Micklethwait Craft Meats began as a humble food truck in Austin, Texas in 2012. Founded by Tom Micklethwait, the venture quickly gained attention for its artisanal sausages and expertly smoked meats. The food truck’s exceptional craft barbecue soon caught the eye of both local diners and national food media, propelling it to prominence in the competitive Austin barbecue scene.
Located less than a mile east of downtown Austin on Rosewood Avenue, Micklethwait Craft Meats offers a tempting array of smoked meats by the pound. Patrons can enjoy brisket, Tex-Czech sausage, beef ribs, pork ribs, turkey, and sliced pork shoulder under the shade of Texas trees. The establishment also features an on-site beerhouse called Saddle Up, where customers can grab a cold drink to complement their barbecue.
After years of success as a food truck, Micklethwait Craft Meats is set to open a new restaurant in early winter 2024. The brick-and-mortar location will be situated in the East MLK neighborhood at 4602 Tanney Street, in a building that previously served as the food truck’s catering and commissary kitchen space.
The Rise of Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats emerged as a standout in Austin’s competitive barbecue scene, transforming from a humble food truck to a celebrated culinary destination. The journey began with a chef’s vision and culminated in widespread recognition for exceptional smoked meats.
Tom Micklethwait’s Vision
Tom Micklethwait, a trained chef, saw an opportunity in Austin’s thriving food scene. He aimed to bring a unique perspective to Texas barbecue by combining traditional smoking techniques with his culinary expertise.
In 2012, Micklethwait launched his food truck in East Austin. He focused on crafting high-quality, artisanal meats and sides that would set his offerings apart from the competition.
Micklethwait’s approach centered on attention to detail and experimentation with flavors. He introduced uncommon menu items like smoked duck and lamb alongside classic brisket and ribs.
A Food Truck’s Journey
The repurposed trailer that housed Micklethwait Craft Meats became a fixture in East Austin’s culinary landscape. Word spread quickly about the exceptional quality of the barbecue served from this unassuming spot.
Lines began forming daily as locals and tourists sought out Micklethwait’s creations. The food truck’s popularity grew, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.
Despite space limitations, Micklethwait continued to innovate. He expanded the menu, introduced specials, and maintained consistent quality that kept customers coming back.
Recognition and Awards
Micklethwait Craft Meats’ rise to prominence was marked by critical acclaim and industry recognition. In 2017, Texas Monthly named it one of the Ten Best BBQ Joints in Texas, a prestigious honor in the barbecue world.
Southern Living magazine also took notice, featuring Micklethwait in its coverage of top barbecue destinations. These accolades helped elevate the food truck’s profile beyond Austin.
The consistent praise and growing customer base led to expansion plans. Micklethwait announced the opening of a brick-and-mortar restaurant, signaling a new chapter for the beloved barbecue brand.
Craft Meats and Signature Dishes
Micklethwait Craft Meats has built its reputation on exceptional smoked meats and innovative sides. The menu features a range of expertly prepared barbecue classics alongside creative culinary offerings.
Brisket and Beef Rib Mastery
Micklethwait’s brisket stands out as a cornerstone of their menu. The pitmasters smoke it low and slow over oak, resulting in a tender, flavorful cut with a perfect bark. Their beef rib is equally impressive, boasting a rich, smoky taste and fall-off-the-bone texture.
These meats are available by the pound, allowing customers to sample various options. The brisket is priced at $32 per pound, while the prized beef rib commands $34 per pound.
The Art of Sausage Making
Sausage-making is a craft Micklethwait takes seriously. Their Tex-Czech sausage, priced at $22 per pound, pays homage to the region’s culinary heritage. This unique offering blends traditional Texas barbecue flavors with Czech-inspired spices and techniques.
The sausages are made in-house, ensuring quality and consistency. Micklethwait’s commitment to this craft has earned them recognition among barbecue enthusiasts and food critics alike.
Innovative Desserts and Sides
Micklethwait complements its smoked meats with an array of creative sides and desserts. The jalapeño cheese grits and lemon poppy slaw are standout offerings that showcase the kitchen’s culinary range.
Fresh-baked goods round out the menu, providing a sweet finish to the savory barbecue experience. These items rotate regularly, giving patrons new flavors to explore on return visits.
Sides and desserts are available in various portion sizes, making it easy for customers to sample multiple options alongside their chosen meats.
Culinary Techniques and Barbecue Styles
Micklethwait Craft Meats combines traditional Central Texas barbecue methods with innovative culinary techniques. Their approach showcases a deep respect for Texas barbecue traditions while incorporating creative twists.
Smoking Methods and Woods Used
The team at Micklethwait relies on low and slow smoking to achieve tender, flavorful meats. They use a combination of oak and pecan woods, which impart a distinct smoky flavor profile to their dishes.
Brisket is smoked for up to 14 hours at temperatures around 225°F. This long cooking time allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth texture.
For pork ribs, they employ a 3-2-1 method: 3 hours of smoking, 2 hours wrapped, and 1 hour unwrapped to finish. This technique ensures juicy meat with a perfect bark.
Smoked turkey receives special attention, brined for 24 hours before a 4-hour smoke. The result is succulent poultry with a hint of sweetness.
Central Texas Barbecue Influence
Micklethwait’s approach draws heavily from Central Texas barbecue traditions. This style emphasizes the quality of the meat and minimal use of sauce.
Beef is king in Central Texas, and Micklethwait follows suit with their expertly smoked brisket. They offer both lean and fatty cuts to cater to different preferences.
True to the region’s style, meats are served simply on butcher paper. Sides are available but don’t overshadow the star proteins.
While honoring tradition, Micklethwait infuses creativity into their menu. Unique sausage varieties and unexpected sides showcase their craft barbecue approach.
The food truck’s popularity demonstrates how they’ve successfully merged classic Texas barbecue with modern culinary sensibilities.
Expansion and Diversification
Micklethwait Craft Meats expanded beyond its food truck roots through catering, a brick-and-mortar location, and a taco-focused spin-off. These moves allowed the business to reach new customers and showcase its culinary expertise in different formats.
Catering Services
Micklethwait Craft Meats entered the catering scene, bringing its smoky flavors to events across Austin. The company offered customizable menus featuring their signature smoked meats and sides. This expansion allowed them to serve larger groups and private functions, increasing their reach beyond the food truck’s regular clientele.
Catering options included:
- Whole briskets
- Pulled pork
- Sausage platters
- Custom side dishes
The catering arm operated out of a commissary kitchen, which later became the site of their brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Saddle Up: From Food Truck to Brick-and-Mortar
In 2024, Micklethwait Craft Meats took a significant step by opening its first standalone restaurant. The new location at 4602 Tanney Street in East Austin transformed their former catering and commissary kitchen into a full-service dining establishment.
The 1,200-square-foot space allowed for:
- Expanded menu options
- Indoor seating
- Increased production capacity
This move marked a new chapter for the business, providing a permanent home for their barbecue offerings while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that made them famous.
The Launch of Taco Bronco
Micklethwait Craft Meats diversified its offerings with the launch of Taco Bronco, a spin-off concept focusing on smoked meat tacos. This new venture combined their barbecue expertise with Tex-Mex flavors, creating a unique culinary fusion.
Taco Bronco’s menu featured:
- Brisket tacos
- Smoked barbacoa
- Pulled pork tacos
- Vegetarian options
The concept operated alongside the original food truck, attracting both barbecue enthusiasts and taco lovers. This expansion showcased the versatility of Micklethwait’s smoked meats and introduced their flavors to a new audience.
Experience at Micklethwait Craft Meats
Micklethwait Craft Meats offers a unique dining experience that combines exceptional barbecue with a charming outdoor setting. The food truck’s menu, vintage trailer ambiance, and beverage options create a memorable visit for barbecue enthusiasts.
Menu Highlights
Micklethwait’s menu showcases a variety of smoked meats and sides. The brisket is a standout, known for its perfect bark and tender texture. Turkey is another popular choice, offering a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Pulled pork and sliced pork shoulder are succulent choices for pork lovers. The pulled lamb provides a unique twist on traditional barbecue offerings.
Sausages are a specialty, with rotating flavors that may include Tex-Czech or wild boar varieties. For a indulgent treat, the Frito Pie combines classic comfort food with barbecue flair.
Meat plates allow diners to sample multiple offerings. Sides like jalapeño cheese grits and lemon poppy slaw complement the meats perfectly.
The Vintage Comet Trailer Ambiance
Micklethwait serves its barbecue from a repurposed vintage Comet trailer. This quirky setup adds charm to the dining experience and reflects Austin’s food truck culture.
The trailer is parked in a laid-back outdoor area with picnic tables and shade trees. This casual setting encourages a relaxed, communal dining atmosphere.
Off-street parking is available, making it convenient for visitors. The outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy their meals in the fresh air, contributing to the authentic barbecue experience.
Beverage Pairings
Micklethwait offers a selection of beverages to complement its barbecue. Beer is a popular choice, with local craft options often available.
For those who prefer wine, there may be selections that pair well with smoked meats. Non-alcoholic options are also typically on hand to quench thirst on hot Texas days.
The drink menu, while not extensive, is curated to enhance the flavors of the barbecue. Guests can ask staff for pairing recommendations to maximize their dining experience.
Practical Information for Visitors
Micklethwait Craft Meats offers a convenient and accessible barbecue experience in East Austin. Visitors can enjoy their renowned smoked meats through various ordering options and find ample parking nearby.
Location and Hours
Micklethwait Craft Meats operates from 1309 Rosewood Avenue in East Austin. The food truck is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM until sold out, which typically occurs around 6 PM. They are closed on Mondays.
The truck’s East Austin location puts it in the heart of the city’s vibrant food scene. Visitors can easily combine a trip to Micklethwait with exploring other local attractions.
Ordering and Delivery Options
Customers can order directly at the food truck for dine-in or takeout. Micklethwait also offers online ordering through their website for convenient pickup.
For those unable to visit in person, several third-party delivery services provide options to enjoy Micklethwait’s barbecue at home. These include:
- Uber Eats
- DoorDash
- Grubhub
Catering services are available for larger groups or events, with advance notice required.
Parking and Accessibility
Micklethwait Craft Meats provides off-street parking for customers, a rarity among Austin food trucks. The lot accommodates several vehicles, reducing the stress of finding a spot in busy East Austin.
Street parking is also available along Rosewood Avenue and neighboring streets. Visitors should be mindful of residential parking restrictions in the area.
The food truck lot features a covered outdoor seating area with picnic tables. This space is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to enjoy their meal comfortably.
Beyond the Smoke: Community and Culture
Micklethwait Craft Meats has woven itself into the fabric of Austin’s culinary scene, fostering connections and enhancing the local food culture. The food truck’s impact extends beyond its delicious barbecue, influencing the community in meaningful ways.
Collaborations and Local Partnerships
Micklethwait Craft Meats frequently collaborates with other Austin establishments. The food truck has partnered with local breweries for pop-up events, pairing their smoked meats with craft beers. These collaborations showcase Austin’s vibrant food and drink scene.
Micklethwait also sources ingredients from local farms and suppliers. This commitment to local sourcing supports the regional economy and ensures fresh, high-quality products for customers.
The food truck has participated in charity events, donating a portion of their sales to local causes. This involvement strengthens their ties to the community and demonstrates their commitment to giving back.
Customer Experience and Service
Micklethwait Craft Meats prioritizes customer satisfaction. The staff is known for their friendly demeanor and willingness to explain menu items to newcomers.
The food truck offers a laid-back atmosphere typical of Austin’s food scene. Customers can enjoy their meals at picnic tables under shade trees, creating a relaxed dining experience.
Micklethwait has adapted to changing customer needs. They introduced online ordering and contactless pickup options in response to recent health concerns.
The food truck maintains an active social media presence. They use platforms like Instagram to engage with customers, share daily specials, and announce upcoming events or collaborations.