Spirit of Texas BBQ, a rising star in California’s barbecue scene, is set to open a new location in Apple Valley this summer, according to Victor Valley News. A large sign was recently installed at 19123 Outer Highway 18 in Apple Valley, advertising the upcoming business’s arrival.
The eatery is coming to a property that formerly housed Fat Jack’s Bar and Grill, but has sat empty for over a decade. It’s a massive space, spanning nearly 12,000 square feet, making it the largest Spirit of Texas BBQ location to date. It is expected to open in the summer, but an exact date has not yet been announced.
This step marks the company’s fifth restaurant. Last year, the brand announced on Instagram that it was working on a Norco store, which opened recently. It also has locations in Riverside, Covina, and its flagship in San Bernardino.
Founder Santos Aviles launched the chain in June 2021 after training at a top barbecue spot in Texas. The concept has experienced massive popularity and was named one of Yelp’s Top 100 Barbecue Spots in the U.S. in 2024. It offers meats by the pound, smoked low and slow for up to 14 hours using white oak, and hearty sides.
