If there’s one thing Austin does better than most, it’s BBQ. But every once in a while, a place pops up that feels a little different. We’re talking about the kind of spot where the food hits hard, the vibe’s just right and you half-expect someone to whisper, “Dua Lipa was here last weekend.”

Waylon J’s BBQ isn’t chasing hype. But the way this place is serving ribs, brisket and biscuits, it’s probably going to find it anyway.

Waylon J’s BBQ: The New BBQ Spot Celebs Will Love

The setup is simple: a BBQ pop-up tucked behind Salty Sow on Manor Road. Open Thursday through Sunday for lunch only, there are no frills, no chef jackets. It’s Just smoke, fire and flavor.

The pitmaster isn’t some TV-famous name. Chad Deen grew up with the owner. He’s a barbecue artist from Fort Worth with years of hands‑on experience doing smoked meats, live fire cooking and pure dedication. When he cooks, he’s not following a recipe. He’s painting with smoke and fire. This is the kind of chef you memorize because one bite reminds you what real barbecue tastes like.

What to Order

You don’t need to try everything to taste greatness. Here’s what hits the hardest:

• Prime brisket: smoked 12 hours and rich with that deep smoky flavor
• Korean pork belly: sweet, savory, kissed with orange zest and sesame
• Boss Hog: smoked pork shoulder plus cracklin’ pork belly brings both richness and crunch
• Dino rib: big, meaty, over post oak, finished with lemon‑soju chimichurri
• Bury Me in Smoke Tray: a whole tray of fan faves: brisket, belly, turkey, boss hog, sausage links, plus sides and biscuits (yes, go big on this one)

Round that out with Frozen Andalusia Old Fashioned or the Drift to Sweet‑Corn Street‑Style Queso side. Throw in a homemade buttermilk biscuit and some deviled eggs with BBQ debris. Trust us, you’ll taste the difference.

Is this Austin’s next celeb BBQ magnet?

Honestly, it makes sense. It’s lowkey, it’s east side and it’s damn good. This is the kind of spot that doesn’t need a red carpet: Just word of mouth and one perfectly smoked rib to turn heads. We all know celebs keep popping up at La Barbecue, and this one feels like it’s next in line.

Come for the brisket. Stay for the biscuits. And if someone famous slides into line behind you? Try to act cool.

🗓 Thursday–Sunday
🕚 11am–3pm (or until sold out)
📍 Waylon J’s BBQ at 1917 Manor Rd (Salty Sow lot).