In a setback for the Bay Area's culinary scene, Horn Barbecue, the celebrated barbecue establishment in West Oakland, has announced it will not be reopening its doors after a string of adversities. Owner Matt Horn revealed on Instagram the decision to close the Mandela Parkway spot permanently, citing a brutal confluence of events including a devastating fire, vandalism, and theft that have collectively rendered the once-thriving location inoperable.
"These occurrences, each an ordeal on their own, collectively have created an environment that, at this point, is untenable for us to operate safely and effectively," Horn elucidated in his statement. Apart from the fire that gutted the interior last year, Horn Barbecue also faced the defacement of its property, and unauthorized individuals occupying the space, which, compounded by the theft of critical infrastructure, led to this final resolution. The restaurant's van was also targeted, stripped of its engine, and left "significantly damaged."
The delectable meats and warm hospitality that earned Horn Barbecue its storied reputation, including recognition from the Michelin Guide and a nod from Food & Wine as one of the Best New Chefs of 2021, will be sorely missed at the Mandela Parkway venue. As KRON4 reported, Horn remains committed to his craft and the Oakland community, hinting at the potential to relaunch elsewhere in the region.
The Instagram post also detailed that the staff of Horn Barbecue are being looked after, with placements within Horn's other ventures – Matty's and Kowbird. In his message, Horn expressed gratitude towards the community support led by industry peers and charitable organizations during these trying times. "Thanks to your support, we ensured our staff found new opportunities within our sister ventures, safeguarding their livelihoods when they needed it most," Horn stated in his heartfelt Instagram update.
While the closure is indeed a blow to the local food scene, Horn's enduring spirit and the emboldening community response highlight an unwavering commitment to bouncing back stronger. As fans and foodies alike bid farewell to the original site that served up some of the city's most talked-about barbecue, they also eagerly anticipate the future resurrection of Horn's delectable creations at a new, yet-to-be-determined locale.
