EastSide Tavern Brings Loads of Barbecue and Patio Space This Week

Nadia Chaudhury is the editor of Eater Austin covering food and pop culture, as well as a photographer, writer, and frequent panel moderator and podcast guest.

After an earlier delay, EastSide Tavern is now opening on Thursday, November 17, with barbecue, draft cocktails, and plenty of patio space on East Cesar Chavez. Eater got a peek at the restaurant before its opening.

Pitmaster Cade Mercer (formerly of Lamberts Downtown Barbecue) will run the smoker, which’ll churn out smoked meats like brisket, ribs, and chicken, by the pound, paired with a side and dessert. Other meaty dishes include brisket and cheddar cheese-stuffed tater tots, Frito pie, sandwiches, wraps, and more. As for drinks, draft and barrel-aged cocktails are the focus of the beverage program. Additionally, there are two frozen drinks on tap, margaritas and frose (frozen rose).

Throughout the space are warm details, from the wood paneling to rusty-colored metal (a call to its former name). The indoor dining room has a booth and bar/table seating. The patio features picnic tables, and then the rooftop deck includes a dedicated bar.

EastSide was forced to change its original name (Rustic East) after receiving a cease and desist letter from Dallas-area The Rustic. The barbecue restaurant is owned by the same team as Colorado Street bar The Market: John Korioth, Matt Carter, and Clarissa Alcantara.

EastSide Tavern's hours are from 11 a.m. to midnight, Thursday through Saturday.