Hickory House BBQ, which has operated from its Riverfront Boulevard address since 1952, has built a reputation on that kind of consistency. It has never depended on novelty, instead maintaining a steady presence that appeals to a loyal base of regulars who value familiarity as much as the food itself.
Kent Rathbun has never stayed in one lane for long. Long before Dallas embraced chef-driven dining as the norm, he helped define it—bringing polish, precision, and a certain confidence to restaurants that set the tone for the city. His early work, from the refined dining room of Abacus to the more relaxed but still exacting Jasper’s, established him as a chef grounded in technique but not confined by it.
Hogs for the Cause, the nonprofit supporting families of children with cancer through community and barbecue culture, is expanding nationwide with the launch of the Trail of Barbecue. The initiative partners with restaurants to raise funds through simple efforts like rounding up at checkout, hosting events, or donating proceeds from menu items.
Since 2009, Hogs for the Cause has grown from helping one family to distributing more than $14 million to hospitals and charities, along with over $3 million in direct grants to more than 2,300 families. Its flagship New Orleans festival draws over 30,000 attendees each year and fuels much of that impact.
Festival organizers at The Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate today announced the official 2026 BBQ Pitmasters lineup for the Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival, returning Saturday, April 18, 2026, to the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for its milestone 5th anniversary. Tickets are on sale now at SyndicateSmokedown.com.
Located in Irving at 8140 N MacArthur Blvd,Kafi BBQ is quietly rewriting what a barbecue destination can be. Owner Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi brings a meticulous eye to every cut, every smoke, and every flavor, creating plates that feel intentional, balanced, and unmistakably memorable.
With Game Day just around the corner, Dallasites are settling into that familiar pre-kickoff rhythm: planning the guest list, setting the lineup, and—most importantly—figuring out what’s on the table. This year, Loro Dallas and Loro Addison are making it remarkably easy to host like a pro, thanks to a thoughtfully curated Big Game Bundle that brings bold flavors, smoked perfection, and zero kitchen stress.
In University Park, just steps from SMU,Los Charros Tex-Mex Smokehouse has quickly become one of Dallas’ most exciting new dining destinations. Founded by restaurateur Julian Barsotti and barbecue artisan Corby Ferrell, the restaurant unites Tex-Mex tradition with Texas smokehouse mastery. Every detail—from the scent of hickory-smoked brisket to the lively interior—reflects their shared vision: bold, authentic flavors served with care and personality.
The Crossbuck Supper Clubturns the classic smokehouse on its head, offering a monthly five-course dining experience that’s as thoughtful as it is indulgent. Each evening is a carefully curated journey through the kitchen’s creativity, where slow-smoked meats and seasonal ingredients are transformed into dishes you won’t see on the regular menu.