Braeswood Tex-Mex-BBQ

Founder Gerald Casas grew up in the Houston neighborhood of Braeswood and borrowed the name for his own Las Vegas restaurant, which puts a refreshing Tex-Mex spin on traditional barbecue. Brisket and chicken are smoked over post oak and stuffed inside tacos with Mexican rice on the side, along with other familiar staples like mac n' cheese, potato salad, and green beans. Casas throws in a few surprises too. Just look at the ramen, given a burst of flavor with spicy pork and hominy. The restaurant has the feel of a Texas icehouse with an open kitchen and garage-style roll-up door. The bar keeps things simple with house-made sangria and a collection of Texas and Mexican beers. Braeswood had the unique challenge of opening two weeks after the high-profile debut of SoulBelly just a block away, but is quickly catching on as both restaurants work in synergy to establish the Arts District as a hub for barbecue in Las Vegas. Braeswood also serves an easygoing weekend brunch with brisket, egg, and salsa burritos.