Texas-style barbecue coming to Alexandria's Founding Farmers
Restaurant chain's new concept debuts at local location in early 2026
Founding Farmers will launch a Texas-style barbecue program at its Alexandria location, 461 Swann Avenue, in early 2026.
Founding Farmers BBQ will feature slow-smoked ribs, brisket, wings, house-made sauces, and sides served in two- or four-person portions, according to Eater DC. The concept marks the restaurant group’s first barbecue venture since opening in 2008.
The menu will preview on Founding Farmers’ Thanksgiving and Christmas takeout offerings before the full launch.
Co-owner Michael Vucurevich and Chef Joe Goetze, managing partner for culinary and bakery, developed the concept over the past year. Vucurevich lived in Austin for a decade and visited barbecue restaurants including Salt Lick, Terry Black’s, Kruez Market and Franklin Barbecue. He also spent time in Kansas City, where he visited Arthur Bryant’s, Gates and Jack Stack.
Goetze has lived in Texas since 1991 and traveled through the state’s barbecue regions. He uses dry white oak for longer smokes and cherry wood for shorter sessions.
“The best BBQ places focus on delicious, quality meats and simple sides,” Goetze said on the Founding Farmers website. “No frills, no extras — just authentic flavors that speak for themselves.”
The holiday menu includes St. Louis Sweet Heat Ribs, brisket with barbecue sauce, Blue Ribbon Cowboy Baked Beans, and Mustard Potato Salad.
The Alexandria location opened in March. The restaurant group operates six other locations in the DMV area and one in Pennsylvania. The chain also runs distilling and coffee operations.
Tierney Plumb first reported this story for Eater DC.