Loro, Austin 07-2021

After failing to secure some of Franklin's famous brisket by their need to pre-order for takeaway (they weren't allowing eat-in diners) and a minimum 3lb (American) size of meat, I had to look to others. After the disappointment of missing brisket at La Barbecue, we made our way to Loro for dinner, which is Franklin's meats with an Asian spin.

There was a very long queue for a table on this Friday evening (1.5h). Instead we were allowed to order takeaway and it was ready in about 5 minutes, which was amazingly fast. There's a lot of seating outdoor where people drink and wait for tables, but you can also eat there. The staff were very friendly and helpful, giving us options for ordering and keeping me updated as to it's progress. 

Of course I had to get Smoked Beef Brisket (chili gastrique, Thai herbs) USD17.75. The Asian flavours add a nice touch to the meat, although the brisket itself had some soft parts, but a good amount was also quite dry and chewy which was disappointing. They recommended I try the Smoked Prime Bavette (shishito salsa verde, cilantro, pickled onion) USD18.75 which was cooked perfectly and had a beautiful intense smokiness to it. It was definitely better than the brisket.  

Sesame rice noodles (chili vinaigrette, black sesame, green onion) USD4.75 and oak grilled snap peas (kimchee emulsion) USD6.75 were fine sides.

I used Loro partially as a surrogate for Franklin's. Not sure how they actually directly compare. But the brisket at Terry Black's was better if this is anything to go by.