Over 50 years ago, The County Line Barbecue began when a group of young Texans set out to create something special in Austin, rooted in barbecue and local heritage. In 1975, founders Bruce Walker, Ed Norton, Skeeter Miller, Rick Rocky, and Randy Goss transformed a historic speakeasy into the original County Line on the Hill, housed in Cedar Crest Lodge, a 1934 stone building perched atop one of Travis County’s highest hills.
Built on four guiding principles, The County Line focused on high-quality smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, sausage, and chicken, paired with classic sides like cole slaw, potato salad, and beans. Generous portions, reasonable prices, friendly table service with linens, and authentic Texas settings defined the experience.
Opening night sparked a tradition when menus were hand-written on Big Chief Tablets, which later became keepsakes filled with drawings and messages from guests and artists. As Austin grew, The County Line expanded to new locations, including County Line on the Hill, which opened in June 1975 in an old speakeasy.
The brand continued to grow with the opening of County Line on the Lake in 1980, additional locations across Texas and the Southwest, and the launch of Air Ribs in 1990. In 2025, The County Line celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Located in a former speakeasy with sweeping Hill Country views, The County Line on the Hill at 6500 W. Bee Cave Road, Austin, Texas 78746, serves legendary barbecue and is open daily for lunch and dinner, with sunsets as memorable as the meal.