Walking into Mission BBQ, you immediately notice the restaurant is bustling during both lunch and dinner hours. They're known for their generous portions of high-quality smoked meats, with a strong emphasis on celebrating our military and first responders. This unique connection to the military community made me feel like I was part of something bigger as I enjoyed my meal.
The two gentlemen behind Mission BBQ, Bill Kraus and Steve Newton, opened their first restaurant in 2011 in Glen Burnie, Maryland. The date was no coincidence, it was the tenth anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks. With Kraus's experience as a former executive at Under Armour and Newton's tenure at Outback Steakhouse, they had a vision to create a restaurant concept supporting military and service personnel. After much consideration and research, they decided on a BBQ concept - a decision that makes my mouth water every time I think about it.
Curious to learn more? Navigate to Mission BBQ's website to dive in deeper.
Where can I find a Mission BBQ?
Scattered across the US, there are over 100 Mission BBQ locations mainly in the East Coast and Midwestern states. And trust me, you'll want to locate your nearest one.
On the company's website, you can search by state to find the closest store. The site also provides detailed info on each location, including their menus, catering options, and the availability of private meeting rooms.
If you love BBQ, you're in for a treat. The menu is chock-full of delectable BBQ meat options, including brisket, pulled pork, turkey, pulled chicken, and sausage - each served with a savory piece of cornbread. And if like me, choosing one is a daunting task, don’t worry. They have a Meat Sampler option that gives you a taste of everything.
The menu also features BBQ chicken, salmon, and ribs. And for those of you who love a good, hearty sandwich, you’ll love their fresh-to-order delights filled with your choice of their high-quality meats.
Looking for something on the lighter side? Try the Garden Green salad. And if you can’t resist, you can top it off with chicken or pork. And let's not forget about the sides, my personal favorite being their freshly cut fries. Believe me when I say these fries are the perfect companion to their BBQ offerings.
When does Mission BBQ open?
All Mission BBQ locations adhere to the same hours – 11am to 9pm Monday through Saturday, and 11:30am to 8pm on Sundays – and they stick to this schedule with what I can only describe as military precision.
They close early on selected days, including Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, and observe holidays such as Memorial Day and Labor Day. For more information, head to their website.
Yes, they do. My little cousins love their ribs, and the kiddie-sized sliders are also a hit. All kiddie items on their menu come with a drink and a side. Winner, winner, BBQ dinner!
Gluten-Free offerings?
For those of you looking for gluten-free options, you won't be disappointed. From their BBQ meats to their salads and even a variety of gluten-free sides and sauces, they try to cater to every dietary need.
Though their kitchens aren’t a 100% gluten-free environment, they make every effort to prevent any cross-contamination. They advise those customers with severe gluten allergies or intolerances to reach out to their nearest branch.
Can I get some heat?
If you're a fan of spicy food like me, Mission BBQ does not disappoint. Their wide range of sauces, varying from sweet and mild to hot, adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
The best part? Craftsmen Specials - handcrafted in small batches and available in selected stores. They are honestly a game-changer!
Do they cater?
Throwing a party or planning a big event? Mission BBQ has got your back with its catering services. Good food, coupled with their strong military and service theme, promises to make your event a memorable one.
Their catering menu includes a bunch of their signature items as well as an abundance of made-from-scratch sides. Oh, and did I mention their tray of brownies? Heaven!
Can I get someone a gift card?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a unique gift for a friend, family member, or co-worker, I recommend a Mission BBQ gift card. Giving the gift of delicious food while also supporting our military and service personnel? Now that's a win-win!
They offer both physical and eGift cards, so you can choose the one that's best for you. Trust me, it's a gift they'll remember.
Pros
- Outstanding service
- Mouth-watering, generously portioned BBQ
- Strong military and community connection
- Excellent variety of dishes
- Catering options
Cons
- Not 100% gluten-free
- Can be a bit crowded during peak hours
- Not all items available at every location
- Hours vary on holidays
- Limited west coast locations