It’s no secret that Llano loves its barbecue. Heck, every town in Texas loves barbecue. But in Llano, maybe the attraction runs just a little deeper than most places and, maybe the reason is as simple as saying, smelling and savoring Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que. Yep, since 1962 this (to many, essential) eatery has been dishing out deliciousness to locals and out-of-towners alike who can’t seem to get enough of its goodness. It truly is one smokin’ establishment. Um, um!
So, what’s the story? Well basically, it’s been a winning recipe of family, friends and feasting that goes back over sixty years of maintaining the traditions and consistency that have always served well and, continue to do so. Why change? For Cooper’s, most agree, it’s best to stay the course – especially where the main course is concerned – beef, pork or chicken. Oh yeah!
The restaurant’s namesake, George Cooper, initially got into the BBQ biz in 1953 in Mason, Texas and, the original restaurant is still there. But it’s his son Tommy, who brought his dad’s dream to Llano so many decades ago when he relocated and opened his “Cooper’s” right here, that we all owe our gratitude too. So, thank you Tommy.
After twenty good years in business, in the early 1980s, the unthinkable happened when Tommy was killed in a car accident. Determined not to let Cooper’s go under, Terry and Karen Wootan (neighbors of Tommy, as well as good friends and regular patrons of the eatery too) literally stepped up to the plate with the intent of saving (and even improving) the then well-established enterprise. Ownership officially transferred to the Wootans in 1986 and, by instituting more formal procedures, updating and modernizing the infrastructure while maintaining (and, even enhancing) the overall quality of its comestibles, Cooper’s reputation began to soar eventually making it the BBQ place to eat in Llano. Why, just ask anyone.
Today, the endearing institution is ably run by Terry and Karen’s capable son, Jason Wootan. He, with his parents’ continued help (they are semi-retired) as well as a seasoned crew of pit masters and others still pack ‘em in (comfortably) seven days a week with the intent of satisfying each and every (many a repeat) customer. And, how do they do that?
Obviously, it’s the barbecue. Diners can choose between a litany of traditional Texas-styled entrees, each made more special (i.e., delicious) via Cooper’s tried and true preparation techniques. Cowboy-style cooked quality meats enhanced by the application of a variety of seasonings and sauces ensures an exceptional result every time. And, that applies whether the hungry customer is in the mood for brisket, pork ribs, chicken, cabrito, sausage, turkey or chopped beef. Cooper’s also offers tender and tasty steaks and chops. And, for the really ravenous, the “Big Chop” is recommended – a two-inch thick, bone-in perfectly grilled pork chop! Couple the former with a series of must-have sides (beans, cole slaw, corn, baked potato, etc.) garnished with an oh-so sweet dessert (think cobbler) and, that, along with a slaking beverage, constitutes a genuine Cooper’s meal, served casually and with courtesy, inside or out. Or, to-go. Their meats and sauces are also even available nation-wide by mail-order. Check out their website. And, did we mention catering for any event? Now that is smokin!
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is located at 604 W. young Street, Llano, TX 78643 and is open seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 Monday through Thursday and 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For additional information on on-line ordering, catering, menus, directions, etc., call (325) 247-5713 or visit their website at: www: coopersbbq.com
