Interstate BBQ Memphis, a name that resonates with barbecue enthusiasts across the United States, has been a staple in the Memphis culinary scene for decades. This iconic barbecue joint has been serving up tender, smoky meats and delicious sides since 1979, but have you ever wondered who’s behind the magic? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Interstate BBQ Memphis and uncover the mystery of its ownership.
A Brief History of Interstate BBQ Memphis
Interstate BBQ Memphis was founded in 1979 by Jim Neely, a barbecue aficionado with a passion for traditional Memphis-style barbecue. Neely’s vision was to create a barbecue joint that would serve up authentic, mouth-watering meats that would make the city proud. And proud they were – Interstate BBQ Memphis quickly gained a loyal following and became a staple in the Memphis community.
Over the years, Interstate BBQ Memphis has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the “Top 10 BBQ Joints in the Country” by USA Today and one of the “Best BBQ Joints in Memphis” by the Memphis Flyer. The restaurant’s success can be attributed to its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and a secret blend of spices that adds a unique flavor to its meats.
The Neely Family Legacy
So, who owns Interstate BBQ Memphis? The answer lies in the Neely family legacy. Jim Neely’s family has been instrumental in the restaurant’s success, with several family members playing key roles in the business. Jim’s brother, Tony Neely, has been involved in the restaurant’s operations for many years and has helped to maintain the high standards of quality and service that Interstate BBQ Memphis is known for.
In addition to Tony, Jim’s children, including his son, Jim Neely Jr., have also been involved in the business. Jim Neely Jr. has been instrumental in helping to expand the restaurant’s brand, including the launch of a catering service and the development of a line of barbecue sauces and seasonings.
The Current Ownership Structure
While the Neely family is still heavily involved in Interstate BBQ Memphis, the current ownership structure is a bit more complex. In 2013, Jim Neely sold a majority stake in the restaurant to a group of investors, led by Memphis businessman, Gary Williams. However, the Neely family retained a significant minority stake in the business and continues to play an active role in its operations.
The decision to sell a majority stake in the restaurant was likely a strategic one, allowing the Neely family to focus on other business ventures while still maintaining a connection to the restaurant they founded. The new ownership group has helped to bring in fresh ideas and resources, which have contributed to the restaurant’s continued success.
What’s Next for Interstate BBQ Memphis?
So, what’s next for Interstate BBQ Memphis? With a new ownership group in place and a continued commitment to quality and service, the future looks bright for this Memphis institution. The restaurant continues to innovate, with new menu items and specials being introduced regularly.
In addition to its Memphis location, Interstate BBQ Memphis has also expanded to other locations, including a second restaurant in the Memphis area and a food truck that travels to events and festivals throughout the region. The restaurant’s catering service is also in high demand, with Interstate BBQ Memphis providing delicious barbecue to events and parties throughout the Memphis area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mystery of who owns Interstate BBQ Memphis has been solved. While the Neely family is no longer the sole owner of the restaurant, they continue to play an active role in its operations and are committed to maintaining the high standards of quality and service that Interstate BBQ Memphis is known for. With a new ownership group in place and a continued commitment to innovation, the future looks bright for this Memphis institution.
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | Interstate BBQ Memphis Founded | Jim Neely founded Interstate BBQ Memphis, with a vision to create a barbecue joint that would serve up authentic, mouth-watering meats. |
| 2013 | Ownership Change | Jim Neely sold a majority stake in the restaurant to a group of investors, led by Gary Williams. |
Key Takeaways
- Interstate BBQ Memphis was founded in 1979 by Jim Neely.
- The Neely family is still heavily involved in the restaurant’s operations.
- In 2013, Jim Neely sold a majority stake in the restaurant to a group of investors, led by Gary Williams.
- The restaurant continues to innovate, with new menu items and specials being introduced regularly.
- Interstate BBQ Memphis has expanded to other locations, including a second restaurant in the Memphis area and a food truck.
Final Thoughts
Interstate BBQ Memphis is a true Memphis institution, and its commitment to quality and service has made it a staple in the city’s culinary scene. While the ownership structure may have changed over the years, the Neely family’s legacy continues to be felt. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a delicious meal, Interstate BBQ Memphis is a must-visit destination.
Who is the current owner of Interstate BBQ Memphis?
The current owner of Interstate BBQ Memphis is Jim Neely’s daughter, Lorrie. She took over the business after her father’s passing in 2017. Lorrie has been instrumental in maintaining the high standards and quality of the BBQ that Interstate is known for.
Under Lorrie’s leadership, Interstate BBQ Memphis has continued to thrive and remains a popular destination for BBQ enthusiasts. The restaurant has maintained its traditional recipes and cooking methods, ensuring that customers continue to enjoy the same great taste that they have come to expect from Interstate.
What is the history of Interstate BBQ Memphis?
Interstate BBQ Memphis was founded by Jim Neely in 1979. Neely, a BBQ enthusiast, had a vision to create a BBQ joint that served high-quality, tender, and delicious meats. He spent years perfecting his recipes and cooking techniques, which eventually led to the creation of Interstate BBQ.
Over the years, Interstate BBQ Memphis has become a staple in the Memphis BBQ scene. The restaurant has been featured in numerous food publications and has received accolades from BBQ enthusiasts and critics alike. Despite the passing of its founder, Interstate BBQ Memphis continues to be a beloved institution in the city.
Is Interstate BBQ Memphis still family-owned?
Yes, Interstate BBQ Memphis is still family-owned. After Jim Neely’s passing, his daughter Lorrie took over the business, ensuring that the restaurant remains in the family. Lorrie has been involved in the business for many years and has a deep understanding of the restaurant’s history and traditions.
As a family-owned business, Interstate BBQ Memphis is committed to maintaining the high standards and quality that its customers have come to expect. The restaurant’s family ownership also ensures that the business remains true to its roots and continues to serve the community with the same passion and dedication that Jim Neely had when he first opened the restaurant.
What makes Interstate BBQ Memphis unique?
Interstate BBQ Memphis is unique in that it has maintained its traditional recipes and cooking methods despite the passing of its founder. The restaurant’s commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients and its attention to detail in its cooking techniques set it apart from other BBQ joints.
Another factor that makes Interstate BBQ Memphis unique is its rich history and tradition. The restaurant has been a staple in the Memphis BBQ scene for over 40 years and has been featured in numerous food publications. Its reputation as one of the best BBQ joints in the city is a testament to its commitment to quality and tradition.
Can I franchise Interstate BBQ Memphis?
No, Interstate BBQ Memphis is not a franchise. The restaurant is a family-owned business that has maintained its independence and unique character over the years. While there may be other BBQ joints that offer similar menu items, Interstate BBQ Memphis is a one-of-a-kind institution that cannot be replicated.
As a non-franchise business, Interstate BBQ Memphis is able to maintain its high standards and quality without having to conform to the standards of a larger franchise. This allows the restaurant to focus on serving its customers with the same passion and dedication that Jim Neely had when he first opened the restaurant.
Is Interstate BBQ Memphis open for catering and events?
Yes, Interstate BBQ Memphis is open for catering and events. The restaurant offers a variety of catering options, including full-service catering, drop-off catering, and BBQ buffets. Interstate BBQ Memphis is also available for private events, such as weddings, corporate events, and parties.
The restaurant’s catering and events services are designed to provide customers with the same high-quality BBQ that they enjoy in the restaurant. Interstate BBQ Memphis’s experienced staff will work with customers to create a customized menu that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.
How can I contact Interstate BBQ Memphis?
You can contact Interstate BBQ Memphis by visiting their website or by calling the restaurant directly. The restaurant’s website provides customers with information on its menu, catering services, and events, as well as its hours of operation and contact information.
Customers can also follow Interstate BBQ Memphis on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news and promotions. The restaurant’s social media accounts provide customers with a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant and its operations, as well as special offers and discounts.