Texas Tech’s “From Here, It’s Possible” campaign just introduced a smoky, standout new feature — and it centers on one of Lubbock’s most beloved pitmasters.
The Texas spotlight now shines on Michael Flores of Jimenez Y Friends, a man whose blend of family heritage, restaurant savvy, and Red Raider education has fueled one of Lubbock’s most respected food operations.
What many people forget is how wide-ranging Texas Tech’s degree programs really are. It’s not just engineering, agriculture, or business — programs like restaurant, hotel and institutional management can shift the trajectory of an entire family legacy. For Michael, that’s exactly what happened. His roots run deep in the restaurant and bakery world, but earning his degree at Tech gave him the tools to elevate the family craft even further, turning street smarts into a refined, sustainable business strategy rooted in tradition and innovation.
A Local Pitmaster Shows How Education and Heart Drive Real Community Impact
Michael oversees the barbecue arm of Jimenez Y Friends, cooking on weekends and for special events, and let’s be perfectly clear — his barbecue isn’t just good. It’s city-limits champion good. I’ll go on record saying it’s the absolute best inside Lubbock, and just to keep the peace, we’ll call it a friendly tie with the legends at Evie Mae’s and The Shack. Michael has earned that level of praise with smoke, sweat, and a lot of heart…