Kerlin BBQ emerged as a hidden gem in Austin’s vibrant food scene in 2013. Tucked away in a small trailer on East Cesar Chavez Street, this unassuming barbecue joint quickly gained a devoted following. Bill Kerlin’s expertly crafted smoked meats rivaled those of more established barbecue institutions, offering a tempting alternative to the notoriously long lines at other popular spots.
The trailer’s compact size belied the big dreams and exceptional quality of its offerings. Kerlin BBQ’s reputation grew steadily over the years, earning accolades and recognition from local food critics and barbecue enthusiasts alike. Its unique kolache offerings further set it apart from the crowd, blending traditional Czech pastries with Texas barbecue flavors.
Despite its success and loyal customer base, Kerlin BBQ announced its permanent closure in September 2022. The decision came after nearly a decade of serving mouthwatering barbecue to Austin residents and visitors. The closure marked the end of an era for this beloved East Austin establishment, leaving a void in the city’s ever-evolving culinary landscape.
The Birth of a Barbecue Haven
Kerlin BBQ emerged as a rising star in Austin’s competitive barbecue scene, starting from modest origins and quickly gaining recognition for its exceptional smoked meats. The food truck‘s journey began in 2013, fueled by the passion and expertise of its founders.
From Humble Beginnings
Kerlin BBQ opened its doors in 2013 at 1700 East Cesar Chavez, joining the vibrant East Austin barbecue landscape. The small trailer quickly made waves, offering a compelling alternative to the long lines at established joints. Despite its compact size, Kerlin BBQ’s reputation grew rapidly.
Bill Kerlin, the pitmaster, honed his craft and quietly built a following. The truck’s location in a bustling area of Austin helped attract both locals and tourists seeking authentic Texas barbecue. Kerlin’s commitment to quality and consistency soon earned the trailer accolades and loyal customers.
Bill and Amelis Kerlin’s Vision
Bill and Amelis Kerlin brought their barbecue dreams to life with Kerlin BBQ. Their vision centered on serving top-notch smoked meats in a casual, accessible setting. The couple’s dedication to their craft was evident in every aspect of the operation.
Bill took charge of the pits, perfecting his smoking techniques. Amelis managed the business side, ensuring smooth operations. Together, they created a menu that showcased traditional Texas barbecue with a few unique twists. Their hands-on approach and attention to detail set Kerlin BBQ apart in Austin’s crowded barbecue market.
Signature Dishes and Culinary Innovation
Kerlin BBQ has made its mark on Austin’s barbecue scene with standout offerings that blend traditional Texas barbecue with innovative twists. Their menu showcases both classic favorites and unique creations that set them apart.
The Famous Brisket
Kerlin BBQ’s brisket stands as a testament to their barbecue prowess. Slow-smoked to perfection, the brisket boasts a rich, smoky flavor and tender texture. The bark is well-developed, featuring a perfect balance of spices that complement the meat’s natural flavors.
Many consider Kerlin’s brisket among the best in Austin. Its consistency and quality have earned the truck a loyal following. The brisket is often sold out early, a sign of its popularity among locals and tourists alike.
Kerlaches: A Texas Twist
Kerlin BBQ’s innovative spirit shines through in their “Kerlaches,” a creative fusion of Czech kolaches and Texas barbecue. These savory pastries combine the soft, slightly sweet dough of traditional kolaches with hearty barbecue fillings.
Popular Kerlache varieties include brisket and cheddar, pulled pork, and sausage. The combination of tender, smoky meat encased in pillowy dough offers a unique taste experience. This culinary innovation has become a signature item, drawing customers who appreciate the blend of Texas and Czech culinary traditions.
Kerlaches represent Kerlin BBQ’s ability to innovate while respecting barbecue traditions. They’ve become a must-try item for visitors seeking something beyond typical barbecue fare.
Expanding the Reach
Kerlin BBQ took bold steps to grow their business beyond their initial barbecue trailer. They launched new offerings and explored different locations to reach more customers in Austin’s competitive food scene.
Kolache Truck Beginnings
In 2017, Kerlin BBQ ventured into new territory with the launch of their Kolache Truck. This innovative move combined their popular barbecue with the Czech-Texan pastry favorite. The truck offered unique kolaches filled with Kerlin’s smoked meats, creating a fusion that quickly gained attention.
The kolache offerings expanded Kerlin’s menu and attracted a new customer base. It allowed them to serve breakfast and provide grab-and-go options for busy Austinites.
Strategic Location Shifts
Kerlin BBQ’s journey involved several strategic moves across Austin. They started at 1700 East Cesar Chavez, establishing themselves as a formidable alternative to longer lines at other popular barbecue spots.
In a bid to reach more customers, they relocated to 2505 Webberville Road. This move provided more space and visibility for their growing operation.
However, commercial development in the area eventually led to their final location shift. Kerlin BBQ announced their last day of service, marking the end of an era for this beloved Austin eatery.
Impacting the Austin Food Scene
Kerlin BBQ made waves in Austin’s competitive barbecue landscape. The small trailer punched above its weight, garnering attention from locals and national media alike.
Recognition and Accolades
Texas Monthly recognized Kerlin BBQ as one of the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas. This coveted listing put the trailer on par with long-established brick-and-mortar restaurants. Food critics praised Kerlin’s brisket for its perfect bark and tender texture.
The trailer’s kolaches also received accolades. These Czech-Texan pastries filled with smoked meats became a signature item, attracting barbecue and pastry enthusiasts. Kerlin’s innovative approach to traditional barbecue sides set them apart in Austin’s crowded scene.
A Hub for Food Enthusiasts
Kerlin BBQ became a destination for barbecue aficionados across America. Food tourists often included the trailer in their Austin barbecue tours. The limited daily quantities created a sense of exclusivity, with loyal customers lining up early.
The trailer’s East Austin location contributed to the area’s growing reputation as a food hotspot. Kerlin BBQ’s success inspired other aspiring pitmasters to enter the competitive Austin barbecue scene. Their commitment to quality in a no-frills setting resonated with locals seeking authentic food experiences.
Community and Collaboration
Kerlin BBQ embraced partnerships and services that strengthened its ties to the Austin food scene. The trailer’s collaborative spirit and catering offerings expanded its reach beyond East Cesar Chavez.
Partnership with Veracruz All Natural
Kerlin BBQ forged a notable partnership with Veracruz All Natural, a popular Austin-based taco truck. This collaboration led to creative menu items that blended barbecue and Mexican flavors. Customers could enjoy specialties like brisket tacos topped with Veracruz’s signature salsas.
The partnership highlighted Kerlin BBQ’s commitment to supporting fellow local businesses. It also introduced barbecue fans to authentic Mexican cuisine and vice versa. This cross-pollination of culinary styles added diversity to Austin’s food scene.
Catering Services
Kerlin BBQ expanded its reach through catering services. The trailer offered customized menus for various events, from small gatherings to large corporate functions. Clients could choose from a range of smoked meats, sides, and desserts.
Catering allowed Kerlin BBQ to showcase its barbecue beyond its East Cesar Chavez location. The service became popular for weddings, birthdays, and office parties. Kerlin’s team ensured the same quality and attention to detail in their catering as they did at the trailer.
This service helped build Kerlin BBQ’s reputation across Austin. It also provided an additional revenue stream, supporting the business’s growth and sustainability.
Embracing Change and Looking Forward
Kerlin BBQ’s journey reflects the evolving Austin food scene. The beloved trailer adapted to new challenges while maintaining its commitment to quality barbecue and innovative offerings.
Adapting to Market Shifts
Kerlin BBQ’s final day of service on September 10 marked the end of an era. The closure stemmed from commercial development in the area, forcing the owners to reassess their business model. Despite this setback, Bill and Amelis Paz-Kerlin explored new avenues to continue serving their loyal customers.
The introduction of Kerlaches, a spin-off focusing on kolaches, demonstrated their ability to diversify. This move capitalized on the popularity of their barbecue-filled pastries, offering a unique product in the competitive Austin food market.
Sustaining a Legacy
While the original trailer closed, Kerlin BBQ’s legacy lives on. The owners continue to offer catering services and large pre-orders, maintaining a connection with their customer base. This approach allows them to preserve their renowned barbecue techniques and flavors.
The Kerlaches venture on Webberville Road represents a new chapter for the Kerlin brand. By focusing on a specialty item, they’ve carved out a niche in Austin’s culinary landscape. This strategic pivot showcases their adaptability and commitment to providing quality food experiences, even as they move beyond their original concept.