Yes, the line. Yes, it's worth it. Aaron Franklin turned a backyard hobby into the most famous barbecue in America, and somehow the brisket still tastes like someone cares about you personally. The bark is black as midnight and the fat renders into something spiritual. Bring a chair, bring a cooler, make friends. The wait is half the experience.

Insider tip

Get there by 8am on a Saturday. Order the moist brisket and a side of espresso banana pudding. You won't regret a single minute.

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