Boxcar BBQ celebrated the start of construction on its new restaurant with an official groundbreaking on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The restaurant will be located along South Highway 210, adjacent to the High Trestle Trail in Slater.
The restaurant owners and local leaders marked the beginning of the project start with this event, which will bring a new dining destination to the Slater area. Boxcar BBQ will offer a welcoming place for residents, trail users, and visitors to gather and enjoy barbecue near one of central Iowa’s most popular recreational attractions.
“We are thrilled to break ground and take this important step toward bringing Boxcar BBQ to Slater,” said owner Tanya Doyle. “We chose this location because of its strong sense of community and its connection to the High Trestle Trail. We look forward to creating a place where neighbors, families, and visitors can come together over great food.”
The development is expected to complement the area’s growing recreational and commercial activity while providing another local destination for people living in and around the community and those traveling through Slater.
“Boxcar BBQ is an exciting addition to our community and a welcome investment in Slater’s future,” said Mayor Taylor Christensen. “Its location near the High Trestle Trail creates an excellent opportunity to serve both residents and visitors, we are pleased to celebrate the start of this project.”
Additional details about the restaurant construction and anticipated opening will be announced as the project progresses.
About Boxcar BBQ
Boxcar BBQ is a new restaurant coming to Slater, Iowa. Located along South Highway 210 near the High Trestle Trail, the restaurant will provide a welcoming gathering place where community members and visitors can enjoy barbecue and local hospitality.
Restaurant partners include Tanya Doyle, co-founder of Whatcha Smokin BBQ and BFE Vintage Motorcycles. Paul Babberl, well known Iowa pitmaster who led the pits at Whatcha Smokin BBQ for years. Morgan Johnson, who grew up in Slater and was a leader at Whatcha Smokin BBQ and Flight Bar + Grille.
Media Contact
Tanya Doyle
Boxcar Barbeque
515.509.9843