Texas barbecue is all about the meat. They clearly save the best for themselves. I first got acquainted when I crewed a scientific balloon flight in Palestine, Texas. I fell in love with thick, sauceless brisket and sausage, topped with a slice of Texas sweet onion. There is no better!

My last foray was to the Salt Lick Barbecue Restaurant in Driftwood, Texas. It is about a twenty minute drive from Austin. This place is a working ranch with a restaurant that seems like it evolved from a bunkhouse cook shack. For around $12 you will get a plateful of Texas goodness. The brisket cannot be beat (nor can anything else on the menu). You can add sauce, but you won't need it.

Bring your own beer, and be sure to save room for dessert. A cobbler is a giant affair topped with vanilla ice cream. One trip will convince you.