The Best Barbecue on Hwy. 281
The Lazy T barbecue isn't housed in a fancy building, nor does it provide elaborate menus for its patrons. In fact, the proprietors of this local gem sell their barbecued delights right through the window of a small, converted fifth wheel trailer. The rustic rig and smokers are setup right on the West side of Highway 281, smack dab at the end of Hamilton's historic district (south of the downtown square), directly at the site of the old petrified wood filling station (the local Diary Queen is right across the street).

The atmosphere at this unabashed Texas BBQ joint is pure roadside Americana ... and takes you back to the days when service station attendants still wiped the windows and checked the oil. Here is unpretentious dining at its best, with a focus on food and value like nowhere else along the seemingly endless miles of Highway 281. Heck, you can get a sliced brisket sandwich, small order of potato salad, and a Coke for under five bucks! But don't expect a fancy table setting or maitre d’ service: This is BBQ prepared simply with an emphasis on taste, using slow roasted meats and ordinary white bread for the buns. The drinks are "BYOI," or "bring your own ice" and served without a cup.

If you like barbecue at a good price and are passing through Hamilton, you simply have to stop at the Lazy T. Take your meal with you on the road, or sit at one of the picnic tables provided as you watch 281 tourists and locals alike order another tasteless burger from the fast-food brazier across the street. As you enjoy what has to be the best-tasting barbecue between Fort Worth and San Antonio, you'll be smacking your lips, smiling with shear delight, and wondering how you ever got along without barbecue from the Lazy T.

Barbecue heaven? I found it, right here in Hamilton, Texas, waiting for discovery by hungry road warriors weary of the greasy burgers, tasteless tacos, and fried chicken dominating this route.    [07 Oct 2005 17:57:36]

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Recommended Dishes: sliced brisket sandwich, ribs

     ­roadside, Fort Worth