The story
In the heart of downtown Seguin, Burnt Bean Co. has become a destination for serious Texas BBQ. Co-owners Ernest Servantes and Dave Kirkland, both decorated competition pit masters, opened their doors in October 2020 with a single goal: make the best BBQ in Texas. The result was immediate—lines out the door on day one, and the crowds haven't stopped since.
The story behind the name is rooted in a lighthearted moment. A former co-worker of Servantes, upon learning his competition menu, joked in Spanish that he'd probably burn the beans. The phrase “frijoles quemados” stuck, and Burnt Bean Co. was born. The restaurant’s motto, “Keep Quiet & Let Your Food Fly with a Big Stick,” reflects the team’s focus on letting the food speak for itself.
The menu showcases classic Texas BBQ with a craft approach. Offerings include prime brisket, pork ribs, turkey, house-made sausages (beef, jalapeño cheddar, and a poblano & pepper jack Cinco Sausage), chicken drumsticks, and beef cheek pastrami—all available by the half-pound. Sandwiches and sides like King Ranch Mac-N-Cheese, Cowboy Beans, and Street Corn Pudding round out the meal. Weekend-only specials feature Moroccan lamb ribs and bone-in pork chops, while Sunday brings a Tejano-style breakfast with brisket huevos rancheros, barbacoa tacos, and the “Blue October” croissant sandwich.
The restaurant's dedication to its craft has earned serious recognition. Texas Monthly named Burnt Bean Co. the #1 BBQ in Texas in 2025. It has also received a Michelin Bib Gourmand in both 2024 and 2025, recognizing good quality, good value cooking, and has been a James Beard Award semifinalist in consecutive years.
For those who can’t make it to Seguin, Burnt Bean Co. ships its award-winning BBQ nationwide via Goldbelly, bringing Central Texas brisket, ribs, and signature sides straight to your door.
Recognition
Ambience
Location