WacoTX.com

Papa Jack's BBQ

4.9(1,149)Barbecue Restaurant$$

About Papa Jack's BBQ

Situated along East Waco Drive, Papa Jack's BBQ is an unpretentious barbecue restaurant that has captured the appreciation of locals and travelers alike, earning an exceptional 4.9-star rating from over 1,100 Google reviews. This welcoming East Waco dining spot specializes in flavorful grilled meats sold by the pound, satisfying barbecue plates, and an array of hearty sides. Diners consistently highlight the well-seasoned menu, noting tender ribs that fall cleanly off the bone, savory turkey, and juicy brisket, which can all be enjoyed on their own or paired with the kitchen's tasty homemade sauce.

Designed to suit any schedule, the moderately priced restaurant serves both lunch and dinner throughout the day. Customers looking to sit down and soak in the friendly atmosphere can take advantage of comfortable dine-in seating, and the outpost also accepts reservations for those planning ahead. For patrons needing a quality meal on the move, Papa Jack's BBQ provides prompt takeout and delivery options, making it simple to enjoy their highly rated Texas barbecue wherever you are.

Highlights

  • Dine-in
  • Takeout
  • Delivery
  • Reservations
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Reviews

L

Larry Griggs, Jr

3 months ago

5.0

Food was well seasoned and had a great taste, not too salty and not bland! I like BBQ that doesnt need sauce and they do not need sauce, but their homemade sauce is good. Ribs fell smooth off the bone, brisket was not as soft as Im used to, but it was not bad, and same for the turkey. Im a country boy and that place is definitely a country spot. Pit was smoking and wood sitting out back, so they cook it all there. Im eating there the next time I go to Waco for sure. Service was awesome and fast. And the Cornbread was on point, sweet and soft! No extra charge for brisket and the portions are great as well. Sides were smoked and had a good taste to them. The smoked cabbage is good! I ate half of my food and was full. 3 meats and 2 sides for $22 is a steal in the BBQ world!

M

Melissa Weathers

5 months ago

5.0

My friend is always looking for the best BBQ, so when we were passing through Waco on our way to a Beepball tournament, I looked for a highly rated place close to the highway. My husband, son, friend and I all agree that Papa Jack’s BBQ is the best we’ve had. The brisket is so tender and juicy. My friend said the Mac & cheese is the best he’s ever had. My son got the brisket nachos which was huge. One of the owners who also cooks, Kim, came by our table and we had a nice chat. I had to try the peach cobbler, so we shared some and devoured it all. We’ve already decided that when we go to this beepball tournament next year, we’ll be calling Kim to order brisket for our team for the weekend.

F

Foodislife

5 months ago

5.0

Food was delicious! Smoked mac n cheese was different than I’ve ever tried…so flavorful! Brisket was perfect and sweet potato casserole was yummmmmmmmm. Owner was so sweet and welcoming. Pecan pie was perfectly sweetened!

A

Ashley Adler

3 months ago

5.0

We stopped at Papa Jack’s BBQ in Waco after visiting the zoo because of the great reviews, and it completely exceeded every expectation. My husband, our five-year-old daughter, and I all agreed this was the best barbecue we’ve ever had — and we’ve traveled through many states searching for great BBQ restaurants. The brisket and chicken were unbelievably good — tender, juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The macaroni was so creamy and delicious our daughter kept asking for more and more. The potato salad was the best potato salad I’ve ever had in my life. We also tried the sweet potato casserole, which tasted like a homemade dessert, and the rolls were amazing too. What made this place even more special was the atmosphere and hospitality. From the moment we walked in, it felt warm, welcoming, laid-back, and family-oriented. Everyone was so kind to us and made us feel completely at home. One of the sweetest things was the free children’s books available for kids. A lady donates books every week to help encourage reading and literacy, and our daughter had the best time sitting at the table reading while we enjoyed our meal. That small touch meant so much to us as parents. We are so thankful we found this place and already can’t wait to come back the next time we’re in Waco. Papa Jack’s BBQ is truly something special, and we’ll be recommending it to everyone we know.

J

Jamie Martin

4 months ago

5.0

Came in from Ft Worth to see some fossils and meet up with some friends from Austin. Did a search for local BBQ, off the beaten path. With 4.9 stars and GREAT prices, it was the perfect vibe. Loved the atmosphere and the people!! Food was fantastic! Expect more thab your everyday TX bbq. I WILL return. Great place. Thank you for the great experience.