Texas Jack's Barbecue

Today, May 28, is National Brisket Day—what better reason to celebrate at Texas Jack's Barbecue in Arlington, Virginia? When you're serving up Texas-style, low-and-slow smoked brisket in Virginia, there’s simply no better namesake than Texas Jack Omohundro, the legendary cowboy born right here in Virginia who helped popularize the cowboy image across America.

Texas Jack’s story is as rich and flavorful as the brisket at his namesake restaurant. Born John Baker Omohundro near Palmyra, Virginia, Jack served as a teenage scout and spy under Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart during the Civil War. After the war, he headed west to Texas, becoming a trail-driving cowboy on the famed Chisholm Trail, shaping the romantic image of the American cowboy. Later, as an Army scout in Nebraska, he met and befriended Buffalo Bill Cody, with whom he co-starred in Ned Buntline's stage play, "The Scouts of the Prairie." It was during these performances that Jack also met his future wife, the renowned Italian prima ballerina Giuseppina Morlacchi.

Texas Jack Omohundro

Texas Jack's Barbecue was founded by Steve Roberts, who initially intended simply to honor his father, Jack. Late one night, a Google search introduced him to Texas Jack Omohundro—a famous Texas cowboy named Jack, born just over 100 miles from Steve’s new restaurant location. It was an immediate connection. The more Steve learned, the deeper the resonance grew—Steve’s own father, Jack, was a true western man, competing in rodeos back home in Montana. And like Texas Jack before him, Steve's father married an accomplished ballerina.

Texas Jack Omohundro made his first visit to the D.C. area was just over 150 years ago, in May 1873. Performing at Wall's Opera House alongside Buffalo Bill, Jack showed extraordinary generosity, hosting his family from Virginia and insisting they never spend a cent during their visit.

Today, Texas Jack's BBQ continues this legacy of warmth and hospitality. Visitors can savor mouthwatering, authentically smoked brisket and raise a toast with signature cocktails like the Jack's Mule or Omohundro Margarita. If you're anywhere near Washington, D.C., there no better way to celebrate National Brisket Day in true cowboy style than Texas Jack’s Barbecue.