50+ year legacy brand celebrates peak barbecue season with expansion, national recognition and unwavering commitment to Texas tradition
Dallas, TX (RestaurantNews.com) This National Bar-B-Que Month, the aroma of slow-smoked meats is drawing guests to Soulman’s Bar-B-Que’s, the beloved Texas institution that began as a single family-owned restaurant in Pleasant Grove, that is continuing its meteoric rise as a dominant force in regional dining. Now widely recognized as a “North Texas BBQ Empire,” the brand is accelerating expansion across North and East Texas while earning national accolades that underscore its staying power and quality during the most celebrated month in barbecue culture.
Founded in 1974 by Don and Teresa Hallett, Soulman’s has grown from a neighborhood barbecue joint into a powerhouse with more than 20 locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and East Texas. The brand’s continued growth reflects both strong consumer demand and a disciplined approach to scaling without sacrificing its signature low-and-slow, hickory-smoked cooking tradition.
Strategic Expansion Fuels Continued Growth
As part of its ongoing expansion strategy, Soulman’s is bringing its signature Texas barbecue to new communities, including a recently announced location in Gun Barrel City. The renovation project will transform a nearly 2,800-square-foot space into a new restaurant, marking the company’s southernmost expansion to date.
Construction is already underway with a projected summer opening, further extending Soulman’s reach into high-growth areas and reinforcing its presence in East Texas lake communities.
This expansion builds on a steady trajectory that has seen Soulman’s strategically enter both suburban and regional markets, positioning itself as a flagship for authentic Texas barbecue.
Celebrating National Bar-B-Que Month
With May marking National Bar-B-Que Month, Soulman’s is stepping into the spotlight during the most important season for barbecue lovers. Known for its slow-smoked meats and time-honored recipes, the brand is well-positioned to meet heightened seasonal demand as families, communities and backyard pitmasters alike celebrate Texas barbecue traditions. The milestone month also reinforces Soulman’s role as a go-to destination for authentic, high-quality barbecue across North Texas.
“National Bar-B-Que Month is a celebration of everything we stand for – family, tradition and great food,” said CEO Brett Randle. “It’s a time when barbecue brings people together, and we’re proud to be part of that experience for so many communities across North Texas.”
National Recognition and Industry Accolades
Soulman’s rapid growth is matched by a growing list of awards and recognitions that validate its reputation for quality and consistency. Over the past decade, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has earned national recognition from Eat This, Not That!, The Daily Meal, AOL and others, while consistently being named among the best barbecue destinations in Dallas-Fort Worth, solidifying its reputation as a true North Texas BBQ empire.
Additional accolades include recognition as:
- One of the top 5 Restaurant Chains for BBQ Chicken, According to Chefs (2026) by Eat This Not That!
- Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025) by Eat This Not That!
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