Fodor's Expert Review The Iron Works Barbecue

From its creekside perch in the shadow of the Austin Convention Center, this spot caters to name-tagged conference attendees, construction workers, and thoroughly starched office workers alike. Dependable house specialties include pepper-crusted smoked pork loin, tender brisket, and Flintstones-size beef ribs (the junior rib plate will satisfy all but the hugest of appetites). Wrought-iron grills, forged here when the building was an ironworks, hang from the rafters. It's a charming (albeit slightly raucous) and authentic slice of Texas cuisine, even if it's not the best barbecue joint within city limits.