Tyler, TX: In Good Taste

Sip and savor the flavors of East Texas through local brews and barbecue.

By Kelly Rogers on June 14, 2023

Todd White

From decades-old to brand-spanking-new, Tyler’s barbecue and brewery joints are bursting with talent, tradition and Texas-sized flavor. Though the Lone Star State is widely lauded for its unique brand of barbecue, East Texas definitely puts its own spin on things, setting it apart from other regions.

In East Texas, brisket is still king, though it’s usually served chopped and in a sandwich, with plenty of Southern sides to complement it. As far as cooking goes, it’s a low and slow approach, with pitmasters smoking the meat over hickory wood until it’s incredibly tender and falling off the bone.

Jeff Adkins

Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ

The oldest barbecue spot in Tyler, Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ was founded in 1958 and has always been family owned and operated. J.D. Stanley was the original owner until his death in 2006, and then the Pencis family took over, carrying on Stanley’s methods and using his famous recipes. Over the years, Stanley’s has received numerous awards, with recognition from Texas Monthly magazine and multiple books.

“We take great pride in being named one of the best barbecue joints in Texas,” says Nick Pencis, co-owner. “Stanley’s is unique. Besides being one of Tyler’s oldest continually operating restaurants, we have the kindest staff, set the bar high for hospitality, and we have the most bourbon within 100 miles.”

Popular items on the menu include the dry-rubbed ribs and the Mother Clucker, a smoked chicken thigh sandwich served on jalapeño cheese sourdough and topped with cheddar cheese, spicy mayo and an over-easy fried egg. People also rave about the Shrove sandwich, which keeps it simple with grilled ham, cheese, chopped brisket and sauce.

Local BBQ

Local BBQ

New to the Tyler food scene is Local BBQ, an up-and-coming barbecue spot that opened just over a year ago.

Rhett Lisman, part-owner and manager, had worked in the barbecue business for 15 years when he finally decided to give it a go and start his own place.

As the name suggests, Local BBQ is all about keeping it local, from the meat to the brews. Even the spices and sauces are local, concocted by Lisman’s childhood friend who lives in nearby Marshall. The two signature sauces set Local BBQ apart, with a honey barbecue sauce that can also be used as a glaze, and one that’s a bit spicier – both of which can be purchased for use at home.

Everything is smoked fresh daily, taking 16-18 hours to fully cook.

“People seem to like it,” Lisman says. “Our name is finally getting out there, and we’re just trying to get people in the door. Once they get in the door, 95% of the customers are repeat customers.”

Among Local BBQ’s bestsellers are two sandwiches named after Tyler’s annual Beauty and the Beast Bicycle Tour. The Beauty is a mix of chopped beef and hot link, topped with white queso, while the Beast is pulled pork with mac and cheese, topped with pork rinds. Pro tip: Don’t forget to try the tater tots!

Nathan Lambrecht

Enjoy a Cold One

ETX Brewing, a family-owned microbrewery that opened in 2016, has become a staple in Tyler. Besides its beers being available for purchase at local grocery stores and restaurants (like Local BBQ), ETX Brewing has a full taproom and restaurant that’s an ideal communal gathering spot.

“We have 21 different beers on tap all the time,” says Annie Gilstrap, co-owner. “We also have wine, cider and mead, locally sourced here in Texas.”

Core brews include the Brickstreet Blonde, named for the brewery’s location on Brick Street, and the 1846 IPA, a West Coast-style beer named in honor of the year Tyler was founded. Rounding out the core line is the Park Ranger (an East Coast hazy IPA), Hitching Post (an American amber) and the ETX Premium, an American light lager that’s under 100 calories. Be sure to check out the special release seasonal blends throughout the year, which typically correlate with big holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and Oktoberfest.