East Austin's Rollin Smoke BBQ Needs Community Support After Break-Ins

East Austin's Rollin Smoke BBQ Faces Alarming Break-Ins

In a troubling turn of events, Rollin Smoke BBQ, a beloved East Austin barbecue spot, is calling for community support after being victimized by thieves not once but twice in a single week. Owner Kyle Stallings, who transitioned the popular food truck into a brick-and-mortar venue, expressed his anguish as the unthinkable happened: a second break-in within days.

The Story of Resilience

Rollin Smoke BBQ, which started its journey in the back of Chalmers on East Cesar Chavez Street 13 years ago, is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub. Stallings loves the culinary aspect of his business but faces significant challenges associated with running it. The first break-in occurred early Monday morning; Stallings received a troubling text while at home that someone had breached their walk-in fridge. Thankfully, not much was taken initially. However, when he returned on Wednesday, he discovered that the same spot had been targeted again. This time, thieves stole a cart loaded with cases of brisket—a devastating blow to his business.

A Community Rallying Together

The unsettling news prompted reactions from other local business owners, including Shawn Saldana, who owns Fade Factory Barber Studio nearby. He expressed shock and concern, highlighting the integral role Rollin Smoke plays in the community. Stallings had previously donated excess food to the ATX Free Fridge, a program that has since shut down, raising concerns about food insecurity in the area. "We hate to think about anybody having food insecurity and having problems like that, because above everything else we want to help feed people," he lamented.

The Economic Toll

The timing of these incidents is particularly disheartening, as this month typically marks one of the slowest periods for restaurants. "Game day, this place gets really crazy, but other than that, it's like, we're struggling just like everybody else to maintain a budget and keep everyone paid," Stallings added. His plea for support resonates now more than ever, as the community can help galvanize business, especially when crime threatens local livelihoods.

More Than a Business

For many in East Austin, Rollin Smoke BBQ represents not just a place to enjoy savory brisket but a pillar of the community. As the restaurant recovers from these setbacks, it underscores an essential point: local businesses thrive on community support and trust. Each dollar spent not only aids recovery but fosters resilience against criminal activities.

Support Rollin Smoke BBQ

Now is the time for the Austin community to unite. Engaging in local business, especially during difficult times like these, creates a stronger sense of community and helps combat the emotional impact of crime. As Stallings awaits police investigations, patrons of Rollin Smoke BBQ can show their support by ordering food, sharing messages of encouragement, or contributing to local initiatives aimed at maintaining safety and security.

Your Role as a Community Member

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, your choices matter. Frequenting locations like Rollin Smoke BBQ can reinvigorate the local economy while standing against the tide of crime that recently struck it. With each meal shared in places like these, the community not only fosters resilience but takes a stand against theft and vandalism, making it clear that East Austin supports its own.