Armadillo Willy's BBQ

Armadillo Willy's BBQ is a renowned barbecue restaurant chain that has been serving authentic Texas-style barbecue in the San Francisco Bay Area since its inception in 1983. Founded in Cupertino, California, the restaurant was inspired by a road trip through Texas, aiming to bring the rich flavors of Southern barbecue to the West Coast.

Over the years, Armadillo Willy's expanded its presence across the Bay Area, offering a diverse menu that includes slow-smoked meats such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and turkey. Accompaniments like cornbread, coleslaw, and baked beans complement the main dishes, providing a comprehensive barbecue experience.

The restaurant's ambiance is casual and family-friendly, reflecting the laid-back nature of Southern dining.

Challenges and Location Changes

In June 2025, Armadillo Willy's faced significant challenges due to reduced post-pandemic sales and increased operational costs. Consequently, the company made the difficult decision to close several of its locations, including those in Santa Clara, San Jose, and Sunnyvale.

The San Mateo location on Bridgepointe Parkway remains the sole operational restaurant.

Services and Offerings

Despite these closures, Armadillo Willy's continues to offer catering services for events.

It provides free delivery up to 15 miles for orders of $500 or more.

Location

• San Francisco, CA, USA

For those in the San Mateo area, Armadillo Willy's BBQ remains a cherished destination for authentic Texas-style barbecue, maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition.