What is Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ known for?

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ is known for its creative blending of traditional Texas barbecuing traditions and "Tejano" or Mexican-inspired flavors and ingredients.

How is the food served here?

The brisket is served with corn tortillas, guacamole, and salsa. Additionally, meats such as Smoked Pork Spare Ribs are served whole and uncut.

Where is Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ located?

The business has a South Austin location at 11500 Menchaca Road, Austin, TX. They also opened a full-fledged restaurant in June 2023 located at 308 South Main Street in Buda, Texas.

What is the history of the restaurant?

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ was established in 2013 by co-founders Miguel and Modesty Vidal as a 600-square-foot food truck on West Sixth Street. It eventually scaled up to a 6,000-square-foot brick-and-mortar restaurant in Buda, Texas, which debuted in June 2023.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ in Austin

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ

Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ is an iconic Austin culinary destination blending traditional Texas barbecue with rich Tejano flavors. Originally a food truck, it is famous for serving brisket with corn tortillas, guacamole, and salsa.

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What to know

Established in 2013 by co-founders Miguel Vidal, who serves as pitmaster, and Modesty Vidal, Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ began its journey as a humble 600-square-foot food truck on West Sixth Street in Austin. The concept was born from Miguel Vidal's desire to merge traditional slow-smoked Texas barbecue methods with the rich, Mexican-inspired flavors and Tejano cooking techniques of his family heritage. Over the years, this unique fusion captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, leading to impressive growth. The business scaled up from its small trailer roots to a massive 6,000-square-foot operation. In June 2023, they debuted their first full-fledged restaurant located at 308 South Main Street in Buda, Texas, situated within the Buda Mill & Grain mixed-use development. Additionally, they have operated a South Austin location at 11500 Menchaca Road, continuing to serve the Austin community. The menu at Valentina's is celebrated for its creative culinary pairings that redefine the barbecue experience. Instead of typical white bread, the signature smoked brisket is served alongside fresh corn tortillas, guacamole, and salsa. Additionally, the restaurant is known for serving its meats whole and uncut, including their popular Smoked Pork Spare Ribs, allowing diners to experience the true texture and quality of the smoke. Despite changes, including a temporary closure when the Vidals sold the business to new owners, Valentina's remains a legendary name in the Texas barbecue scene. It continues to stand as a testament to the delicious possibilities of cultural and culinary blending, making it a must-visit destination for any food lover exploring the Austin area.

Visitor tips

Check their official website at valentinastexmexbbq.com for the latest menu and food truck schedules.
Be prepared for uncut meats, as specialty items like Smoked Pork Spare Ribs are served whole.
If visiting the South Austin location, navigate to 11500 Menchaca Road.

Nearby context

Located in South Austin, Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ is situated in a vibrant culinary neighborhood. After enjoying some heavy, smoky brisket, you can head nearby to Tiny's Milk & Cookies for a sweet dessert, or explore Spicy Boys for more local Austin food truck flavors.