Hard Eight BBQ is embarking on opening its first San Antonio location. According to a recently filed permit, the growing BBQ brand is expected to open in Bass Pro Outdoor World at 17907 IH-10 West.
Construction plans include renovations to an existing restaurant of approximately 12,800 square feet, with additional open-air and conditioned structures of approximately 4,500 square feet for a total of 17,300 square-feet. Construction is slated to start at the beginning of next month and wrap up on the first of November. If all goes well, we can expect the new San Antonio BBQ joint to open before the end of the year.
Hard Eight BBQ is a family-owned Texas barbecue restaurant established in 2003 in Stephenville, Texas, by Phillip and Vicki Nivens and Chad and Carie Decker.
The Executive Director of the establishment is Katie Gooch. What Now San Antonio had a brief exchange with Gooch, who confirmed the opening and later shared more details.
“Hard Eight BBQ is not your typical restaurant; it’s an experience,” Gooch said.
“You walk up to the pit, smell the mesquite, talk to the pitmaster, and pick out exactly what you want. It’s very Texas, very laid-back, and very family-oriented.”
There are now four other Hard Eight BBQ locations throughout Texas, one in The Colony, one in Coppell, one in Roanoke, and another in Burleson.
“We always look for places where we feel like we can really become part of the community, not just drop in. We’re excited for this location to be a collaboration with Bass Pro Shop at The Rim shopping center and join the community down in San Antonio,” Gooch said.
Hard Eight BBQ specializes in meats straight from the pit, offering a variety of dishes like brisket, jalapeno cheddar sausage, pulled pork, and more. The eateries also cook up and dish out a multitude of sides to accompany the meats, sandwiches, and desserts.
“San Antonio is such a special city with deep Texas roots, and we feel it would be a good fit for us!”
“The Hard Eight Family enjoys sharing what they love: a fun atmosphere, delicious food, and some good ‘ole southern hospitality,” the Hard Eight BBQ website reads.
“Hard Eight is an authentic eating experience where you will be served ‘Texas Style’ straight from the pit by the Pit Master who prepared your food.”
Beyond its smoky good eats, Hard Eight BBQ is also a venue for live music and entertainment.
Hard Eight BBQ is anticipated to make its San Antonio debut in the Bass Pro Outdoor World at 17907 IH-10 West this winter.
“More than anything, we want to be a place people gather. A spot for families after games, friends catching up, celebrations…all of it. That’s what Hard Eight has always been about: good food and good people,” Gooch said.
