When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden
Why Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden stands out as a vibrant and inviting destination in Austin, Texas, perfect for meeting friends and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its exceptional smoked meats such as brisket, pork ribs, smoked turkey, pulled pork, chopped beef, and sausage, the BBQ here has earned a loyal following. This casual spot offers not only delicious food but also a huge outdoor area where patrons can gather in a dog-friendly backyard setting. The spacious beer garden is an ideal place to share great food over a variety of beers while enjoying live music performances on the outdoor stage. This combination of mouthwatering barbecue, refreshing beverages, and live entertainment makes Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden a top choice for social gatherings or casual outings. Whether you visit for a quick sandwich or a leisurely meal with multiple sides like green beans, slaw, potato salad, and pinto beans, the friendly and accommodating staff ensure a smooth and pleasant experience. Additionally, Oakwood offers delivery options, making it easy to enjoy their meals even when staying in. The welcoming outdoor venue and the community vibe create an excellent environment for making memories with friends.
Here's what people think of Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden
As of recent, Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden holds a 4.2-star rating based on 967 reviews.
The overall reception of Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden from its guests is largely positive, as reflected by its 4.2-star rating based on 967 reviews. Visitors commonly praise the quality and taste of the barbecue, particularly highlighting the moist and flavorful brisket and pork ribs. Many positive reviews also mention the generous portions and the variety of sides available, alongside the relaxing beer garden setting that allows for socializing in a friendly outdoor environment with live music adding to the ambiance. Customers have appreciated the quick service and the no-frills atmosphere that focuses on hearty, authentic BBQ fare. On the downside, some reviews report occasional inconsistencies such as the absence of expected items like coleslaw or difficulties with availability of certain products. A few patrons noted that the space could become crowded, especially during live music events, occasionally affecting the ambiance and service speed. Despite minor critiques, the general consensus is that Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden delivers a satisfying and enjoyable experience overall. The combination of excellent smoked meats, a dog-friendly outdoor venue, and lively music makes it a popular spot worth visiting in Austin, offering good value for those looking to enjoy authentic Texas barbecue with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
nelson carrington
We had the moist brisket that was good. Pulled pork was dry but the spicy bbq sauce helped. Mac and cheese was lightly peppered and yum. We had the three meats plate. There was no ice in the soda machine but we didn’t ask for any as well.
Dan T
Wonderful experience, top notch customer service and excellent bbq. We ordered the family meal deal with 1 pound of brisket and 1 pound of sausage with potato salad and coleslaw. It came with pickles, onions and bread. Great location near the 35 highway with a beautiful beer garden. We played corn hole and connect 4.
Nina Fernandes
First time visiting and I cannot praise it enough!! From the friendly staff, DELICIOUS moist ribs, brisket, creamiest Mac & cheese (not too creamy, perfect amount) and the best green beans I’ve ever had! This establishment is so you well kept, has the friendliest staff, and reasonably priced food! Will be back very soon- go visit oakwood you won’t be disappointed!!!!
D Castro
A great place for BBQ. The food is delicious and the portion was plenty. Great staff and a clean place. Plenty of back patio seating as well.
L H
We ordered through door dash, so maybe they purposely gave us the bad batches. Brisket tasted like water with crust on the outside. Mac and cheese tasted curdled and grainy. Banana pudding had no flavor of banana and was the texture of melted ice cream shake. The “pickles” tastes very sour like they had sat out all day. The green beans and sausage were good. No BBQ sauce given.
How to reach Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden
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Why Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden with your friends?
If you’re searching for the perfect spot to gather with friends for a memorable time, Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden in Austin stands out as an excellent choice. With a solid 4.2-star rating from nearly a thousand reviews, it’s clear that this venue consistently delivers on quality, atmosphere, and overall experience. The charm of Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden lies in its blend of mouth-watering barbecue classics paired with one of Austin’s most extensive craft beer selections. Whether your group consists of casual BBQ lovers or craft beer aficionados, there’s something here to excite every palate. The spacious beer garden creates an inviting, relaxed vibe ideal for long conversations and good laughs. The outdoor seating area lends itself perfectly to group meetups — it’s large enough to accommodate solo diners, small friend groups, and even larger family reunions or parties. With weekend live music performances, you can enjoy the festive soundtrack of Austin’s local scene while savoring tender brisket, pulled pork, or house-smoked sausages. This is the kind of place where the food, drinks, and setting encourage connection and celebration — making Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden a top pick for rallying your friends together.
What activities can you enjoy at Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden?
Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden offers more than just excellent food and drinks; it’s a venue designed for communal enjoyment and entertainment. At its core, the space functions as a barbecue haven, serving up authentic Texas-style smoked meats that bring people together around a shared love of robust, flavorful food. The large beer garden is perfect for socializing, featuring a broad selection of craft beers including local favorites like Electric Jellyfish, Crawford Bock, and Love Street. Guests can sample a rotating variety of brews, making it an adventurous outing even for seasoned beer lovers. The venue’s outdoor stage hosts live music, which is a huge draw for groups wanting to experience Austin’s vibrant music culture while relaxing in a casual setting. These musical performances typically feature local bands, providing an authentic soundtrack that complements the laid-back ambiance of the garden. The combination of live entertainment, quality food, and an unrivaled beer selection creates an engaging environment where conversation flows easily and group energy thrives.
Why is Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden perfect for group meetups?
There are several reasons Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden is ideal for hosting get-togethers with friends or family. First, the spacious outdoor seating area is a major advantage — it accommodates both small and large gatherings comfortably. You’re not crammed indoors; instead, the open-air environment allows guests to mingle freely or find quieter corners for more intimate chats. It’s also designed with groups in mind, encouraging sharing plates and beverage flights that foster communal dining experiences. The kitchen’s BBQ offerings are crafted for sharing, with platters of brisket, ribs, and sides like creamy potato salad and baked beans that are perfect for family-style meals. Additionally, the venue’s operating hours cater nicely to weekend and evening meetups, opening from late mornings into the evening on most days and staying open later Thursday through Saturday. This flexibility means your group can plan casual lunches, early dinners, or lively weekend parties. The combination of friendly service, a fun outdoor environment, and a menu designed to satisfy collective cravings makes Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden a natural choice for any group celebration.
What food and drink options enhance the group experience here?
The food at Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden is a standout feature that significantly enhances group gatherings. Their barbecue menu features staples like brisket that is moist and tender, ribs, pulled pork, and smoked sausage — all slow-cooked to perfection to satisfy every BBQ lover’s cravings. Many guests rave about how the meats are flavorful without being overly heavy, making it easier to enjoy multiple dishes when sharing with friends. Complementing the meats are classic sides such as baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad, which round out the meals and encourage sharing. Beyond food, the beer selection plays a pivotal role in crafting a great group vibe. The beer garden offers an impressive list of local and regional craft beers, including popular choices like Pearl Snap and other artisanal brews rarely found elsewhere. Groups can sample and compare beers through flights or simply pick their favorites to enjoy by the pint. This variety gives everyone something to enjoy, ensuring that even mixed taste preferences are satisfied. Together, the quality BBQ and curated beer selection make dining at Oakwood a rich sensory and social experience.
How does the atmosphere contribute to the meetup vibe?
Atmosphere is at the heart of Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden’s appeal as a gathering spot. The outdoor beer garden setting is casual, inviting, and dog-friendly, fostering a sense of community that’s often missing in restaurants with more formal or cramped interiors. Rustic wooden picnic tables, string lights, and greenery create a welcoming environment where conversation and laughter feel natural and uninterrupted. The inclusion of live music on weekends adds energy and warmth without overwhelming the space, striking the perfect balance between entertainment and the ability to connect. The friendly and attentive staff further elevate the atmosphere by making groups feel welcome and well-cared-for, ensuring proceedings go smoothly whether you’re celebrating a birthday, catching up after work, or just enjoying a sunny Austin afternoon. This blend of liveliness and comfort fuels an infectious sense of relaxation that encourages guests to linger, making every visit feel like a small celebration among friends. The atmosphere here clearly supports memorable moments and strengthens social bonds.
What practical features support hosting events or casual meetups?
From a practical standpoint, Oakwood BBQ & Beer Garden is well-equipped to handle different types of meetups — from casual hangouts to special events. The large outdoor seating can be reserved or adapted for various group sizes, so whether you’re planning a birthday party, team outing, or family reunion, the space can accommodate comfortably. The restaurant also benefits from convenient parking options and is located in a central Austin area easily accessible by car or rideshare, minimizing travel hassle for guests. Its hours of operation, mostly mid-morning through evening from Tuesday to Sunday, provide ample opportunity to schedule gatherings at lunchtime or for dinner. The establishment’s focus on barbecue and beer means the menu is straightforward and crowd-pleasing, avoiding complicated orders or niche foods that might frustrate large groups. Plus, the venue’s casual layout and friendly staff make it easy to integrate personalized touches like bringing in extra decorations or creating custom food and drink packages if needed. All of these features combine to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for group hosts and guests alike.