Big Don’s 2025 Winner
Those who truly worship barbecue may dream of a pilgrimage to, say, Texas, to experience ‘the real deal’. No need, you only have to go as far as Bayswater. Austin-like queues move efficiently through this warehouse space as well-prepared customers set up their BYO camp chairs. Days before they’ve scored their order online and now it’s a case of getting to the counter and maybe snagging some first-come-first-served specials. Donovan Macdonald has nailed the tangible elements of an authentic barbecue operation – the quality of the brined brisket and smoked sausages is without question – but he’s also excelled in the more intangible elements: passion, ingenuity and a tailgate vibe that would have anyone from America’s south feeling right at home. It may not strictly be a ‘restaurant’ in the traditional sense (as said, you have to order ahead and no, they don’t publish their address), but for our panel of senior reviewers, this one is a game changer that could easily be one of Australia’s best barbecue experiences.
