Austin, Texas, is a city known for its legendary barbecue, and among its many gems, the Distant Relatives BBQ food truck stands out for its unique blend of Texas barbecue and African American culinary traditions. Located at Meanwhile Brewing, this food truck has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike, offering a dining experience that’s both soulful and satisfying.
For many, Distant Relatives isn’t just a quick stop—it’s a destination. Kimberly Robinson, a local guide, shares that it took her three visits before finally tasting what this food truck had to offer. But was it worth the wait? Absolutely. The brisket and pulled pork were exceptional, with the mustard BBQ sauce standing out as a must-try. Kimberly’s only wish? That Distant Relatives had a location in Denver!
Visitors rave about the variety of dishes offered at Distant Relatives. M. Evans, who traveled all the way from Virginia, was thrilled to try the tomahawk chops and a beef hot link. Describing it as “phenomenal,” Evans’ experience highlights the truck’s ability to deliver unforgettable flavors that leave a lasting impression.
Gerson Reynoza, another local guide, praises the fusion of Texas BBQ and African American flavors. The brisket, juicy and melt-in-your-mouth tender, paired with a subtly spiced sauce, creates a flavor profile that’s uniquely Distant Relatives. Reynoza’s visit underscores the food truck’s commitment to offering something truly special in the Austin BBQ scene.
While the meats are undoubtedly the star of the show, the sides and sauces at Distant Relatives are no less impressive. J. Fields, a local guide, can’t get enough of the chicken leg quarter, served with slaw, bread, and peanuts. The tangy dipping sauce that accompanied the dish was unlike any other, making the meal a memorable one.
Burnt end black-eyed peas, pickled cabbage, and even spiced peanuts are just a few of the creative sides that have diners coming back for more. As Chris Pesek, a frequent visitor, notes, the variety of sauces and the fresh, flavorful sides elevate the entire BBQ experience to the next level.
No place is without its challenges, and Distant Relatives is no exception. Jess, a disappointed customer, shared her experience with a biryani collaboration that didn’t quite hit the mark. Waiting an hour for a small portion of oxtail biryani, Jess felt the dish was overpriced and underwhelming. Cindy Spencer also expressed her disappointment when she found that many of the items she wanted were sold out, leaving her with a fatty brisket that didn’t quite meet her expectations.
Despite a few hiccups, Distant Relatives continues to be a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts. With its creative fusion of flavors, top-notch meats, and thoughtfully crafted sides, this food truck offers a BBQ experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Distant Relatives is a culinary stop you won’t want to miss. Get there early, though—this popular spot often sells out before the day is done!
Distant Relatives specializes in a unique blend of Texas barbecue infused with African American culinary traditions. They offer a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and tomahawk chops, paired with creative sides and flavorful sauces.
The Distant Relatives BBQ food truck is located at Meanwhile Brewing in Austin, Texas. It's a popular spot, so it's recommended to arrive early to ensure you get a taste of their offerings before they sell out.
Some of the must-try dishes include the brisket, pulled pork, and tomahawk chops. Visitors also rave about their unique sides like burnt end black-eyed peas, pickled cabbage, and spiced peanuts.
While Distant Relatives is primarily known for its meats, they also offer creative sides that may appeal to vegetarians or those looking for non-meat options. However, it's best to check their current menu for specific offerings.
Many customers find that the wait is well worth it, especially for the quality and uniqueness of the barbecue. However, some have noted that arriving early can help avoid longer wait times and ensure that your preferred items are still available.