Coastal breeze and ranch country meet in Victoria, and meals here are built for real schedules. When you want Texas BBQ, start with a barbecue restaurant close to your route and let the line guide you. Order ribs once when you want a darker bark and a slower chew, then keep the rest of the tray flexible. Downtown can feel quiet in the morning, then turn busy fast at lunch.

KB's BBQ is a solid first try when you want a calm counter and a dependable plate. It fits a weekday meal when you still have a full afternoon ahead.

Aunt Jo's BBQ can feel like the kind of spot that regulars return to without making a speech about it. Get what looks hottest, eat it while it is fresh, and keep the conversation going.

Uncle Mutt's Bar-B-Q works when you want a bigger table mood and a little more smoke in the room. Add smoked sausage once if you want a snappy bite beside the main cut. Go early if you can, because the best parts of the line do not wait.