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Wise Guys BBQ

Wise Guys BBQ

Daniel Vaughn Joins the Wise Guys for an Inside Look at Texas BBQ

Wise Guys BBQ · Nov 6, 2026 · 49:27

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How does Texas Monthly decide which BBQ joints make its famous Top 50 list? We sit down with Daniel Vaughn, Barbecue Editor at Texas Monthly, to find out what it really takes to rank the best barbecue restaurants in Texas.

From traveling thousands of miles in search of incredible smoked meats to uncovering hidden gems, Daniel gives the Wise Guys an inside look at the world of Texas BBQ.

We discuss the rising cost of brisket, why some barbecue restaurants are struggling to survive, and how pitmasters are adapting to an increasingly competitive industry.

Daniel also shares his thoughts on some of Texas's standout barbecue destinations, including Goldee's BBQ, Burnt Bean Co., 2M Smokehouse, and Reese Bros Barbecue.

In this episode:
- How Texas Monthly selects its Top 50 BBQ joints
- The challenges of running a successful barbecue restaurant
- Why brisket prices are putting pressure on pitmasters
- How regional Texas BBQ traditions are changing
- Daniel's journey from architect to professional barbecue critic
- Tips for planning the ultimate Texas BBQ road trip
- The growing influence of barbecue food trucks
- Texas Monthly BBQ Fest and the legendary XIT Rodeo barbecue

Plus, Daniel reveals what it's like visiting up to TEN barbecue restaurants in one day and shares some unforgettable stories from his travels.

Whether you're a backyard pitmaster, a Texas BBQ fanatic, or someone who loves discovering great barbecue restaurants, this conversation is packed with stories and insight you won't want to miss.

🔥 What's the best BBQ joint you've ever visited? Tell us in the comments!

👍 Like, subscribe, and join the Wise Guys BBQ family for more barbecue talk, pitmaster interviews, recipes, and Destination Q adventures.

🌐 Explore more: https://wiseguysbbq.com

📺 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@wiseguysbbq-mk4cc

📍 Explore Texas Monthly's Top 50 BBQ List:
https://projects.texasmonthly.com/interactive/top-50-bbq-2025/

#TexasBBQ #DanielVaughn #TexasMonthly #BBQPodcast #WiseGuysBBQ

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