The Most Exciting BBQ Joint in Texas is Egyptian | On The Line | Bon Appétit

Bon Appétit brings you along for a day with Egyptian pitmaster Kareem El-Ghayesh at KG Barbecue in Austin-where Texas barbecue is being transformed by incorporating the bright flavors of the Middle East.
Director: Gunsel Pehlivan
Director of Photography: Andrew Barrera
Editor: Misa Qu
Creative Producer: Parisa Kosari
Line Producer: Jen McGinity
Associate Producer: Oadhan Lynch
Production Manager: Janine Dispensa
Production Coordinator: Elizabeth Hymes
Camera Operator: Dino Maglaris
Assistant Camera: Jacob Voss
Audio: Will Short
Production Assistant: Emily Berk; Tai Hallstein
Post Production Supervisor: Andrea Farr
Post Production Coordinator: Scout Alter
Supervising Editor: Eduardo Araújo
Assistant Editor: Courtney Karwal
Special Thanks: KG BBQ staff and Oddwood Brewing
Filmed on Location at KG BBQ
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Bon Appétit is a highly opinionated food brand that wants everyone to love cooking and eating as much as we do. We believe in seasonal produce, properly salted pasta water, and developing recipes that anyone can make at home.

[@Inveggible]

He has a real authentic presence about him. Very humble, respectful and enjoyable to watch. Thanks, I really thoroughly enjoyed watching this one.

[@briansss6869]

Came here to say this exact thing.

[@EyeOfThePhi]

im super suprised he hasnt been hate crimed down there. lots of racists and sundown towns down there in texas a very awful place full of trumpers

[@svendtveskg5719]

+1

[@sunyue5076]

Its because every immigrant to this country strive for the best

[@drmanhattan6490]

Nicely said.💪🏼

[@VERITASnpg]

This guy should get the Magnum PI award for Mustche Excellence. The smoked lamb is next level

[@anonamouse9198]

Magnum PI is still shown daily in the UK on ITV4, today had Sharon Stone guesting, before she was mega famous

[@VERITASnpg]

@@anonamouse9198 wait until the Muder She Wrote crossover

[@QuinnGIn1080p]

​@@anonamouse9198That's really cool! In the US there are still some digital TV stations that will play older things like that, but you have to look up the TV schedule. Otherwise the only other option is buying/renting.

[@jbusta8548]

Mutton is not for human consumption

[@MrKeeganimal]

​@@jbusta8548tell that to the millions and millions who eat it every single day and have for millenia

[@erikabongort3521]

As one of his former culinary instructor I am very proud of all his accomplishments.

[@user-fp2io6iy5m]

Plus he is cheeked up

[@dimesauce10]

@@user-fp2io6iy5m😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@TylerMadison711]

Dude works so clean

[@yellowdog2181]

You must be very proud, I love to see people who love what they do for a living as much as I love what I do

[@meisrerboot]

@@user-fp2io6iy5m tf

[@DirtyChode23]

As a lifelong Texan and lover of BBQ, I can definitely appreciate the fact he put his own twist on BBQ while still keeping the traditional essence.

[@aparker9216]

A definite welcomed addition to Texas!

[@akivafox3588]

He makes a great point about barbecue being unbalanced - it's delicious, but it's all heavy and fatty. If you add acidity and crispness in the sides, it makes a huge difference.

[@RojasRaymundo]

Ya, can’t have bbq without pickles union and green chilies!

[@xxgo0kst3rxx]

Depends on the people eating really some people don’t care about balance they just wanna eat, but as a food professional yes I agree with everything you have said lol

[@ianpomfret4876]

@@RojasRaymundo Also coleslaw

[@tysonmaddox1090]

I am definitely someone who does not need as much balance in what I’m eating or find my balance in a different way

[@safeandeffectivelol]

cole slaw potato salad pickle foods

[@rkmugen]

The way he details the 'what' and the 'why' and that he has an unmistakable passion and enthusiasm about it all are the hallmarks of a true master of the craft. You don't easily get tired of watching and listening to him, with what he has to show and say.

[@Carrera6rennsport]

i noticed that as well esp they way he manages the fire box. I have respect for theses guys that can read and predict temperature fluctuations through intuition. Its truly a 6th sense.

[@ohmsdotbox]

As an Egyptian this made me so proud and happy. Bravo Kareem! 🇪🇬

[@matrixofdeath]

Specially about that pork 🤣

[@ohmsdotbox]

@@matrixofdeath truly couldnt care less what people eat. Live and let live

[@suleimanhussien1559]

as Palestinian i totally agree ,people in the west think we force people to our lifestyle@@ohmsdotbox

[@hirensankey8578]

Hahaha what a joke you definitely do ​@suleimanhussien1559

[@Chet73]

@@matrixofdeathI’d prefer lamb to pork. Lamb is healthier for you.

[@mega6641]

Could not be more proud of what this guy is doing, as a fellow Egyptian. The food looks absolutely incredible. Way to go Kareem!

[@potatoeskimos]

ye. dude knows his meat

[@onetwo12onetwo526]

As a fellow Egyptian can you attest to Pork being sold on the black market in Egypt?

[@ahmedsabbour885]

@@onetwo12onetwo526 not exactly black market but it's not something you'd find on your average supermarket shelf or your average butcher. It's mostly sold in Christian run supermarkets.

[@onetwo12onetwo526]

@@ahmedsabbour885 gotcha

[@Brian-fr9jr]

@@onetwo12onetwo526 egypt has a huge christian community...

[@sample.text.]

Just about the most well spoken and informative pitmasters i've seen. He's offering advice that takes years to learn for free. And as someone Lebanese also familiar with Texas BBQ, i'm telling you you have to try the Lamb. Also, 10/10 Mustache. Just an excellent episode all around.

[@TsunamiWombat]

Fantastically informative, knowledgeable, and practical. I learned more about BBQ in this one video than I have in years of watching cooking shows.

[@MommiesLittleMonster]

I was thinking this as I was watching as well.

[@TheSTB9]

Seriously, couldn’t be more correct. Audibly said to myself the amount of free game he’s giving out is amazing. Super cool he does classes just out of passion and paying his dues. Really cool guy

[@TsunamiWombat]

@@TheSTB9 that's what struck me too. Usually BBQ masters are secretive AF. Not just things like spice and sauce mixes (which he is giving away just not increments) but he's talking about fire control and hot spots and 'the stall' and really getting into the practical day to day effort for prep they do. I feel like I took a 1 session class.

[@ronniewilliz153]

Cooking shows helped me but I learned a lot by just trying new stuff.

[@chuckdavis572]

This looks amazing. And without tryna sound too weird. This is what America is all about. Super cool to see an Egyptian dude blend Texan BBQ and create a whole new style. I want to try it!

[@stayathome316]

Couldn’t agree more. This is the spirit of America.

[@bobsacamano6402]

Thinking the same thing. Immigrants, come one come all, respect American culture and assimilate yours into ours.

[@shalinpatel]

He's one of those guys that doesn't have to try to be cool at all. He's got that natural swagger and charm.

[@gbae636]

It's the mustache!!!

[@shohanthegreat9857]

@@gbae636 Its definately the mustache lol

[@Roxwins]

@@gbae636it’s because he’s Egyptian. 😉

[@user-ux3jp9oo7r]

@@RoxwinsEgyptians are one of the most uncool arabs... but this guy is different lol

[@roberthudgins2866]

This guy is a Boss !!! He honors the tradition of Texas BBQ without being confined by the ingredients. A great chef.

[@Despite37]

This guy's marketing must be A+. I've seen this place spotlighted on about 4 different popular food vlog KZbin pages now.

[@ebkkcst5934]

I swear I thought I was tweaking cuz I could of sworn I seen this already 😂

[@Sniperboy5551]

Didn’t Best Ever Food Review Show do something on this guy too?

[@Despite37]

@@Sniperboy5551 and I think Mike Chen as well.

[@Chris.4345]

If he worked in banking, then relationship-building for mutual gain is his bread & butter.

[@rhohoho]

I've been here, and it is fantastic. They don't mention it, but the trailer is situated in the parking lot of an excellent brewery making for a really nice combo. So happy they're getting a very well deserved spotlight!

[@itsgee21]

Dope! Thanks for the info! I'd def check it out.

[@victorbbmfba]

Never heard of it or the brewery but I’m so down!

[@robertpassaro4089]

The US is lucky to have people like you live, learn, prosper, teach, and share here. Thank you.

[@catsan02]

I love Mediterranean food. All of them are similar but different. All I know, no matter if you’re Egyptian, Lebanese, Greek, Turkish, etc.. they know how to cook lamb! 🤤

[@ghernandez2263]

I’m Mexican and Mediterranean is my second favorite cuisine. Some of their dishes look identical to Mexican food (not Tex Mex)

[@ronniewilliz153]

They sure do. Its so much better for you.. thats why the u.s dont farm them lol

[@Quincius]

@@ghernandez2263 Same here, especially because they even have their own tortilla (pita bread) lol.

[@ridankulouspanda]

This is what makes America great

[@vincenttapia6038]

Exactly what I thought

[@gmira711]

Mad, mad respect to this gentleman to drop everything and pursue your calling/dream. His passion and excitement for his craft is intoxicating.

[@coachkumo]

I love this guy's attitude and overall aura. You can tell he is truly down to earth. It must have taken a lot of courage to not only quit his career, but also move across the world just to pursue BBQ. I also love that he honors and respects the art and tradition of Texas Style BBQ, while being brave enough to step out of the norm and diversify his menu to his liking. Definitely will try some day!

[@Jonbob836]

the Texas-Egyptian fusion food we didn't know we needed! really appreciate the care, respect, and passion this guy has! best of luck with your amazing looking food

[@gilgameshmcballin]

I grew up on a sheep farm in upstate New York; the number of people who have never had lamb before is always wild to me. Super underrated meat.

[@paulmaseman2171]

I think you meant to say “the number of *Americans* who’ve never had lamb before“. It is the least popular meet of consumption in the United States, yet it is the most popular grilled meat on the planet, and there is a reason why it is so popular. It is absolutely fantastic!

[@gilgameshmcballin]

@@paulmaseman2171 you're correct; I thought lamb was ubiquitous when I was a kid, but many Americans rarely eat it. Goat is also rare, here. (I'm generalizing, bc many cultures and communities go for both)

[@SafeEffective-ls2pl]

@paulmaseman2171 lamb is very uncommon in East Asia and Latin America.

[@brokenglassshimmerlikestar3407]

Not exactly. In Northern parts of East Asia there's lamb. It's a classic for hotpot in China. It's common where there's pasture. Less common than chicken and pork given the cost. But super common in muslim regions. @@SafeEffective-ls2pl

[@marylandlax3]

While you it seems like every pit master or BBQ’er has some mild variations in their creations, I love that this guy throws out all the rules and basically just brings his homes flavors to freaking Texas of all places! I hope that this guy is wildly successful, definitely seems like an intuitive hard worker and just overall pleasant person, cheers mate!

[@safeandeffectivelol]

There are huge Middle Eastern, African, Indian, and East Asian communities in Texas. This isn't the 1970's anymore.

[@paulmaseman2171]

And if you pay attention, you can clearly see that he is not “throwing out all the rules“. He trims a brisket as Aaron Franklin would, and basically uses a Dalmatian rub, very traditional for Texas brisket cooking.

[@Dukes3677]

As a native texan born and raised, how humble he is and how much he truly just LOVES BBQ, i honestly can't get enough of him. He's fr a pitmaster.

[@californian2344]

I love that he’s taking Texas BBQ and putting his own spin on it. It looks amazing and I’d definitely stop there when in Austin. He’s also so personable and smart too!

[@johnh5960]

I love this dude. I know a lot of people who've migrated to the US but this guy has fully embraced the culture to the next level 😂 love it 👏 even the style on point. Will definitely go to his spot next time I'm in Texas

[@bonaface]

he's a democrat calm down

[@RuijsNL]

@@bonaface People will always find a way to bring politics into it

[@Ms123kill]

US doesn’t have a culture it has filth now.

[@jamessandman3708]

@@bonaface It is obvious in his passion and consideration of others. He doesn't just care about himself. He's smart too, a sure give away that he's a democrat!

[@theshrikeer]

​@@jamessandman3708Republicans can be that too lol

[@stevestewart-sturges2159]

I spent a lot fo time in Egypt in the 70's, Kareem is just so like the locals I met traveling there, smiling, great natured and industrious... Best of luck!

[@l.d.t.6327]

He's the whole package: a butcher, a cook and a pitmaster in one + he has a unique selling point (his middle-eastern flavours and meat options). On top of that, his bread is definitely so much better than any spongy bread is mostly used in other BBQ joints.

[@cameronbatko]

This guy is really great. Humble and informative and not as off putting as some other featured chefs.

[@rob3388]

Burger Boy was awful

[@ceooflonelinessinc.267]

What? Which chef was off putting?

[@pegparrish3512]

Such an impressive and talented gentleman, who is very passionate about his trade! I hope he continues to have much success, while he enjoys creating amazing food!

[@silasmansour5629]

This guy is a legend. I’ve never heard someone take the time to explain how important the fire / smoke is. He’s so knowledgeable! Salamat habibi

[@SafeEffective-ls2pl]

You've never bbq'd before?

[@nathanhartono91]

Giving back what he’s learnt and doing a killer job at it, is the most beautiful part of this video. This is how food gets passed down generation after generation, amazing people like this 👏

[@Sandurz]

Loved this place when I tried it a few months ago, everything was great. But weirdly the biggest surprise was just how delicious their yellow rice is by itself is, magic stuff.

[@shanewittershicks6491]

This is officially one of my favorite BA mini-doc videos! Absolutely love this guy.

[@WynandTheunissen]

We just went today and the food was absolutely incredible. My new favorite BBQ place in Austin

[@christopherkim8391]

Very informative. Love how professional and generous he was with his knowledge. It's awesome how he embraced the Texas BBQ culture while also finding a way to honor his heritage.

[@xinoen]

Kareem is a huge sweetheart. I try to go to Oddwood and KG every quarter. It's worth it every time

[@vr0k3n]

Kareem has such an amazing smile ❤❤❤ you can clearly see on it how passionate and proud he is about his cooking

[@nottheone582]

I really like that he learned traditional bbq and really honors the craft as its done in texas! the way he brought his eastern culture and palate is super respectful, what a master! I can't wait to try this truck next time I'm in austin.

[@user-uh7gv5jm2l]

The more light you allow within you, the brighter the world you live in will be.

[@Flexicokerboy]

OMG that lamb shoulder... I freakin love reframing existing american traditions with new cultures .. diversity in culture and thought makes everything better. I can't wait to try swing by and try it out!

[@tricepilot]

I don't remember viewing a more "real" BBQ video. For example, his comment about summer time briskets being smaller due to seasonal ways the animal eats. Also, I've not been to Egypt, but I have been to Jordan and Israel. I kind of have a (limited) idea of the cuisine in that region of the world. I am truly tuned into the way he prepares and presents BBQ as a blend of Texas and his homeland. I consume KZbin BBQ videos like potato chips. This one is one of my favorites of all time.

[@corinneskitchen]

Helpful comment! thanks

[@johndeburgh.8128]

Israel???

[@NomenclaturalMan]

I just discovered Egyptian food by chance about a week ago. Ended up doing homemade Baba Ganoush and Hawawshi last night and both turned out excellent. It's amazing to see a guy with such passion, as well as creativity to meld two very different food cultures.

[@amp394]

You can just tell he loves his craft, no ego explains every step in the process and the why.

[@TheAmelie1990]

13:48 🤣😂🤣 That bowl flip and that laugh

[@JohnVC]

Kareem is a star. Knowledgeable about classics but innovative. This is exactly the place I would love to spend my money at.

[@moogs]

Love this guy. I wish we could all harmonize the best of two cultures like this more often.

[@DavidRodriguezzz]

This guy is a Texan, through and through. Hats off to you sir, can't wait to try your BBQ!

[@devinzschoche8782]

I wish this chef all the best. Blown away.

[@richardgibson7277]

This guys needs his own KZbin channel, brilliant insights.

[@DP-eo5xd]

Cool to see someone master a craft and take it seriously. Feeding people and taking care in it. An honorable profession

[@matthewmontes7489]

His ability to explain and articulate his knowledge is awesome.

[@toaka5568]

this is really beautiful im egyptian and you made me proud to be one. i really like the food. it looks delicious. the chef seems nice with his lovely personality and egyptian accent. i hope you're donig great now😊

[@heyump1432]

Excellent docu. Humility is his best asset, as someone before me said. the best part of the video? When he flicked the plastic cup over his head! Priceless!

[@AllenWren]

Hi

[@iRiShNFT]

I love how he explained absolutely everything he was doing. Much respect

[@GentlemanBystander]

The way he shares his techniques and knowledge is phenomenal.

[@gravenewworld82]

Absolutely incredible looking. Love the blend of flavors and am dying to try. This is what becoming American is about!

[@TeamPerry5]

I love this dude! Amazing when he says “y’all” 😂😂😂 AMAZING piece of videography!

[@jeff7764]

Videography lol cringeworthy comment

[@user-vh9dp3wk3h]

This gave me such a sense of pride and joy as an Egyptian. Kudos, Kareem!

[@SnackPack913]

BBQ really is an art. I just got my smoker this summer and gave brisket a try. You can’t just follow a recipe like most other cooking, you really need to feel the meat and understand when it’s ready. Just takes time and experience. It’s also very complicated and a long process lol totally worth it tho

[@jmdelan99]

as Franklin bbq has said, your first brisket will be horrible. keep on trying. experiment. it's all about the journey

[@markusnss]

This is brilliant. Informative, authentic and innovative. Very interesting combination of spices. More of this, please.

[@rhysthornbury9]

What an awesome guy. Thanks for sharing his story and business.

[@vincentvdb3151]

Absolutely nice to see somebody given an international twist to Texan BBQ. Love the passion the pitmaster has and how he indeed make refreshing sides rather than the boring traditional sides by all the other joints. Well done habibi (y)

[@ihikefar]

This guy needs his on BA show. I learned more watching this segment than all the other expert “Texas pitmasters”. Team him up with Brad Leone and watch your ratings skyrocket.

[@davidtothemax1]

This guy needs his own show

[@matthewgrice6902]

He makes me want to travel to Texas and learn his Egyptian style of BBQ. Not to mention try everything on the menu. Your setup and menu combinations are amazing. Thank you for the video.

[@vyogh]

Kareem is so knowledgeable and fun to watch, he knows his meats inside out. I would definitely stop by whenever I’m in Austin

[@JurgenFjurgen]

This is great! He’s awesome. I like his energy. Thank you for sharing his time with us.

[@Brucey865]

Lamb is sooo underrated!

[@shanecormier1]

This guy is great. His energy exudes that he has found his passion. Passionate people create great things.

[@shinkicksgetthechicks]

This guy is amazing to watch I'm Australian and getting into bbq'ing and this was refreshing to watch someone tackle traditional Texas bbq Middle Eastern or North African all at once sheeesh i struggle monitoring 1 brisket on my webber kettle and this guy is cooking 10 different things on 1 bbq grill is very impressive

[@StephensonRaceTech]

WOW! Looks amazing! Also loads of respect for this guy. Jumping into the deep end in Austin BBQ scene is NOT easy. And the food looks amazing!

[@soheeeey]

Loving the flavors and middle eastern take on barbecue. Looks so delicious

[@deathpunch1992]

I always love seeing someone who is passionate about what they do.

[@richlittl]

One of the best food chef, well explained on his process, thoughts, and how he envisioned things.

[@TannerRE]

when you have such a passion for something that you move across the world to dedicate yourself to it, you know you're gonna be successful.

[@f0t0b0y]

What a fusion! Can’t wait to try this place. I lived in Dubai for over three years and Middle Eastern food is one of my favorites. 🙌🏼

[@Nitrix77]

This guy is a treasure to our country, let's go Kareem!

[@amywells933]

I love his story, what a cool guy. He explains things so well.

[@Pseedholm]

Love seeing a fellow Egyptian. 🇪🇬

[@liamlad1]

Love this guy! Welcome to America! You represent what this country is all about. Be well.

[@Imrankhan78752]

he is exceptional in teaching . best of luck

[@yoelalmog9780]

Loved this one. He's real, down to earth, and an expert. Thx!

[@cadmiral3d146]

The passion is visible. That makes the food even better. I'll have to stop by next time I get to Texas.

[@agooglyminotaur169]

I've never wanted to try something so badly. LOVE mediterranean food and especially lamb, and also love southern barbecue. This is an incredible fusion that I would love to taste.

[@missnadial5174]

His story is soooo cool!! He found something he loved and went head first for it. Love this!!!!

[@Bousa4]

Can we get a own bbq show to this lad, 21min flew by when I watched this! Truly a passioned what he is doing and love to see that!

[@woogywips]

I want to drive to Austin and eat lunch here every day until I try everything. This looks amazing!

[@MrByaeger]

Love his pride for both his Egyptian culture and Texas culture .

[@brianz2802]

Legend…. I wish him the best! He really cares about his food and his customers

[@risingphoenix01]

There is a lot to be said when you follow your dreams, this is an awesome article. As an Aussie I don't really get the Texas BBQ thing (that's why I'm here) but the use of lamb and light sides ... well let's say I would eat Kareem's BBQ any day of the week! Thank you for sharing!

Although I live in Dubai, I am not a massive lover of Middle Eastern food (including lamb), but: - It is great to see all the knowledge, expertise and passion the chef has - It is great to see someone innovating such a traditional cuisine (American bbq) Kudos to the chef!

[@fedelpalmero4168]

This was a brilliant episode. He is calm and informative. Really well put together.

[@navyeodguy1605]

I just finished lunch and watching this now I’m starving. I love Mediterranean food and his way of incorporating with BBQ is amazing.

[@jimsonnenburg7440]

Down to earth guy hope he has nothing but success in life

[@linamartinez7451]

Definitely making it a priority to go to this restaurant! Food looks delicious!!!

[@ejipshun]

i’m so so so proud of this dude!! mabrook 3alayk ya baba, thank you for showing up for our people ❤🇪🇬🇪🇬 enshallah one day i come try it

[@llomegou]

This guy seems genuine and soooo skillful ! Wish I could go to Texas and try his amazing BBQ ! Great video :)))

[@AhmadKhan-ff2mt]

Been in Austin for nearly a year and never knew this existed! Checking this out asap

[@ericsolberg8812]

Bro that stash is on point! I love how he has respect for the Texas traditions and yet pulls in his culture.