Coopers Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
Experience the heart of Texas BBQ with authentic mesquite-cooked meats, generous portions, and a classic, rustic atmosphere.
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Coopers Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the heart of Texas BBQ with authentic mesquite-cooked meats, generous portions, and a classic, rustic atmosphere.
"Melt-in-your-mouth brisket and a true taste of Texas BBQ make this a must-visit spot."
Ask the Pit Master
First-time visitor? Let the pit master know for special recommendations on the best cuts.
Go with a Group
Share meals with friends to try a variety of succulent meats and delicious sides.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Barbecue
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Texas Mesquite BBQ
Experience true Texas barbecue slow-cooked over mesquite coals for unparalleled smoky flavor and tenderness.
Generous Portions & 'The Big Chop'
Indulge in hearty, Texas-sized portions. Don't miss 'The Big Chop', a massive, pepper-crusted pork chop.
Classic BBQ Atmosphere
Enjoy a rustic, traditional Texas BBQ joint with picnic table seating and a lively, casual vibe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask the Pit Master
First-time visitor? Let the pit master know for special recommendations on the best cuts.
Go with a Group
Share meals with friends to try a variety of succulent meats and delicious sides.
Try the Jalapeño Beans
Don't miss the highly recommended jalapeño beans - a flavorful and complimentary side dish.
Save Room for Dessert
Their fruit cobblers are a must-try, often cited as some of the best in central Texas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask the Pit Master
First-time visitor? Let the pit master know for special recommendations on the best cuts.
Go with a Group
Share meals with friends to try a variety of succulent meats and delicious sides.
Try the Jalapeño Beans
Don't miss the highly recommended jalapeño beans - a flavorful and complimentary side dish.
Save Room for Dessert
Their fruit cobblers are a must-try, often cited as some of the best in central Texas.
Off-Peak Hours
Visit during off-peak hours to potentially avoid long lines and ensure a smoother experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Coopers Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is celebrated for its authentic Texas barbecue, particularly its tender brisket and flavorful meats cooked over mesquite coals. Diners appreciate the classic, casual atmosphere and generous portions. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in meat quality and price point compared to other local options, with occasional critiques of sides like potato salad and cornbread.
"Texas brisket never disappoints! This place is very cool in how you walk thru and order. Excellent flavor and crispy edges. Tell the pit master it’s your first time and he’ll hook you up with the best cuts. That sauce has an interesting tang. It’s different but I liked it. Tingles the tongue."
Charlie Matthews
"Generally coopers bbq is really good and I expect that for the prices here. Sometimes it’s better than others and today 4/21/25 it was lacking… for example, some of the meats had been sitting too long and the 1/2lb of brisket was very fatty (see pic). Chicken is very good here as well as the pork ribs (our favs). We liked the mac and cheese but NOT the potato salad. Bottom line, there’s other good local bbq options for less."
Tx Girl
"BBQ was okay, pork ribs were tough and did not fall off of the bone. Brisket was dry and did not have proper rind. MacNCheese was good. Banana pudding was good. Corn bread was very dry. Price was high for the quality. Sauce was thin and very vinegar bases which I do not prefer."
Joe Nipper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's famous for authentic Texas barbecue cooked over mesquite coals, especially its tender brisket, ribs, and 'Big Chop'. They also offer complimentary jalapeño beans.
It's a cafeteria-style service. You select your meat directly from the pit, then choose sides and desserts cafeteria-style before paying.
While primarily a meat-focused establishment, sides like mac and cheese, baked potatoes, and cobbler are available.
Yes, the large picnic-style tables are great for groups to share a variety of meats and sides.
Visiting during off-peak hours is recommended to potentially avoid long lines and wait times.
If it's your first time, let the pit master know – they might offer special recommendations on the best cuts.
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15 Best Restaurants near New Braunfels, Texas to Try
Their logo includes the slogan, “It’s All About the Meat”, and it certainly is, cooked over mesquite coals and served right off the pit!. Located in the midst of the river and music attractions, you’ll find traditional picnic style seating in their main dining room, or outdoor seating under the trees. Meat options include: Beef – Ribs, Brisket, chopped, sandwich, Prime Rib, Ribeye, or Sirloin; Chicken – Whole or Half; Turkey; Pork – Chops, Loin or Ribs; Sausage.
Best Restaurants in New Braunfels, TX
For an inexpensive yet finger-licking tray of Texas-style barbecue, we recommend Cooper’s Old Time Pit on the north end of town. Based on flavor, Cooper’s is easily one of the five best restaurants in New Braunfels, and it’s only minutes from our waterfront River City rentals. Cooper’s now has four locations in Texas, but that hasn’t slowed them done as they continue to sling some of the best brisket and ribs in The Lone Star State.
The Best BBQ in Texas: 55 Spots State-Wide You Can't Miss
Texas Hill Country pit-style barbecue is served proudly at this cornerstone of the Austin barbecue scene. In addition to the ubiquitous brisket and glazed pork ribs, they also serve the “Big Chop,” a massive pepper-crusted pork chop seemingly large enough to feed a family of four. Although the Llano location is the original, you can find their restaurants around the Austin, Dallas, and Houston areas.
The People’s Choice Awards: NB According to Yelp
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q is some of the best barbecue in all of the Hill Country, and the Yelp reviews back up that claim. Yelp reviewers are talking about how the self-service is a great idea, and the big family tables are great for sharing meals. There isn’t a bad meat that Cooper’s serves, and it is tempting to pick them all...but Yelp is saying the brisket is, “melt in your mouth delicious.
10 barbecue spots in New Braunfels perfect for smoked meat
Starting in the fall of 2008, Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q started serving its "original off-the-pit BBQ" just like the Llano location, according to the Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q website. There is a large dining area that can fit over 300 guests. Article continues below this ad
Destination Things To Do Detail
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que: Cooper’s is a Texas barbecue institution, with locations throughout the state. Visitors can enjoy classic barbecue dishes like brisket, ribs, and sausage, as well as sides like mac and cheese and potato salad.
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