Rudy's Country Store & Bar-B-Q, San Antonio

Rudy's calls itself "the worst bar-b-q in Texas." You sure wouldn't know that from the taste of their product, or from the crowds that flock to this sprawling joint just north of San Antonio in Leon Springs (as well as two other locations in San Antonio).

Mention barbecue in the Alamo City and you'll hear Rudy's name. You can't miss the place -- if the smell of smokin' meats doesn't lead you off the interstate, then the fluorescent pink letters atop the joint will. Once you arrive, you'll find an old-fashioned meat market with indoor seating plus an always-packed outdoor area filled with picnic tables holding bottles of vinegar and sauce.

Rudy's has an extensive menu: pork, baby back, St. Louis, and beef short ribs, plus chicken, prime rib, pork loin, chopped beef, sausage, turkey, and even rainbow trout. Our favorite, though, was the brisket, tender and cooked to smoky perfection. Complement the meats with some of Rudy's sauce. It's so good that fans from around the state now have the dark concoction shipped to their homes.

Locations:

• Boerne Stage Road, (210) 653-7839
  
• 10623 Westover Hills Blvd (near SeaWorld), (210) 520-5552
  
• 24152 W I- 10, (210) 698-2141
• additional locations around Texas
  

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