Young’s BBQ & More it’s not the kind of place you rush through. Situated along the main drag in Lampasas, it’s where folks take their time, sip sweet tea without checking the clock, and wave to neighbors as they walk through the door. The aroma of mesquite smoke drifts into the parking lot, drawing in both loyal regulars and curious passersby with the promise of something real, slow-cooked, handcrafted, and full of heart.
Founded on May 21, 2020, Young’s BBQ & More is a family-run joint known for its flavorful mesquite-smoked meats and signature breakfast burritos. Over time, it’s become a local favorite thanks to its homemade recipes, unshakable work ethic, and warm hospitality that feels more like a family gathering than a business.
For the menu, Lisa Young and her crew serve up a range of mesquite-smoked favorites, brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and sausage to include a great morning breakfast. You’ll find burritos, to include, made with from-scratch tortillas tocos, omelets and pancakes on the griddle. Their sides are potato salad, cole slaw, and baked beans are made in-house, and desserts like banana pudding and bread pudding never miss. And of course, there’s always Lisa’s.
The atmosphere setting is laid-back and welcoming with both indoor and outdoor seating. Travelers with dogs will appreciate the pet-friendly outdoor tables, and no one’s in a hurry, just good food, friendly faces, and an easy-going vibe. On my last visit we spoke with an older local couple for at least 30 minutes.
Before landing in Lampasas, the Young family first opened shop in Richland Springs back in 2013 as Young’s Burritos & BBQ. Lisa and her son Jeremy ran the day-to-day, while Carl, her husband and a full-time house painter, smoked briskets on the side. However, it didn’t take long to realize they were on to something special. The family’s mix of skills turned into a true team: Carl took charge of the brisket, ribs, and sausage, Jeremy became known for his honey-buttered turkey, and Lisa led the kitchen, making the sides and keeping the men in line. In 2016, they relocated to nearby San Saba and kept the fires burning there for several years.
Enter Stage Left; Joe Able. In early 2020, the family hoped to make the move to Lampasas. They found the ideal location, but the property’s owner, Joe Able, wasn’t exactly thrilled about another BBQ place. Lisa stayed persistent, and when she finally met him in person, he said, “You’re that BBQ lady who keeps calling me.” She won him over, and thanks to Joe’s change of heart, Young’s BBQ & More found its new home.
But their bond didn’t end there. Joe and his wife Cindy became close friends with Carl and Lisa. When tragedy hit and Jeremy was diagnosed with cancer, but had no insurance, Joe stepped in and donated a large sum of money so they could get him to MD Anderson. “There aren’t many men like Joe Able in this world,” Lisa said. “He helped save Jeremy’s life.”
But giving back is a prioity for the Young family as well and Lisa has a heart for people. When asked about community involvement, she simply said, “I can’t let people go hungry.” Though she’s never been homeless, she knows what it’s like to struggle. If someone shows up in need, she makes sure they don’t leave hungry. That kind of generosity is baked into the soul of the business. The Youngs also support local food business and charities across Lampasas.
The pandemic year of 2020, surprisingly, turned out to be their best. With indoor dining restricted, their drive-thru became a saving grace for both the business and the community. Locals and travelers alike, some from as far as Dallas and San Antonio kept the orders coming. To this day, those same out-of-towners still stop in when they pass through.
Lisa said, “Running a small BBQ joint comes with its challenges, prices and hours are a constant struggle. With rising meat costs, the family sometimes takes a loss just to keep their prices fair. But they remain committed to doing things right, every single day.
When Jeremy was diagnosed with cancer and Carl needed hip surgery not long after, it was Lisa’s sister Bridgett and her husband Carl (yes, another Carl) who stepped in. Today, they’re both key parts of the team that the business couldn’t survive without. And when things get especially hectic, Lisa and Carl’s other sons, Corey and Colton, roll up their sleeves and help out.
This isn’t just a family business. It’s a business that keeps the family strong, and by extension, helps hold up the community. So it’s no surprise when you hear Lisa say, “Treat your customers like family.”
Location
504 N Key Ave, Lampasas, TX 76550
Phone: (512) 564-1220
Facebook: facebook.com/youngsbbqmore
Average Price: $10–$25 per person
Operating Hours
Monday–Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday–Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
