Huntsville has become a hot spot for Texas style barbecue. The latest player to catch Chase’s attention is Kar’s Char. Credit goes to Scout Chris Munson, who regularly calls out new joints and frequently accompanies us on the maiden voyage. His tips always pay off and this one cashed in big time.

The first thing to note is that Kar’s Char is in Lowe Mill, which was a shoe factory in the prime of its industrial existence. Now it’s been reclaimed as a gallery for the arts, providing a home for various artists that display and sell their creations. It’s a massive space and fascinating to walk through, as the building’s manufacturing persona lives in display cases and structural artifacts remaining from its production days. The mill itself is a work of art, a safe space for daydreaming and browsing. Or enjoy the culinary arts with a hot pizza or the electronic arts at the pinball arcade. Whichever perspective you bring, there’s lots to discover.

Kar’s Char is located along a walkway that’s open to the outdoors. Their storefront isn’t highly visible, so park in the east lot, walk up the ramp and keep going straight. It’s on the left with their logo on the door. The dining space is open with a few long tables and a view into the kitchen. The drink selection pays homage to Texas with a variety of Jarritos sodas and Mexican Coke, all in refrigerated glass bottles. There’s something about cold glass that makes carbonated drinks taste better and more enjoyable.

While smoked meat is the main attraction at every barbecue joint, Kar’s Char’s sides got our attention by packing in the flavor. Top of the list was their collard greens. Batmarr and I agreed that they were the best we’ve ever had at a restaurant, and the profile was highlighted by a flavor we couldn’t make out, so I asked. Pineapple! There is pineapple juice in the greens. It made the collards so bright and vibrant that I ended up drinking all the broth/juice/water with a spoon. We left no sign of that side and it was the first thing we raved about when Scout Munson asked our opinion. Outstanding!

The hits continued with Jalapeno Cheddar Potato Puffs. Inside they were soft like a tater tot and outside they crunched like a corn fritter. Hot, crispy, and creamy with just a little heat, these puppies were a symphony of flavors and textures. Kar’s Char also scored major points for offering two sides that aren’t often spooned out as such, chili and banana pudding. The chili had a soft bean and was loaded with ground meat and brisket. Meaty, well-seasoned, and smooth, putting away an entire bowl with a grilled cheese sounds like an ideal Sunday lunch on a cold day. The banana pudding was so full of wafers it was almost like cake, but still creamy and soft. To quote Batmarr, “I like the smell, I like the taste, I like the texture. It’s one of the best I’ve had in a restaurant.” It’s a classic southern rendition that was only missing a larger bowl.

As for the meat, we sampled pulled pork, brisket, and sausage. All were mildly seasoned, juicy, and smoky. There was no distinguishing characteristic, but all three were solid. I preferred mine with the house sauce, a sweet, tomatoey blend that delivers a little spice on the back end. There’s also a hot variety, which Batmarr said has good flavor then it just gets hot. Both are self-serve so you can dispense at your pleasure.

While this isn’t done for recognition, I’m sharing Kar’s Char’s effort to pay it forward with a Meal Blessing Board. It’s their way of providing a meal for someone in need. For a $10 donation, a Meal Blessing ticket is placed on their board. Anyone who is hungry and in need can take a ticket from the board and receive a hot meal, free or charge. Blessing others always brings personal blessings.

Lots of good things happening at Kar’s Char, and The Chase will be back. There are some creative sandwiches on the menu that we’re stoked to try. Everything’s bigger in Texas? We’ll let you know if that also applies to the sandwiches.