Disappointing News from Cedar Park: Big Cat BBQ has Closed

I’m very sad to report that Big Cat BBQ has closed. Owner James Jones had bounced back from incredible physical challenges to launch the popular Big Cat, but his family restaurant was overwhelmed by a proliferation of chain restaurants in Cedar Park.

I, for one, am saddened by the loss of Big Cat And the end of James’ dream. The man is one of my heroes and closing or not, should be an inspiration for all small restaurateurs. I hope he can come back with a new concept in a more favorable environment.

Just a side note: several years ago a national magazine ran a story that named Cedar Park as one of the best places in the country to open a restaurant. At the time I discussed it on our former Food Friday show on 590 KLBJ. I was concerned that stories like that could be potentially deleterious to mom and pop and smaller restaurants along with their employees.

It’s difficult to say if that really occurred in Big Cat’s case. But nonetheless, it was not due the quality of food.

Again, sad to see.