Authentic Texas BBQ in the thick of the pines

Did you know that the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort & Spa (Bastrop, TX) serves pecan-smoked BBQ? Until recently, I didn't. Once I found out, Brad and I made the short drive from Austin on a lazy Tuesday night and ate ourselves straight silly. It was my first Tuesday meat coma. Laura and Chef Neil Joiner were wonderful hosts. We took our time with each course (listed below with price and where to go at the resort to get each). The food was outstanding. Everything was served hot and fresh. The sides were innovative - absolutely nothing normal/boring about them. The meats were smoky; not dried out at all. The homemade brioche buns were ridiculously good. I ate way too much, and I'd do it again. I'll go back soon. For those of you heading in for SXSW, the HLPR&S is only about 20 minutes away and is absolutely worth it (Follow them on Twitter.). The pictures are in the order listed, beginning with the ribs. More pics on the way.

Shiner Bock queso with tortilla chips: $6 (Shellers Barrelhouse Bar and Firewheel Cafe)

Pecan-smoked St. Louis style ribs served with borracho beans: $18 (Shellers Barrelhouse Bar)

Texas-style, house-smoked-brisket sandwich with coleslaw and German potato salad: $10 (Firewheel Cafe)

Grilled Elgin sausage & house-made sauerkraut on a pretzel roll with French fries: $12 (Shellers Barrelhouse Bar)

Slow-cooked, pulled-pork-shoulder sliders with pickled red cabbage and French fries on homemade brioche buns: $10 (Shellers Barrelhouse Bar)

Smoked pork-belly sliders with red onion, mustard seed jam, horseradish and arugula on homemade brioche buns (served only for groups requesting)