Briskets & Beer Smokehouse - Best in Laredo, Texas!

The city of Laredo, Texas doesn't get the credit it deserves. Laredo is a city on the Mexican border, in southern Texas. The Republic of the Rio Grande Museum chronicles the short-lived independent nation, with displays on local culture and history. Next to Los Dos Laredos Park, a bridge crosses the Rio Grande into Mexico. Lake Casa Blanca International State Park has trails and a fish-filled lake. The Imaginarium of South Texas is a children’s museum with hands-on exhibits. It's a great little city. It's awesome.

We were driving through Laredo, we were interested in trying something local. After checking into our hotel, we asked the front desk for a great, local dining recommendation. She said "Briskets and Beer." And then, researching high-rated options online, the same recommendation popped up - "Briskets and Beer." We looked at each other and said - "This...we have to try."

The first thing you need to know is that it's located off of highway 83, known as Chihuahua Street, directly across from (adjacent to) a car wash.

It's peculiarly located on the block. In fact, we had to pull out our phone and check online to find the parking lot. Others commented that they had to drive around the block twice to find the parking lot. But this is a big help - it's behind the smokehouse, facing east! Simply enter the parking lot just north off of Chihuahua Street and find your spot.

I can tell you that the effort to find a good spot to park is well worth it. When you first see the business, it won't amaze you. It's a simple, very basic exterior that might cause you to doubt your decision. Don't let the outside fool you. The inside has great décor, and very clean. The outside is rather 'rustic' and the inside is wonderful.

When we were there, it was busy. Lots of people eating and ordering food to go. We even have to wait a few minutes for a table. Considering the activity, the service was good. You can't rate the service negatively when everyone is bustling their humps to cater to everyone.

We ordered a bunch of items, including of the most amazing things - briskets and ribs. We both love them. I can tell you that they were remarkably tender and clearly mesquite smoked (according to the owner). The accompanying sides (creamed corn, coleslaw, & beans) were wonderful. We started eating at about 2:45 pm and were politely reminded that their doors close at 4:00 pm. We then understood why the place was packed - everyone was trying to grab a meal before this place closed for the day. A family has walked into the business about 30 minutes before they closed (at about 3:30 pm) and they ordered three 1/2 chicken meals to go. While we were finishing up our late lunch, we chatted with them. According to the mom and dad, they said they come in every other day to order the same thing. According to them, "It's that good."

When the meal was over, we talked about it all evening. And then, before leaving Laredo the next day, we stopped in again for a big meal to go. We decided to eat while driving onto our destination.

Since we enjoyed the brisket, we ordered it once again and then purchased two large orders of coleslaw and another order of creamed corn. My wife ordered the half chicken that the family talked about the day before. We loved it all.

When you're in Laredo, please trust us - this spot is cozy, the staff is cheerful, efficient and helpful and the food is fantastic. My one and only complaint? I don't live near it.

2002 Chihuahua St Laredo, TX 78043

(956) 796-9448

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