Book Bbq Food Truck Catering in Austin, TX
Food Truck Club is a catering booking platform that connects you with vetted bbq food trucks in Austin, TX.
Austin is where Texas BBQ became world-famous. From Franklin Barbecue's legendary lines to Micklethwait Craft Meats' innovative approach, this city has defined what smoked meat can be. Our BBQ food trucks bring that same Central Texas tradition to your corporate gatherings, weddings, SXSW parties, and celebrations across the city.
Austin's Legendary BBQ Styles for Your Next Event
Austin didn't just put Texas BBQ on the map—it wrote the playbook. These are the smoked meats that pilgrims travel from around the world to taste.
Central Texas Brisket
This is the BBQ that made Austin famous. Beef brisket smoked for 12-16 hours over post oak until the fat renders and the meat achieves that perfect bark. Franklin Barbecue was named the top BBQ in Texas for 2025 by Southern Living. Austin trucks bring that same Central Texas tradition—simple rubs, quality beef, and patience—to your event.
Pork Ribs & Spare Ribs
Austin's pitmasters smoke pork ribs until they're tender but still have bite—not falling off the bone, but pulling clean when you tug. St. Louis-style spare ribs and baby backs get the Central Texas treatment with peppery rubs and hours of oak smoke. Micklethwait Craft Meats has earned recognition for their consistent, flavorful ribs.
Smoked Sausage
House-made sausage is a Central Texas cornerstone. Coarse-ground beef and pork, seasoned simply, and smoked until the casing snaps. Austin trucks serve links that honor the Czech and German heritage of Texas BBQ—jalapeño cheese, original, and creative seasonal varieties.
Pulled Pork
While brisket gets the headlines, Austin's pulled pork delivers incredible value without sacrificing quality. Pork shoulder smoked low and slow, then shredded and served on butcher paper or piled onto sandwiches. Simpson's BBQ, a family-owned trailer, has built a loyal following with their traditional slow-smoked offerings.
Smoked Turkey Breast
For guests who prefer poultry, Austin BBQ trucks deliver remarkably juicy smoked turkey. Brined, rubbed, and smoked until the skin crisps while the meat stays moist. It's the perfect option for health-conscious guests or those avoiding red meat—without feeling like a compromise.
BBQ Tacos & Austin Fusion
Austin's food truck culture has spawned creative BBQ fusion. Micklethwait's Taco Bronco serves smoked meat tacos from a converted horse trailer. Brisket tacos, pulled pork nachos, and other crossover creations honor both BBQ tradition and Austin's Tex-Mex soul. Perfect for events wanting something unexpected.
Why Event Planners Choose Food Trucks
The catering choice that delivers on taste and experience
World-Class BBQ Heritage
Austin's BBQ pedigree is unmatched. This is where Aaron Franklin redefined American barbecue, where lines wrap around blocks, and where pitmasters study their craft with obsessive dedication. When you book an Austin BBQ truck, you're tapping into that tradition—trucks here are held to a higher standard.
Food Truck Culture Pioneers
Austin's food truck scene is legendary—and BBQ trailers were among the first to put the city on the mobile food map. With 44 BBQ trucks, trailers, and caterers operating across the city, Austin has more options and deeper expertise than almost anywhere. These operators know how to serve events.
Scales for Any Event
Whether you're hosting an intimate team lunch of 20 or a company-wide celebration of 500+, Austin BBQ trucks adapt. Micklethwait handles everything from catering and bulk orders to full food truck events. Tell us your headcount and we'll match you with the right setup.
Keep Austin Authentic
Austin events deserve Austin character. BBQ trucks bring the casual, unpretentious vibe that defines the city. Butcher paper instead of china, picnic tables instead of formal seating, and the kind of communal atmosphere that gets people talking. It's authentically Austin.
Top Rated
Featured Food Trucks in Austin
Hand-picked vendors known for exceptional food and service
JAG’s Chill & Grill BBQ
JAG’s Chill & Grill BBQ is a dynamic food truck that masterfully blends traditional Southern barbecue with modern culina...
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Pork Booty Atx
Pork Booty ATX serves the Austin, TX community with bold, flavorful dishes centered around perfectly smoked and seasoned...
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Buddy's BBQ & Bites
Buddy’s BBQ & Bites serves up rich, smoky barbecue made the right way — low, slow, and full of flavor! From tender brisk...
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Southtown Street Food
Southtown Street Food is a San Antonio food truck that blends bold global flavors with a Texas twist, offering a diverse...
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Perfect for Any Austin Occasion
From corporate gatherings to backyard celebrations
Corporate Events & Team Appreciation
Austin's tech companies and growing businesses have embraced BBQ for team events. It's casual enough to encourage cross-team mingling but impressive enough to show employees they're valued. BBQ trucks are perfect for company picnics, product launches, and client appreciation events from the Domain to downtown.
Learn more about corporate events & team appreciation →
Weddings & Rehearsal Dinners
Austin couples increasingly choose BBQ for their celebrations—it's authentically Texan and puts guests at ease. Micklethwait's catering team handles backyard hangs to formal events. Rehearsal dinners, late-night wedding snacks, and casual receptions all work beautifully with smoked meat service.
Learn more about weddings & rehearsal dinners →
SXSW & Festival Events
SXSW brings the world to Austin—and visitors want authentic Texas BBQ. Private parties, brand activations, and corporate hospitality during festival season all call for food trucks. Austin's BBQ trailers know how to handle the crowds and deliver the experience visitors expect.
Learn more about sxsw & festival events →
Community Events & Block Parties
From East Austin to the suburbs, neighborhood events and community gatherings lean on BBQ trucks. The casual, communal nature of smoked meat brings people together. HOA events, apartment community gatherings, and local festivals all benefit from efficient, crowd-pleasing BBQ service.
Learn more about community events & block parties →
College & University Events
UT tailgates, Texas State celebrations, and campus events across Austin love BBQ trucks. Students line up for loaded brisket sandwiches and mac & cheese. Greek life events, graduation parties, and orientation weeks all work perfectly with mobile BBQ—it's the most Austin way to celebrate.
Learn more about college & university events →
Game Day & Sports Events
Longhorns football, Austin FC matches, and sports watch parties across the city call for BBQ. Tailgates at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, Round Rock Express games, and league celebrations all pair naturally with smoked meat. Let the truck handle the food while you focus on the game.
What's Included with Your Catering
Full-service food truck catering across Greater Austin
Best Times to Book in Austin
Plan around Central Texas weather for the best experience
BBQ is year-round in Texas, but summer means outdoor evening events. Pitmasters start smoking before dawn to serve by lunch. Consider shaded venues for guest comfort.
Peak BBQ season with UT football and ACL Festival. Book 8-12 weeks ahead for September-October weekends. Perfect weather for outdoor BBQ events.
Holiday parties drive December demand. January-February offer excellent availability. Austin's mild winters are ideal for smoked meat events.
SXSW in March books up fast—plan 8-12 weeks ahead. April-May wedding season increases demand. Ideal temperatures for outdoor BBQ celebrations.
Austin Catering Experts
Austin is the BBQ capital of Texas—and arguably the world. Local pitmasters have trained in the Central Texas tradition that made Franklin Barbecue famous: simple salt-and-pepper rubs, post oak smoke, and patience. These aren't caterers who happened to learn smoked meats; they're obsessives who've perfected their craft in the most competitive market anywhere. When you book an Austin food truck, you're getting that heritage.
Downtown & East Austin
From Rainey Street gatherings to East Austin warehouse parties, BBQ trucks serve the urban core's event needs.
South Congress & South Austin
Backyard BBQs, neighborhood block parties, and casual venue events throughout South Austin.
Round Rock & Cedar Park
Corporate parks, community events, and family gatherings in Austin's growing northern suburbs.
Domain & North Austin
Tech campus BBQs, corporate celebrations, and upscale venue events requiring premium smoked meat service.
Common Questions About BBQ Food Truck Catering in Austin
What you need to know before booking.
What's the typical cost to book a BBQ truck in Austin?
Most Austin BBQ trucks charge $15-35 per person depending on the menu and proteins selected. Brisket-heavy menus cost more than pulled pork options. Minimums typically range from $800 to $2,500. Premium trucks with recognized names may charge higher rates. We'll provide quotes from multiple trucks so you can compare.
How far in advance should I book an Austin BBQ truck?
Book 4-6 weeks ahead for smaller events and 8-12 weeks for large gatherings. SXSW season (March), ACL weekends (October), and UT home game dates book up quickly—plan ahead for those periods. We've helped clients find excellent trucks on shorter notice, but popular trucks fill their calendars fast.
What's the difference between Austin BBQ and other Texas styles?
Central Texas BBQ—the Austin style—focuses on simple salt-and-pepper rubs, post oak smoke, and letting the quality of the meat shine. Less sauce, more smoke. No elaborate glazes or heavy seasoning. This purist approach has earned Austin its reputation as the BBQ capital. Trucks here take that tradition seriously.
Can BBQ trucks accommodate dietary restrictions?
BBQ is meat-focused, but Austin trucks understand diverse dietary needs. Smoked turkey provides a lighter option. Many sides can be prepared vegetarian. Some trucks offer creative vegetarian options—ask when booking. Austin's food scene is accommodating, and BBQ trucks follow suit.
Do Austin BBQ trucks serve during SXSW and ACL?
Yes, but book early. Many trucks are committed to festival events or private parties during these periods. SXSW (March) and ACL (October) are the busiest times for Austin's food truck scene. If you're planning an event during these windows, reach out 8-12 weeks ahead for the best selection.
What Austin areas and suburbs do BBQ trucks service?
Austin BBQ trucks serve the entire metro including downtown, East Austin, South Austin, North Austin, and the Domain. Coverage extends to Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander, and San Marcos. Hill Country venues in Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and Fredericksburg are popular for weddings. Most trucks travel up to 50 miles from central Austin with applicable travel fees.
Can BBQ trucks serve indoors or under covered pavilions?
Yes, many Austin BBQ caterers offer flexible service options. While smoker operations typically stay outdoors, serving stations can be set up under pavilions, tents, or near indoor venues. Some vendors offer buffet-style indoor service where meat is smoked off-site and finished or kept warm at your venue. Discuss your space with us and we'll find appropriate solutions.
How do Austin BBQ trucks handle events with 500+ guests?
Central Texas BBQ trucks are experienced with large-scale events. For 500+ guests, options include coordinating multiple trucks, pre-sliced meat stations for faster service, or bulk catering with on-site carving. Micklethwait and other established caterers regularly handle corporate events, festivals, and large weddings. Early booking and menu planning ensure smooth execution at scale.
What sides and additions do Austin BBQ trucks typically offer?
Standard BBQ sides include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, mac and cheese, pickles, onions, and white bread. Many trucks offer additional options like jalapeño cheese grits, collard greens, corn on the cob, and banana pudding. Premium additions like extra proteins, desserts, and drinks can usually be arranged. Discuss your preferences when requesting quotes.
Can Austin BBQ trucks accommodate guests who don't eat red meat?
Yes. Smoked turkey breast and chicken options are standard at most Austin BBQ trucks. Some vendors offer smoked salmon or portobello mushrooms for vegetarians. Sides like mac and cheese, beans (check for meat stock), and coleslaw work for non-meat eaters. Let us know guest dietary needs and we'll match you with accommodating vendors.
What our clients say
Real feedback from event organizers who booked through Food Truck Club
"Amazing Experience! Food was delicious, our residents have been letting us know they loved it and truly enjoyed it. the customer service was great as well. We will for sure be working with 90s bbq again!"
February 2026
"great service and delicious food! thank you!"
February 2026
"Our residents loved it! The Weenie Wagon showed up on time & gave excellent, delicious service to our residents. We would love to have them back in the future"
February 2026
"Absolutely an amazing experience. Professional, timely, and went above and beyond. Definitely will have them cater our next event."
February 2026
"They were amazing to work with and so nice! They were on time, set everything up, and I didn’t have to do anything. My guest loved the food. Highly recommend and I would use them again!"
February 2026
"amazing! thank you for a great event!"
February 2026
"amazing! thank you for a great event!"
February 2026
"amazing! thank you for a great event!"
February 2026
"amazing! thank you for a great event!"
February 2026
Ready to Bring Central Texas BBQ to Your Austin Event?
Tell us about your gathering and we'll connect you with the perfect BBQ truck. We handle the details—you enjoy the world-famous brisket.