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9.1
Distant Relatives
$$East Austin, East Austin
African diaspora flavor meets Central Texas smoke
INNOVATIVEAFRICAN DIASPORAEAST AUSTIN
⚡Newer operation; check social media for current hours and specials.
AIAI-generated illustration — not a photograph of this restaurant. About our images
7.8/ 10
356 reviews“Downtown 'cue inside an 1870s ironworks forge”
Iron Works has served barbecue since 1978 out of a converted 1870s ironworks building near the convention center, and the setting is genuinely unmatched in the city — an original iron forge and antique tools still hang on the walls. For downtown visitors and conference-goers, it offers a taste of old Austin within walking distance of the hotels. The cook is honest and steady rather than showy: brisket with a peppery bark, snappy smoked sausage, and ribs that hold together off the pit. It doesn't chase the craft-trailer heights across the river, and it doesn't need to — the character of the room, the convenience of the location, and a menu that has stayed true for decades are the draw. It is the place to take out-of-towners who want history with their smoke.
Know Before You Go
- Hours
- Mon–Sat 11am–8pm
- Closed
- Sunday
- Price
- Budget-friendly ($)
- Don't miss
- Brisket, Sausage, and Ribs
What to Order
1
Brisket2
Sausage3
RibsWhy It Stands Out
**The most atmospheric room in Austin barbecue.** Iron Works serves honest, peppery brisket and snappy sausage inside an 1870s forge where the original iron tools still hang — old Austin, a block from the convention center.
Quick Facts
- Address
- 100 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
- Phone
- (512) 478-4855
- Hours
- Mon–Sat 11am–8pm
- Website
- ironworksbbq.com
- Price Range
- $
- Established
- 1978
Ratings Breakdown
6 dimensions, each scored 0-10
Smoke7.5
Bark7.5
Tenderness7.8
Value8.5
Atmosphere9.0
Consistency8.0
Back to Best BBQ in Austin
Good to Know
Iron Works BBQ — Frequently Asked Questions
What should I order at Iron Works BBQ?
Regulars point to Brisket, Sausage, and Ribs.
What are Iron Works BBQ's hours?
Mon–Sat 11am–8pm
What days is Iron Works BBQ closed?
Iron Works BBQ is closed Sunday. Hours can change on holidays, so it's worth confirming before a trip.
Is Iron Works BBQ expensive?
Iron Works BBQ is budget-friendly ($).
What kind of barbecue does Iron Works BBQ serve?
Iron Works BBQ serves Central Texas Style barbecue — Central Texas BBQ is defined by its simplicity: salt-and-pepper rub, post oak wood, low and slow in an offset smoker. The meat is the star — no sauce needed. This is the style that put Texas BBQ on the world map.
When did Iron Works BBQ open?
Iron Works BBQ has been serving Austin barbecue since 1978.
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