Whether you prefer Carolina, Kansas City, Memphis, Alabama, or Texas style BBQ, and you like ribs, brisket, pulled pork, or chicken with sauce or without sauce, there are some great barbecue spots near Fort Hood to satisfy your BBQ cravings. Plus, if you’re exploring things to do in Killeen, Texas, these restaurants are a tasty stop along the way.
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1. Miller’s Smokehouse
300 E Central Ave, Belton, TX 76513
Miller’s has earned a statewide reputation for excellence and is a must-visit in Belton. What started as a family business has evolved into a dining destination. Miller's is known for its perfectly smoked brisket, creative daily specials, and breakfast. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal outing for the family.
What to order: Go with the St. Louis-style ribs or a signature like Fire in the Bowl.
2. Schoepf’s Bar-B-Que
702 E Central Ave, Belton, TX 76513
Serving the community since the 1990s, Schoepf’s is known for its mesquite-smoked meats cooked over open pits. In addition to their brisket and sausage, it hosts live music on an outdoor stage, making it a fun spot to soak up Texas vibes.
What to order: You can’t go wrong with the Creekstone Prime Brisket and a side of potato salad.
3. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
5621 E Central Texas Expy, Killeen, TX 76543
Rudy’s blends the feel of a gas station convenience store with serious barbecue. Known for consistent flavor across its many Texas locations, Rudy's is especially popular with military families who need a quick BBQ meal with all the fixings. If you’re moving to the area, it’s a great stop while exploring Fort Hood homes for rent.
What to order: Moist brisket, creamed corn, and its famous breakfast tacos (if you go early).
4. Band of Brothers BBQ
13178 S Fort Hood St, Killeen, TX 76542
This veteran-owned business reopened in 2023. It's praised for friendly service and mouth-watering, tender brisket. With high ratings from locals, Band of Brothers has quickly become a go-to for families around Fort Hood.
What to order: Grab a brisket sandwich with the signature BBQ sauce.
5. Backyard BBQ
1695 Morgan’s Point Rd, Belton, TX76513
Backyard BBQ keeps it casual and welcoming, just like its name suggests. Known for smoky ribs and generous plates, it’s the kind of place where you feel right at home, making it a regular in the weekly meal schedule.
What to order: Don't miss the Bubba Tater stuffed with brisket.
6. Jasper’s Bar-B-Que
105 Clifton St, Waco, TX 76704
This old-school joint in Waco is worth planning your day around. Though it's located a little further out in Waco, the straightforward approach to brisket, sausage, and ribs has earned them loyal fans.
What to order: Majority rules—you'll want to try the Big-Tex Sandwich.
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7. Petty’s BBQ
510 Rancier Ave, Killeen, TX 76541
Petty’s is one of the most talked-about BBQ spots in Killeen. With brisket, ribs, and sides that draw regular crowds, it’s not uncommon to see a line out the door at this veteran-owned establishment. Petty's has been serving the community for years, making it a local staple. Whether you’re browsing Fort Hood homes for sale or just visiting, it’s worth the trip.
What to order: Hard to go wrong with the sliced brisket with jalapeño-cheddar sausage and coleslaw.
8. Big Dog BBQ
Food truck in Copperas Cove, Texas
Big Dog BBQ made a name for itself in 2016. Located in Copperas Cove, it's known for smoky meats and large portions. You’ll find this local favorite on wheels at most local events. And if you want them to come to you, they’re rock-star caterers.
What to order: Give the pulled pork sandwich with a side of loaded potato salad a try.
9. Bobby B’s Soul Food Kitchen & More
3601 Zephyr Road, Killeen, TX 76543
Bobby B’s combines soul food comfort with barbecue goodness. The plates often include ribs, brisket, and chicken alongside hearty sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Bobby B's Soul Food Kitchen & More has locations in Killeen and Copperas Cove. A must-visit if you’re exploring restaurants in Killeen.
What to order: You won't want to miss the BBQ rib plate with collard greens and cornbread.
10. Smokey Mo’s BBQ
529 Knight's Way, Harker Heights, Texas 76548
Part of a small Texas chain, Smokey Mo’s in Harker Heights and Temple offers all the BBQ staples in a clean, family-friendly setting. With brisket, turkey, sausage, and more, it’s a reliable option just a short drive from Fort Hood.
What to Order: Go big with the smoked turkey breast with green beans and potato salad.
Honorable Mention: Buc-ee’s in Temple
4155 N General Bruce Dr, Temple, TX 76501
Buc-ee’s may be best known for its clean bathrooms and endless snacks, but don’t overlook its BBQ counter. From brisket sandwiches to smoked turkey, Buc-ee’s in Temple serves up surprisingly good barbecue for a quick stop on the way to Austin or Waco.
What to order: Brisket sandwich or chopped brisket taco.
No matter where you land around Fort Hood, you’re never far from a plate piled high with smoky brisket, tender ribs, and all the sides that make BBQ, well, BBQ. Whether you’re celebrating a promotion, grabbing a quick bite after a long day of searching for Fort Hood homes for sale or Fort Hood homes for rent, or enjoying the local scene, these local restaurants near and in Killeen deliver the kind of flavor that feels like home.
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