Last month, What Now Sacramento reported that an Oakland-based barbecue brand had paused operations at its Elk Grove outpost to “evaluate operational next steps.” Now, that pause has become permanent.
According to the Sacramento Business Journal, signage posted last week at Horn Barbecue‘s 9700 Railroad St space indicated that the property had reverted to the building owner. Steve Lebastchi, the landlord of the space, told the publication that Horn Barbecue—which opened in Elk Grove in April 2025—had fallen behind on rent and ultimately could not continue operating at the location.
While the Elk Grove restaurant has closed, founder and pitmaster Matt Horn says the restaurant is planning to make a return. In an email to the Sacramento Business Journal, Horn said the team is evaluating new locations in Elk Grove and the greater Sacramento area, adding that he remains committed to serving the community when the business can do so “from a position of strength.”
The closure comes amid broader turbulence for the barbecue brand. The San Francisco Chronicle recently reported that Horn Barbecue was evicted last week from its Lafayette location, where a notice from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office was posted on the front door. The brand’s original Oakland restaurant also appears to be closed; a representative told the Chronicle that the closure is temporary but did not provide additional details.
At present, it looks like the only Horn Barbecue location in operation is a newly opened Fresno outpost, which began service last week. Though not yet listed on the restaurant’s official website, recent Google Business reviews indicate that the Fresno location is currently open and serving customers.
Horn has not yet responded to What Now Sacramento’s requests for comment. This story will be updated as additional information becomes available regarding the brand’s future in Elk Grove or the Sacramento area.
