Fredericksburg's beautiful new Albert Hotel, whichopened in January 2025, is getting a new barbecue restaurant inspired by the area's German heritage. Junebug's BBQ will open Friday, June 6, at 205 E. Austin St. This will be the final opening for the property's dining concepts, which were a major driver of intrigue while the hotel was still in the works.
Junebug’s is located in the historic Brockmann-Kiehne House, which has been standing since 1870. Guests will be able to sit inside or outside at communal tables to enjoy barbecue classics including brisket, pork ribs, house-made sausages, mac and cheese, green beans, and potato salad.
Pitmaster and 2023 Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest winner Justin Spencer is at the helm. He’s head of food and beverage at the hospitality group New Waterloo, which brings Austin some of its best hotel restaurants: Maie Day, Otoko, and Watertrade at the South Congress Hotel, plus other well-respected standalones including Il Brutto and La Condesa.
The restaurant gets its name from Spencer, nicknamed Junebug as a kid. The homey tribute is fitting, since Spencer got his start barbecuing with family in their backyard. As would demand in a 155-year-old venue, the pitmaster does focus on traditional smoking methods and local ingredients. However, a press release also promises contemporary flavor profiles.
"Opening Junebug's BBQ at the Albert Hotel feels like perfect timing," said Spencer in the release. "I'm bringing all the passion and expertise from years of competition to create something truly special in Fredericksburg. This historic space gives us the ideal setting to honor Texas barbecue traditions while incorporating the area's unique German heritage. I'm thrilled to share my championship approach with both locals and visitors in such a beautiful Hill Country destination."
The Albert Hotel's other culinary destinations received some early attention thanks to the involvement of Chef Micheal Fojtasek of the Michelin-starred Austin restaurant Olamaie (Maie Day's sister restaurant). At The Restaurant at Albert Hotel, he’ll be serving up seasonal cuisine. The hotel also has two more niche options: “local watering hole” The Saloon and coffee and sandwich shop The Pharmacy.
Junebug's BBQ will have limited hours from June 6-9, serving food from 2 pm until it’s sold out. Starting June 12, Junebug’s will operate regular hours from Thursdays through Sundays, from 11am until sold out. Reservations are not required. Private dining and catering will also be available for events.
