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Evan LeRoy

Pitmaster

Intro

Evan LeRoy is a chef, pitmaster, and a true steward of Texas barbecue. Based in Austin, he co-owns LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, a Michelin-starred restaurant that's redefining what smoked meats can be. With over fifteen years in the restaurant industry and a lifetime spent cooking over fire in the Lone Star State, Evan has earned international acclaim doing what he loves most: feeding people and pushing the craft forward. His cookbook, New School Barbecue, puts that philosophy on the page with nearly 100 innovative recipes that move beyond tradition, applying bold techniques to meats, produce, and cuisines you might not expect to find in a barbecue book. When he's not behind the pit, you'll find him fishing, on the golf course, or somewhere outdoors. We're proud to welcome Evan to the Turtlebox family.

Turtlebox Ambassador Evan LeRoy
Turtlebox Ambassador Evan LeRoy
Turtlebox Ambassador Evan LeRoy

Q&A

What is your profession? And did you always know this is what you would end up doing, or was it something you stumbled into?
I'm a chef and pitmaster. I was always pretty sure I'd end up working with food somehow. I watched a lot of Food Network growing up.

When you’re not doing your core pursuit, what else do you enjoy doing?
I love the outdoors — fishing, golf, hunting, all of it.

How do you incorporate music into your life?
Music is the soundtrack to our lives. Whether I'm at work, home, or just having fun, I'm always listening to something.

What does “Live Free” mean to you?
Live Free means making decisions without fear of judgment from others or yourself.

Any guilty pleasures?
Reddit.

What’s your hottest take or most controversial opinion?
No beans in chili.

What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you in the wild/on tour?
The food truck died in the middle of the street right in front of a huge catering event. Not ideal timing.

Who is your favorite musical artist? Or what are you listening to right now?
I love most modern singer-songwriter country, but specifically Billy Strings.

Favorite Turtlebox speaker and why? How do you use it?
I love the portability of the Ranger. In the garage, on the golf course, or in the pit room, it always keeps the music flowing.