On Friday the fourteenth of August I packed up my borrowed car (thank you Mike) and headed to see family in Temple, Texas. On the way, slightly out of the way, is a small town North of Austin is Taylor. In Taylor lies (now) two of the great BBQ restaurants in Texas. On this day I would only eat at one; Louis Mueller's. My comments and pics will include both Mueller's as well as the Taylor Cafe which I visited in March of 2009 with friends Dave of Acton and the aforementioned Mike from Austin.
The Taylor Cafe is run by the celebrated Vencil Mares, sometimes referred to as the Grandfather of Texas BBQ. It was a thrill to speak with this man in his restaurant that time forgot. I stupidly asked him what temperature he cooks his brisket to, he replied by holding his hands out as if to warm them at a fire. (I had read this!) He gave me a few pointers and I nodded my head. It seems that just by talking to this man I will have become a better BBQ cook.
While there Dave and I led Mike through our "BBQ Tour Routine" by ordering a little bit of everything so we could discuss and then have room for the next sample at the next BBQ joint.
Then it was off to Louis Mueller's.
While I visited this place in March (which is the date of the photos) I will comment on the August, 14th sample.
It was probably 1:30 when I arrived so the lunch crowd was gone. An easy walk up to the counter to order Texas Market BBQ which is always by weight. "A fifth of a pound Moist Brisket and a fifth of a pound of Turkey." is what I asked for. This did not seem to please the butcher as he said "OK" slowly and sarcastically to himself. I thought "Why didn't I just order a quarter pound." Anyway, he hit me with the free sample large burnt end and it was perfect. Classic salt and pepper seasoning on the crust. Delicious.
I retreated to my table to eat my treasures and bask in the environment of this classic Texas BBQ Joint. Surrounded by ranchers and tourists I thought "Nothing like Texas BBQ."
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