In a Crowded Barbecue Scene, Alzer’s Finds a Way To Shine | Eater Austin

"In a crowded Central Texas barbecue scene, this Cedar Park smokehouse shines by serving classic Texas barbecue that happens to be fully halal. After years honing his craft at backyard cookouts and a city-licensed food truck (since 2017), owner Naser Alzer opened the brick-and-mortar in 2022 and built a menu of brisket, turkey, beef sausage, and all the expected sides—just no pork. Brisket is sourced from Creekstone Farms and prepared to halal standards, lamb (often from New Zealand) and smoked beef ribs stand in for pork, and he adds playful proteins like quail and Cornish hen, letting the gaminess, herbs, and smoke lead. The approach has attracted traditional barbecue fans alongside Muslims, Jewish diners, and Christians who avoid pork, and the team’s community-minded touches—like a $10 Sunday lunch combo with a sandwich and a drink—underscore its Cedar Park roots. With an unwavering focus on halal compliance and Middle Eastern grilling traditions, it stands out as one-of-one in Austin’s competitive barbecue landscape." - Taylor Tobin