Texas-Style BBQ Restaurant Now Open in Cedar Rapids

What once was a bowling alley in Cedar Rapids is now home to Texas-style BBQ food!

Westdale Bowling Center first opened in 1984. The center abruptly closed in November 2019. The Cedar Rapids Gazette reported in 2021 on plans to turn the old bowling alley into a live music venue. But now the building is home to a new BBQ restaurant that promises Texas-style food right here in Iowa.

What is the New BBQ Restaurant in Cedar Rapids?

The Gazette reports that Backyard BBQ opened on June 15th at the old Westdale Bowling Center at 2020 Scotty Dr. SW. The restaurant first started posting on social media in April 2024 and showed that they were making major renovations to the building. It also showed that the restaurant owners Khamnoth Lovanh and Sandy Ting, traveled to Texas to find out exactly what kind of food they wanted to serve back in Iowa.

READ MORE: Iowa BBQ Restaurant Named One of America's Best

What Kind of Food Does Backyard BBQ Serve?

Let's talk about Texas-style BBQ! The Gazette reports that the new restaurant serves a number of smoked Texas-style classics like brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and a one of a kind brisket smash burger! The restaurant will also have a full bar, but is waiting on final approval of their liquor license.

When is Backyard BBQ Open?

You can check out all your Texas-style favorites at Backyard BBQ daily from 4 to 9 p.m. We can't wait to try it for ourselves!

Speaking of great BBQ, here are some of the highest-rated BBQ restaurants in the state of Iowa!