In 2012 Matt became very interested in true Texas Bar-B-Que after graduating from the Hilton College at The University of Houston.  He began experimenting on the family’s home BBQ pit and after much research and practice he perfected the famous brisket that LJ’s now serves.  He custom smoked briskets, ribs, and pork butt; and took orders for smoked turkey during holidays.  In 2015 Matt visited Leah and Corey in Brenham.  After the downturn in the oil industry, where Corey had been employed, he was searching for a new field of employment.  As they all three sat at Home Sweet Farm, a popular local watering hole, they had the idea to perhaps do a BBQ pop up there.   Brad, the proprietor was happy to accommodate and a new business was born.  As the three sat and tried to think of a name for their new business and discussed how proud Leah and Matt’s grandmother (whose name was Laura Jean) would be, so they quickly settled on LJ’s!  Rick and Carol, former owners of the Corner Liquor Store offered to let the new LJ’s operate out of a back room until they found a permanent location. A new pit was acquired as more room was needed to smoke the much in demand meats.  LJ’s became a popular lunch time go to for many Brenham locals.  Rick and Carol are also owners of the building where LJ’s is presently located and in June of 2017 after many months of planning and building LJ’s moved in to 1407 W. Main in Brenham. 

LJ’s is still preparing and serving smoked brisket, pulled pork butt, ribs, sausage, and turkey.  Popular side dishes are beans, potato salad, collard greens, cole slaw, and the ever popular macaroni and cheese. LJ’s prepares all of the food fresh every day and when it is gone they close the doors.  They also offer smoked brisket and pork tamales during the Christmas season.  All of these offerings have become popular cravings for LJ’s patrons.

Leah, Corey, and Matt enjoy being involved in the community at large and find it rewarding to contribute to local schools and organizations when the opportunity and need arises. 

LJ’s is presently open from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm or until they sell out on Thursday through Saturdays.