East Texas, known for its rich culinary traditions and Southern hospitality, is a hotbed for savory delights, and hot links are a local favorite. These spicy, smoked sausages are a must-try for food lovers visiting the region.

There are a lot of places where you can find hot links from grocery store delis to restaurants that specialize and focus exclusively on spicy meats. Most East Texans enjoy links with a side of chili, crackers, and hot sauce.

If you're in the mood to enjoy some hot links, we went online and found 5 places that are worth driving across Texas for.

1. Country Tavern Barbecue – Kilgore, TX

A legendary BBQ joint, Country Tavern is renowned for its mouthwatering ribs, but their hot links are equally fantastic. Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor, these links deliver the perfect balance of heat and seasoning. Served with fresh bread and pickles, they make for a true East Texas feast.

2. Bodacious Bar-B-Q – Longview, TX

Bodacious is a staple in the East Texas BBQ scene, and their hot links never disappoint. Charred to perfection with a smoky, peppery kick, the links are a go-to for sausage lovers. Enjoy them with a side of their famous jalapeño cheese bread and house-made sauce for a complete BBQ experience.

3. Rhea's Hot Links– Tyler, TX

For those who prefer a down-home, no-frills approach,  Rhea's offers hot links that are as authentic as they come. Made in-house, these hot links are rich, spicy, and slightly greasy in the best way possible. They are beloved by locals for their bold, robust flavor.

4. Pittsburg Hot Links – Pittsburg, TX

Considered the gold standard and must have for hot link lovers. Folks drive from miles around to dine at the OG restaurant and you can find Pittsburg Hot Links in grocery stores and meat markets all over East Texas just in case you don't want to make the drive up there.

5. Doc's Hot Links - Gilmer, TX

Doc’s Hot Links is a historic eatery beloved by residents of East Texas since its founding in 1969. Doc Henderson purchased the roadside beef hot link stand and more than a half a century later, it still stands as one of the most popular places to get hot links in East Texas.