Community Rallies to Save Green Mesquite BBQ in Austin

News Summary

Green Mesquite BBQ, a cherished Austin restaurant, faced closure due to unpaid rent. The staff’s collective financial support allowed its reopening, showcasing community spirit. Owner Rick Garcia plans to refresh the restaurant’s offerings and host local events to strengthen ties with patrons as they move forward amidst economic challenges.

Austin, Texas – A Community Effort to Save Green Mesquite BBQ

What Happened

Green Mesquite BBQ, a beloved Texas barbecue and Southern foods restaurant in Austin, faced an imminent threat of closure due to unpaid rent. Founded in 1988 by Tom Davis, the restaurant has been a staple on Barton Springs Road for 37 years. Owner Rick Garcia, who has been a part of the restaurant for over two decades, temporarily closed the establishment last week. After remaining shut for four days, a remarkable act of community support emerged from the staff, who collectively contributed thousands of dollars to cover the overdue rent, allowing for the restaurant’s reopening.

Who Is Affected

The closure and subsequent reopening of Green Mesquite BBQ have impacted not only the staff but also the local community and loyal customers. Many Austin residents expressed concern regarding the fate of the restaurant, particularly given the recent closures of other nearby businesses, including Thom’s Market and Baby Acapulco. The emotional ties to Green Mesquite are strong for the staff and patrons alike, with Rick Garcia asserting the restaurant holds special significance for him personally, having hosted his daughter’s wake in 2021.

Official Response

Rick Garcia, who took over the restaurant after Tom Davis’s retirement, expressed his gratitude toward the staff for their generous efforts to ensure the restaurant remained in operation. Following the unexpected challenges posed by rising costs and uncertainty in the business landscape, Garcia remains optimistic about the future. He is exploring ways to refresh the restaurant’s offerings and enhance community engagement through localized events.

Impact on the Business Landscape

The potential closure of Green Mesquite BBQ is emblematic of broader struggles faced by small businesses in Austin. The recent loss of established establishments like Thom’s Market, which operated for 18 years, and Baby Acapulco, which closed last October, raises alarm over the economic climate in the area. The contributions of the staff at Green Mesquite BBQ reflect a community that values its local businesses and is willing to take action to safeguard them amidst financial hardships.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Rick Garcia is seizing the opportunity created by this challenge to revitalize Green Mesquite BBQ. Plans are underway to introduce more local music performances and open mic nights, aiming to attract both regular patrons and new visitors alike. These initiatives may serve to strengthen the restaurant’s position in the local market while enriching the cultural scene in Austin. As the restaurant prepares for this new chapter, the dedication of its staff and the support from the community will play a crucial role in its ongoing success.

A Menu to Savor

Green Mesquite BBQ offers a diverse menu that includes a range of barbecue and Southern comfort foods. Signature items such as brisket, pork ribs, sausage, chicken fried chicken, smoked wings, catfish, and jambalaya have long been favored by patrons. The emphasis on quality food combined with community involvement positions the restaurant as a cherished establishment, reflective of Austin’s unique culinary landscape.

Conclusion

The community spirit surrounding Green Mesquite BBQ serves as a testament to the strong desire to preserve local, cherished institutions amidst economic challenges. As the restaurant moves forward, embracing opportunities for renewal and engagement, the collective efforts of the staff and community can ultimately shape its future.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Texas Monthly: Smoked in Texas – Chicken Wings at Green Mesquite
• Wikipedia: Green Mesquite BBQ
• Statesman: Green Mesquite BBQ Reopens
• Google Search: Green Mesquite BBQ Austin
• Eater Austin: Best Chicken Wings in Austin
• Google Scholar: Green Mesquite BBQ
• Vox CDN: Image of Green Mesquite BBQ
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Green Mesquite BBQ
• Chron: Texas Barbecue Restaurant Saved
• Google News: Green Mesquite BBQ