On a Saturday morning, I pulled into Goldee’s Barbecue just before 8 AM after driving a little over an hour. Even at 7:45 AM, I was already about 24th or 25th in line. Waiting is part of the Goldee’s tradition, and the line is as much a social event as the meal itself. I chatted with a couple ahead of me who had flown in on Thursday. They were doing their own BBQ crawl around Dallas Fort Worth and planned to hit eight joints before heading home.
Goldee’s has that kind of pull. People plan entire trips around it.
The Goldee’s Atmosphere
Located at 4645 Dick Price Road in Fort Worth, Goldee’s opens Friday through Sunday at 11 AM and runs until sellout. By the time the doors open, the crowd is buzzing with anticipation. Staff often greet folks in line, offer samples or water, and check in. There is a sense of hospitality woven into the experience.
What I Ordered
When I got to the counter, I filled my tray with:
- Brisket
- Ribs
- Sausage
- Turkey
- Potato Salad
- House-baked bread
This lineup gave me a strong spread of what Goldee’s is known for and a sense of why it consistently draws BBQ lovers from across the state and beyond.
Tasting Notes
Brisket
The brisket was textbook Central Texas style with a smoky bark, black pepper crust, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The fatty end was rich without being greasy, while the lean slices held moisture and flavor. No sauce was needed, just pure post oak smoke.
Ribs
The pork ribs were outstanding. Meaty with a perfect tug from the bone, they carried a light sweetness balanced by smoke and seasoning. Not candy-coated and not dry, just that perfect middle ground where every bite left me licking my fingers.
Sausage
The sausage had a satisfying snap with a juicy interior seasoned to complement the smoke. It was hearty and well balanced, the kind of link that pairs beautifully with house mustard and pickles.
Turkey
Turkey at BBQ joints can be hit or miss, but here it was moist, tender, and deeply flavorful. A thick slice held together but gave way to juicy bites. It proved that poultry can be a BBQ star.
Sides and Bread
- Potato Salad: Creamy, cool, and just tangy enough.
House-baked bread: One of the highlights. Soft and fresh, with just enough chew, it worked perfectly as a pairing for meats or simply on its own.
Community in Line
What really struck me at Goldee’s was the atmosphere before the food even arrived. Strangers shared stories, swapped BBQ travel tips, and bonded over the shared goal of smoked perfection. That couple from the BBQ crawl reminded me that Goldee’s is not just a restaurant. It is a pilgrimage for enthusiasts.
Why Goldee’s Earns Its Reputation
Goldee’s is not simply about meat on a tray. It is about craftsmanship, hospitality, and community. No wonder Texas Monthly named it the number one BBQ joint in Texas in 2021. From brisket and ribs to sides and bread, every detail feels intentional.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Wait?
Without hesitation, yes. Goldee’s Barbecue is worth the drive, the early wake-up call, and the time in line. If you want a taste of the very best in Texas BBQ, Goldee’s delivers on every level.
Pro Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early if you want a full selection of meats and sides.
- Bring a chair or water, since the line is long but friendly.
- Try the bread, it is not just filler, it is a star.
- Order a mix of meats so you can experience brisket, ribs, sausage, and turkey together.
