The smoky scent of competition will soon fill the air in Burnet, Texas as the Texas High School BBQ Association gears up to host the state championships on May 4 at Burnet High School. Grills will be sizzling as teams from across the state face off in categories including pork chop, skirt steak tacos, chicken, pork ribs, and meat chili, vying for the top score to advance to the national competition in Branson, Missouri. To weigh in on which high school team has mastered the art of barbecue, the championship is on the hunt for judges. Those interested in participating should reach out to Sarena Ringstaff at (512) 755-2719 or fill out a form to secure a judge's spot, according to KXAN.
Established by Danny Lester and his business partner Jonny Simons, the barbecue spot has made a home in an old Coca-Cola warehouse, with a symbolic tractor turned smoker out front indicating when they're open. Notably departing from the post-oak wood typically used in the area, Warehouse BBQ's pitmasters favor live oak for its cleaner burn. This method of smoking is just one of the unique touches that could give the joint its sticking power, as reported by Texas Monthly.
Food aficionados can certainly get their barbecue fix at Warehouse BBQ and Meetery, which is driven by Lester’s lifelong passion for barbecue. As the former police officer and public works director shifted back to his roots in barbecue, he now spends his days alongside brother-in-law and co-pitmaster, Junior Morris, ensuring a fresh cook daily. Braveheart brand briskets and tender pork ribs are among the offerings that have won over locals and travelers alike. "We take pride in our barbecue and being friendly," Danny Lester told Texas Monthly.
Open for limited hours across three days a week, the menu has recently expanded to include breakfast. Patrons seeking a morning barbecue experience can enjoy brisket huevos rancheros or waffles stuffed with bacon on Saturdays from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Despite seemingly scaling back for a post-retirement endeavor, the hubbub of visitors keeps Lester energetic. "It’s something that keeps me going," he expressed to Texas Monthly.
