Tucked away in the heart of El Paso, Texas, Desert Oak Barbecue was founded by the husband-and-wife team Richard and Laura, who started with a passion for slow-smoked Texas barbecue and a small food truck back in 2015. What began as a humble local favorite quickly gained a loyal following, eventually blossoming into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Their popularity soared thanks to perfectly smoked brisket, juicy ribs, and homemade sides that echoed backyard cookouts and Southern hospitality. Over time, the menu evolved to include creative twists on BBQ classics—yet it never strayed far from its roots.
While the main menu draws crowds daily, insiders whisper about a secret menu—featuring brisket grilled cheese and off-menu sausage specials—that keeps regulars coming back. Still, the original smoked brisket, tender and richly seasoned, remains the undeniable star of the show.
