Located just outside Jasper, Texas, Rue's Barbecue is a hidden gem for barbecue enthusiasts seeking authentic, mouthwatering Texas-style smoked meats. This family-owned barbecue restaurant has earned a stellar reputation with an impressive 4.8-star rating that well reflects its dedication to quality and flavor.
From the moment you arrive at 12420 TX-63 W, you sense this isn't your typical roadside BBQ joint. The warm, friendly atmosphere welcomes you like an old friend, with the owners often engaging personally with guests, making the experience all the more special. It’s clear that Rue’s Barbecue takes pride not only in its food but in fostering a genuine Texas hospitality vibe.
The menu reads like a savory tribute to Central Texas barbecue classics. Customer favorites include the brisket, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken—all smoked to perfection with a powerful smoke ring, tender texture, and rich, deep flavor that can stand alone without a lick of BBQ sauce. Regina Fell’s experience captures this perfectly, praising the brisket’s exceptional smoky flavor that didn’t require any sauce at all. Sides such as creamy coleslaw, baked beans, and tangy potato salad round out the meal beautifully, offering fresh, balanced complements to the smoky meats.
The ribs and chicken come highly recommended as well, as Sheila Gordon notes, making Rue’s Barbecue worth the extra drive out of town. The quality of the meats truly shines through, from the juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs to the savory, well-seasoned sausage. Lanie Ozan’s first-time visit described the food as “Absolutely Amazing,” highlighting not just the outstanding BBQ but also the warm, attentive service.
What’s especially striking is Rue's commitment to authenticity and consistency. Elaine Bowers, a regular, describes it as one of the best BBQ places in Texas and stresses the importance of getting there early—Rue's is only open Thursday through Saturday and sells out fast due to the high demand and quality.
Each bite bursts with a smoky, flavorful punch that tells a story of slow-cooked dedication, traditional smoking techniques, and high-quality ingredients. The sides offer a perfect map of comfort, from tangy slaw to hearty baked beans and potato salad, complementing the meats wonderfully without overpowering them. Thomas Smith praises not only the fantastic food but also the friendly service and reasonable prices, making it a superb all-around dining experience.
For visitors passing through the Jasper area, Rue's Barbecue is an essential culinary stop that promises a true taste of Texas BBQ culture. With glowing recommendations from locals and travelers alike, this spot delivers an authentic, satisfying, and unforgettable barbecue experience that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your first plate.
To plan your visit or place an order, reach out via phone at +1 409-289-7357. Be sure to arrive early, as this beloved barbecue haven tends to run out fast—evidence of its well-deserved popularity and excellence.
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Regina Fell
10/12/2025
We stopped by here when in town for the weekend, and what a pleasant surprise. We were a little unsure, as there were no photos of the food in the reviews...but the 4.8 star got us there. Tried the brisket and sausage with sides of coleslaw and beans and everything was amazing. The brisket had a great smoke ring and lots of flavor. I skipped the bbq sauce, as usual, because I love the flavors of just the meat on its own, and it didn't disappoint. Would definitely recommend. Oh, as also, you'll notice there are no photos on my review either. Because it was so good it wasn't until it was almost gone that I remembered photos. Go there, you won't regret it. But check the hours, they are only open a few days.
Sheila Gordon
09/11/2025
Phenomenal BBQ. It’s a little out of the way, but definitely worth the trip. Get the ribs or the chicken. You can thank me later.
Lanie Ozan
26/10/2025
Just stopped by for the 1st time and OMGosh it was Absolutely Amazing! Hubs had sausage and ribs, baked beans and slaw. I had a pulled pork sandwich, baked beans, and tater salad! Perfectly cooked, Very Friendly Folks, and Definitely wished they had a restaurant in town
Jackie Yocom
24/10/2025
Everything about this place is awesome, family owned, the food is to die for, owners are super sweet. 10/10 would recommend.
Lisa McQueen-Kimble
12/10/2025
First time eating here and most definitely want be the last. This BBQ is very flavourful and the sides are good as well. Thx for the great flavor RUE. This is my go to spot for GR8 BBQ from now on.
Dixie Hoover
05/10/2025
The great reviews for Rue's did not disappoint. The food was delicious and visiting with owner while we ate was very enjoyable. Well worth the drive over and will come again when passing through this area.
Thomas Smith
20/08/2025
The food was fantastic, the service really friendly and the prices really reasonable. Really highly recommend eating here, but get in early, they sell out fast.
Elaine Bowers
20/08/2025
One of the BEST BBQ places in Texas & certainly the best BBQ in the area. It's not IN Jasper & you have to know where it's at, & it is a good drive to get there, but it is WORTH EVERY MINUTE IT TAKES to get there. He is ONLY OPEN on Thursday, Friday & Saturday & you better get there early before he runs out. We always get the ribs, pulled pork, chopped brisket, sausage & pork & beans & potato salad. I can't tell you which one is the best BBQ, because they all are. On Saturdays he also has chicken leg quarters, which also melts in your mouth good. Bring your credit card because it's not cheap, but IT IS WORTH EVERY DOLLAR. He has QUALITY MEATS & everyone we've talked to feels the same way. We always get some when we are camping at the lake. I get enough to put in the freezer & bring home. We usually spend about $200. & have been known to go back for more. There's no fat or grizzle & the ribs actually have meat on them. We did try a place in Jasper before we knew about RUE'S BBQ but we won't go there again. Once you've had the best, why go to any of the rest? We have told many people about RUE'S BBQ, & they all agree that if you want to eat the best BBQ, you gotta go see RUE. By the way, it's not far from the intersection of 255 & 63, as you turn south, & it's on the left side. It's a little place with alot of flavor. You can eat there under his outdoor covered dining room. Just be careful, because it will change your world. For the better. What you once thought was good BBQ, might change after you eat some from RUE'S. ENJOY.