J. Leonardi’s {Best Barbecue in the East}

Family, Community, BBQ

Words by Jessi Devenyns

The barbecue offered at J. Leonardi’s is made with recipes handed down through the generations. Passed from uncle to nephew under the watchful eye of the family matriarch, Jerome Leonardi, owner of the barbecue trailer, learned his craft in a trial by fire. The result, however, is a slow-smoked, succulent menu of meats that can hold its own against any of East Austin’s barbecue giants.

This understated trailer is a gem and not just for the barbecue that Jerome smokes. In true community style, the barbecue trailer has been donating free lunches to local kids who need their bellies fed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and proceeding with regular operations Thursday through Saturday. This blue plate special for kids rotates daily and is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

THE TEXAN
“Hook ’em”
• 1/4 lb Baby Back Rib Meat
• 1/4 lb Seasoned Chopped Brisket
• 1/4 lb Lean Sliced Brisket
• Crumbled Lays Potato Chips
• All layered on a Sweet Bun

For those who are no longer children, there are also daily specials to complement the standard menu. Break out of the traditional barbecue rut and try a brisket empanada made with homemade dipping sauce for something that is sure to tantalize taste buds. Otherwise, there’s nothing quite like a comforting brisket sandwich, or even a Longhorn rib sandwich, to brighten up a day.

To enjoy this trailer’s pit-smoked creations, J. Leonardi’s is offering curbside pickup and scheduled deliveries for those who order 48 hours in advance. Opt for either a simple, comforting lunch special with chips and a drink or go hog wild and take home a family pack meal kit to keep the whole house fed.

While any of the options on the menu are a good bet, J. Leonardi’s really shines with their ribs. Succulent and fall-off-the-bone, these pork ribs are irresistible, especially when paired with some smoked cabbage or jalapeño corn. For those who prefer beef ribs, try the trailer’s Sunday lunch. And the 50/50 pork and beef house made sausage is a winner for any meal.

Community First

J. Leonardi’s has been doling out sandwiches to school children every Tuesday and Thursday since AISD shut down in March. Jerome Leonardi, who has kids of his own, says “I have kids at home, and I know how empty my fridge is. I can only imagine how empty our neighbor’s fridges are, too.” To keep refrigerators stocked and kids fed this summer, the barbecue trailer will continue serving school-aged children in the community once a week. For those who need it, be sure to get there early before barbecue sliders run out. Check their Instagram for dates and times: @jleonardibarbeque.