Planning the Ultimate Texas Event: From Brisket Tacos to Bar Service

Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, wedding reception, birthday celebration, or backyard BBQ in Austin, there's a certain standard that Texans expect: genuine hospitality, quality food, and an atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.

After helping dozens of Austin businesses and families plan memorable events, we've learned that the most successful Texas gatherings share three key elements: a well-executed food station (usually featuring tacos or BBQ), thoughtful beverage service, and attention to the little details that show you care.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan an authentic Texas event that your guests will be talking about long after the last taco is gone.

A taco bar is the centerpiece of many Texas events, and for good reason—it's interactive, customizable, and universally loved. But the difference between a mediocre taco bar and one that has guests going back for thirds comes down to quality ingredients.

Start with Authentic Tortillas

Your tortilla choice sets the foundation for everything else. Using authentic H-E-B® tortillas immediately elevates your taco bar above typical catering. Here's what you need to know:

• Quantity Planning: Budget 3-4 tacos per person for a main course, 2-3 for appetizers. That means one 20-pack of H-E-B® tortillas serves 5-7 people for a meal.
• Variety Matters: Offer both flour and corn tortillas. Flour works better for heavier fillings like brisket, while corn pairs beautifully with lighter proteins like grilled chicken or fish.
• The Butter Upgrade: For VIP events or when you really want to impress, H-E-B® Butter Tortillas add a rich, premium touch that guests notice immediately.
• Warming Strategy: Keep tortillas warm in a slow cooker lined with damp paper towels, or use chafing dishes. Cold tortillas are a party foul.

If you're going the full BBQ route instead of (or in addition to) a taco bar, here's what separates amateur cookouts from professional-grade events:

Meat Quantity Calculator

• Brisket: 1/3 to 1/2 pound per person (accounts for trimming)
• Pulled Pork: 1/3 pound per person
• Ribs: 1/2 rack per person for mains, 2-3 ribs for appetizers
• Sausage: 2 links per person
• Chicken: 1/2 bird or 2 quarters per person

Sides That Complete the Experience

Great BBQ needs great sides. Don't skimp here—budget at least two sides per person:

• Classic coleslaw (vinegar-based or creamy)
• Pinto beans or cowboy beans
• Potato salad (mustard or mayo-based)
• Mac and cheese
• Jalapeño cornbread
• Pickles, onions, and jalapeños for garnish

The Tortilla Connection

Even at a traditional BBQ event, smart hosts provide a stack of H-E-B® tortillas alongside the standard white bread. Many guests prefer wrapping their brisket in a tortilla, and it's become expected at Austin events. Check out our detailed guide on why BBQ and tortillas are the perfect pairing.

Food is only half the equation. A well-stocked bar can make or break the energy of your event. The challenge? Navigating liquor store runs, keeping drinks cold, and ensuring you have enough variety without overbuying.

The Smart Solution: Professional Alcohol Delivery

One of the biggest game-changers for Austin event planning has been the rise of professional alcohol delivery services. Instead of making multiple liquor store trips (and inevitably forgetting something), you can have everything delivered directly to your venue.

We partner with Party on Delivery, Austin's premier alcohol delivery service, for events that need reliable beverage logistics. Here's why professional delivery makes sense:

• Convenience: Everything arrives at your venue, cold and ready to serve. No loading cases into your car or dealing with parking at busy liquor stores.
• Selection: Access to a full range of beer, wine, spirits, and mixers through one order. Get exactly what you need for your crowd.
• Timing Control: Schedule delivery for exactly when you need it, whether that's early morning setup or last-minute restocking during the event.
• Expert Recommendations: Not sure how much to order? Professional alcohol delivery services can guide you based on your guest count and event type.
• Temperature Guarantee: Beer and wine arrive properly chilled, saving you precious cooler space and prep time.

Whether you're ordering through delivery or picking up yourself, here's the standard formula for stocking your bar:

After seeing dozens of events, here are the most common pitfalls:

• Underestimating Appetites: Texans eat. Budget 20% more food than your calculator suggests, especially for BBQ.
• Forgetting About Vegetarians: Even BBQ-heavy events should have at least one substantial vegetarian option.
• Neglecting the Ice Situation: You need way more ice than you think. Plan for 1-1.5 pounds per person, more in summer.
• Not Testing Your Setup: Do a dry run of your taco bar or buffet line. Is traffic flow smooth? Can people reach everything?
• Cheap Tortillas: This one's obvious to us, but worth repeating: discount grocery store tortillas will fall apart under BBQ weight and disappoint guests.
• Last-Minute Alcohol Runs: Running out of beer mid-party kills the vibe. Order extra or have a backup delivery ready.

Great Texas events don't have to break the bank:

• Focus Your Menu: Two protein options instead of four, but do them exceptionally well
• Strategic Bar Planning: Signature cocktails + beer + wine = 90% of guests happy at 50% the cost of a full bar
• DIY Decorations: String lights, mason jars, and wildflowers create authentic Texas atmosphere for minimal cost
• Bulk Smart: H-E-B® tortillas are already affordable, and buying in larger quantities reduces per-person cost
• Timing Matters: Afternoon events naturally require less alcohol than evening parties
• Potluck Sides: For casual events, have guests bring their favorite side dishes while you handle proteins and tortillas