Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q — Restaurant in Grapevine

¡The Best BBQ in North Texas!

Let’s make this official: Arnulfo, or Trey as most know him, is one of the best pitmasters out there. I’ve been singing praises about Vaqueros Texas BBQ to all my family and friends for years. Sure, some still head to Terry Black’s, Dickey’s, or Pecan Lodge—good riddance. For me, Vaqueros BBQ is my top pick among the five BBQ joints I frequent across Texas. I’ll get around to reviewing the others someday.

What sets Vaqueros apart is how Trey masterfully blends traditional Texas BBQ with diverse cultural influences, especially Mexican cuisine. You won’t find BBQ like this in Kansas. Whether you’re craving a classic BBQ dish or something with a Tex-Mex twist, you won’t be disappointed. The flavors are bold yet comforting, and each bite leaves you wanting more, encouraging you to explore the ever-changing seasonal menu. From sandwiches and tamales to birria tacos and the standard meat plate, every meal has been a delight. Even my kids, who aren’t typically BBQ fans—one finds it too spicy, the other prefers chicken—jump at the chance to have Vaqueros. They drop their electronics, put on their Crocs, and race to the truck. They might need extra napkins for those spicy boogers, but they’re smiling ear to ear.

Trey has also made Vaqueros a family business and a legacy in the making. The staff is patient and friendly, the ordering process is efficient, and there’s even seating behind the food truck (pro tip for when the adjoining brewery patio is busy!). The sides and desserts are consistently fantastic. What more could you ask for?

The Flip Side: If I had to nitpick—and I always include a “flip side” in my reviews—it’s the flies. The brewery sprays for mosquitoes, so those aren’t a problem, but house flies can sometimes be an issue. A few table fans or hanging water bags could help mitigate that.

Last Pro Tip if You’ve Made it This Far: While BBQ prices can sometimes seem steep, especially if you’re new to it (BBQ tends to be pricier since protein makes up most of the meal), the Tex Mex plate at Vaqueros offers great value. It includes a little bit of everything, and for our family of four (with two younger kids), we can split the plate and just add a side and a serving of watermelon. This makes it a very budget-friendly option without sacrificing...

Vaquero's is led by Chef Trey Sanchez, an incredible talent and even more amazing person. We have had the pleasure of getting to know him and his team through their delicious food and conversations. The soul of what I would call Mexican-inspired Texas BBQ shines through every dish they present. Everything served is made with humbleness, hard work, and a never-ending dedication to bringing out the innate greatness of the food itself.

Every item on the menu deserves to be tried, as there is greatness in each one. That being said, some of my personal favorites include:

Birria Tacos: Made with smoked brisket, these tacos, with an amazing consummé, have just the right amount of crunch on the outside, white cheesy goodness on the inside, and an overall deliciousness that just can't be beat. As a native Texan, I can say that Vaquero's Birria Tacos are my absolute favorite way to enjoy brisket. I know, I know...that's a lot of big talk, but I am willing to bet that if you try them, you won't disagree.

Smoked Turkey Breast: Impossibly juicy, Chef Sanchez's smoked turkey is a melt-in-your-mouth explosion of intense flavors and just the right amount of smokiness. If Chef Sanchez happens to have this on the menu that day, I never leave without some.

Apple Gorgonzola Coleslaw: Okay, I know this is "just a side," but this mix of cabbage, cranberries, pecans, and salty gorgonzola, along with a sweet berry sauce that has small, delightfully tart, green apple slices. I eat it as a stand-alone and add it as a topping to both the pulled pork and the pork belly.

If you aren't hankerin' for Vaquero's at this point, then I've done a dismally poor job of a review, and would strongly encourage you to take a trip and try it...

Absolutely loved this BBQ spot! The decor is straight out of a Western dream—think dark, moody saloon vibes with rusty metal, cactus touches, animal skulls, whiskey barrels, and old wood everywhere. Low lighting, no flashy colors… just perfect. I took my food to go (you order in front counter) but would definitely dine in next time—the setting is that gorgeous.

I ordered the one-meat plate with two sides: brisket, mac and cheese, and charro beans (the whole kind, not refried). • Brisket: 10/10—Tender, juicy, flavorful. • Mac and cheese: 9/10—Creamy and super comforting. • Beans: I have to be honest… this was a miss for me. They lacked body and seasoning. Not bad, just needed a little richness—maybe bacon and a bit more spice (heads up for little kids!). They sell family packs and by the pound. Great options! Great price imo!

Shoutout to Jesus (Sunday 7/6/25) who was amazing. He offered samples, and even gave my 3-year-old daughter an extra piece of brisket after she loved the taste—such a kind, welcoming guy with great energy. Gracias Jesus!!! Nos encantó tu buena vibra!

Their BBQ sauce is on the sweet, smoky side with just a hint of spice—my daughter loved it. I’m usually a vinegar or mustard-base type of girl, but honestly? I still gave this sauce a 9/10 and happily dipped every bite of brisket in it.

Portions are huge and everything was packed neatly. The place was spotless—always a good sign when even the drink and utensil station is immaculate. I don’t drink, but they had a lot of drink options if that’s your thing.

I’ll 100% be back to try the tacos and more meats. Would love to see live music on the patio someday… that would make...