Rudy’s Country Store Brings BBQ Excitement To Midland

The day is here, Midland!  At 6:00 AM Thursday morning, the scent of oak and smoked meats wafted through the air as Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q officially opened its doors at the site of the former Johnny Carino’s.

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Rudy's BBQ Grand Opening

Prior to the official opening, a gathering of enthusiastic barbecue enthusiasts had already congregated outside of Rudy's, with some arriving during the early morning hours to secure a place among the inaugural customers.

The anticipation was readily apparent, particularly due to the promotional offer of a complimentary $20 Bar-B-Q Bucks card for the first 100 patrons in line.

What Does This Mean for Midland?

This clearly displays the city’s increasing appeal to well-known Texas brands seeking expansion.

With oil, industry, and population growth already making Midland a hub, Rudy’s arrival reinforces that the city is not just expanding but evolving culturally and gastronomically.

It also offers the community more reasons to gather. Barbecue has long been a communal experience in Texas — an event where people meet, talk, and share, providing locals with new opportunities to connect over food.

Granted, we already have some great BBQ spots in both Midland and Odessa; however, with the arrival of Rudy's, this gives us another option.

How Rudy's Landed in Midland, Texas

The opening of the Midland location has been eagerly awaited since plans were announced in late 2024.

Rudy's acquired the former Carino's Italian Grill building and completed a major renovation, valued at $850,000, which was led by Moondance Investments and designed by Lingle Design Group.

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On a more personal level, I have eaten at Rudy's during my time living in San Antonio many times.

In my opinion, they have some of the best cream corn I have ever eaten so, I am looking forward to being able to enjoy that while living in the Permian Basin.