After countless smoky brisket, ribs, and late-night pit sessions, the pink camper trailer that housed Bar B Que Bandidas is taking on a brand-new flavor. Owner Jewel Hill recently announced that she’s closing the barbecue side of her business and converting the trailer into a spot for ice cream.
Hill shared the news in a heartfelt social media post, explaining that while she still loves barbecue, the nonstop grind of weekend service had pulled her away from family life.
“My kids? They’re growing up. The moments are absolutely fleeting. My oldest is turning 10, and she’s starting to live her own life. They are also noticing that I am never available to them on the weekends. And I have decided I don’t like that anymore,” she wrote.
For Hill, this change is about balance as much as it is about business. She still plans to offer monthly barbecue cooks for preorder only, but the main focus is now on serving up ice cream from the same camper trailer that once turned out brisket by the pound.
The new Bandidas Ice Cream venture is a natural next step for a business that’s always had a creative, unexpected streak.
As soon as they arrived in New Braunfels, Bar B Que Bandidas immediately stood out in the Texas barbecue world not just for being one of the few women-owned joints, but also for its bright pink trailer and fusion dishes like coconut chicken ramen. Hill and her family had moved from Lubbock to New Braunfels a few years ago, bringing their passion for barbecue and community with them.
Now, the same entrepreneurial spirit is fueling this sweet new chapter. “When I chose to close BBQ I knew I had to do something with this cute little camper trailer,” Hill said. “I think this is going to be really fun—don’t ya think?”
For fans of her barbecue, there’s comfort in knowing it’s not gone entirely. But for locals looking to cool off in the Texas heat, a scoop (or two) of ice cream from a beloved community fixture might be just the refresh everyone needs.