A new barbecue joint in Austin will unify two important local restaurant figures in one new concept. Simon Madera, who owns the “cantina” La Holly and Taco Flats is opening Churchrow Tejas BBQ with Miguel Vidal, the former owner of Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ. The restaurant is set to open sometime this fall in the space that formerly housed Black Gold Craft Meats & Cocktails (1521 W. Anderson Ln.).
Vidal is back “after a brief hiatus,” as a press release puts it. When Valentina’s closed in 2024, it was a high-profile loss, partly because people loved the restaurant so much, and partly because of the chaotic details.
Valentina’s was a food truck first, starting in 2013, that became known for its high-quality barbecue. Unfortunately, that shining reputation became tarnished years down the road when the restaurant expanded seemingly beyond its abilities; Vidal and his wife, Modesty, had to step away from the business carrying large debts and poor employee relations…