Fire Consumes Popular Texas Barbecue Restaurant

A landmark on the Texas barbecue map was destroyed by fire on Monday night, according to local reports. Family members are calling it a total loss. The original Hinze’s BBQ has been serving barbecue and other goodies for more than 40 years outside of Wharton proper, just off U.S. 59. Its décor was positively Texas, and the location was a favorite stop for travelers and locals alike. A pit fire out back just before dinner rush at 7 p.m. is being blamed for the catastrophic fire. It quickly got out of hand for the employees and soon emergency officials were called.