Huntsville Welcomes a Taste of Texas at Kar’s Char Texas-Style BBQ
Huntsville residents, get ready to satisfy your barbecue cravings! A slice of Texas has found its way to our culinary landscape at Kar’s Char Texas-Style BBQ, located at the vibrant Lowe Mill. Opened just a year ago by Thomas Langford and James Emery, this barbecue joint brings together a passion for authentic Texas barbecue mixed with mouth-watering traditional Southern comfort food.
A Passion for Barbecue
Thomas Langford’s journey to becoming a barbecue pitmaster is as flavorful as the food he serves. Growing up in Amarillo, Texas, he started mastering the art of smoking meats at the young age of 16. He learned from his cousin, who championed cooking for charity events that often served up to hundreds of hungry folks. “I’ve been doing it for 20 years now,” Thomas reflected, showcasing his long-standing love and dedication to barbecue.
In 2014, Thomas moved to Huntsville, bringing with him the rich and cherished barbecue traditions of Texas. While it was a casual conversation that sparked the idea of opening a restaurant, the duo soon found an opportunity at Lowe Mill that made the concept a reality. A joke turned serious as they crunched the numbers, applied for their space, and officially launched Kar’s Char Texas-Style BBQ in August 2023. What a journey it has been!
The Flavor of Texas
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the beef brisket, a true Texan delicacy not often found in Huntsville. “Beef is king back in Texas, so obviously if we’re gonna call ourselves Texas-style barbecue, we have to have some kind of beef,” Thomas explains passionately. Initially, the menu kept it simple with a brisket plate, a brisket sandwich, and a few sides. But, just like their dishes, the menu has blossomed with time, featuring enticing weekly specials that have won a permanent spot in the spotlight.
Staying true to Texas traditions, Kar’s Char boasts barbecue cooked with a mix of mesquite and post-oak, creating a distinct, smoky flavor that transports your taste buds straight to the Lone Star State. Seasonings are kept uncomplicated for the pork, reminiscent of local flavors but with that undeniable mesquite essence that sets it apart.
Local Touches with Southern Flair
While the barbecue highlights Texas roots, the sides off the grill reflect James Emery’s Southern heritage. A proud Hazel Green native, Emery has ingeniously adapted some of his family’s cherished recipes for the restaurant. Diners rave about his versions of vinegar slaw and dill pickle potato salad, which pay homage to his grandmothers’ traditions, all while adding a personal, tasteful twist!
Craftsmanship at Its Best
For Thomas, barbecue is far more than a meal; it’s an art form. “The ingredients are your medium,” he says. “There’s an art to that. There’s time, there’s temperature, there’s a lot of factors, and every piece of meat is different.” This dedication and meticulous attention to detail are evident in every mouth-watering bite you take at Kar’s Char.
What’s Next for Kar’s Char?
As they celebrate their first year, both Thomas and James are looking ahead with excitement. They plan to grow their menu, adding ribs and chicken in the near future, and are even considering hiring additional staff to keep up with the rising demand. “Working for ourselves is the most rewarding work I’ve ever done,” Thomas shares. “We’re putting our heart and soul into it, and it really is rewarding when it shows.”
Located in Railroad Room #5 at Lowe Mill on 2211 Seminole Drive, Kar’s Char is open Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. So, if you’re in the mood for some authentic Texas barbecue with a local twist, make sure to check them out!
