News Summary
In Hillsboro, Texas, the Blue Ox Axe Throwing venue has shifted to a barbecue restaurant called Fat Baby Barbecue, offering Texas-style smoked meats. This change comes as owner Lani Eversage sought to captivate the community with a delicious food-centric experience after previous efforts in entertainment fell flat. With a new team and an exciting menu that includes brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, Fat Baby Barbecue aims to provide mouthwatering options while planning for additional community events and activities.
Texas: Hillsboro Welcomes Fat Baby Barbecue Amid a Culinary Transformation
In Hillsboro, Texas, a delightful new barbecue venue has emerged from the ashes of Blue Ox Axe Throwing, now known as Fat Baby Barbecue. This significant transition marks a move from axe throwing to a full-fledged BBQ restaurant, promising a culinary experience that the local community will relish.
Transition from Axe Throwing to Barbecue
Initially launched as an axe-throwing venue aimed at thrill-seekers, Blue Ox Axe Throwing struggled to capture ongoing interest from the public. Owner Lani Eversage attempted a range of enticing events including video games, bingo nights, live music, and a full bar to attract customers. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the novelty started to wear off, leading to the decision to pivot towards a more food-centric business model.
Introduction of Fat Baby Barbecue
In light of these challenges, the decision was made to embrace a vibrant food offering, resulting in the establishment of Fat Baby Barbecue on May 1 at 264 E. Main St.. This new restaurant aims to deliver an authentic Texas-style barbecue experience, focusing on rich flavors and high-quality dishes.
The name Fat Baby Barbecue encapsulates the venue’s mission. With a motto of “Smoked slow, served fat,” the restaurant aims to present a tantalizing array of barbecue dishes, featuring a distinct sweetness and delectable deep crust that promises to entice barbecue lovers.
Meet the Culinary Team
Fat Baby Barbecue is spearheaded by pit master Scott Fullerton, who has previously worked at Russell Street BBQ in Portland. Fullerton brings his expertise in creating a smoke program that is poised to become a crowd favorite. Supporting him is Chef Nick Pothakos, who manages kitchen operations to ensure consistent quality and satisfaction.
The menu features a selection of items available every Thursday through Saturday, including fresh-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and more. Diners can expect savory scents to envelop the area, thanks to the restaurant’s two impressive 500-gallon smokers, strategically positioned behind the Collective Market on Northeast Third Avenue. Notably, the brisket preparation is a lengthy process, taking between 12 to 14 hours to ensure optimal flavor and tenderness.
Menu Highlights to Tempt Your Taste Buds
Among the signature offerings, guests can indulge in saucy wings, smash burger tacos, and pulled pork mac and cheese, all designed to keep patrons returning for more. Eversage remains dedicated to maintaining high standards in every dish while also exploring catering opportunities that would extend the joy of barbecue across Hillsboro and its neighboring areas.
In addition to the culinary options, the new venue looks to enhance the overall experience by incorporating discounted axe-throwing sessions and fun weekend events that foster community engagement.
Rebranding and Community Impact
As part of the rebranding effort following this transformation, Blue Ox Axe Throwing will now be identified as Blue Ox Hillsboro on Google Maps. This change ensures that locals and visitors alike understand that the location is now a hub for both thrilling axe throwing and delicious barbecue.
Residents are encouraged to bring their friends and family to Fat Baby Barbecue in Hillsboro, whether they are lifelong axe-throwing fans or simply lovers of good food. This exciting evolution marks a promising new chapter for the community, introducing a flavorful destination that is set to become a favorite for many.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Hillsboro News Times: Fat Baby Barbecue
- Wikipedia: Barbecue
- Hillsboro News Times: Town Hall Announcement
- Google Search: BBQ in Texas
- Forest Grove News Times: Annual Easter Egg Hunt
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Barbecue
- My Central Jersey: Bobby Flay BBQ Brawl
- Google News: Hillsboro News
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
