Jacksonville

R&J BBQ Bringing West Texas Barbecue to Jacksonville

The Jacksonville-based food truck will focus on handcrafted barbecue and bold flavors inspired by Texas, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.

Image from R&J BBQ on Facebook

JACKSONVILLE, FL — R&J BBQ, a mobile barbecue food truck owned by pitmaster Eli Ellison, is preparing to launch service in Jacksonville. Ellison shared with Business Debut in a phone interview that the truck is targeting an opening once it clears final inspection and receives its license, which he is aiming to complete around June 8.

What to Expect

R&J BBQ will focus on West Texas-style smoked meats served from a mobile truck. Ellison said the concept grew out of his experience on the barbecue competition circuit.

He plans to position the truck at local craft beer events, festivals, and similar gatherings as the business ramps up. The truck will operate primarily on weekends during the early phase, Ellison told Business Debut.

Ellison said R&J BBQ will serve traditional barbecue staples influenced by West Texas techniques. The menu will also feature items with Puerto Rican and Mexican inspiration, including arroz amarillo, chicharróns and barbacoa.

“We like to infuse a bunch of different flavors and styles,” Ellison told Business Debut. He said the goal is to broaden the flavor profile for customers and to build on the recipes he uses in competitions.

“We also specialize in creating and distributing various seasonings that I also use for competitions as well as regular cooking,” Ellison shared with Business Debut.

Opening Timeline

Ellison said the food truck build-out is complete and he is waiting for the final inspection call from regulators. He is targeting an opening on June 8.

Once operations begin, R&J BBQ will publish an events schedule so customers can find the truck at specific locations. Ellison said the schedule will be posted on the company’s website and social channels.