SOUTH AUSTIN. From the looks of it, this casual place with its vinyl checked tablecloths and whirring ceiling fans doesn't seem impressive. However, its fantastic barbecue kicks it way up in the ranks of local eateries. Country-style pork ribs are the specialty, and baby back ribs are also delectable. Of course, you also can't go wrong with smoked brisket, chicken, or sausages. Hefty portions come with potato salad, pinto beans, cole slaw, and condiments. More wide-ranging alternatives include grilled shrimp, great burgers, and a grilled club sandwich. Plus, most any night you go, you'll be regaled by live bluegrass performers ­ an Artz staple.

LLANO. At Cooper's, you order meat by the pound at the counter, choosing from BBQ ribs, chicken, beef brisket, pork chops, sausage or even cabrito (goat). Serve yourself some sides (potato salad, cole slaw, beans, corn on the cob), pick up your utensils and make your way to a communal table. If you want the best seats, head outside, where you can watch the activity at the barbecue pits. Then, hunker down over smoky, delectable meat, and it will be clear why this super-casual place is so definitively Texas!

WEST AUSTIN. Since County Line is a local mini-chain with about ten locations, finding good, down-home food is easy, no matter what part of town you're in. You can opt for a sandwich, but don't expect a light meal ­ these babies are huge. Actually, everything is Texas-sized here, so bring your appetite. For the best variety, order a combo plate loaded down with juicy chicken, perfect brisket and tasty sausage, all imbued with a depth of flavor that only comes from lengthy smoking. Don't forget the homemade bread and honey butter!

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Located at the corner of Lamar and Barton Springs Road, you'll find this friendly café that specializes in Texas barbeque and American favorites. Choices include barbeque sausage, brisket, ribs, and turkey. They also serve chicken-fried steak, hamburgers, and for dessert, delicious homemade pies.

DOWNTOWN. Long-lived barbecue joints are the norm in Texas, and Iron Works is no exception. The restaurant opened in 1978 and has been a favorite ever since. Occupying a red tin building that once housed Weigl Iron Works (thus the name), the big lively place has a fantastic patio and is perfect for meeting friends over brews and brisket. Meats are reliably good, sides are tasty and a salad bar takes care of patrons who crave a dose of rabbit food.