Baker Boys BBQ - Gonzales (TX)

3 /5 Ronald Freitag: Review: Still Smoking, But Fading Fast Stepping into this local spot—a simple metal building perched on the side of a divided highway—you immediately feel the history. This is a place where locals gather, drawn by the scent of smoke and the promise of Texas tradition. The establishment proudly holds a previous Texas Monthly 50 Top BBQ award and currently sits on the Top 100 list. While the prices remain wonderfully reasonable, the food unfortunately suggests a clear reason for its recent slide in the rankings. The Meats: Missing the Mark The centerpiece of any Texas barbecue joint, the brisket, was sadly underwhelming. While not entirely unpalatable, the slices leaned heavily toward the dry side and were noticeably lacking in deep, smoky flavor. The bark—often the crowning glory—was salty and tough, needing significant work to achieve that perfect textural contrast. The ribs offered a similar study in contrasts. They achieved a commendable pull and easy separation from the bone, indicating proper cooking technique. However, the flavor profile was strange: distinctly hammy, with an uninspired bark that offered little in the way of seasoning or crust. Rounding out the proteins, the sausage was frankly plain and uninspiring, adding nothing memorable to the plate. The Sides: A Tale of Two Dishes The sides were hit or miss, making the highlights shine even brighter against the disappointments. The mac and cheese was the primary letdown, tasting regrettably like a processed, boxed variety with a flavor that fell flat, relying heavily on artificial cheese notes. However, the potatoes were the undisputed star of the meal. A flavorful mix of spuds, onions, cheese, and a robust blend of spices, these were executed beautifully and proved to be the kind of memorable side dish a Top 50 joint should be famous for. Final Verdict The reasonable pricing and comforting local atmosphere are huge positives, making this an accessible gathering place. Yet, for a place carrying the weight of such prominent awards, the food is disappointingly average. It is evident why this former Top 50 winner has slipped down the rankings. The execution of the brisket, ribs, and mac and cheese needs a significant overhaul to recapture the glory of its earlier days. Visit for the atmosphere and the excellent potatoes, but temper your expectations for the smokehouse staples.

3 /5 Walter Awe: I was expecting more from this pit barbecue. The ribs I have was excellent The barbecue was tender but roast beefy. The macaroni and cheese was average, potato salad was good. My wife ate a chopped sandwich which are portions was generous. I was expecting more out of this barbecue place since I had been top rated for several list. This place seems to be lost in the ever-changing craft barbecue scene.

5 /5 Justin Milley: Very good BBQ. Big portions compared to a lot of other places. I had pork ribs, brisket & sausage. Comfortable spacious digs.

4 /5 J Stevens: Stopped by for a late lunch. Ordered the two meat plate, moist brisket and ribs with two sides. The portions were average, but the price was slightly lower than other BBQ joints of late. The beef was tender with a nice mix of meat and a little fat. The smoke taste wasnt over powering but overall the brisket was good. The two ribs were average were dry and could have had more smoke flavor. Good BBQ really doesnt need BBQ sauce, but I went ahead and tried the sauce on the table in a squeeze bottle. Did not care much for the flavor, plus I like the sauce to be warm and a little thicker. The two sides I chose was potato salad and pinto beans. The potato salad was good, not too creamy. The pinto beans were a bland and could have used a little more spice.

5 /5 Lauren S: Absolutely delicious bbq! I ordered the three meat plate and my partner got the 2 meat plate. Ribs, brisket, turkey, and sausage all fantastic. For sides, we had the mac n cheese, the green beans, and cheesy potatoes, and we finished with the banana pudding. All wonderful! We have had alot of barbecue and stopped here after seeing it on Texas Monthly as part of a road trip. You will not be disappointed!