The New Challenges BBQ Restaurants Face in 2023

Will the 'BBQ Bubble' soon burst? Hear what one of the country's top pitmasters has to say.

After the past few years of challenges brought on by the global pandemic and increasing political and social divisions, we had hoped that 2023 would usher in brighter days. However, this year has presented new challenges and plenty of uncertainty for our BBQ friends in the restaurant world.

Acclaimed pitmaster Arnis Robbins of Evie Mae's Barbeque in Wolfforth, TX, recently appeared on Kevin’s BBQ Joints to discuss the many challenges craft barbecue joints face in 2023. Robbins also recently took to Facebook to share a basic breakdown of the yield/expense for brisket on Facebook. (Spoiler alert: this is highly illuminating.)

Also, Daniel Vaughn of Texas Monthly recently wrote about the “Texas Barbecue Bubble” and wonders if this bubble is about to burst. He notes that “too much heat, too-expensive brisket, and too much competition are stressing barbecue joints” and that many are struggling despite accolades and die-hard fans.

While we know money is tight, and inflation is still high, we’d like to encourage everyone to go out and show support for your local barbecue restaurants. Keep spreading the BBQ love out there.

Ryan Cooper and Sean Ludwig
Co-Founders, The Smoke Sheet

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