Up In Smoke BBQ & Co — Restaurant in Early

Up In Smoke BBQ & Co is definitely destination BBQ and to be perfectly honest it wouldn't matter if it were on the moon. Simply put, this is some of the best BBQ in Texas. I've watched Junior work and put in the effort in the rain, the heat, and the freezing cold to get out the best meat and sides he possibly can. He's a serious competitor and true to form when you get your plate or platter you get a presentation as well as a tray of pure deliciousness. The brisket has the expected bark and smoke ring most BBQ joints have but it is the flavor and tenderness that set it apart from many other good places in the USA. The Compart Duroc ribs are also not to be missed as they are so juicy and flavorful. The perfect bite through on each and every rib fills your expectations to overflowing. Texture is a huge component of BBQ. Some places cook things into mush or to a burnt pulp; you won't find that here. You'll simply find great BBQ, great service and people that ate passionate about what they do. When you've eaten at as many BBQ Joints as I have You'll really understand how special this place really is. Of course I could go on and on about the rich beef ribs, the succulent chicken, or the perfectly cooked sausage, or even the sides but trust me Up In Smoke is a great place and you can find out for yourself.

Pro Tip: if you like lean brisket for sandwiches order it that way. If you like fatty, marbled, or moist brisket order it that way. Junior and most Pitmasters are more than willing to accommodate...

I literally discovered this place yesterday. I am not a huge fan of BBQ because in my experience it has always been dry and usually lacking in flavor. This place hands down is the best BBQ I have ever had the pleasure to buy from. The Pork Belly is extremely moist and packed full of flavor. The Brisket (Which is the one cut of meat I really hate) was beautiful cooked and pulled apart when I picked it up with my fingers. The flavor of the Brisket was to die for and hands down is the best Brisket ever in my opinion. I DoorDash for work and have heard of this place but never really saw where it was. The customer service was amazing, knowledgeable, and really made it feel like an experience. Also, it was pretty cheap compared to places that I have eaten from that had the same weighted portions. Would give a million stars out of ten. I STRONGLY recommend you give this place a visit. I plan to eat here more and it...

Prior to Up In Smoke, Brownwood was lacking good barbecue. After visiting today, I'm happy to say that's in the past. I ordered the fatty brisket with pinto beans and macaroni casserole on the side. The brisket was EXCEPTIONAL. I've had Panther City BBQ, and Interstellar BBQ, both top-10 in Texas Monthly, and Up In Smoke's brisket game is right on level with those. The meat was tender, the fat was a perfect consistency, and the rub was very pleasantly peppery without overwhelming the brisket's flavor. The sides were a good compliment; pinto beans were very traditional and done just right, and the casserole was very rich!

The place itself is very clean and modern, with a small indoor dining area and plentiful outdoor seating in the back.

If barbecue is your thing, I highly recommend...