A long-standing Texas eatery with a cinematic pedigree has shut its doors. The Cele Store, a barbecue joint in Manor, Texas renowned for its appearance in the 2003 reboot of 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,' has closed "until further notice," as per a terse message posted on its website. The announcement, which gave no further details on the closure, came on March 30, leaving locals and film aficionados in the lurch.
For more than a century, the family-owned Cele Store has served up its unique barbecue, boasting a rub-free, seasoning-only approach since the pit was built back in 1964. This culinary institution, originally established in 1891 as the Richland Saloon, was purchased in 1951 by Marilyn and Marvin Weiss, according to MySanAntonio.
Marking its place in pop culture, the Cele Store didn't just attract crowds for its famed barbecue. A backdrop for movies including 'A Perfect World,' 'Secondhand Lions,' and the fourth installment of 'Transformers,' as noted by Eater Austin, it grew to become a storied piece of Central Texas heritage.
The closure might leave a void for some, but BBQ enthusiasts in Austin won't have to look far to satisfy their cravings. Cho Dang Village recently opened a location offering its signature Korean-style dishes, including the spicy customizable Sundubu jjigae. Patrons can also indulge in all-you-can-eat barbecue options, catering to both adult and younger palates with prices set at $32.99 and $22.99 respectively, as per Eater Austin. The addition of this eatery to Austin's dining scene is a signal that the city's taste for charred meats and spicy stews will continue to be well served.
Meanwhile, in San Antonio, culinary scenes are shifting as well with the Omni La Mansión del Rio hotel bringing on San Antonio native Robert Cantu as the new executive chef. Cantu, who brings a wealth of experience from notable stints in the hotel industry, will oversee an array of dining options including Southwestern cuisine at Four Brothers and fresh seafood at Ostra. This appointment signals the hotel's dedication to maintaining a high bar for fine dining experiences, a promise for both locals and visitors, as covered by Eater Austin.
