County Line BBQ Restaurant

In the annals of County Line BBQ Restaurant's storied history, the journey begins in the heart of Austin, Texas, in the year 1975. What started as a modest enterprise has since blossomed into a limited chain, spreading its flavorful influence to New Mexico and the bustling streets of Oklahoma City, all while maintaining a strong presence in various corners of the Lone Star State.

Nestled within the embrace of this culinary haven are two distinguished structures that have weathered the sands of time. The first, a building proudly standing near the street, exudes classic charm, while the second, a two-leveled marvel, sits gracefully behind it. Adorned with a timeless deco decorum, these edifices boast structural highlights such as curved glass brick, a ceiling with elegant curvature, and a sweeping bar that beckons patrons to indulge in the delights within.

Beyond its reputation for serving exceptional barbecue fare, County Line BBQ Restaurant opens its doors to a trio of enchanting spaces for parties, events, and receptions. The Small Annex House, the upstairs banquet area, and the grandeur of the Large Annex House provide a versatile backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. The attic area, though now relegated to storage, holds secrets of a bygone era when the buildings played host to less savory activities.

In the late 1920s and early '30s, NE 63rd was a canvas for illicit endeavors—dance halls, speak-easies, gambling dens, and establishments offering more intimate services. It's a tale as old as time, where suspicions linger that this establishment may have been funded or taken over by the mob. The combination of legitimate entertainment, dance halls, live music, and the covert trifecta of illegal operations provided both cover from the law and a feeder business for black market drinks.

Gangsters like the infamous Pretty Boy Floyd frequented this lively night spot, weaving their tales of mischief within its walls. As the years unfolded, the buildings witnessed a carousel of businesses, each leaving its mark and, one can surmise, adapting the facilities to suit their needs.

Yet, beneath the veneer of a thriving restaurant lies a history veiled in paranormal echoes. The attic area, once a bordello, harbors the specter of Russell—a man whose untimely demise unfolded in front of the main fireplace, a consequence of his romantic dalliances. Russell's spirit lingers, manifesting its presence through objects seemingly propelled by unseen forces.

Cups defy gravity, leaping off drain racks and soaring through the air. A mysterious entity rattles the wine glass rack, orchestrating a symphony of clinking glasses. Russell's apparition, a poignant reminder of his tragic end, has been glimpsed, his spirit lingering in the ethereal spaces of the restaurant.

Disembodied voices echo through the corridors, hinting at the presence of other unknown entities. Late-shift staff attests to strange sounds emanating from the attic, the former bordello, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the restaurant's enigmatic ambiance.

Longtime employees, the custodians of these tales, stand as living witnesses to the spectral phenomena that continue to dance in the shadows of County Line BBQ Restaurant. As the sun sets, the spirits awaken, and the restaurant becomes a canvas for the otherworldly, making it undeniably and eerily haunted—a place where the past refuses to be confined to mere history books.