Hurry Up and Wait – Franklins BBQ in Austin, TX

Franklins BBQ has been the long-standing king of barbecue in Austin, TX, and Texas takes barbecue seriously. So, are you visiting and want to try the world-famous Franklins? Be warned, it’s not quite as easy as it sounds. Franklins BBQ is just as famous for its 3-hour line as it is for the delicious BBQ.

3 Hour Lines…?

That’s right, guests start lining up for Franklins with breakfast still in hand. Rain or shine, Franklins is open from 9am-Sold Out, and they sell out each day around 2:00pm. Guests start to arrive as early as 8am bringing coolers, chairs and umbrellas. Around 11am, an employee takes orders from guests in line to determine where the cut off or “sold out” mark will be.

The Franklins line has even created it’s own economy. Hawkers are found renting chairs to people as they wait, and in the event of a rainy day one can rent ponchos or umbrellas. Although currently outlawed, many people made a living by waiting in line for others. At $20/order, they’d place your order and delver the world-famous BBQ to you.

For many, braving the line is well worth the wait. It is like a pre-game for a sporting event as anticipation and hunger builds. Like tailgating, people bring card games or footballs, beer and food. Students study for tests or play games on their cell phone. My friends brought Java beer, each with the same caffeine as a cup of coffee, to celebrate a Sunday Funday at Franklin’s BBQ.

Come Prepared

Needless to say, a trip to Franklins is a full commitment for your day. Whether you’re a local or tourist in town for just the weekend, make sure you prepare prior to hopping in line. Bring waters, snacks, chairs and something to do. By the time you make it through the doors and get a whiff of what awaits, you’ll know it was well worth the wait.