Northside barbecue fans will not have to wait much longer for smoke in the air again. Big Jake's BBQ is targeting a May 1 opening at the former Mr. K's barbecue building on Soutel Drive, bringing a drive-thru setup and pit-cooked comfort food back to a corner long known for smoked-meat joints. The fast-casual counter is set to lean hard into quick takeout, with a tight lineup of smoked meats and homestyle sides.
Owner Robert Rukab told Business Debut the team is aiming for a May 1 opening at 4906 Soutel Dr and that Chef Pi will be running the pit. Rukab, who said he previously operated as many as seven Big Jake's locations before shifting into real estate in 2014, pointed to ribs and "homemade macaroni" as signatures. "The ribs are going to be fall off the bone," he said.
Where It Is Going
The shop is moving into the freestanding building at 4906 Soutel Dr, a spot long associated with barbecue. Directory records identify the address with the former Mr. K's Bar-B-Que & Seafood, according to MapQuest. A commercial listing notes the property includes a drive-thru and roughly 2,254 square feet and indicates the building was renovated recently, which could help speed the turnaround for the new tenant; see more details on LoopNet.
Menu And Service Model
Big Jake's is planning a fast-casual format with a drive-thru and limited indoor seating for about 12 guests, putting the emphasis on takeout and quick service, as reported by Business Debut. Planned hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. The menu will center on pit-cooked chicken, ribs and classic sides such as macaroni and cheese and coleslaw, with the team saying everything will be cooked on a pit to order.
Local Context
Directory listings show Mr. K's Bar-B-Que & Seafood previously operated at this address; see the entry on MapQuest. Additional property details, including the drive-thru and square footage, are available on LoopNet, which identifies the space as the former Mr. K's Barbecue.
Owners say a website and social media pages will roll out closer to opening. They plan to start serving as soon as inspections clear and final prep is wrapped. We will update when full menus and a firm opening date are posted.
