Jay's BBQ Shack

I couldn't believe the 4.9 rating with 500+ reviews when I came across this place on a whim for lunch while passing through Abilene. I thought to myself, "I have to try this place if it's THAT good." Y'all, it is TRULY THAT GOOD. We walked up to find a cute metal patio with fans and picnic tables, just perfect for a beautiful outdoor dining experience. The smokers were rolling in the back, tickling our noses for what was to come. The line went back to the end of the tables, different locals chatted us up at various points throughout the line and they all said, "it's worth the wait, don't leave!" I was informed this line was short compared to last weekend where the line ended at the stop sign down the street. They ran out of several things before we made it to the window, but what was left at 1:30 was ABSOLUTELY DIVINE.We informed the lovely lady at the counter that it was our first time dining at Jay's and she gave us the rundown of the popular items that they had left. We tried all we could. Each of the three variations of sausage hit the spot, pulled pork was so tender and full of flavor, the potato salad and mac and cheese were both fantastic. The star of this show is truly the brisket. We asked for a fattier cut and they did not disappoint! I could've eaten my weight in brisket that day, I still dream about it almost three months later. It was the most tender brisket I have ever had! We took the banana pudding home for later and were so glad to have it, it was delicious. Try every single hot sauce and BBQ sauce, they're all drool worthy!Pro tips: get there early, go grab a beer or beverage at the pick up window while you wait. They have a killer selection. My husband especially enjoyed The Garage beer. If you're going in the summertime I would recommend a hat or umbrella to wait in the line as they say it can back up much longer than the one we waited in. Talk to the locals, they're really friendly, and they will tell you how long they've been coming and how it's always been delicious. BUY A KOOZIE for your beer, and to remind yourself of how you can't wait to eat at Jay's again when you're away!Big thank you to Kim, she made our first time so wonderful. You have fans for life! We will always go out of our way to eat at this stellar gem. It truly is the best BBQ we have ever had, and we eat a whole lot of BBQ. Thank you Jay's, for making BBQ the right way and putting out such a high quality product! The pictures don't do it justice, we can't wait to come back!!!

Let me tell you... I'm not from the area, Not even from the state of Texas. This BBQ is some of the best that I have had. I'm use to mission bbq not that REAL TEXAS BBQ. I was NOT disappointed!! The pig candy (not pictured) was absolutely amazing. Honestly I need to run it back some time this week! Get there early! I got the last three ribs for the day and I was elated!

To put it mildly, we would consider this restaurant not only worthy of a place in the vaunted Texas Monthly Magazine top fifty, but in the top thirty. It is that good. Our meal was stellar from start to finish. Outstanding "pig candy" (pork belly burnt ends) leads the way. A one meat (fatty brisket), two side (pinto beans, Hatch chile mac n' cheese) plate followed, with a pair of ribs and a jalapeno cheddar sausage complementing. The buttery smooth brisket featured good smoke and great flavor packed into the traditional central Texas rub. The sausage is superb. The tasty ribs, which were perfectly prepared, adhering to the bone while separating cleanly at the bite, were among the few that we have eaten in Texas that would hold their own in KC or Memphis. The pinto beans and mac 'n cheese were both top notch. We saved a pint of brisket elote and a banana pudding for the road, along with a bottle of the house made Cherry Chipotle sauce, which went well with the ribs, and will pair wonderfully with pulled pork. You really need to sample it. The brisket elote was interesting-- the peppery corn, with its hint of jalapeno, offering a second look at the brisket. The two worked well together. In turn, the pudding proved to be nice and light, and not excessively sweet. If you are dining in, it will make a pleasant finish. This is "destination 'cue" at its finest.

How could I have not reviewed my favorite BBQ spot before now?!? Been here a lot and just realized I have not done this. Well to start, I have been to a ton of bbq places. Jay's is the best I have been to. Lots of creative specials. The smoked brisket is off the chain! Today 's special was a bbq meatloaf burger. The picture doesn't do justice. They are inly open Wed-Sat from 11am til sold out(usually 2pm) Worth the wait in line. It only has outdoor seating, but has a fun Texas flair. Super friendly people!Get you some!

Man oh man oh man! It is finger licking good!! I stopped in here for some great BBQ and so glad I did! The brisket is so moist, it's an outdoor seating area fyi, decent parking but worth it because this has to be the best BBQ in Abilene! Wow it was good, get the ribs too!