Salt Lick

In Austin, there are lots of places to get good barbeque. If you ask any of the locals who has the best bbq though, you will almost unanimously hear that Salt Lick reigns supreme. Located about 25 miles outside of Austin in the dry town (read: no alcohol) of Driftwood, Salt Lick is certainly an experience in independant Texas culture. The buildings themselves are rustic and the seating feels somewhat like dining in a logging camp with long wooden tables with moderately matching wooden benches. Food can be ordered either individually or family style. The family style is all you can eat, but be aware that unless you are exceedingly hungry it's probably more food than you can or should eat. The individual plates are very large themselves and will give most normal people trouble trying to clean their plate so save your money as the all-you-can-eat is over twice the price.
Whichever course you choose, you won't be disappointed. The sausages are good, the brisket is great and the ribs are by far the best I have ever eaten. Sauce comes with the meat, but is purely optional, and I found that I actually preferred them without it. The ribs (which are cooked in an open pit that you walk past as you enter) was so tender the meat practically fell off the bone, and I found myself cursing the fact that I had eaten other things during the meal that were now taking up space in my stomach. Rounding out an already full meal are a set of fantastic pies with optional ice cream that you really have to try even if you feel like you can't eat another bite. The peach cobbler was my favorite although others swear by the pecan pie. I seriously doubt there is a wrong choice on the menu.
All in all, if you come to Austin, make sure a trip to Salt Lick is on your agenda. Just make sure you empty your stomach thoroughly before you sit down to eat. You won't be disappointed.