From Lockhart to the Mountaintop
Owner James Jackson grew up in Lockhart, Texas—the barbecue capital of Texas—and spent 30 years working at his father's car dealership. When Chrysler filed for bankruptcy in 2009 and the family lost their franchise, Jackson fulfilled a childhood dream: he moved to New Mexico and opened Mad Jack's Mountaintop BBQ the weekend before Memorial Day 2015.
Jackson's secret is simplicity: salt, pepper, wood, and fire. He drives 644 miles every six to eight weeks to source authentic Central Texas post oak—the mildest smoking wood. Meats are smoked overnight starting around 8:30 p.m., then rested and sliced fresh to order. By 3 p.m. most days, they're sold out.
Mad Jack's Mountaintop BBQ
Highlights
Three reasons Mad Jack's is a must-visit in the mountains.
Legendary Brisket
A certified BBQ judge called it "THE BEST BRISKET JOINT IN THE COUNTRY." Weekend lines often reach 2-3 hours.
Authentic Post Oak
James drives 644 miles every 6-8 weeks to source real Central Texas post oak for that authentic Lockhart flavor.
Family Atmosphere
Holiday lights, family photos on the walls, and James's mother's dining table as the communal centerpiece.
Visit Mad Jack's
Everything you need to know before visiting. Arrive early—they sell out by 3pm most days!
Location
105 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317. Located right on Highway 82 heading into the village.
Hours
Thursday–Sunday: 11AM until sold out (usually by 3PM). Monday–Wednesday: Closed. Check Facebook/Instagram for updates.
Contact
Phone: (575) 682-7577. Website: madjacksbbq.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram.
Pro Tips
Arrive early on weekends—lines can reach 2-3 hours! Sold out means sold out. The brisket is the star but don't sleep on the ribs.
Ready for the Best Brisket in the Country?
Stop by Mad Jack's on your next visit to Cloudcroft. Arrive early—weekend lines can be 2-3 hours, and they sell out by 3pm most days!