When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Waylon J’s barbeque
Why Waylon J’s barbeque is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Waylon J’s Barbeque is a standout destination for BBQ lovers in Austin, Texas, earning a perfect 5.0 rating from 50 reviews. Located in the Cherrywood neighborhood and operating on weekends at Salty Sow, this barbeque spot has quickly become a favorite gathering place for friends and families. Its inviting atmosphere is ideal for casual meetups, offering a chance to savor expertly smoked meats and inventive dishes. Highlights include the popular brisket short rib tacos and flavorful chicken thighs, complemented by fresh side options like beet salad, which adds a creative flair to classic BBQ fare. The prices are reasonable, making it accessible for both quick bites and leisurely meals. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or new to the scene, Waylon J’s promises a satisfying culinary experience that encourages diners to relax, share, and enjoy the communal spirit of good barbecue.
Here's what people think of Waylon J’s barbeque
As of recent, Waylon J’s barbeque holds a 5-star rating based on 50 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly praise Waylon J’s Barbeque, highlighting the quality and flavor of the food, which many consider the best BBQ in Austin. Positive reviews frequently mention the deliciously tender meats, especially the brisket and chicken thighs, and appreciate the creative menu variety, including tacos and salads that balance the richness of traditional barbeque. The friendly and welcoming environment, coupled with great prices, also earns consistent commendation. On the other hand, some less favorable comments focus on the limited operating hours since it is only open on weekends at Salty Sow, which can make it challenging to get a table during peak times. A few reviewers wish there were more beverage options or a larger seating area, but these criticisms are minor compared to the overall positive feedback. In conclusion, the reviews affirm that Waylon J’s Barbeque is a top-tier spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic, flavorful BBQ in a friendly setting, making it a must-visit in Austin’s vibrant food scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
eatwithjarco
We had the pleasure of trying Waylon J’s BBQ at Salty Sow, and it absolutely blew us away. The weekend-only menu features everything from expertly smoked brisket with a perfect bark to Korean-style pork belly that adds a bold, flavorful twist. Every dish felt carefully crafted — the smoked turkey was tender, the whole hog was carved fresh, and the sides (mac and cheese, slow-cooked beans, potato salad) hit all the right notes. And then came a surprise: a flaky, golden biscuit they’re testing out and honestly, it’s already menu-worthy. This isn’t your typical BBQ pop-up. It’s thoughtful, creative, and deeply rooted in Southern tradition, with just the right amount of edge. Waylon J’s BBQ at Salty Sow is the move for your weekend.
Karen Quach
New barbeque spot inside Salty Sow. Our fave bites were the whiskey maple pork belly, smoked turkey, whole hog, and brisket. Available every weekend Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11AM-3PM (or sold out).
Daniel Harrell
Fantastic bbq. We were not able to get the bacon rib, at 12 was sold out. Will have to get here earlier next time. The Korean burnt ends are fabulous. The best burnt ends I've had. The redneck fondue is very good. The brisket and Dino rib are excellent. The biscuits, omg, I need these every morning. Mac & cheese is top notch. The homemade potato salad is good. The CTX sausage has so much flavor plus the right amount of spice.
Annie L
We had the chance to attend the grand opening of Waylon J’s BBQ (inside Salty Sow) on 6/20, and let me tell you—this new BBQ spot in Austin is bringing the heat in all the right ways. We loved it so much the first time… we had to go back and get almost everything again. This time, we ordered the Brisket Sandwiches, along with extra sides of brisket, Psycho Sausage, turkey, and the unforgettable whiskey maple pork belly. Every meat was incredibly tender and smoky, without being over-seasoned. It’s the kind of BBQ that lets the quality of the meat speak for itself—and it absolutely does. We didn’t get the Whole Hog Sandwich this round, but I tried it on our last visit and it was amazing—definitely worth ordering if it’s on the menu. The sandwiches came on toasted potato buns—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside—which added a great texture contrast and held up perfectly with the juicy meat. The pork belly is still one of our top favorites. I dipped it in their house mustard sauce, officially called Texas Gold, and the combination of the sweet pork and citrusy kick from the sauce was next-level good. For sides this time, we went with the potato salad—creamy, well-seasoned, and a great cool-down pairing with the warm BBQ. On our previous visit, we had the mac & cheese, which was rich, cheesy, and perfectly gooey—one of the better versions we’ve had at a BBQ spot. We didn’t get dessert this time, but on our last visit we had the Mississippi Mud Cake—and it was unforgettable. Rich, ooey-gooey, filled with melty chocolate chips that added a light crunch, and topped with a fluffy, airy whipped cream. It was the perfect sweet finish to a hearty meal, and definitely something we’ll go back for. What made this visit extra special was getting to try a new item: the Sichuan Bacon Rib. Moist and flavorful, with a subtle pecan note, it was rubbed with their Whiskey Maple Mop—which added just enough sweetness to complement without overpowering. It came with a side of pepper oil and roasted pecans, adding a perfect kick and crunch that brought everything together beautifully. We were short on time, so most of our meal was packed to-go—but we couldn’t resist a few bites before leaving. (And yes, we’re sharing a few photos from our last visit too, because the food deserves it.) Waylon J’s BBQ has its own parking—a big plus in Austin—and the space is welcoming and relaxed. A few indoor tables, a large shaded patio with fans, and super friendly staff make it feel like you’re hanging out at a friend’s place—if your friend just happened to serve phenomenal BBQ. This place is clean, cozy, and easy to enjoy—even in the Texas heat. Waylon J’s BBQ is only available Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11am to 3pm, so plan accordingly. It’s thoughtful, flavor-forward BBQ done right from day one.
Stephanie Perrone
Well Guy and Larry hit it out of the ballpark with tis new concept located at Salty Sow on Manor Road. I had 1/2 lb of brisket, pinto beans, mac n cheese and a whole hog sandwich. These were served with a too die for buttermilk biscuit, pickled onions pickles and two well executed and flavorful BBQ sauces. The price is comparable to other BBQ joints in town. The food quality and quantity, atmosphere, and excellent service made it one of my favorite dining experiences in a long time. Welcome to the neighborhood, Waylon J's!
How to reach Waylon J’s barbeque
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Why rally at Waylon J’s Barbeque with your friends? Because it offers an unbeatable blend of incredible flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and a communal vibe that makes gathering with friends or family feel special. Waylon J’s isn’t just any barbeque joint—it’s a culinary experience that seamlessly brings people together over pit-smoked, chef-curated dishes that are slow-smoked for 12 hours to perfection. Whether it’s the tender prime brisket that practically melts in your mouth or the Sichuan bacon ribs with their bold spice, every bite invites sharing and conversation. Located at Salty Sow in Austin, Waylon J’s combines the rustic charm of BBQ trucks with comfy indoor and breezy outdoor seating, shaping an ideal spot for groups to relax and enjoy. Beyond the mouthwatering menu, the place radiates a casual yet vibrant energy that encourages laughter, stories, and extended hangouts. This is not your backyard BBQ—it’s a weekend-only celebration of flavor and friendship, designed to bring people together for memorable meat feasts in a space that feels both lively and intimate.
What activities can you enjoy at Waylon J’s Barbeque, and why is it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, indulging in extraordinary smoked BBQ is an activity in itself here. Waylon J’s menu features slow-smoked prime brisket, psycho sausage, whiskey maple pork belly, smoked turkey, and inventive sides like redneck fondue, offering a delicious array of flavors to share and compare with your friends. The counter-service model invites an informal, interactive dining experience where groups can order a variety of dishes and then settle into comfy dining rooms or the spacious outdoor patio. This layout encourages mingling and allows large groups to customize their dining arrangements easily. The inclusion of grab-and-go drinks, including cold beer, Margaritas, and Frozen Old Fashioneds, heightens the festive feel, allowing guests to pair their food with refreshing beverages. Being open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from late morning until early afternoon makes it an excellent weekend destination for brunch or lunch meetups that can stretch into lively afternoons.
Why does the Waylon J's atmosphere contribute to the ideal group gathering? The ambiance at Waylon J’s invites you to linger, talk, and savor every moment. Set within Salty Sow’s inviting space, the aesthetic combines rustic Texas BBQ charm with contemporary comfort. The patio, airy and bright, provides an ideal setting for enjoying Austin’s pleasant weather while savoring smoky flavors amid bursts of laughter. Indoors, the seating is comfortable and arranged to accommodate groups large and small, fostering a sense of togetherness without feeling cramped. The casual counter-service approach breaks down formal dining barriers, encouraging guests to engage with staff and each other as they order and wait for their food, enhancing social interaction. This setting perfectly balances the energetic hum of a busy BBQ hotspot with a warm, welcoming environment that makes everyone feel at home—key for group comfort and enjoyment.
What makes Waylon J’s Barbeque’s menu especially suited for friends or family meetups? The menu is crafted to fuel conversation and shared enjoyment with bold, hearty flavors and hearty portions. The slow-smoking process ensures every bite delivers deep, smoky richness that’s hard to replicate, making dishes like the prime brisket and Sichuan bacon ribs instant crowd-pleasers. Varied options such as smoked turkey and psycho sausage cater to diverse preferences, ensuring everyone finds something delicious. The inventive sides—like the uniquely named redneck fondue—add a creative twist to traditional BBQ accompaniments, sparking curiosity and additional sharing. With sauces made in-house, guests can experiment with flavors and customize each bite to their liking. The availability of specialty cocktails and cold brews rounds out the experience, making it more than a meal; it’s a shared culinary adventure that brings people closer.
How accessible and convenient is Waylon J’s Barbeque for group meetups? Located conveniently at 1917 Manor Rd in Austin, inside the popular Salty Sow, Waylon J’s is easy to find and serves quality BBQ weekend-only—Fridays through Sundays, from 11 AM until they sell out. This schedule encourages planning a focused, highly anticipated outing that friends and family can look forward to. The counter-service style eliminates long waits for seated service, allowing groups to order quickly and dive straight into their feast. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating means groups can choose based on weather and preference, facilitating comfort and flexibility. Plenty of on-site parking and proximity to other local amenities add to the ease of organizing larger get-togethers, making it straightforward to keep the focus on good food and great company.
What do customers say about Waylon J’s Barbeque that supports its excellence for group gatherings? With a perfect 5.0 rating from 50 reviews, Waylon J’s consistently impresses its patrons. Diners frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the meat, noting the exquisite tenderness and smoky depth as setting a new standard in Austin BBQ. Many reviewers mention the warm, inviting atmosphere and the staff’s friendly, efficient service as reasons they keep returning with their groups. The pricing is praised for offering great value, especially considering the quality and portion sizes, which makes it an attractive option for hosting friends without breaking the bank. Social media buzz and repeat visits testify to the spot’s reliability and appeal as a weekend hotspot. This strong positive feedback, coupled with the proven culinary expertise of the pitmasters, reinforces Waylon J’s as an unbeatable choice for memorable group outings.
Why is Waylon J’s Barbeque a uniquely local Austin experience for your meetup? Austin is renowned for its vibrant food culture and BBQ heritage, and Waylon J’s embodies that spirit through every detail. By partnering with Salty Sow, a beloved local establishment, it anchors itself in a community-focused, authentic Texas dining tradition. The weekend-only schedule aligns with Austin’s laid-back vibe, creating a special event-like feeling around each visit. The menu’s bold, uniquely Texan flavors infused with creative twists showcase Austin’s culinary innovation grounded in tradition. Hosting your gathering here means embracing a genuine slice of Austin life—slow-smoked, carefully crafted, and served with a side of Texan hospitality. This local essence enhances any meetup, making it a celebration of place and palate that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere.
What else can groups enjoy around Waylon J’s Barbeque? Beyond the food and drinks, the location offers a chance to explore the lively Cherrywood neighborhood where Salty Sow is situated. After indulging in smoked brisket and cocktails, groups can easily stroll to nearby parks, boutique shops, or local music venues to extend their outing. The energetic yet welcoming neighborhood atmosphere complements the dining experience, providing additional activities for friends who want to keep the day or evening going. Waylon J’s also occasionally partners with other local events or pop-ups, bringing additional entertainment or unique food options to the community, making your meetup feel even more special. This flexibility and connectivity to the local scene enhance the potential for varied, memorable group experiences centered around great BBQ.
How does Waylon J’s Barbeque ensure quality and safety for its guests? The team behind Waylon J’s takes pride in sourcing high-quality ingredients and applying meticulous smoking techniques that guarantee flavor and safety. The counter-service model promotes efficient serving with minimal contact, aligning well with modern expectations for hygiene and convenience. The seating areas are regularly maintained, and the kitchen operates with strict food safety standards, reflecting a commitment to guest wellbeing. This professionalism combined with the homey, grounded vibe of Texas BBQ creates a perfect balance where guests feel both cared for and comfortable. For groups, this means carefree enjoyment without concern, focusing on the celebration of good company and exceptional food.
In summary, Waylon J’s Barbeque is a top-tier destination for hosting friends and family meetups because it offers a unique blend of authentic BBQ excellence, a warm and lively atmosphere, flexible seating options, and a prime location in a vibrant Austin neighborhood. From the moment you arrive until the last savory bite, Waylon J’s fosters connection through food, drink, and shared experience—making it a remarkable venue for any group looking to rally around great taste and good times.