Bluebonnet Barbecue's New Permanent Brunswick East Eatery Will Finally Open Next Week

If there has been a Bluebonnet Barbecue-shaped hole in your life since the cult meat eatery shut up shop in North Fitzroy earlier this year, then we're happy to tell you it's about to be filled. The next iteration of Bluebonnet is on track to open its doors in Brunswick East on Monday, August 27.

The Lygon Street venue is its first permanent home after a string of super-popular pop-ups, and the original crew of 2014 are back together to mark the occasion: pitmaster Chris Terlikar, sous chef Eric Baird and bar manager Nate White. And they'll be throwing down their signature low 'n' slow Texan-style barbecue, with crafty cocktails to match.

Expect a mix of old favourites and new creations, in a menu that matches expertly smoked meats with clever revamps of traditional sides. The famed beef brisket makes its return, along with the likes of porter-braised beef cheeks and pork ribs, while supporting acts might include fried green tomatoes on whipped goats feta and a black garlic cornbread. And night owl carnivores will find plenty to love about the solid menu of late-night bar eats.

The drinks offering has been amped up, now running to a three-part cocktail lineup — classics, lighter signature sips to complement the meat, and a produce-driven rotation of seasonal drinks — backed by a ten-strong Victorian tap list.

The space itself is laid-back and rustic, with reclaimed railway sleepers, big retractable front windows and a separate pool room, for those after-dinner sessions.

Bluebonnet Barbecue will open at 124-126 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, from Monday, August 27. It's kicking off with just dinner service for the first week, then will serve lunch and dinner seven days a week.