An acclaimed barbecue establishment in Pflugerville is preparing to close, citing the rising cost of beef as a significant factor. Brotherton’s Black Iron Barbecue announced that it will shut its doors for good on Sunday, August 30.
Braeden Brotherton, who has been involved with the restaurant since its inception by his father, John Brotherton, in April 2017, expressed the emotional toll of this decision. The restaurant quickly gained popularity and was named one of Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints in 2021.
Following the passing of his father in 2024, Braeden took on a more prominent role in the restaurant’s operations. However, he has faced mounting financial challenges. “It’s been a long road with several bumps since my dad passed. We’ve been struggling financially for a very long time now,” he shared.
The surge in beef prices has exacerbated their financial difficulties, with costs in Texas rising approximately 15% over the past year. “Beef prices are over $5 a pound at the restaurant level, nearing $6. The additional preparation and trimming required forces us to increase our prices if we want to maintain any profit margin,” Braeden explained.
The restaurant first hinted at its potential closure in January, reaching out to the community for support, which resulted in a strong response from loyal customers. They faced a similar situation in the spring, prompting another appeal for public assistance.
“It became a bit of a ‘Boy Who Cried Wolf’ situation. You can only say, ‘Hey, we need help. We’re about to close’ so many times,” Braeden remarked, acknowledging the many underlying issues they faced. “Clearly, something’s wrong. There are a lot of financial challenges we cannot address.”
In an effort to remain operational, Brotherton’s Barbecue attempted to increase prices, but they were hesitant to burden their customers. “There’s only so far we can go before that starts turning people away too,” Braeden said. “I don’t feel good about how we have to operate if we want to stay open.”
The restaurant officially announced its closure on August 2. While the outcome was not what they had hoped for, Braeden expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “It means the world to know how important we are to so many. We’ve made a lot of friends in Pflugerville, and I’m thankful for the time we’ve had,” he said.
Parking issues have also contributed to their struggles, as the restaurant shares a small lot with other businesses and food trucks, making it difficult for customers to find spaces.
For many in Pflugerville, the closing marks a poignant farewell. “The love and energy when you walk in is palpable, and the food is worth every penny,” said Ashley Griggs, who has been a regular since the restaurant’s opening and previously worked there. “John was deeply invested in the community, always helping others. It’s heartbreaking to see how much it has grown and flourished.”
On a busy Wednesday, the outpouring of community support was evident as customers queued for hours, and within two hours of opening, the restaurant was sold out.
“Brotherton’s will always hold a special place in my heart,” Griggs reflected. “It’s a place I’ll always remember.”
As Brotherton’s Black Iron Barbecue approaches its final day of service, the team invites everyone to visit one last time and enjoy a meal before they close their doors.
