Tender Smokehouse Little Elm shines as a must-visit barbecue restaurant located in Little Elm, TX. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a welcoming atmosphere complemented by friendly staff. The vibrant dining experience is further enhanced by the option to dine outdoors, perfect for family gatherings. This establishment is lauded for its generous portions and a menu that tantalizes the taste buds. Signature offerings like the brisket and fall-off-the-bone spare ribs are crowd favorites, with customers praising their tender, juicy texture. The housemade BBQ sauce, rich with smoky flavors and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, adds an irresistible touch to every dish. Breakfast tacos, served with handmade salsa, have also garnered enthusiastic reviews, highlighting the versatility of the menu. Notably, the Tender Family Packs are an excellent choice for gatherings. Reviews like those from Nick and Quianna Wilson emphasize the quality and flavor, making each meal memorable. Whether it's the mac and cheese or the unique baked beans, each side complements the main dishes beautifully. Tender Smokehouse Little Elm is not just about great food; it's a community gathering place that cares about its customers. This place truly embodies the essence of Southern hospitality, making it a new favorite for many BBQ lovers.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers kerbside pickup
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Tender Smokehouse Little Elm
Nick
May 20,2025
The people and atmosphere are awesome! The food is really good too! I'm not sure if people realize they serve breakfast because there's hardly anyone here in the mornings, but they have really good breakfast tacos!! The pancakes are great too, and I would like to try the sausage and biscuits eventually! The tacos come with salsa, which I believe they home make. Either way, it's a delicious salsa that always clears out my throat and sinuses in a good way with lovely flavor and mild spice! I like to do equal parts salsa and their bbq sauce with the brisket breakfast tacos!! Very yummy lol! I really like the sauce it's nice and smoky, kinda hickory/mesquite flavor with a little tomato, little vinegar, and a little peppery finish. It's a very well balanced and flavorful bbq sauce, which they sell! Also, tried the bbq sandwich combo today with turkey and macaroni! It was really good and well cooked, although I wish both items were a bit more smokey. That's a bit picky though, it was really delicious!!
Rachel G
May 10,2025
Loved the BBQ from the brisket, sausage, and the ribs! Plus the delicious potato salad. Enjoyed the house BBQ sauce as well. Servings were plentiful! Looked like a great place for dining. I want to try breakfast next time we visit. We did takeout. Would definitely go back next time in Texas.
Quianna Wilson
May 1,2025
I just placed my first dinner order for a family of 5. Let me say, we have found our new favorite bbq place. Everyone was so friendly. I went with my toddler for pickup and he was greeted with high fives. It was a big order and they were kind enough to take it to the car.The food was generous portions. The Brisket was very tender, juicy and flavorful. But the mac and bbq beans was a home run. Straight southern cooking. Im so happy that Little Elm has another great eatery with amazing owners and staff.
Kay Harrell Bowman
Apr 23,2025
What a delicious and clean place to eat! (Restrooms were clean too) I had the half ribs (seasoned, falling off the bone -tender), mac n cheese (lightly seasoned), baked potato w/ cheese and baked beans (unique flavor)! All too tasty - all of my dishes complimented each other. I sat outdoors - very chill vibe. Highly recommend going towards late evening. Plenty of games and things to do for families. The manager, Chad and staff were very welcoming folks!!
tri dinh
Apr 19,2025
We've been at this BBQ place for several times, just to confirm that their services and food are consistent, and they are. From employees to the managers, everyone is polite, tentative and they show that they actually want to work their with pride. Brisket and sausages are always on point, price is reasonable. This BBQ located in Little Elm where people are harsh when it comes to food and supporting local business, but so far it is everyone's favorite restaurant. I sincerely hope they thrive, Prosper, attract more customers and always deliver as they have always been.
Pamela Martin
Apr 16,2025
We went to visit some friends and they recommended Tenders. So glad they did! The brisket was delicious, tender and juicy. I had the macaroni and the baked beans, plentiful and also delicious. The staff was very friendly , welcoming and super fast delivering our food! I wish I had tried the banana pudding, but I would go right now for more brisket! Mmmmm !When are you expanding to Colorado?
Photosaurus Flex
Mar 29,2025
I stopped by Tender Smokehouse in Little Elm on a random Tuesday around 1 PM and was blown away by the experience. I ordered the beef rib, which runs 38—but don’t let the price scare you. The portion is massive, easily enough for two meals. I gave it my best shot but still walked away with leftovers (happily, I might add). From the time I ordered to the moment I sat down, my food arrived in less than five minutes—super fast service, especially for barbecue. The beef rib was incredibly tender, perfectly cooked with just the right amount of fat. I could literally pull it apart with the side of my fork. The tangy barbecue sauce paired beautifully with the meat, elevating every bite. As someone from North Carolina, I’m pretty particular about my barbecue—but this place impressed me. If you're anywhere near Little Elm, make sure to check out this hidden gem. You won't regret it.
Johnny “Johnny's good life tips” Even
Mar 17,2025
Yummy Finally a good bbq place which I don’t need to see the pit and smell like it Great food Friendly service Ribs were the best
Reviews For Tender Smokehouse Little Elm