Do you consider Lubbock weak for barbecue? (El Paso, Amarillo: apartment, house)

[ApartmentNomad]

I have seen a few references now to Lubbock not being a strong city for barbecue, compared to Texas generally. I don't have much experience with barbecue myself, so I am not sure how I would even judge it (aside from what I like or don't like). Based on the descriptions I've read, I think I would probably prefer Central Texas style barbecue.

In terms of restaurants, what types of foods (other than generic fast food) does Lubbock have the best selection of? Would you say it's a toss-up between Mexican and steak restaurants?

[case44]

Originally Posted by ApartmentNomad

I have seen a few references now to Lubbock not being a strong city for barbecue, compared to Texas generally. I don't have much experience with barbecue myself, so I am not sure how I would even judge it (aside from what I like or don't like). Based on the descriptions I've read, I think I would probably prefer Central Texas style barbecue.

Before you start making two topics for this thread, let's first focus on your initial take. Whatever references you've read may have applied to Lubbock fifteen to twenty years ago. This city has changed dramatically in the last several years, and more entrepreneurs have made their presences known in the area. Out of all the cities in West Texas and the Panhandle alone, Lubbock is actually a strong city/area for barbecue as of 2022. They can leave Amarillo, Midland, and El Paso in the West Texas dust. You've got some big players in Lubbock. Four of their biggest players have been new in the last few years, but that's a good thing. Evie Mae's in Wolfforth has been in some of Texas' top magazines and is tops around this area. Hill BBQ is currently in a food truck in South Lubbock, but is already getting good reviews by folks. And then, there's The Shack in the northwest side and E&J Smokehouse up north. As for the long-timers, J&M is one of the better-rated in town, but the ribs are just okay compared to their other smoked meats. And I've never been enamored with Bigham's. Furthermore, even though Rudy's is a chain, it's been well-received by patrons in the Hub City.

So, I can make a strong case for Lubbock being a strong 'cue town right now. Those first four I mentioned are heading a lot of people's lists.

[ApartmentNomad]

Originally Posted by case44

Evie Mae's in Wolfforth has been in some of Texas' top magazines and is tops around this area. Hill BBQ is currently in a food truck in South Lubbock, but is already getting good reviews by folks. And then, there's The Shack in the northwest side and E&J Smokehouse up north. As for the long-timers, J&M is one of the better-rated in town, but the ribs are just okay compared to their other smoked meats. And I've never been enamored with Bigham's. Furthermore, even though Rudy's is a chain, it's been well-received by patrons in the Hub City.

I am going to try to get to Hill BBQ sometime. And I see they have bought the Yellow House and are now serving coffee, etc. there.

I probably should have started a separate thread about Lubbock's strength in different cuisines. Maybe I will still do that.