About Old 300 BBQ
The story of the Old 300
The name “Old Three Hundred” refers to the settlers who received land grants in Stephen F. Austin’s first colony in Mexico. Although not originally enthusiastic about the project, Austin continued the colonization activities after the death of his father, Moses Austin. Therefore, he traveled to San Antonio, where he met with the Spanish governor Antonio Maria Martinez. The governor acknowledged Stephen F. Austin as his father’s successor, allowing the colonization activities to proceed.
Austin agreed with Martinez to be responsible for all administrative tasks after he arranged for settlers to come to Texas in exchange for land; in payment for services, Austin would collect 12-1/2 cents an acre in compensation. Austin returned to New Orleans and sought willing colonists and by the end of the summer of 1824, most of the Old Three Hundred were settled in Texas.
Meet Our Pitmaster, Ladd Pepper
Ladd was born in Kansas City, a legendary BBQ town in its own right. He began first grade right here in Blanco and grew up along the banks of the beautiful Blanco River, where he learned to fish, hunt, climb trees, jump off rocks, and catch bullfrogs. After graduating Blanco High School first in his class, he headed off to Texas A&M University.
Although his degree was in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, it was while at Texas A&M that he became a true student of Texas BBQ. His first mentorship was centered on a small, but highly successful family-owned smokehouse not far from College Station. There he learned the art of cooking Texas-style BBQ in large quantities. Ladd's passion for Texas BBQ has steadily burned since.
Highlights of Ladd's professional career include serving legendary Texas A&M football coach RC Slocum, hand-cutting and serving over 8,000 premium grade beef briskets, setting up the largest "live fire" cooking demonstration in American history, and being personally selected to prepare BBQ in Washington DC during President Obama's first inauguration.
He's met and cooked for his fair share of celebrities along the way: Tom Hanks, Garth Brooks, and Beyoncé, to name a few. But his favorite customers are "regular Joes". His passion to cook and serve Texas BBQ to people who truly appreciate family, friends, and God's blessings is second to none.
Take a tour of Old 300 BBQ
Interested in working at The Old 300?
Want a great job? Want a great career? At Old 300 BBQ, we are always searching for potential new teammates. We value who you are and what you will add to our team. Whether you seek part- or full-time employment, we look forward to watching you grow with us!
Want a great job? Want a great career? At Old 300 BBQ, we are always searching for potential new teammates. We value who you are and what you will add to our team. Whether you seek part- or full-time employment, we look forward to watching you grow with us!
What Our Customers Say
I had 1 rib the size of my arm. Best rib(s) I've ever had. Amazing.
I was im blanco tx fishing at blanco state park when I got hungry. Found this place Old 300 BBQ. Mo complaints from here except one thing the fries. The fries taste like everywhere else. I got the chopped brisket sandwich which was excellent, got cream corn also excellent, and the regular sausage again excellent. Other than the fries great atmosphere. The staff is welcoming and treats you like family. The lady who was taking orders asked if i knew where all the fixings are i told her no this is my first time and she said well welcome. Im sure this is a mom and pop restaurant. When im back this way I will definitely be stopping by again. Sorry about the fries
We visited for the first time and we were impressed. Ordered turkey and chicken with side of okra and the turkey was moist and delicious. The chicken was seasoned and cooked to perfection. It’s a small place and had to wait a minute for a table but other than that everything was great. Will definitely be back to try the brisket.
My son was in Blanco he brought me some very delicious BBQ with creamy corn and mac and cheese best tasting brisket , creamy corn and mac and cheese. I ever had now I am willing to make that hour and half drive just to get me some of the best BBQ.
Brisket was on point!
They have awesome new two step dance class available on Tuesday nights! Cowboy Boots and Boogie! The food is great too!
Enjoyed a wonderful lunch with family. Cami was awesome and treated us so great!
BBQ is excellent and staff is great, helpful and cordial. Their signature sandwiches are huge but full of flavor. Get ready to bring leftovers back home.
Best BBQ I’ve EVER had… and I AM a Texan!! Shelly, ur the best! And if I could serve up that Turkey and claim it homemade for Thanksgiving…. I would too!!
Great bbq sauce and bbq. A little pricey but we'll worth it.