Empire Armadillo Debuts Today in San Jose with BBQ and Deli Fusion

Empire Armadillo officially opens its doors today at 878 Blossom Hill Road in the Santa Teresa Main Street Shopping Center. This new spot takes over the former Armadillo Willy’s location, blending Texas-style barbecue with New York deli classics to create a unique dining experience.

The menu highlights smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and house-made sides alongside deli offerings like pastrami, reuben, and french dip sandwiches. Seasonal specials add variety, including the Empire Stack with double meat portions and desserts such as homemade pumpkin cheesecake and banana pudding.

Retaining much of the original staff ensures continuity and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the community. Empire Armadillo aims to serve as a gathering place for families, coworkers, and friends, emphasizing scratch-made food that honors both barbecue and deli traditions. Options for in-restaurant dining, free pickup, and catering make it versatile for any occasion.

Since opening in Sunnyvale, Empire Armadillo has earned rave reviews and guests love the quality, value, and personality the new ownership has brought to the brand. I'm sure the San Jose location will be a huge success as well. As a special incentive to come check them out today during the grand opening, the first 50 guests for lunch (starting at 11am) and first 50 for dinner (starting at 4:30pm) will get a free side.

Empire Armadillo BBQ & Deli Set to Carry On Armadillo Willy's Legacy

A beloved Silicon Valley barbecue tradition finds new life through the passion of a local engineer. John A. Vink, a longtime fan of Armadillo Willy's chicken sandwich, stepped in to purchase the bankrupt chain and relaunch it as Empire Armadillo BBQ & Deli. The concept soft opened in Sunnyvale this August, preserving the essence of the original while introducing New York-style deli elements to fill a gap in the local dining landscape.

The menu at Empire Armadillo keeps all the classic Armadillo Willy's items, from wood-fired barbecue to signature sides, while expanding with pastrami sandwiches and house-made banana pudding inspired by renowned New York spots. This fusion of Texas barbecue and East Coast deli creates a unique offering that caters to diverse tastes. The Sunnyvale location at 161 East El Camino Real has already welcomed back dedicated customers, and the entire staff consists of former Armadillo Willy's employees, maintaining continuity and expertise.

Plans are underway to bring Empire Armadillo to San Jose, taking over the former Armadillo Willy's site at 878 Blossom Hill Road. This expansion promises to revitalize a familiar spot in the city, providing a convenient destination for barbecue enthusiasts and deli lovers alike. San Jose's growing food scene gains another layer with this blend of traditions, inviting families and friends to gather over hearty meals.

The venture highlights the community's resilience, as Vink's investment saves jobs and keeps a 42-year-old legacy alive. Longtime patrons have expressed gratitude for the revival. With a grand opening in Sunnyvale scheduled for September 18, the momentum builds toward the San Jose launch.

Source: SVBJ