Austin's dining landscape sees a back-to-basics shift as JNL Barbecue says goodbye to its brick-and-mortar location to spark up the grills of its food truck once again. The barbecue joint, known for its smoky flavors and meaty offerings, will shutter its East Austin spot, which has served local carnivores for a year. In a recent Instagram post, JNL announced its last service on January 28 and expressed gratitude to the East Austin community for their support.
"We'd like to say thank you for all of the support we've received over the last year from the East Austin community, ...With lots of deliberation, we've decided it's time for us to come home," the post reads, hinting at a nostalgic return to its mobile kitchen origins. Reacting to the news, fans on social media lamented the loss, with nearly 500 likes and a slew of comments mourning the move, according to MySA. Pulled straight from Austin's voracious BBQ scene, JNL will be setting up shop at its all-too-familiar spot at Buzz Mill Coffee in East Riverside, a move possibly sweetened by familiar comforts and less overhead.
While one classic mode of Texas barbecue takes a step back, another urban eatery is stepping up the style. The buzz is also about Austin's new culinary ventures, like the whimsically avant-garde The Guest House, drawing inspiration from "Alice in Wonderland" for a memorable cocktail experience. This reveal joins the list of exciting openings that includes Eggs Up Grill, which is rolling out its straightforward breakfast fare in eight new locations across Austin, as per CultureMap.
Among the recent openings, Golden Eye Chocolates has unwrapped a brick-and-mortar presence, churning out brightly colored bonbons with inventive flavors such as spicy margarita and caramelized banana and rum, titled 'There's Always Rum In The Banana Stand' - just in time for Valentine's Day orders, according to CultureMap. Meanwhile, anniversaries are peppered throughout the lively local food scene, with spots like Antonelli's Cheese marking 14 years with 'Free Cheese Week' celebrations and offering loyal customers a taste of sweet, dairy-laden gratitude.
The city's thirst for community and festivities continues as Hotel San José and Jo’s Coffee gear up for their 17th annual Chili Cook-Off + Benefit on February 4, poised to support the magazine and food access advocacy group, Free Lunch. Expect local food luminaries, a Quick Fire Competition, and the harmonious riffs of music to go along with the spicy spoonfuls, a testament to Austin's spirited culinary camaraderie. While Austin may wave farewell to one brick-and-mortar establishment, its food scene promises all the sizzle and smoke of a well-stoked fire, simmering with new spots, savory anniversaries, and rekindled trailer park flames.
