A beloved tradition since 1886, the State Fair of Texas is a fall fixture. This year’s festivities kicked off on September 26 and run through October 19.
Visitors from near and far flock to Fair Park for music, midway rides, football, and, of course, legendary fried creations and other tasty treats.
Few people know the landscape better than Sherri Pietsch Kusak. She and her husband, Glen, own Farm Pac Kitchens in tiny Yoakum, Texas, where they run the family business alongside their son Tyler—a fourth-generation member of the team. The company has operated since 1947, founded by her grandfather.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s likely because their food products have been revered staples at the State Fair of Texas and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for years.
From signature smoked turkeys and turkey legs to 40 different sausages plus ham and brisket, the Kusak family's offerings have enjoyed an award-winning reputation as iconic and enduring as Big Tex himself.
Their distinctive Hans Mueller Bavarian Garden is a landmark and a popular annual gathering spot for generations. This year, a spectacular makeover of the traditional destination brings a whole new flavor of an authentic German Oktoberfest experience.
The annual Big Tex Choice Awards began in 2005, a yearly competition designed to highlight unique Fair food. On August 6, the 2025 finalists for the Big Tex Choice Award were unveiled, and the Kusak’s Brisket and Brew Stuffed Pretzel was included in the coveted category as a Savory Finalist. “We stuff a pretzel slider with our shredded smoked brisket and top it with Beer Cheese. They are amazing and pair well with all our amazing, imported beers.”
Sherri’s team won in 2008 with Chicken Fried Bacon. But winning resulted in valuable lessons. “We weren't prepared and ran out of product in the first week. Restocking was a challenge, but also a great problem to have. Now we know winning the Big Tex Choice Award brings lots of interest.”
Farm Pac Kitchens have reached the finals several times since then.
“Another favorite finalist, which we still serve, is the Deep Fried Brisket Balls, and the Loaded Pork Skin Nachos.”
Mail-order ships all over the U.S., perfect for Park Cities families. "Holidays, birthdays, or a special moment, our gifts are a thoughtful way to show you care to friends, family, or business associates."
FarmPac.com | 1.800.999.6997
“My grandfather worked hard to create this company. We’re proud of the legacy.”