Great BBQ Before or After Sightseeing Smoke Shack has become one of our go to spots whenever we have guests visiting. It is the perfect stop after showing friends and family the Alamo and the River Walk before heading back home. Just be prepared for a line because every time we have gone, there is usually one. It moves, but it is definitely part of the experience. Our go to items are always the lip smacking brisket. We order a pound of regular and a quarter pound of lean. Both are tender and flavorful. The ribs and sausage are also solid choices. For sides, we rotate between the well seasoned green beans, mac and cheese, beans and okra. All of them are excellent and you really cannot go wrong. Side note. I am not a fan of their corn. I prefer corn that leans sweet rather than spicy, so it is not my favorite. Next time I go, I already know what I want to try. Either the Brisket Sandy or the Brisket Grilled Cheese. Both look incredible. Smoke Shack is always a reliable stop for good Texas BBQ and a great place to bring visitors for an authentic taste of San Antonio. read more

When I went in to pick up my order,at the pick up area. the tip that was applied came out to $ 35.78. I went in intending to leave a standard tip, and "optional" tipping on their website should then truly optional. I was disappointed at should default charge shouldn't be automatically pushed to a much higher percentage without clear, upfront confirmation. Great BBQ IN A PIT AND SMOKER DO NOT HAVE THIS EXPERIENCE Bottom line: "Optional" shouldn't feel like it's automatically overridden. Please make the final tip amount crystal clear before charging so customers can choose what they want to leave. read more

Love the food. When they have it. Unfortunately for the third time in a row they're out of what we want - by 7pm. We'll be looking for a new BBQ joint. read more

Restaurant: Smoke Shack Ordered: * Brisket sandwich * Potato salad A-List Take: The brisket had good flavor, but it seemed to be seared or reheated before serving. I personally prefer brisket that's freshly sliced without being cooked again. I was also surprised that additional brisket slices cost $0.50 each. The potato salad had plenty of ingredients, but it wasn't my favorite. My biggest concern was that it was cool rather than cold, which made me question whether it was being kept chilled enough. A-List Verdict: Brisket had flavor. Extra charge for slices was unexpected. Potato salad temperature was disappointing. A-List Rating: (3/5) The BBQ had potential, but the reheated brisket and lukewarm potato salad kept this one from making my A-List. Until next bite... this is A-List, keeping it deliciously honest. read more

It's been a few years since I have been here. I first tried The Smoke Shack when they only had a food truck (Hence the 5 stars). I ordered the 2 meat plate with ribs and chicken, pinto beans and fries as my sides, a ZiegenBock to drink, and Banana Pudding for dessert. The ribs were delicious and tender, no need to add further sauce. The chicken was juicy, tender and delicious, I didn't need sauce as it was so delicious. The pinto beans where hot, delicious with a hint of spice. The fries were good, and the Banana Pudding was very delicious. Of course the ZiegenBock was refreshing. They had thick cut pickles that tasted homemade. read more

See all

After seeing Smoke Shack on DDD, I knew I had to check it out myself. I ordered the Sliced Brisket (lean) plate with spicy (creamed) corn and pinto beans (also spicy). My wife got the Sliced Brisket sandwich with fried okra and French fries. The brisket was great. Nice smoke flavor with a bit of bark on the edge. The corn and beans were very tasty. Nicely spiced, not your usual BBQ house sides. I sampled the fried okra. It was so light I had to dig in for another forkful. Really tasty. The cashier was friendly and took the time to explain a bit about their sides. Service was fast and the prices were good, especially in today's economy. This is a place worth going to or going back to on future visits to San Antonio. read more

The Smoke Shack - Brisket plate with pintos and creamed corn. - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

Cool looking building. With the Texas flag as the whole roof. I ordered the three meat plate with brisket, sausage, and ribs along with baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad. The brisket was tender and smoky with a nice bark, easily the standout on the plate. The sausage had a good snap and solid seasoning, and the ribs were juicy and pulled clean off the bone. The sides rounded everything out well. The baked beans were rich and slightly sweet, the mac and cheese was creamy, and the potato salad was simple and comforting Portions were generous and everything tasted freshly made. Service was friendly and the vibe felt relaxed and classic Texas barbecue. Highly recommend. read more

See all

Got the grilled brisket and cheese, was really good a bit dry until you add the sauce. The beans are sweet not too bad but not something I'm use to. Service was fast and cashiers were very knowledgeable on the menu and what things taste like. read more

The Smoke Shack - Grilled brisket and cheese - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Food: Brisket, fried okra, Mac and Cheese filled with brisket, and ribs . EVERYTHING I just mentioned was fresh, delicious, and ON POINT and I had enough food left over for dinner and a little leftover for the next day. I definitely got my money's worth. I went there after reading the reviews and having a taste for barbecue chicken. Unfortunately, there was no barbecue chicken or anything I planned to purchase while checking out the menu at the airport. However, I have no regrets and I will be back when I'm in the area. Service: I called while at the airport to make sure they had chicken and I was told yes. I immediately headed straight to the restaurant from the airport. It was my first visit to this restaurant and to be honest, I was a bit disappointed with the service. I wasn't immediately acknowledged. They ran out of everything I planned to purchase between the time I called and drove to the restaurant from the airport (short ride). The area where the condiments are stored was not as clean or organized as it should have been for a restaurant. There seemed to be enough staff to take care of it while I was there. Staff I came in contact with were nice and acknowledged with a smile when I was at my table. There is an area before arriving to the restroom that was not as clean as it should have been. The garbage can was running over with trash. Atmosphere: Loud, joyful, and family friendly environment. I met a family who were looking for a place to sit. I invited them to sit with me and it was great! I will be back the next time I am in the San Antonio area. I'm thinking positively . If you're in the area, check them out and give them a try. I did and I don't regret it. My next visit will be better. read more

See all

Back in San Antonio and recently viewed Smoke Shack on DDD. The place has the sweet smell of smoked BBQ. Simple decor, unlimited drink refills, and happy diners enjoying a San Antonio legend. Generally, long waits and crowded, but not tonight. This place has not changed in 15 years. We ordered the fried chicken tenders and the Tejas hot chicken sandwich dipped in chili pepin oil. Our sides were Mac N cheese, French fries and spicy creamy corn. Normally, we would try the brisket but an employee swore the fried chicken was the bomb. The spicey chicken sandwich was huge and coated in a savory slaw and pickles. The chicken lacked real spice, was piping hot and extra crispy. It was fine for a chicken sandwich, however, I ordered a spicey meal. The Mac and cheese was over cheesed and clumped together. The fries were hot but not remarkable. The spicey cream corn was fair. In all honestly, Smoke Shack did not remind me of a past love. The food was fair to good but my memory and expectation was "over-the-top". On returns to San Antonio, Smoke Shack was always a first stop. Unfortunately, it will come off my list as I was highly disappointed. read more

The Smoke Shack - Tejas spicey chicken, ok - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

Chicken fingers done right! This is the first time I've ordered fried chicken fingers at a BBQ joint. And I'm glad I did! They were fried hot and served fresh. They are very well seasoned but not salty or spicy. Served with a side of their house-made dipping sauce and two sides, it makes for a hearty meal at a great price. read more

The Smoke Shack - Chicken Tenders - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

When my husband and I arrived we saw two police cars sitting outside and two police officers inside eating. A sure sign of a good barbecue joint is police dinning there. The parking lot is small. so we had to park down the street and walk there. You order at the counter and your food is brought to your table. We ordered the pulled pork sandwich and the brisket sandwich. The meat was ok but could have been more flavorful. They were out of a lot of their sides, so we had to settle for seasoned French fries and fried okra. The French fries were mediocre. The food is greasy and had to wash my hands afterwards. Watch your head! Some of the beams here are low. I can't recommend this restaurant. read more

See all

We visited around 7 in the evening and they were beginning to run out of sides. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive to all customers. The green beans had too much going on for me. The Mac and cheese was decent. The brisket I got was really fatty, but what my son and husband got was not. read more

The Smoke Shack - Chicken and brisket with Mac and green beans. - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Don't sleep on this place! To be honest, we drove by, stopped at the light, rolled down the window and the smell had me doing an illegal U-turn. At the order counter I asked questions about allergies. Their meats at gluten, dairy and soy free. We ordered the brisket, pork ribs, chopped burger, and the brisket taco. The brisket was nice and juicy. Some bites were a little peppery but the bbq sauce covered that up. The pork ribs, some of the leaner portions were a little dry, but with the sides and bbq sauce it made it enjoyable. The chopped burger may have been my favorite. Almost like a sloppy Joe but better. And for $2, you can't beat it. The beans were hearty, smoked and packed with flavor. The potato salad was smooth, creamy but had volume and lot of taste. The staff was very nice and the vibes are there. I'd definitely come back here. read more

See all

Smoke Shack does not disappoint if you like to eat smoked meats. The location is nothing fancy but they are known for the mac and cheese loaded with brisket. We ordered the brisket plate with mac and fried okra, pulled pork sandwich with fries and the snack mac (loaded mac with brisket). Tasty and filling. read more

The Smoke Shack - Pulled pork, fries and snack mac - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

The turkey was fantastic. Met my wife for lunch here and we loved it. Service was quick and friendly. Clean facilities and dining.

The food was good, very acidic though. It's a mustardy/vinegar rub they use on the meat which is fine but the bbq sauce available is the same which makes it a little overpowering. Ribs were lean which I loved and cooked good, pulled pork was moist but bland since I didn't want the bbq sauce they had on the table. Fried okra was good, Mac and cheese was really bland to me which was a bummer. Only non bottled drink options were tea and lemonade which is fine for me because I love tea. Staff were friendly and food came out quickly which was great, seating area is nice and relaxed. read more

The Smoke Shack - 2 Meat Plate - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

Nestled just north of downtown San Antonio, at the bustling corner of Broadway and Pershing, Smoke Shack occupies a humble A-frame structure that looks like it's been plucked from another era--simple, unpretentious, and exactly where you'd expect to find something worth slowing down for. It's one of those spots you might miss if you weren't looking, but once you've been, it becomes a landmark. A former feature on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Smoke Shack is no stranger to national attention. But here, the draw isn't the fame--it's the smoke, the soul, and the way brisket melts into memory. Parking can be a bit of a tightrope, hemmed in by neighboring eateries. The entrance is tucked around back, which somehow feels right--like a password-only speakeasy for the BBQ faithful. Step inside and you'll find two counters: the first is a decoy, the second is the prize, with a chalkboard menu that reads like a sermon for the carnivorously devout. My order was purposeful and time-tested: the famed Frito Pie and a three-meat combo (brisket, ribs, and chicken), anchored by sides of potato salad and pinto beans. A cold canned soda is an option, but I opted for a towering 32oz foam cup of sweet tea--free refills, of course. That, my friends, is hospitality in the Lone Star State. The dining area is comfortably casual, with booth seating along the windows and solid wood tables and chairs scattered throughout. Why mention the wood? Because there's something reassuringly old-school about it--like the kind of place where you settle in and stay awhile. It fits. The service? Warm as a summer evening, with staff delivering plates to your table with a smile that says, "You're about to eat something special." And they weren't wrong. Let's start with the Frito Pie. A BBQ joint worth its salt doesn't just make one--they craft one. At Smoke Shack, it arrives heaped with chopped brisket, nestled into a bed of Fritos, pinto beans, and cheese, all meticulously structured as tradition beckons. After demolishing the Frito Pie, I braced myself for the main event. The brisket? Rich, moist, and beautifully balanced between bark and bite. It carried a depth of flavor beyond the usual salt-and-pepper Texas standard, with a hint of something unexpected--perhaps paprika or clove--whispered in the smoke. The ribs, dry-rubbed and fall-off-the-bone tender, stood tall beside them. And then came the chicken. Now, chicken in a Texas BBQ joint is often an afterthought--if it's there at all. But Smoke Shack's bird was a revelation: juicy, well-seasoned, and kissed with smoke in all the right places. The sides played their supporting roles admirably. The potato salad leaned mustard-forward, tangy and creamy without being overbearing. The beans were more like charro beans than plain pintos, flecked with flavor and spice. Needless to say, a sample of each hit the spot perfectly but it was a bit more food than I could handle so got me a to-go container to finish it off at home later. If there was one misstep, it was the house BBQ sauce--heavy on the vinegar, a bit too sharp for my palate. But honestly, the meats didn't need it. That's the mark of good barbecue: sauce optional, not essential. In the end, it's clear why the Food Network made the pilgrimage to Smoke Shack. This isn't just a BBQ joint--it's a place where traditions are honored, flavors are respected, and every bite tells a story. Come for the brisket, stay for the chicken, and don't leave without trying the Frito Pie. Smoke Shack doesn't need frills. It's got fire, flavor, and a seat waiting for you. read more

See all

It was decent. My brisket didn't have that bark on it. Portions were a bit small. I did like the greenbeans and Mac & cheese. read more

The Smoke Shack - Brisket - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Ribs were excellent, great flavor, and very tender. Same thing for the brisket. Mac n cheese was fresh and also had good flavor. The fried okra was pretty bad. It had been refried a few times and they were burnt and hollow on the inside. The place was clean, workers were friendly, food came out instantly. read more

See all

The Smoke Shack is one of my favorite BBQ places in San Antonio! My family was in town for the holidays and they ofcourse wanted to get some authentic Texas BBQ, so immediately thought of The Smoke Shack. I highly recommend you getting here when they open so you can get their full menu. For my last visit I got a plate with brisket and their jalapeno cheese sausage with a side of fries and green beans. The brisket was super juicy and tender. The sausage was full of flavor and cooked to perfection. Their green beans are always on point and are some of my favorite in town. The fries were also amazing and I have no idea what they use in their seasoning, but are freaking addicting. The service was also amazing, and the staff kept checking on us making sure we didn't need anything. Frankly, I've never had a bad experience at The Smoke Shack on all my years coming here. This is most definitely a must for anyone visiting town! read more

After seeing reviews on both yelp and google me and wife decided to try this place while visiting San Antonio. We were very impressed with the several place we tried in Austin so figured San Antonio would be close. The wife got the quarter chicken with cream corn. I got the brisket and turkey with mac and cheese and fries. Both my brisket and turkey were dry. And we got there right at opening not at end of day. Mac and fries were ok. Wife's chicken a little better but not great by any means. Cream corn also ok. This bbq place is low mid in my opinion. Equivalent to the bbq joint on the strip in Vegas not what I think of when I hear Texas bbq or any real smoke bbq joint. More like a tourist spot. Very disappointing. read more

The Smoke Shack - Chicken quarter with cream corn - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

Came to Texas looking for legendary smoke and found this place instead. Granted, it was the end of Labor Day weekend. A consideration that compelled me to give them an extra star. The only meats left were sausage, brisket and turkey. The brisket was a sore disappointment. Brisket is the most difficult meat to smoke, and you can tell a smpkehouse's skill by this meat alone. All meats were extremely dry. They were obviously left over and reheated. Maybe several times. A respectable smokehouse wouldn't serve leftovers like this. I'm telling you.. the meat was really bad. Additionally.. No outdoor smokers or wood piles. They either have indoor smokers (inferior) or smoke somewhere else. Texas has too many outstanding smokehouses to waste time and money on a place like this. read more

The Smoke Shack - Extremely dry brisket - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

This was our first time visiting this spot and I can assure it will no be the last. The Brisket was great. Tender and flavorful. The chicken was one of the best I've had in San Antonio. The sides-- all full of flavor! The Mac and Cheeae has brisket sausage in it, which makes it super decadent! You do not need much of it to get full. It was also my first time having "Hoppin John's" and it was seasoned very well. Make your way there. One of the best BBQ spots in San Antonio! read more

The Smoke Shack - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Pretty decent BBQ with the brisket in particular being good. I think there used to be a line but we went for lunch on a weekday and walked right in. For as easy as it is to get a table and be eating within a few minutes of getting there, it's a pretty solid spot. Not sure I'd wait in a long line though. read more

I can't even lie this brisket was dry as hell. I got the 2 sliders and 2 sides with coleslaw. Corn and beans were cool no complaints. But the BRISKET never again . Heb bbq taste better than this sigh smh read more

Wow! I wanted some good Texas barbecue, and I found it! This place was listed on several list one of if not the best barbecue in San Antonio. Service was phenomenal as was the food. I got brisket, ribs, with sides of jalapeño cream, corn, and fried okra. The brisket was some of the most moist I've ever had, the flavor was just OK. The ribs were phenomenal and the sides absolutely perfect. I really love that jalapeño cream corn. Absolutely amazing barbecue in San Antonio! read more

See all

The customer service is great. The food is fxukin horrible. The brisket is dry as shit. The bbq sauce taste like vinegar. The Mac and cheese doesn't have any taste. read more

The Smoke Shack - Horrible food - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

See all

Food: Delicious, yet small portions for price. Ribs, sliced brisket, Hoppin John beans, Mac & Cheese and Greens are all good. Sliders were a miss for me, as they were dry. Service: Staff are nice. It's not Chick-Fil-A service with pleasantries but they are nice. Ambiance: Decent, however some days are cleaner than others. Overall, it's decent BBQ however only if I'm in the area. read more

This is a must stop every visit to SA! The food never disappoints and the service and quality of the food is always on point ! I order the two meat plate lean brisket and turkey with brisket Mac and cheese and fried okra. If you're in San Antonio make a pit stop for lunch at smoke shack, you won't regret it ! read more

The Smoke Shack - Two 2 Meat Plate - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Our two favorite BBQ brisket locales were closed, as we learned Mondays seem to be the day they close to restock and recharge. Smoke shack happened to be open so we gave them a try. Wow! True smoke favor that does not overpower or overwhelm the taste buds but provides a lovely whole-sense experience. Tender enough to do without a knife. So pleased with our selection of brisket. The staff was so kind they even packed and wrapped up 3 lbs of beef so that I could transport it in the airlines. When our travels take us back to SA TX, we'll be back again! Highly recommended! Truly deserving of 5-stars! Mahalo for reading my review. read more

A coworker took us here for lunch today. Loved the ambiance and the service. Service was friendly and fast, food came out in a decent time frame and was delicious. The brisket and pinto beans were on point. The sausage was a tad dry for me, but taste was amazing.. I will definitely return next time I am in town. read more

The Smoke Shack - 2 meat plate, Brisket and Jalapeño Sausage - Southern Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Hands down the best BBQ in San Antonio, no question. I ordered the BBQ plate with brisket, ribs, and sides of mac and cheese and fried okra, plus a warm, fluffy bread roll--and every single bite was incredible. The brisket was tender with that perfect smoky bark, the ribs fell right off the bone and had just the right amount of seasoning, and don't even get me started on the mac and cheese--super creamy, cheesy, and the ultimate comfort food. The fried okra was crispy, not greasy, and seasoned just right. You can tell they put real heart into the food here. The flavors were rich, smoky, and satisfying from start to finish. If you're a BBQ lover or just hungry for something amazing, Smoke Shack BBQ is a must-try. I'll definitely be back. This place is a local gem. read more

See all

This place was mmm mmm Good! Everything was delicious and flavorful! Even the sweet tea and lemonade! At first from the parking lot there was no smoke smell at all but as we got closer to the entrance of the building the smells were pipping! Service was great the staff were very generous and kind! Love this place and must to go to and a must to return back to. By the way in the pic my ribs looked burnt but they were not. They were smokey, sweet and falling off the bone, brisket was super juicy and tender as well. Don't let the pic fool you... This food was bussin!!! read more

Dang, we came all this way from TN (during the Final 4) to have some TX BBQ and for it to be confirmed that TX really does have the best brisket and BBQ. This was "mid" and not better than TN, AL, NC, or GA like we had hoped. Their jalapeno cheese sausage was one of their better meats. The brisket and pulled pork were "mid". Ribs pretty tasty. This was disappointing Texas!! I know Rudy's is not what it used to be 20-30 years ago, either. I guess big Texas has lost its way to tourism instead of maintaining the best BBQ in the Country. Sorry guys...everything isn't bigger and "better" in Texas anymore. read more

Have been to this location several times, and it's honestly just so good for a weeknight dinner with the family. The staff is friendly & helpful, the food never misses, and it's overall just a cute little place. I've never had anything that I didn't enjoy here. read more

Recently myvfamukybtraveled to San Antonio for the AWFL WOMENS FOOTBALL national championship game. I was told if I ever made it to texas I should try authentic Texas bbq. So on our Travels to Riverwalk. My neice said we should try there. So we did. And from the moment we stepped out of the car we knew we found our place. The delicious smell of hardwood smoke. Pulled us in the door quicker then a Texas tornado. When we walked in the front door. We were instantly greeted by friendly people. Making us feel right at home, although home was nearly 2000 miles away. Then we ordered our food. And then the gentleman taking my order asked if i was either active duty or military veteran or emergency response personel. And that speaks very loud with me. My father being a disabled vietnam veteran. This tyoe of respect is hard to find in todays world so i solute them for that. Now i am a bbq connoisseur. I went with the beef brisket, pulled pork and two sides. My wife got the same. I had the fried okra and the mac and cheese for mybsides. My wife went with the mac and cheese and fries. Our 8 year old decided to go with the chicken tenders and french fries. Our food came out just as i had sat down with my sweet iced tea. And my wife and sons lemonade. Our family has traveled to just about every state east of the Mississippi river. Trying the off the beaten path diners and restaurants. And have had bbq in about half of them states. And i will say this. The brisket was hands down the best brisket i have ever had. Not to dry but not watered down with artificial flavorings. Just the mouth watering taste or beef cooked low and slow over the hardwood fire fueled by the split chunks of wood stacked out back. The way it should be done. My only complaint was that my stomach wasnt big enough to finish.The pulled pork was just as tastey. Again cooked over open fire and smoke. Just the way the wagonmasters of Texans past. The sides were just as deliscious. Perfectly breaded and fried golden brown okra. Dipped in their house bbq/ranch dressing. The thought of this is making my mouth water a week later. And i thought i made the best mac and cheese. Well thanks alot but you proved me wrong. I really wish i would have got a to go bag for the roadtrip home. I will tell everyone i know that if they go to San Antonio, and they dont go to The Smoke Shack bbq on broadway, it could quite be the biggest mistake of their lives. On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the absolute best i have ever had. I give it a SOLID 9.9! If i wver make it back to San Antonio, I know where i am going to eat. read more

Service was excellent. I called in my order and it was taken down correctly. The lady was very cordial over the phone and in person. The food was okay. I wasn't a big fan of the potato salad. It still had the skin on some of the pieces but it was edible. The ribs were okay and the sauce was okay. Overall, everything was okay. Thank you, Smoke Shack! read more

I've been here a few years ago but it didn't leave a lasting impression so I gave it another try today for lunch. The BBQ is average at best. I understand that Texas BBQ can vastly change in opinion but for me, it's just OK. The brisket, although moist, lacks that special flavor that would bring me back again and again. The chicken is nothing spectacular and is also about average. The BBQ sauce did not impress nor did the pinto beans or corn. With that said, I would say it's fine if you need a quick bite to eat as it's a better option than Bill Millers down the street but not by much, sorry. The inside is smoky, which can be a good sign but all in all, not worth smelling like a pit for the rest of the day. The parking lot is small as many places on Broadway so don't expect to park close when busy. Luckily, the staff is friendly and does give you a Texas welcome and smile. On to the next one ........ read more

Every time I've visited San Antonio over the last 10 years I've made this one of my stops, but sadly it may be coming to an end. My latest visit included incredibly dry brisket and lackluster macaroni and cheese (when it used to be AMAZING). The service was okay, but I could tell the guy was getting frustrated with me when i didn't understand his question regarding where I was placing my order. read more