Kreuz Market

"Central Texas barbecue traditions can largely be attributed to German and Czech butchers who immigrated to the state in the mid-1800s. So it makes sense that a German market that’s been smoking meat for more than a century would be a barbecue institution. The pits at Kreuz Market look like they haven’t been cold in a hundred years, and the pork chops are so moist and tender you can tear off a piece with just a fork. Once your meat is sliced and served on a paper-lined tray, you can head into the dining room where there are tons of large tables to spread out, plus a separate counter where you can grab some sides and a few bottles of Shiner. The sides here also stand out—you should definitely get some creamed corn with poblanos and baked potato casserole, or lean into the German roots and get a side of fennel-seed-flecked sauerkraut. " - anne cruz

"Central Texas barbecue traditions can largely be attributed to German and Czech butchers who immigrated to the state in the mid-1800s. So it makes sense that a German market that’s been smoking meat since 1900 would be a barbecue institution. The pits at Kreuz Market look like they haven’t been cold in a hundred years, and the pork chops are so moist and tender you can tear off a piece with just a fork. Once your meat is sliced and served on a paper-lined tray, you can head into the dining room where there are tons of large tables to spread out, plus a separate counter where you can grab some sides and a few bottles of Shiner. The sides here also stand out—you should definitely get some creamed corn with poblanos and baked potato casserole, or lean into the German roots and get a side of fennel-seed-flecked sauerkraut." - Anne Cruz

"Kreuz Market, a staple in Lockhart since 1900, is part of the barbecue trifecta in the barbecue capital of Texas." - Taylor Tobin

"While there are several delicious BBQ joints in Lockhart, Kreuz Market is a Lockhart legacy, dating back to 1900. Yes, there will likely be a line for the cafeteria-style restaurant, and, no, they will not give you forks or sauce — so don’t even bother asking. Get the pork chop." - Darcie Duttweiler

"Kreuz has earned its reputation as one of the best in Texas' barbecue capital. First timers should come with an empty stomach and open mind. Try everything. Although they are known for their sausage, leaving without trying the brisket would be a crying shame. I personally never pass up mac and cheese on a menu. In this case, it is definitely worth it. And no trip to a Texas barbecue joint is complete without a slice of whatever seasonal pie is available." - Diana Oates