It didn’t take long for West Oakland’s Horn Barbecue to become a fixture on the local and national barbecue scene. Now, its namesake pitmaster is setting his sights on burgers and fried chicken.
Matt Horn, who opened the Central Texas-style barbecue spot in September after years of sold-out pop-ups, recently announced that he is opening Kowbird, a soul-infused chicken joint, this summer at 1733 Peralta Street in West Oakland. If you’ve waited in line for his impossibly-tender brisket or mouth-watering beef ribs know this is a great thing to happen to chicken.
Kowbird was originally slated for Oakland Assembly, the Jack London Square food hall, but representatives for Horn Hospitality Group have confirmed that the restaurant has been moved to the Peralta Street location, just a few doors down from Horn Barbecue, in the former Pretty Lady diner.
Horn will focus on specially-brined fried chicken sandwiches with “wildly inventive sauces.” The menu will include Southern side dishes — from chicken wings to collard greens — and beer and wine.
At the same time — mid-summer, according to representatives of Horn Hospitality Group — Horn and his partners will also unveil Matty’s Old Fashioned, a classic American burger joint.
The star will be a dry-aged burger made with double patties from Horn’s proprietary blend, caramelized onions, cheese and a secret sauce. Check back for details on the rest of the menu, which will include craft-made hot dogs, artisanal milk shakes and Horn-designed cocktails.
Matty’s Old Fashioned will be located at 464 8th Street in Old Oakland.
