The Big Lee’s Barbecue Franchise System

Nestled in the heart of Ocala, Florida, Big Lee’s Barbecue is a culinary gem that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. With its mouthwatering smoked meats, homemade sides, and warm Southern hospitality, Big Lee’s has earned a reputation as one of the top barbecue destinations in the Sunshine State. In this overview, we’ll explore the history, menu offerings, unique features, and community impact of Big Lee’s Barbecue.

History and Origins

Big Lee’s food truck began as a hobby for TV star and celebrated pitmaster Rashad Jones after he was inspired by his wife’s uncle, Leon Archie — nicknamed “Big Lee” — and his special blend of barbecue and hospitality at Thanksgiving dinner 2011 at his wife’s family home in Greenwood, Mississippi. Leon was a source of inspiration, and when he passed in 2012, Rashad and his wife, Patrice, decided to self-educate on the business of barbecue and launch Big Lee’s in his honor.

In 2013, Rashad Jones entered the local Bad to the Bone BBQ competition, where his food took first place in every category, giving him the boost he needed to establish Big Lee’s as a barbecue business. A loyal fan base soon developed and in a short span of time, Big Lee’s became a locally and nationally recognized brand. Just two years after opening Big Lee’s BBQ food truck in Ocala, Florida, Rashad attracted the attention of Food Network star Guy Fieri’s show, Guy’s Big Project. After winning the competition, the self-proclaimed barbecue nerd landed his own show, Eat, Sleep, BBQ where he traveled the country in search of amazing BBQ.  Rashad was recently crowned as the Food Network’s Master of ‘Que after sweeping season 3 of BBQ Brawl and never losing a challenge during the show’s 8 week competition becoming the first pitmaster to take down celebrity chef Bobby Flay for the first time in the show’s history.  Rashad rematched Bobby Flay on Food Network’s hit show Beat Bobby Flay for a second time.  Rashad and Big Lee’s BBQ was also featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives.”

Menu Offerings

Big Lee’s Barbecue prides itself on offering a diverse menu of barbecue classics and Southern comfort food favorites. From tender smoked meats to savory sides and decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Big Lee’s. Here’s a glimpse of some of their signature offerings:

1. Smoked Meats: Big Lee’s is renowned for its perfectly smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and sausage. Each cut is slow-cooked to perfection over a blend of hardwoods, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavor-packed barbecue.
2. Homemade Sides: No barbecue meal is complete without delicious sides, and Big Lee’s delivers with an array of homemade options. From creamy macaroni and cheese to tangy coleslaw, smoky baked beans, the sides complement the meats perfectly and add to the overall dining experience.
3. Specialty Sandwiches: For those craving something handheld, Big Lee’s offers a variety of specialty sandwiches, including the popular sandwiches featuring sliced brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and coleslaw piled high.
4. Desserts: Save room for dessert because Big Lee’s has a tempting selection of sweet treats to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in homemade banana pudding, peach cobbler, or sweet potato pie for the perfect ending to your meal.

Unique Features and Special Events

What sets Big Lee’s Barbecue apart from other barbecue joints is its commitment to creating a memorable dining experience for its customers. Beyond the mouthwatering food, Big Lee’s offers several unique features and special events that keep patrons coming back for more:

1. Pitmaster Classes: Rashad Jones, aka Big Lee, shares his barbecue expertise with enthusiasts through pitmaster classes held at the restaurant. Participants learn the art of smoking meats, mastering rubs and sauces, and honing their grilling skills under Rashad’s guidance.
2. Food Truck Catering: Big Lee’s food truck is available for private events, weddings, and corporate functions, bringing the flavors of Big Lee’s Barbecue directly to your doorstep. The food truck adds a festive touch to any event and ensures that guests enjoy delicious barbecue fare with a side of Southern hospitality.
3. Great Food and Entertainment: Guests can enjoy a great environment, good company, and mouthwatering barbecue in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
4. Community Involvement: Big Lee’s Barbecue is deeply rooted in the Ocala community and actively supports local charities, schools, and organizations. Rashad Jones and his team are committed to giving back and making a positive impact on the community that has embraced them with open arms.

Big Lee’s Barbecue is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary destination that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Southern barbecue. From its humble beginnings as a food trailer to its current status as a beloved fixture in the Ocala dining scene, Big Lee’s has stayed true to its roots while continuously delighting customers with mouthwatering smoked meats, homemade sides, and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or simply looking for a delicious meal in a friendly atmosphere, Big Lee’s Barbecue delivers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons coming back for more. With its commitment to quality, community involvement, and customer satisfaction, Big Lee’s Barbecue is poised to remain a staple of the Ocala food scene for years to come.

For more information on the Big Lee’s Products, Restaurants, Food Truck and the Big Lee’s Franchise System, visit the corporate site: https://www.mybigleesbbq.com/

To Contact Big Lee’s about the Big Lee’s Franchise system, visit the franchise site: https://mybigleesbbqfranchise.com/