A Bittersweet Goodbye to Merritt Meat Company
Introduction to a Central Texas Barbecue Staple
Merritt Meat Company, a beloved barbecue joint in Round Top, has been a staple in Central Texas for years. Although not located in Houston, its reputation has reached far and wide, thanks to the exceptional culinary skills of Truth BBQ’s husband-and-wife duo, Leonard Botello IV and Abbie Byrom-Botello. Unfortunately, this month will mark the end of an era as the couple has announced the closure of Merritt Meat Company.
The Story Behind Merritt Meat Company
The couple took over Merritt as a personal project to honor their friend Lee Ellis, a local restaurateur who previously owned Round Top Smokehouse. After Lee’s passing in 2023, they renamed the smokehouse Merritt, which was Lee’s middle name. This gesture was a way for the couple to keep Lee’s vision alive and share his spirit with the Round Top community.
A Culinary Gem in Round Top
Merritt Meat Company became a fixture in the Round Top scene, serving top-notch Texas trinity, smashburgers, and inventive sides like sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts. The restaurant was also a testing ground for experimental dishes, which were often debuted at Truth BBQ’s flagship location in Houston’s Heights. Located near Truth BBQ’s original location in Brenham, Merritt Meat Company was a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.
A Heartfelt Farewell
The couple announced the closure of Merritt Meat Company on Instagram, citing the property owners’ decision to go in a different direction with the space in Round Top’s Henkel Square. In their post, they expressed gratitude to everyone who shared a meal with them, believed in them, and made Merritt Meat Company a place worth remembering. The couple acknowledged that while this chapter is coming to a close, the time they spent at Merritt will remain incredibly meaningful to them.
Conclusion
As Merritt Meat Company prepares to close its doors for the last time, the community is left to cherish the memories and delicious meals shared at this beloved barbecue joint. Although the closure marks the end of an era, the legacy of Merritt Meat Company and the spirit of Lee Ellis will live on through the couple’s continued work at Truth BBQ. As fans of Merritt Meat Company say their goodbye, they can take comfort in knowing that the couple’s passion for barbecue and commitment to their community will continue to thrive in other endeavors.
