Tech offices and ballfields sit close to older Texas roads here. Round Rock offers plenty of choices, from Smokey Mo's BBQ for a quick plate to The Salt Lick BBQ when you want a longer meal. It is a useful town when everyone wants food at the same time, but not the same style of stop.

Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q is another steady option for brisket and ribs. Each spot works as a barbecue restaurant stop between errands, with enough variety to keep a group happy. If you are ordering for kids and adults, keep the meats simple and let the sides do the talking.

This is Texas BBQ that fits lunch, before the day gets too packed. Eat there if you can, since a few minutes with the tray in front of you makes the smoke and crust taste sharper. Takeout works best when you unwrap it right away.