When the clerk at the hotel in Victoria heard we were headed to Gonzales, he said we HAD to eat at the Food Market in downtown Gonzales.  “The best sausage I have ever eaten,” he proclaimed.  Yea!  We love recommendations.

There it was – right on the historic square of Gonzales, Texas.  We could smell the smoky aroma of the barbecue before we set eyes on this combined barbecue restaurant/convenience store.  For well over 50 years, three generations of the Lopez family have faithfully barbecued sausage and other meats in Gonzales, Texas.

Be still my heart!  This was a first for me.  When the owner Richard Lopez saw me taking pictures, he invited me through the back doors to see his pits.  He was so friendly and gave me a royal tour.  I was impressed.

This was the original wood burning brick pit.  It is one of three pits that continuously turn out sausage, brisket, ribs, and chicken.  Mr. Lopez made a point of letting me know that if a pit has a rotisserie, “That is not barbecue!”  Also, if someone uses propane, fuhgeddaboudit (my word)!  “Barbecue is cooked in a pit with wood!”  Now you know.

I ordered the brisket.  At first I thought it looked a little dry, but it was moist and had a nice crust.  Surprise, surprise!  The potato salad and beans were actually good.  The sauce was different.  It was a thin vinegar based sauce, and it was a little tart.   It was okay – just a little different.

Then I remembered – Oh, this Food Market is famous for their sausage.  I ordered one link to give it a try.  It was very tasty.  We got the regular (They also have a spicy version.), and it had great flavor but was not too spicy.  I understand why people make a journey to Gonzales for barbecue.  This is great barbecue.

Ever-Lovin’ is always trying to be healthy, and he ordered the chicken.  (The lady at the Jail Museum raved about the barbecued chicken.)  Oh, I wish I had some of this barbecue right now.  Even the cold slaw was decent.  Other reviewers have raved about the ribs at the Gonzales Food Market.

On the wall was their fair share of accolades.  Gonzales Food Market has not made it into the top 50 BBQ joints by Texas Monthly, and I do not understand why they haven’t.  It is well worth a stop if you are in the area, or make it a destination.  You will not be sorry.

Blessings to you and yours,

Gonzales Food Market is not opened on Sundays.  Monday through Saturday they are opened from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

As usual, Gonzales Food Market does not know me.  I am just sharing.