The Salt Lick in Driftwood, Texas has been serving mouthwatering barbecue since 1967. This iconic establishment draws visitors from far and wide to experience authentic Texas Hill Country barbecue. The Salt Lick offers a unique dining experience centered around its legendary open pit, where meats are smoked using time-honored traditions.
Situated a short drive from Austin, The Salt Lick provides more than just great food. The rustic atmosphere and scenic location create a quintessential Texas barbecue experience. Guests can enjoy their meals in the main dining area or reserve private rooms for special events.
While newer barbecue spots have emerged in recent years, The Salt Lick remains a beloved institution. Its enduring popularity stems from a combination of tasty food, historic ambiance, and the sheer fun of dining there. For many, a visit to The Salt Lick is an essential part of experiencing Texas barbecue culture.
The Origins of The Salt Lick
The Salt Lick’s roots trace back to the Roberts family’s deep connection to the Texas Hill Country. This iconic barbecue establishment emerged from a rich family history and a passion for traditional cooking methods.
The Roberts Family Legacy
Thurman Roberts Sr. and his wife Hisako T. Roberts founded The Salt Lick in 1967. They built the restaurant on the very ranch where Thurman was born, using limestone quarried from the local area. The Roberts family’s ties to Driftwood stretched back nearly a century before the restaurant’s opening.
Thurman had already gained local fame for his cooking skills at family events and annual barbecue stands at Camp Ben McCulloch Reunions. This reputation laid the groundwork for The Salt Lick’s future success.
Texas Hill Country Roots
The Salt Lick’s location in Driftwood, Texas, plays a crucial role in its identity. Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the restaurant benefits from the region’s rich barbecue traditions and natural beauty.
The open pit, where meats have been smoked since 1967, serves as the centerpiece of the dining experience. This method of cooking connects The Salt Lick to traditional Texas barbecue techniques.
Initially open only a few times a year, The Salt Lick’s popularity quickly grew. It soon expanded to operate seven days a week, becoming a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.
Culinary Delights at The Salt Lick
The Salt Lick in Driftwood offers a mouthwatering array of Texas barbecue classics and sides that have made it a legendary destination. From smoky meats to homestyle sides and desserts, the menu showcases authentic Hill Country flavors.
Signature Texas BBQ Flavors
The Salt Lick’s barbecue is cooked over an open pit using post oak wood, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor. Their cooking method dates back to 1967 when the restaurant first opened. Meats are slow-smoked for hours, allowing flavors to develop and creating tender, juicy results.
The restaurant’s barbecue sauce is tangy and slightly sweet, complementing the meats without overpowering them. For those who prefer their barbecue unadorned, the meats can be enjoyed without sauce to appreciate the pure smoky taste.
Famous Meat Selections
Brisket stands out as a top choice at The Salt Lick. It’s smoked for 20-24 hours, resulting in a flavorful, moist cut with a peppery bark. The ribs are another popular option, featuring a perfect balance of meat, fat, and seasoning.
Sausage lovers can enjoy the restaurant’s homemade links, bursting with flavor and a satisfying snap. For those who can’t decide, the Family Style meal offers unlimited servings of brisket, sausage, and pork ribs.
Other meat options include:
- Turkey
- Pulled pork
- Chicken
Delectable Side Offerings
The Salt Lick’s side dishes perfectly complement their barbecue. Their potato salad is creamy with a hint of mustard, while the cole slaw provides a crisp, tangy contrast to the rich meats.
The baked beans are slow-cooked with pieces of brisket, adding depth and smokiness. Pickles and onions are available to add a tart crunch to any plate.
Side dish options:
- Potato salad
- Cole slaw
- Baked beans
- Pickles and onions
These sides are included with most barbecue plates or can be ordered separately.
Sweet Indulgences
No meal at The Salt Lick is complete without sampling their desserts. The peach cobbler is a standout, featuring juicy peaches in a warm, buttery crust. It’s often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
The pecan pie is another local favorite, boasting a gooey filling and crunchy Texas pecans. For chocolate lovers, the restaurant offers a rich brownie topped with pecans.
Dessert options:
- Peach cobbler
- Pecan pie
- Blackberry cobbler (seasonal)
- Pecan brownie
These sweet treats provide a perfect ending to a satisfying barbecue meal, capturing the essence of Texas comfort food.
Visiting The Salt Lick
The Salt Lick offers a unique barbecue experience in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy mouthwatering meats, bring their own beverages, and explore the on-site winery.
Planning Your Visit
Reservations are recommended for the Driftwood location, especially during peak hours and weekends. Guests can book their table through the Salt Lick’s website or by calling the restaurant directly. The establishment can accommodate large groups, making it ideal for family gatherings or special events.
Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during busy periods. Carpooling is encouraged for larger parties. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all guests can enjoy the Salt Lick experience.
BYOB Tradition
One of the Salt Lick’s most popular features is its BYOB policy. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages to enjoy with their meal. This tradition adds to the relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere of the restaurant.
Beer, wine, and spirits are all permitted. Many visitors choose to bring coolers with their preferred drinks. Ice and cups are available at the restaurant if needed. For those who forget to bring beverages, the Salt Lick offers a selection of non-alcoholic options for purchase.
Tastings at Salt Lick Cellars
Adjacent to the main restaurant, Salt Lick Cellars offers wine enthusiasts a chance to sample local vintages. The winery produces a variety of reds, whites, and rosés, many of which pair excellently with barbecue.
Tastings are available daily, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through the wine selection. The Cellars also feature a gift shop where visitors can purchase bottles to take home. Wine club memberships are available for those who want to enjoy Salt Lick wines year-round.
Driftwood Hours and Location
The Salt Lick in Driftwood is open seven days a week. Hours are:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The restaurant is located at 18300 Farm to Market Road 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619. It’s approximately 25 miles southwest of Austin, making it an easy day trip from the city. The scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country adds to the overall experience.
Visitors should note that wait times can be long, especially on weekends. Arriving early or during off-peak hours can help minimize wait times.
Events and Catering
The Salt Lick BBQ extends its renowned barbecue experience beyond the restaurant walls through private events and catering services. Guests can enjoy the iconic flavors in various settings and celebrations.
Hosting Private Events
The Salt Lick offers dedicated spaces for private dining and special occasions. Groups can reserve rooms for intimate gatherings or larger parties. The venue accommodates wedding receptions, corporate meetings, and social events. Private dining areas feature the same rustic charm as the main restaurant. Guests can make online reservations for these spaces. The staff assists with planning menus and setups tailored to each event’s needs.
Off-Site Catering Services
Salt Lick BBQ brings its signature dishes to locations across the region. The catering team handles events of all sizes, from small family gatherings to large corporate functions. They offer full-service catering with on-site cooking and serving. Menus can be customized to suit dietary preferences and event themes. The catering package includes equipment, utensils, and staff to ensure a seamless experience.
Celebrating Special Occasions
The Salt Lick creates memorable experiences for milestone celebrations. Wedding parties can enjoy rehearsal dinners or receptions with a Texas flair. Birthday parties, anniversaries, and graduations benefit from the restaurant’s festive atmosphere. The team works with clients to design custom cakes and desserts. They can arrange live music or other entertainment to enhance the celebration. Special occasion packages often include personalized touches like custom signage or themed decorations.
The Salt Lick Community
The Salt Lick in Driftwood has become more than just a restaurant; it’s a cornerstone of the local community and a pillar of Texas barbecue culture. Its influence extends far beyond its famous pit, fostering connections and preserving traditions.
Local and Visitor Reviews
Salt Lick BBQ consistently garners praise from both locals and tourists. On Tripadvisor, it boasts a 4.5-star rating with over 3,400 reviews. Visitors often highlight the mouthwatering meats and picturesque Hill Country setting. Many describe it as an essential Texas BBQ experience.
The open pit, visible upon entering, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature. It provides a glimpse into the smoking process that’s been used since 1967. Reviewers appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to maintaining traditional techniques.
Some guests note the generous portion sizes, though opinions on taste can vary. The outdoor picnic seating receives positive mentions, adding to the rustic charm of the dining experience.
Contributions to Texas BBQ Heritage
Salt Lick BBQ has played a significant role in shaping and preserving Texas barbecue traditions. Since 1967, it has showcased the art of slow-smoking meats over an open pit. This method has become synonymous with authentic Texas-style barbecue.
The restaurant’s longevity and popularity have helped cement certain practices as quintessential to Texas BBQ. These include:
- Using post oak wood for smoking
- Offering a variety of meats (brisket, ribs, sausage)
- Serving family-style platters
Salt Lick’s success has inspired other pitmasters and influenced the broader Texas barbecue scene. Its mail-order service has also helped spread Texas BBQ beyond state lines.
Engagement in Social Events
The Salt Lick actively participates in community events and social gatherings. Its spacious grounds and reputation make it a popular venue for various functions. The restaurant hosts weddings, corporate events, and family reunions.
Salt Lick BBQ maintains a strong social media presence, particularly on Facebook. With over 330,000 likes, it uses the platform to engage with customers and share updates. The page frequently features:
- Mouthwatering food photos
- Announcements about special events
- Behind-the-scenes glimpses of BBQ preparation
The restaurant’s involvement in local festivals and food events further strengthens its community ties. These activities help preserve and promote Texas barbecue culture while fostering a sense of local pride.