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After the owner’s brief stint in prison, Botto’s BBQ is back. The celebrated barbecue truck has returned to its original neighborhood to hawk Texas-style brisket and ribs, the Oregonian reports.
Open for under a year, Botto Barbecue quickly gained recognition as a major player in Portland’s barbecue scene, with rave reviews from local critics and a dedicated following. The cart’s rise to fame was cut short, however: In 2016, U.S. District Court Judge Robert Jones sentenced owner Darren Bottinelli to 46 months in a minimum security prison after he admitted to stealing $3 million from former clients at his health care funds management company. Bottinelli only served about two years, his sentence reduced thanks to good behavior and a complete drug addiction program.
The renamed Botto’s BBQ reopened on April 17, serving the classics that made it famous as well as specials like Santa Maria tri-tip sandwiches. The cart is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday at 2204 NW Roosevelt Street.
• Botto’s BBQ [Instagram]
• Botto’s BBQ reopens in NW Portland after owner’s release from prison [The O]
• Acclaimed BBQ food cart fails to keep $3 million swindler out of jail [The O]
• Botto Barbecue Has Some of the Finest Dry-Rubbed Rib Racks in Portland [Willamette Week]