Iron Works - Austin, Texas

Address	100 Red River Austin, TX 78701 (map)
Phone	512-478-4855 (Toll Free 800-669-3602)
Web Site	http://www.ironworksbbq.com/
Open	Seven days a week 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Date Visited	December 1, 2005
Reviewer	Tex

Originally an ornamental Iron Work shop owned and operated by the Weigl family, this little tin building was converted into The Iron Works BBQ in 1978. Shortly after opening their doors, the State Historical Commission registered the property as a historical site, honoring the Weigls and their legacy.

Located just on the South side of Downtown, I had heard a lot of great things about Iron Works. Pulling into the parking lot at about 1:00 and seeing all the cars was a good sign. The building itself is great! Cool place. Entering through the screen door, the place is dark and rustic. Wood floors, neon signs, and blue checkered table cloths set the atmosphere. You order your meat, sides, etc at a large window.

Everything costs money (pickles, onions, bread, etc.). Once your meal is prepared you move down a short line, pick out your favorite bottled beverage and move over to the register to pay. There are about 20-30 tables in the front room, and then a patio overlooking a "ghetto style" riverwalk out back.

I ordered "The 3". Ribs cannot be ordered by the pound, just half-racks and larger. The ribs were the smaller baby back variety. Sitting down to eat everything looked great. My first taste were the ribs. Nothing great, just average baby backs. Brisket the same thing....kind of dry. The sausage was the best of the 3. Sauce was on the thick and sweet side. Not bad, a little better than average. Same with the sides, beans being the best of the two I tried (slaw & beans).

Ribs	Brisket	Sausage	Sauce	Sides	Atmosphere	Overall Score
2.50	2.50	3.50	3.00	3.00	4.50	3.17

Bottom Line

I was pretty disappointed. It wasn't bad at all, just average. I had heard a lot of great things about this place and just didn't see it. The atmosphere of the place takes the cake. Definitely a cool place for a Q joint. I bet the Spring time is nice out on the patio.