We stopped in after just picking BBQ at random for something for dinner. Oh My God what a great place. The food is delicious. Cooked with that small town, family feel the way all food should be. The restaurant only has 3 tables, and it almost feels like you're sitting in their living room having dinner, and it's great. They recently found out they were voted #2 BBQ in all of Texas according to Yelp. If this is #2, it ain't too far behind whatever #1 could be. They are great people with great food.
Overview
When you're in Waco, Texas, and you're craving a hearty meal that truly hits the spot, you canât go wrong with Papa Jack's BBQ. Located at 700 E Waco Dr Suite A, this gem of a restaurant brings authentic Texas barbecue to life, and it does so with a laid-back vibe that makes it feel like home. Whether youâre stopping by for lunch with friends or grabbing dinner for the family, Papa Jackâs serves up flavors that are sure to impress.
Walking into Papa Jack's BBQ, the first thing you'll notice is the mouth-watering aroma of smoked meats that fills the air. The smell alone is enough to make you hungry, but itâs the taste that really makes this place stand out. From tender brisket to juicy pulled pork, everything on the menu is prepared with care, slow-cooked to perfection, and seasoned just right. Their slow-smoked meats are cooked using a traditional wood-fired smoker, which gives them that deep, smoky flavor that you just canât get from a gas grill. This attention to detail is what sets Papa Jack's BBQ apart from other places.
One of the most popular items on the menu is the brisket, which has been a crowd favorite for years. Whether you're a fan of lean or fatty cuts, their brisket is always tender and packed with flavor. Itâs served in generous portions, ensuring you get your fill of the good stuff. Alongside the brisket, they offer a variety of other meats including sausage, ribs, and turkey-each one smoked to perfection and paired with the most delicious sides.
Speaking of sides, Papa Jack's BBQ has a selection that will complement your meal perfectly. The mac and cheese is creamy, the baked beans have just the right amount of sweetness, and their coleslaw is crunchy and tangy-providing that perfect contrast to the rich meats. The potato salad also gets rave reviews, with many describing it as a must-try. For those who love a little heat, their jalapeño cornbread adds a spicy kick that elevates the entire meal.
Itâs not just about the food at Papa Jack's BBQ-the atmosphere makes it an experience. The staff is friendly and attentive, always making sure you have everything you need to enjoy your meal. The setting is casual, making it a great spot to relax, chat, and enjoy a hearty meal. Itâs the kind of place where you can truly kick back and take your time, whether you're grabbing a quick bite or staying for a leisurely dinner.
The customer reviews speak for themselves. Locals and visitors alike rave about the quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere. Many mention the consistency of the meats-how every time they visit, the flavors are just as good as the last. Regulars have shared how theyâve been coming to Papa Jack's BBQ for years and that it never disappoints. One reviewer even mentioned that they drive across town just to get their fix of the famous brisket. Itâs clear that Papa Jack's BBQ has earned its reputation as a top-tier spot in Waco.
For those who love to try new things, Papa Jack's BBQ offers specials that rotate regularly, so there's always something exciting to look forward to. Whether itâs a new take on their classic recipes or a seasonal dish, you can always count on them to mix things up and keep the menu fresh.
In addition to the quality food and great atmosphere, Papa Jack's BBQ is known for being a great value. The portions are generous, and you get a lot of bang for your buck. Whether you're ordering a plate to enjoy in-house or picking up takeout for a family meal, youâll leave feeling satisfied and full.
If youâre in Waco and craving Texas barbecue, look no further than Papa Jack's BBQ. The combination of quality meats, delicious sides, and an inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area. The next time you're in town, donât miss out on experiencing the flavors that have made this place a local favorite.
Good to know
From the business
â Identifies as Black-ownedService options
â Delivery â Takeaway â Dine-inPopular for
â Lunch â Dinner â Solo diningAccessibility
â Wheelchair-accessible car park â Wheelchair-accessible entrance â Wheelchair-accessible seating â Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
â Comfort food â Quick bite â Small platesDining options
â Lunch â Dinner â Catering â Dessert â Seating â Table serviceAmenities
â Gender-neutral toilets â ToiletAtmosphere
â Casual â CosyCrowd
â Family friendly â Groups â LGBTQ+ friendly â Tourists â Transgender safe spacePlanning
â Accepts reservationsPayments
â Cheques â Credit cards â Debit cards â Credit cardsChildren
â Good for kidsParking
â Free of charge street parking â Free parking lot â ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1028 reviews
Please come check out Miss Kim @ Papa Jackâs. Sheâs a truly gifted BBQ chef with a sincere, sweet and welcoming personality. Guys⊠honestly, you canât go wrong with anything on the menu. I ordered the three-meat plate (ribs, brisket, and links) along with smoked cabbage and beans. The ribs fell off the bone !!! The smoked cabbage was my first time trying it, and wow⊠thatâs a memory Iâll carry with me for a long time (or until the Lord calls me home), I will get it the next time I visit, which will be soon. If youâre reading this, do yourself a favor and try the sweet potato bread and the cornbread. You will not be disappointed, great flavor and generous portions will be in place. Hands down, this is the best BBQ Iâve ever had. I caught my self saying âyumâ after every bite. May God bless and prosper this place.
This food is beyond good - waaaay beyond! It's so good we bought a t- shirt!!! We had brisket and chicken. Both were over the top - the brisket is melt in your mouth, perfectly smoked deliciousness! The chicken is moist & smokey - you'll be picking all the bits off the bone, not wanting to leave any behind! Our sides were the smoked Mac & Cheese and sweet potato casserole - and they weren't just "sides" they were just as much the stars of the show as the meats were! When the owner saw that we didn't order the smoked cabbage, she brought us out a VERY generous portion for us to try. And yes, it was great! The owners are warm, friendly, NICE people. On the way out we were handed a big to-go bag - no charge! It contained 3 huge ribs (sooooo good) with baggies of pickles and onions, and slices of bread. Also included was a dessert! It could be because it was our first visit - but I have a feeling it was because these were some of the nicest people I've ever met!! GO TO THIS PLACE - IT'S REAL TEXAS BBQ!
Outstanding BBQ! We were just passing through and decided to stop before they closed. They are super nice people and even gave us extra items to try. The brisket melts in your mouth and the rib meat falls off the bone. The sauce is made in house which is a must for me. Try the cabbage, mac & cheese and collard greens. They have 2 kinds of corn bread: regular and sweet potato. Hard to choose which one but Iâve never had sweet potato corn bread and it was delish! Almost like eating dessert. Speaking of dessert, get the buttermilk pie. Wash it all down with their sweet tea. Weâre sad weâre missing First Sunday where they offer soul food one day a month. Bottom lineâŠyou gotta go! You wonât be disappointed! âââââ
Came to Waco to visit family and wanted a Texas BBQ , I looked up Papa Jacks and I was not disappointed. The place is amazing. Brisket is wonderful I have never had better melts in your mouth. The turkey and ribs were amazing the sausages were delicious but let me tell you about the sweet potato casserole and Mac and cheese I have never had better than Papa Jacks. I suggest if you are in Waco go to Papa Jacks the service is great and donât forget to try the sweet potato cornbread.
Absolutely fantastic. If I could give more stars, I would. Not only was the food absolutely amazing, delicious, and cooked with love, the owners and other family members that work there, are by far, and I mean by far, the nicest people I have ever interacted with in my entire life - ever. Pappa Jackâs BBQ is an absolute must experience!!
ATTENTION! I have Never experienced a better tasting BBQ in my 47 years on Earth. The absolute juiciest, moist, and most flavorful brisket that I never knew to exist. I also had chicken, Smoked Mac n Cheese & cabbage. Took me :30 minutes to drive Herefordâs lunch & now knowing how amazing the food isâŠ. Iâd drive 3 hours for it. Friendly family owned & operated! All Very Good people!
Super delicious, friendly, family-owned spot. We felt right at home from the moment we walked in and loved hanging out with jack and his family. The meats+sides were the best we had on our entire 3-week USA roadtrip and probably our whole life. Thank you!!