Dino Ribs: A Black’s BBQ Specialty

When it comes to true Texas BBQ, one place sticks out as a legendary institution, known for serving up the best in smoked meats: Black’s BBQ. Known for our smoked brisket, there’s a unique item on our menu that’s making waves among BBQ enthusiasts — Dino Ribs. These giant beef ribs are deeeeeelicious. 

Let’s take a deep dive into what makes these ribs so special, how they’re cooked to perfection, and why they should be at the top of your must-try list next time you visit Black’s BBQ.

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What Are Dino Ribs?

Dino ribs are exactly what they sound like — massive cuts of beef short ribs that resemble something you’d expect to come from a dinosaur. These ribs come from the plate section of the cow, specifically from the short rib area. Unlike pork ribs, which are typically smaller and more delicate, Dino ribs are big, bold, and meaty, offering a primal BBQ experience. Each rib can weigh up to two pounds, and they are packed with marbled, juicy beef that absorbs smoke flavor beautifully during the cooking process.

These ribs have earned their nickname for their sheer size. Picture this: each rib is typically around 8-12 inches long and thick enough to require two hands to hold one. The visual alone is a conversation starter, making them a popular choice for barbecue lovers looking to feast with their eyes as well as their stomachs. 

How Dino Ribs Are Cooked

Perfectly cooked Dino ribs are an art form, and Black’s BBQ is one of the few places that has truly mastered it. The process begins with selecting high-quality beef ribs with the right amount of marbling. This marbling is essential because it melts during cooking, making the ribs tender and juicy.

Once the ribs are prepped, they’re seasoned with a simple yet effective rub—typically salt, pepper, and sometimes a few secret spices that vary from pitmaster to pitmaster. At Black’s BBQ, the focus is on letting the quality of the meat and the magic of the smoking process do most of the work.

The ribs are then slow-smoked for several hours, often as long as 8-12 hours, depending on the size of the ribs and the pitmaster’s technique. This slow-cooking process allows the fat to render and the connective tissue to break down, transforming what could be a tough cut of meat into a fall-off-the-bone ribs. Black’s BBQ uses a combination of post oak wood to impart a rich, smoky flavor, which enhances the natural taste of the beef.

The result? A tender, flavorful rib with a perfect crust, known in the BBQ world as "bark," that forms on the outside. The bark provides a satisfying texture contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth interior. When you bite into a Dino rib, you get a mouthful of smoky, savory beef that’s juicy and tender, with just enough chew to remind you that you’re eating one of the most delicious cuts of BBQ out there.

Why Dino Ribs Are a Must-Try

So, why should Dino ribs be at the top of your BBQ bucket list? Let’s break it down.

1. Flavor Explosion

Dino ribs offer a depth of flavor that’s hard to match. The rich, beefy taste of short ribs is amplified by the slow-smoking process, which infuses the meat with layers of smoky goodness. The fat melts away, leaving a succulent, flavorful bite in every mouthful. If you’re a fan of beef in general, Dino ribs take it to the next level with a complexity of flavor that combines the natural richness of the meat with the subtleties of smoke and seasoning.

2. The Experience

There’s something about the sheer size of Dino ribs that makes them exciting. These ribs are not just food — they’re a feast. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or tackling one on your own, the visual impact of a giant beef rib is undeniable. For barbecue lovers, it’s a rite of passage to hold one of these fall off the bone ribs in your hands and dive in. It’s satisfying and unforgettable.

3. Unique to Black’s BBQ

While many BBQ joints offer beef ribs, Black’s BBQ has elevated them into an art form. Their years of experience and dedication to the craft make them a go-to destination for anyone looking to try this dish. The Black family has been perfecting their BBQ techniques for generations, and their attention to detail shows in every bite of their Dino ribs.

Where to Buy Dino Ribs: Black’s BBQ - All Locations

If you’re ready to sink your teeth into these colossal ribs, you’re in luck — Black’s BBQ serves their signature Dino ribs at all of their locations. Whether you’re near their flagship restaurant in Lockhart or visiting one of their newer spots in Austin, New Braunfels, or San Marcos, you’ll be able to enjoy this BBQ masterpiece.

Black’s BBQ Locations:

Lockhart – The original location and a must-visit for BBQ purists.

Austin – Perfect for those looking to grab some of the best BBQ in the heart of Texas’ capital.

New Braunfels – A convenient stop between Austin and San Antonio.

San Marcos – Another great option, close to the Texas State University campus.

At each location, you’ll find the same commitment to quality and flavor that has made Black’s BBQ a Texas legend. Whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout, Dino ribs are a standout menu item that can’t be missed. 

Get your Dino Ribs

If you’re a fan of true Texas BBQ and haven’t tried Dino ribs, now’s the time to change that. Black’s BBQ has perfected the art of smoking these giant beef ribs, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is impressive. With their rich, smoky flavor and jaw-dropping size, Dino ribs offer a BBQ experience unlike any other. Next time you’re near a Black’s BBQ location, make sure to order a plate—you won’t regret it!

Or if visiting one of the locations isn’t an option, we do ship nationwide.

Whether you call them "Giant Beef Ribs" or "Dino Ribs," one thing’s for sure: these ribs are a BBQ lover’s dream.