Barbecue, quintessential to American culinary spectrum, takes on a whole new dimension when the name ‘Sonny’s’ is attached to it. Known for its succulent meat, smoky flavor, and tangy, rich sauces that reverberate with the symphony of southern spices, Sonny’s has been an iconic pillar of American barbecue tradition.
The story of Sonny’s began in 1968 — when Sonny Tillman and his wife, Lucille, decided to open a small smokehouse in Gainesville, Florida. Their goal was simple: to share their love for southern-style barbecue. They never imagined that their quaint joint would bloom into a chain of more than 100 restaurants across nine states, a culinary legacy that has spanned more than five decades.
A Culinary Voyage
The menu at Sonny’s is a soulful rendition of traditional southern recipes. Whether it’s the pulled pork sandwich, slow-cooked ribs, or Brunswick stew brimming with slow-smoked chicken, pork, and vegetables, every dish tells a story. With sides of coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and sweet potato mash, a meal at Sonny’s feels like stepping into a comforting, southern kitchen.
Sonny’s also excels in barbecue versatility with their renowned smoked turkey and brisket, grilled-to-perfection steaks, and fresh seafood delicacies like grilled shrimp, all served with Sonny’s signature BBQ sauce. Each entree can be coupled with a selection of craft beers or sweet tea, based on the traditional southern recipes.
The Art of Barbecuing at Sonny’s
Like any artist, a pitmaster relies on their tools to create ultimate masterpiece. Sonny’s finds its strength in traditional barbecue techniques. It’s a slow and low process that marries the meat with smoky flavors, while ensuring its tender and juicy texture. Usually, oak wood is used for smoking, imparting an earthy touch.
Sonny’s also emphasizes on its homemade sauces. They range from sweet and sassy, balanced with a spicy kick — just enough to elevate the flavors of the smoked barbecued dishes, yet not overshadow the star of the show — the incredibly juicy and tender meat.
BBQ and Beyond
It doesn’t just stop with barbecues and restaurants. Sonny’s Real Pit BBQ has stretched its wings into the sphere of catering, bringing the deliciousness of slow-smoked meats and traditional sides to any venue.
For barbecue lovers who cherish the Sonny’s pitmaster heritage and want to replicate the savory thrill of Sonny’s barbecue at home or in their backyard events, there’s BBQs PLUS Site. On this online hub, Sonny’s shares valuable tips and tricks, barbecue accessories, grilling equipment, and even their beloved sauces. It’s a one-stop-shop for everything related to barbecue, allowing enthusiasts to bring the rich tradition of Sonny’s into their homes.
The Road Ahead
As Sonny’s BBQ embraces the future, it continues its delicious journey into new territories. Always keeping the essence of its roots, Sonny’s continues launching new creations, yet it never strays from the heart of its menu — meats smoked low and slow over oak and doused with Sonny’s homemade sauces. It’s a loving tribute to barbecue, but also an ever-growing family of dishes that now, and always, spell Sonny’s.