drive from Austin, but the scenic route and destination are worth it! :car:
💰 Split the Bill Easily
Bills can be split up to 4 ways per table, making group dining simpler. :moneywithwings:
The Original Salt Lick, Driftwood, Feb. 2020
The Salt Lick is not bad, it's just popular to hate on it
🍷 Wine with Your BBQ
Order bottles of wine from the adjacent winery to pair with your meal. :wine_glass:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Check for live music, especially on the patio, for an enhanced dining experience. :musical_note:
The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood was not good... what is some of the best BBQ around town?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan for the Drive
It's a bit of a drive from Austin, but the scenic route and destination are worth it! :car:
💰 Split the Bill Easily
Bills can be split up to 4 ways per table, making group dining simpler. :moneywithwings:
🍷 Wine with Your BBQ
Order bottles of wine from the adjacent winery to pair with your meal. :wine_glass:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Check for live music, especially on the patio, for an enhanced dining experience. :musical_note:
⏳ Be Prepared for Waits
Popular spot, especially on weekends. Consider going during off-peak hours. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Salt Lick Cellars is celebrated for its authentic Texas BBQ, with many praising the tender brisket and flavorful ribs. The rustic ambiance, live music, and delicious cobbler are also frequent highlights. However, some visitors note that the BBQ can sometimes be served warm, and weekend waits can be significant. The dining room might not be ideal for intimate dates, but the outdoor seating offers a more relaxed vibe.
"Our large group had a reservation, but because we had about 10 extra people join us at the last minute, we had to wait 30 minutes to get 4 big 8-person picnic tables close together. Food was wonderful and staff were friendly and quick. You can split your bill 4-ways per table. Salt Lick winery is adjacent, so you can order bottles of wine and beer for your table. Very enjoyable experience!"
Donna Scholz
"Mid to full swing on the pendulum. Brisket and sausage were overly greasy and fatty without exceptional taste. Ribs, on the other hand, were most without being greasy and packed with flavor without being too salty. Top 5 Rib in my experience. Pastor salad was
unusual to me and not interesting. It could be a local thing, though, and it didn't taste bad. The cobbler combo is a must-have. Only my grandmother has provided better IMHO. I may go back to try it a-la-mode, but it's outstanding on its own. The dining room is its not a great date location. Outside seating is ample and may suit that need. The small tasting room is more of a wine bar. Lay there seemed knowledgeable. All the staff was friendly and helpful."
Jason Tech Dad Helm
"The Salt Lick gives a rustic and authentic Texas ambiance with so much beautiful scenery surrounding it. It has both indoor and outdoor seating options. They usually have live music on the patio and it is nice to sit outside when it’s not too hot. The food is 7/10 for me. It is tasty, but always warm/almost cold by the time I get it (my reason for the 4 stars). The cobbler is delicious, definitely recommend. Service is good, and there is usually a wait (especially on weekends). Otherwise, I do enjoy my experience there every time I visit."
Nora
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salt Lick Cellars is located about 30-40 minutes southwest of Austin. Most visitors drive, as it's a scenic route. You can use GPS navigation, and parking is generally available on-site. Some visitors mention it's a worthwhile drive for the authentic Texas experience.
Public transportation options to Salt Lick Cellars are very limited due to its semi-rural location. Driving is the most practical way to reach the restaurant.
For large groups, carpooling or arranging a shuttle service is recommended. The restaurant can accommodate large parties, but advance notice might be helpful, especially for reservations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to purchase tickets to enter Salt Lick Cellars. It operates as a restaurant and winery, and you pay for your food and drinks.
While they can accommodate large groups, reservations are not always taken for general dining. For very large parties or special events like weddings, it's best to contact them directly. Some reviews mention waiting for tables, especially on weekends.
Operating hours can vary, but they are typically open for lunch and dinner. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially for the winery tasting room.
There is no separate admission fee for the winery. You can visit the tasting room and purchase wine by the glass or bottle to enjoy with your meal or to take home.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The signature dishes are the slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage. Many visitors also rave about the cobbler for dessert. The 'all-you-can-eat' style of serving meats is a popular choice.
Some reviews mention that the BBQ can sometimes be served warm rather than hot, which might be due to the serving style and volume. However, the flavor is generally highly praised.
Yes, Salt Lick Cellars offers the option to order their BBQ, including brisket, to be shipped to your home. This is a great way to enjoy their food even if you can't visit in person.
They offer a selection of beers and wines from their adjacent winery. Some reviews also mention a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) option for wine, though it's best to confirm this policy.
While Salt Lick Cellars is primarily known for its BBQ, they do offer sides like potato salad and beans, and sometimes a pastor salad. Vegetarian options are limited, so it's best for meat-lovers.
📸 📸 Photography
The rustic outdoor seating area, the winery's scenic surroundings, and the beautifully presented BBQ platters are great for photos. The overall ambiance of the place is very photogenic.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside the restaurant and around the grounds. Capturing the lively atmosphere and delicious food is part of the experience.
During the day, the outdoor seating offers natural light. In the evening, the ambient lighting creates a warm atmosphere. Consider visiting during golden hour for particularly beautiful shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that the restaurant can get busy, and there might be a wait, especially on weekends. Bringing a small activity or game for the kids while waiting can be helpful. The BYOB option (if available) can also be a plus for families looking to bring their own preferred beverages.
💰 Budget Travelers
Factor in the cost of transportation, as it's a drive from Austin. However, many feel the experience and the quality of the BBQ justify the trip and the expense. It's a destination where you can truly indulge in a classic Texas experience without breaking the bank on a single meal.
couples
Consider visiting during a weekday afternoon or early evening to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere. The scenic drive to the location can also be part of the romantic outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Salt Lick BBQ Experience
Beyond the main BBQ offerings, the cobbler is a dessert that consistently receives high praise. It's described as a must-have, with many comparing it favorably to homemade versions. The winery, located adjacent to the restaurant, offers a selection of wines that can be purchased by the bottle to enhance your meal. This combination of hearty BBQ and local wine creates a complete Texas dining experience.
It's important to note that the Salt Lick Cellars BBQ red wine is a popular pairing for their meats. While the food is the main draw, the rustic ambiance, often enhanced by live music on the patio, adds significantly to the overall enjoyment. The outdoor seating provides a charming setting, especially when the weather is pleasant, making it a destination for both food and atmosphere.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Many visitors describe the setting as charming and inviting, contributing to the overall enjoyment of their visit. While the indoor dining area is functional, the outdoor spaces are often highlighted for their ability to foster a sense of community and relaxation. The winery tasting room, described as more of a wine bar, offers a more intimate setting for those looking to sample their wines.
It's worth noting that the dining room might not be considered a prime date location by some, with the outdoor seating being a more suitable option for couples seeking a romantic setting. However, for groups and those looking for a genuine Texas hangout, the atmosphere is consistently praised.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit