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
Had the turkey sandwich and it was good and plenty of meat
Kami is the absolute BEST! She is friendly, remembers names and favorites of regulars. We truly enjoy her helpful and ‘can-do’ attitude!
Came across this gem on my way home from Killeen to San Antonio and let me start off with the service we had a lady by the name of Brandy she had the best service and was very friendly she help us with everything from the moment we walk in to the moment we walked out hands down the best experience ever.
!Outstanding Texas Hill Country BBQ! Old 300 BBQ is a must-visit. The brisket - a Texas staple - is amazing... it's tender with a rich smokey flavor. Their spare ribs are perfection... the bark is seasoned with a balance of sweet, savory, and bold spices [chef's kiss]. Pair your meat with the creamed corn or green beans, and a refreshing Topo Chico. Old 300 serves generous portions, has friendly staff, and overall great vibes. Highly recommend... Cheers!
Excellent BBQ restaurant from top to bottom. All of the meats were moist and tender and the turkey was the best I've ever had. Friendly staff and a warm, welcoming atmosphere make this a go-to spot for us. 10/10, highly recommend!
Great BBQ in a small town Blanco, TX. with good size portions. Enjoy the atmosphere indoors or out. Grab a cold one on tap or straight out of the bucket. Kickback watch traffic roll by or stop into the nearby shops. The service is friendly and helpful and the restrooms are clean. Delicious brisket, beef ribs, pork loin and chicken. The cream corn is spot on and I like the self serve onions and pickles and bbq sauce is a plus but totally not necessary for this bbq.
Great brisket and sausage. I had the El Jefe sandwich. I couldn't finish it, bunch o meat🤤😅 We will be back for sure to try the other sides. The green beans and Mac and cheese were awesome!
Great atmosphere and great bbq!
We have not been to the Old 300 in a few years and decided to go get Burgers. They were wonderful! We were helped out by a sweet young lady named Cami! She was awesome! We will be back for sure!
Driving from Dripping to SA and thought we would give stop and give this place a try. 1st time at Old 300 BBQ. The food was amazing! And Brandy makes the BEST lemonade 🍋!!! Highly recommend trying.