Ali Clem
IG: @aliiiiiiiiiiiic
Ali Clem is the James Beard–recognized chef, owner, and pitmaster behind the iconic Texas‑style smoked brisket at Michelin‑starred la Barbecue in Austin. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading barbecue chefs, she has built her career on relentless craft, deep technical mastery, and an unwavering commitment to preserving—and evolving—the barbecue legacy she and her late wife, LeAnn Mueller, created together.
A Texas native, Clem grew up in Fort Worth and, while attending college in East Texas, jumped right into the restaurant industry at the early age of eighteen. Ali spent several years honing her skills in hospitality and customer service by waiting tables, bartending, catering events, and managing restaurants. However, she didn’t venture into the barbecue business until she moved to Austin. Ali knew then that she was destined for the flame-kissed pit life when she was hired by barbecue royalty, John Mueller, to help open a food trailer down on South First Street.
Ali, alongside her wife LeAnn Mueller, transformed that humble trailer into what is now la Barbecue, the beloved local institution known for its mouth-watering smoked meats and vibrant atmosphere. Ali's passion for barbecue has made la Barbecue a staple in Austin's culinary scene, earning it a loyal following and critical acclaim. Under Ali’s leadership, la Barbecue has evolved from its early days as a food truck, where it immediately earned a place on Texas Monthly’s “Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas”, into one of the most celebrated barbecue restaurants in the country. The restaurant received its first Michelin star in 2024, retained it in 2025, and continued its rise in 2026 when Ali was named a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Chef in Texas.
Ali Clem’s journey from bartender to barbecue entrepreneur is a testament to her commitment to excellence, hard work, and overall passion for barbecue. Her story is one of resilience and dedication, making la Barbecue a must-visit destination for anyone in Austin.
Ali Clem is the James Beard–recognized chef, owner, and pitmaster behind the iconic Texas‑style smoked brisket at Michelin‑starred la Barbecue in Austin. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading barbecue chefs, she has built her career on relentless craft, deep technical mastery, and an unwavering commitment to preserving—and evolving—the barbecue legacy she and her late wife, LeAnn Mueller, created together.
A Texas native, Clem grew up in Fort Worth and, while attending college in East Texas, jumped right into the restaurant industry at the early age of eighteen. Ali spent several years honing her skills in hospitality and customer service by waiting tables, bartending, catering events, and managing restaurants. However, she didn’t venture into the barbecue business until she moved to Austin. Ali knew then that she was destined for the flame-kissed pit life when she was hired by barbecue royalty, John Mueller, to help open a food trailer down on South First Street.
Ali, alongside her wife LeAnn Mueller, transformed that humble trailer into what is now la Barbecue, the beloved local institution known for its mouth-watering smoked meats and vibrant atmosphere. Ali's passion for barbecue has made la Barbecue a staple in Austin's culinary scene, earning it a loyal following and critical acclaim. Under Ali’s leadership, la Barbecue has evolved from its early days as a food truck, where it immediately earned a place on Texas Monthly’s “Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas”, into one of the most celebrated barbecue restaurants in the country. The restaurant received its first Michelin star in 2024, retained it in 2025, and continued its rise in 2026 when Ali was named a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Chef in Texas.
Ali Clem’s journey from bartender to barbecue entrepreneur is a testament to her commitment to excellence, hard work, and overall passion for barbecue. Her story is one of resilience and dedication, making la Barbecue a must-visit destination for anyone in Austin.