Austin Barbecue Restaurant Slab BBQ Closes Cedar Park Location
Iconic Austin barbecue restaurant Slab BBQ recently announced the closure of its popular Cedar Park location. In a disappointing turn of events for the local food community, the restaurant on 905 East Whitestone Boulevard held its last day of service on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
A Challenging Climate for Restaurants
Slab BBQ, noted for its mouthwatering barbecue sandwiches and ribs, has faced its fair share of challenges over the years. Co-founder and managing partner Raf Robinson cited a combination of factors such as inflation, labor shortages, and rent increase as primary reasons for the closure. Despite these obstacles, the Slab BBQ team hopes to open a new location within the neighborhood, providing a beacon of hope for Austin barbecue enthusiasts.
Other Locations Remain Open
Despite the unfortunate closure of the Cedar Park location, fans of Slab BBQ can still visit the barbecue mini-chain’s other locations. Outlets in Wooten, near Garrison Park, and Sunset Valley will continue to dish up the famous smoked meats and hearty side dishes that have made Slab BBQ a local favorite.
New Opening by Tex-Mex Chain Chuy’s
While one door closes, another one opens. The well-loved Tex-Mex chain Chuy’s has announced the opening of a new location in the Mueller neighborhood. The restaurant, located at 2024 Aldrich Street, will start serving its signature Tex-Mex food and beverages starting Tuesday, April 30. The new location will follow the chain’s usual operating hours, offering plenty of opportunities for locals to enjoy their beloved Tex-Mex favorites.
Celebrity Sighting at Emmer & Rye
In other food-related news from Austin, famed rapper and actor Ludacris was spotted dining at New American restaurant Emmer & Rye last weekend. During his visit, Ludacris enjoyed a plate of red snapper crudo, generously sharing his food adventures with his Instagram followers. The rapper was in Austin to perform at the Two Step Inn music festival in Georgetown.
Austin Bars Score National Acclaim
Austin bars are making waves at the national level, earning several nominations in the annual Spirited Awards. Bars known for their exceptional cocktails, service, and ambiance have been recognized in the U.S. Central regional nominations. Some of the nominated bars include North Loop cocktail bar Drink.Well, East Austin bar Nickel City, and Downtown hidden cocktail bar Here Nor There.
Restaurants and Bars Acknowledged in Spirited Awards:
- North Loop cocktail bar Drink.Well (Best Bar Team, Best Cocktail Bar)
- Central East Austin bar Nickel City (Best Bar Team)
- Downtown hidden cocktail bar Here Nor There (Best Cocktail Bar)
- South Congress Hotel’s cocktail bar Watertrade (Best Hotel Bar)
- East Austin cocktail bar Daydreamer (Best New Cocktail Bar)
The winners will be announced on June 17 after four finalists are shortlisted in each category. This recognition from the Spirited Awards serves as a testament to the vibrant and growing food and beverages scene in Austin.