La Barbecue stands as a beacon of barbecue excellence in Austin, Texas. This renowned establishment has carved out a reputation for serving some of the finest smoked meats in a city known for its barbecue prowess. La Barbecue’s commitment to quality and technique has earned it a devoted following and critical acclaim in the competitive Texas barbecue scene.
At the helm of La Barbecue were LeAnn Mueller and Alison Clem, partners in both life and business. LeAnn, who sadly passed away in June 2024 at the age of 51, came from a family steeped in barbecue tradition. Her legacy lives on through the restaurant’s continued dedication to crafting exceptional smoked meats.
La Barbecue’s menu showcases a variety of mouthwatering options, from perfectly seasoned brisket to succulent pork ribs. The establishment also offers unique items like the El Sancho Loco sandwich and housemade Texas Hot Guts sausage. Complementing these smoked delights are an array of house-pickled sides, adding a tangy contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of the meat.
The Origins of La Barbecue
La Barbecue emerged from a storied Texas barbecue lineage, quickly establishing itself as an Austin favorite. The restaurant’s roots run deep in smoked meat tradition while carving out its own unique identity.
The Mueller Family Legacy
LeAnn Mueller, daughter of legendary pitmaster Bobby Mueller, grew up immersed in the world of Texas barbecue. Her grandfather Louie Mueller founded the renowned Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor, Texas in 1949. Bobby Mueller carried on the family tradition, earning a James Beard Award for his pit mastery.
LeAnn absorbed invaluable knowledge and techniques from her father and grandfather. This barbecue education laid the foundation for her future venture. She inherited not just recipes, but a passion for crafting exceptional smoked meats.
Rise of an Austin Staple
In 2012, LeAnn Mueller and her wife Alison Clem launched La Barbecue in East Austin. They started in a modest food trailer, serving brisket, ribs, and sausages to eager customers. Word spread quickly about the quality of their smoked meats.
La Barbecue soon outgrew its original location. In 2017, the restaurant found a permanent home inside the Quickie Pickie convenience store on East Cesar Chavez Street. This move allowed for expanded seating and menu options.
Pitmaster John Lewis played a crucial role in La Barbecue’s early success. His expertise helped refine their smoking techniques and flavor profiles. La Barbecue quickly became known for its perfectly rendered brisket and inventive specials.
La Barbecue’s Signature Smoked Meats
La Barbecue has earned its reputation for exceptional smoked meats through meticulous preparation and expert technique. Their menu features a variety of Texas barbecue classics, each prepared with precision and care.
Perfecting the Brisket
La Barbecue’s brisket stands out as a true masterpiece. The pitmasters carefully select high-quality beef and apply a simple yet effective rub of salt and coarse black pepper. This classic Central Texas approach allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine.
Slow-smoked for up to 14 hours over post oak, the brisket develops a deep, dark bark and a distinctive smoke ring. The result is a tender, juicy cut with a perfect balance of smokiness and beefy flavor. Each slice offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Pork Ribs and More
Beyond brisket, La Barbecue excels in other smoked meats. Their pork ribs are a fan favorite, featuring a savory rub and slow-smoking process that results in fall-off-the-bone tenderness. The ribs maintain a slight chew, showcasing the ideal texture barbecue enthusiasts seek.
La Barbecue’s menu also includes pulled pork, smoked turkey, and their house-made “Texas Hot Guts” sausage. Each item receives the same attention to detail as the brisket, ensuring consistent quality across the board. The pitmasters’ expertise shines through in every bite, from the succulent pulled pork to the spicy kick of their sausage.
The Menu Beyond the Smoke
La Barbecue offers more than just expertly smoked meats. Their menu features creative sides and unique sandwich creations that complement the barbecue staples.
Classic Sides Reinvented
La Barbecue puts a fresh spin on traditional barbecue sides. Their potato salad is a standout, offering a creamy texture with a zesty kick. The chipotle slaw adds a smoky heat to the classic coleslaw.
Pinto beans, a Texas barbecue staple, are slow-cooked to perfection. House-pickled vegetables, including spicy pickles and okra, provide a tangy contrast to the rich meats.
The Southwest black bean salad offers a lighter option, packed with flavor and texture.
Innovative Sandwiches and Specials
La Barbecue’s sandwich menu showcases their creative approach to barbecue. The El Sancho Loco sandwich is a fan favorite, piling multiple meats and toppings for a truly indulgent experience.
For adventurous eaters, the Texas Hot Guts sausage delivers a spicy punch. The Frito Pie combines classic barbecue elements with a fun, crunchy twist.
La Barbecue also offers a tasting menu for those who want to sample a variety of their smoked meats and sides. This option allows diners to experience the full range of flavors the restaurant has to offer.
The La Barbecue Experience
La Barbecue offers a quintessential Austin barbecue experience. Visitors can expect mouthwatering smoked meats, a lively atmosphere, and a dedicated following that’s willing to wait for a taste of their renowned offerings.
Anticipating the Line
Arriving early is key to fully enjoying La Barbecue. Enthusiasts often line up 30 minutes to an hour before opening time. The wait becomes part of the experience, with the tantalizing aroma of smoked meats filling the air. Regulars and first-timers alike chat in line, sharing tips and building anticipation.
La Barbecue’s popularity means coveted items can sell out quickly. Arriving early ensures a better chance of trying sought-after specialties like their pork ribs or brisket. The line moves steadily once doors open, with staff efficiently serving eager customers.
Atmosphere and Service
La Barbecue’s East Austin location exudes a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The space features a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying Texas weather. Picnic tables encourage a communal dining experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie among patrons.
The staff at La Barbecue are known for their friendly, efficient service. They guide newcomers through menu options and offer recommendations based on individual preferences. The ordering process is straightforward, with meats sliced to order right in front of customers.
Music often plays in the background, adding to the lively atmosphere. La Barbecue’s commitment to quality extends beyond the food, creating an environment that keeps customers coming back for both the excellent barbecue and the enjoyable dining experience.
Honors and Accolades
La Barbecue has garnered significant recognition for its exceptional smoked meats and culinary expertise. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovative approach to barbecue have earned it prestigious accolades.
Recognition by the James Beard Foundation
La Barbecue’s dedication to culinary excellence caught the attention of the James Beard Foundation. The restaurant received a James Beard Award nomination, solidifying its status as a top-tier barbecue establishment. This recognition highlighted La Barbecue’s contribution to elevating traditional Texas barbecue.
The James Beard Foundation praised La Barbecue’s innovative techniques and commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients. The nomination brought national attention to the restaurant’s unique approach to smoked meats.
La Barbecue’s recognition extended beyond awards. Texas Monthly magazine included the restaurant in its coveted “Top 50” list of best barbecue joints in Texas. This further cemented La Barbecue’s reputation as a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.