San Maximum: AJ’s Ranch Road Grill

By Timia Cobb
Web Content Contributor

As a college student who lives in a dorm, I am sad to admit that most of my money goes towards food delivery. My money, however, is very well spent. After spending time in San Marcos and ordering from various different places that make various different kinds of food, I have truly found the best food San Marcos has to offer. AJ’s Ranch Road Grill is my little piece of heaven. I grew up in East Texas and because of this, I take pride in good BBQ. When I tried AJ’s Ranch Road Grill for the first time it felt as if I was back home in East Texas. AJ’s possibly has the best BBQ I’ve ever tasted. AJ’s Ranch Road Grill is located at 205 Moore St, San Marcos, TX 78666, which conveniently is on the same street as my Falls/Sayers dorm.

The Discounts and Atmosphere

After having AJ’s, I was shocked that most people weren’t raving about it, and I couldn’t see how it wasn’t one of San Marcos hot spots. It’s located on the outskirts of west campus, stays open till 3 a.m. and the owner goes out of his way to have discounts for Texas State students. The environment of the restaurant is very homey. It’s not super fancy and somewhat reminds me of a diner, but the staff is always helpful and quick to tell you the wait time on certain food. It’s just a really inviting place. The restaurant’s prices are also very reasonable, especially for the large serving sizes. The sandwich combos range between $7 and $9, while the plates with two sides varies from $9 to $13 depending on the protein you get. AJ’s has various discounts through the app Pocket Points, an app made for college students to earn discounts by attending classes. One of discounts I use every time I go to AJ’s is a buy one Texas-sized sandwich and get another free. This allows you to get two meals for about $10, save money, get really good barbecue and you even go late at night when your having cravings– it’s a win win.

Must Try Menu Items

AJ’s menu has various items for anything you’re craving. The first thing I tried from their restaurant was the Stoner Mac & Cheese; it’s regular mac & cheese but with a savory layer of brisket on top. It costs $5.50 and the serving size can be a meal by itself. They also sell Tex-Mex brisket, pork tacos and fajitas. They even have a brisket quesadilla that makes you want to cry from how glorious it tastes. Their brisket is honestly perfect in so many ways that it makes me feel as though I am getting my money’s worth and I know I won’t find any other place like it. Their food has a very good quality taste while not be overly expensive.

Is It Worth The Try?

AJ’s is an amazing restaurant that has reasonable prices, student discounts, and not only BBQ, but many assorted food options to choose from, which I love. They are also in walking distance from campus. I see myself coming back to AJ’s Ranch Road Grill as many times as I can before I have to go back home and I would highly encourage anyone to try it while in San Marcos.

Featured image by Timia Cobb.