The Line Out The Door At This BBQ Joint In New Mexico Is Always Worth It
You may know Cloudcroft as an alpine ski town, but we’ll bet you didn’t know that the mountains aren’t the only thing driving people near and far to this small town. Nestled “9,000 feet above stress level” you’ll find true Texas barbecue in the Land of Enchantment. From smoked brisket to ribs, sausage, turkey legs, and all the homemade sides you can handle, this barbecue joint is truly the best in the Southwest. The only catch is that you’ll want to get there early because there’s typically a line out of the door and they sell out early. We promise it’s worth the wait to get a taste of this amazing Texas barbecue at this unforgettable BBQ joint in Cloudcroft.
Welcome to Mad Jack's Mountaintop Barbecue in the town of Cloudcroft!
We all know Cloudcroft for being an amazing alpine town where dozens hit the slopes, but this BBQ joint has brought many from all over the state, and even over state lines. This tiny town is nestled in the Lincoln National Forest where they claim to relax "9,000 feet above the stress level." Get ready to take it easy with some seriously good barbecue.
Mad Jack's was started by none other than James "Mad Jack" Jackson.
This barbecue master has sure earned a name for himself in New Mexico. Originally from the Lone Star State, Mad Jack decided to start a BBQ shack in his hometown of Lockhart before taking to Cloudcroft where the locals accepted him nearly overnight.
Ever since the mountaintop BBQ joint opened, people just can't get enough.
Not only is Mad Jack a Texas native, but he's also a true pit master. After eating Texas-style barbecue for breakfast, lunch, and dinner most of is life, it was only inevitable that he would master the craft. There isn't just one person who taught him; Mad Jack learned from many mentors in Austin. After trying his hand at smoking brisket, he finally got the hang of it and now New Mexicans can't get enough.
The only catch about Mad Jack's is that you may have to wait a bit—there's almost always a line out the door.
While no one likes waiting, this is just a testament to how good Jack's BBQ is. Sometimes over 200 people will be waiting outside before they open, and they always stay open until they sell out.
You'll find a true Texas smoke pit out back, which gives all the barbecue its smoky flavor.
At Jack's, you can order by the slice or by weight. Whatever you do, make sure to try the brisket. Mad Jack's doesn't even need to use a lot of seasoning to make these cuts of meat absolutely mouthwatering.
For the more non-traditional BBQ consumer, you'll find other menu items to hit the spot.
A popular item is their loaded baked potatoes. Topped with butter, sour cream, cheese, and pulled pork, it doesn't get any better than these gooey taters. Mad Jack's also has specials, so there's something for everyone. Make sure to pair your meal with a couple of their fresh sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, roasted corn, and other favorites that are made every morning.
Of course, there aren't only Texas-style items at this restaurant. It is New Mexico, after all.
Besides your favorite Texas BBQ, Mad Jack's serves up New Mexico's famous green chile stew, along with its own Southwestern creation. Their "Chile the Kid" sandwich features finely chopped brisket with Hatch green chile, and it's just as good as it sounds.
While you might have to wait a while to get your hands on this incredible Texas barbecue in New Mexico, a trip to Mad Jack's Mountaintop Barbecue in Cloudcroft is a meal to remember, and an experience you won't soon forget.
E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
