Beginner’s Guide to Mission BBQ Restaurant Information

What You Need to Know About Mission BBQ

Mission BBQ is an American barbecue restaurant chain that combines authentic smoked meats with a patriotic mission to honor military, veterans, and first responders. Founded in 2011, the chain has grown to 134 locations across the East Coast and Midwest.

Quick Mission BBQ Facts:

• Founded: September 11, 2011 in Glen Burnie, Maryland
• Locations: 134 restaurants (as of 2023)
• Popular Items: Brisket ($13.39), Pulled Pork ($9.39), Baby Back Ribs ($14+)
• Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun 11:30am-8pm
• Charity: Over $25 million donated since opening
• Unique Feature: Daily flag ceremony and National Anthem at noon

The story began when founders Bill Kraus and Steve Newton opened their first location on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Their goal was simple: serve great barbecue while supporting America’s heroes.

Mission BBQ stands out in the crowded barbecue space through its patriotic atmosphere and community focus. Every restaurant features military memorabilia, open smokers, and daily tributes to service members. The company employs over 7,000 people and continues expanding with 20-25 new locations annually.

Whether you’re craving slow-smoked brisket or want to support a veteran-friendly business, Mission BBQ delivers both authentic barbecue and meaningful community impact.

What Is Mission BBQ? History & Core Philosophy

Picture this: two friends traveling across America, tasting the country’s best barbecue and dreaming of something bigger. That’s how Mission BBQ began – with Bill Kraus and Steve Newton’s vision to serve incredible smoked meats while honoring the heroes who protect our communities.

They chose September 11, 2011 as their opening day, marking the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the most meaningful way they could imagine. Their first restaurant in Glen Burnie, Maryland wasn’t just another barbecue joint – it was a tribute wrapped in smoky brisket and pulled pork.

What started as one small Maryland restaurant has grown into something remarkable. By 2023, mission bbq had expanded to 134 locations stretching from the East Coast to the Midwest. They’ve built this empire through private financing, keeping control of their vision while employing over 7,000 people who share their servant’s heart philosophy.

Here’s what makes their growth story special: they’ve donated over $25 million to charities supporting military, veterans, and first responders. This isn’t just good PR – it’s baked into their daily operations like seasoning on their famous ribs.

Their expansion strategy is both ambitious and thoughtful. Opening 20-25 new locations annually allows them to spread their mission while maintaining the quality and community roots that make each restaurant special. This approach to experiential dining shows how restaurants can create meaningful connections beyond just serving food.

The Mission Behind the Smoke

Every day at noon, something magical happens at Mission BBQ. The entire restaurant stops. Conversations pause. The National Anthem plays, and everyone – from the pit master to the person ordering their first brisket sandwich – stands together in respect.

It’s a daily reminder that this isn’t just about barbecue. It’s about remembering why we’re here and who makes our freedom possible.

The American Heroes Cup program turns every drink into an opportunity to give back. When customers buy these special cups, the proceeds flow directly to organizations supporting military and first responder families. It’s beautifully simple – enjoy your sweet tea while supporting heroes.

But perhaps the most touching part of their mission is the monthly veteran stories they share. These aren’t generic feel-good videos. They’re real tributes to real people, like Stan Teller, a WWII veteran who earned a Bronze Star rescuing Marines at the Battle of Tarawa.

The company culture revolves around what they call a “Servant’s Heart.” Take Alex Rojas, who started in the kitchen and worked his way up to General Manager through servant leadership. These stories show how their philosophy extends beyond customer service into genuine career development.

Every piece of military memorabilia on the walls, every story shared, every noon ceremony reinforces their core belief: great barbecue tastes even better when it comes with gratitude for those who serve.

Mission BBQ Menu Guide: Popular Items, Prices & Dietary Options

When you walk into Mission BBQ, the smoky aroma tells you everything you need to know – this is serious barbecue. Their Meat Market section showcases the classics done right, with brisket at $13.39 leading the charge. This tender, flavorful cut packs 280 calories of pure comfort food satisfaction.

The pulled pork at $9.39 offers incredible value at 290 calories, while their baby back ribs starting at $14.00 for 5 bones deliver that fall-off-the-bone experience barbecue lovers crave. At 990 calories for the full portion, these ribs are definitely meant for sharing – or for those with serious appetites.

But here’s where Mission BBQ really shines: their seasonal beef rib. They call it “The Big Boy of TX BBQ!” and they’re not kidding. This marbled Grade A beef rib represents everything great about traditional smoking techniques, using white oak wood for that mild, well-balanced flavor that doesn’t overpower the meat.

The menu structure makes choosing easy. You can go full-portion with the Smokehouse Signatures – combination platters featuring multiple meats – or opt for sandwiches with all their signature meats served on fresh buns. The pricing gives you flexibility based on your hunger level and budget.

Their homemade sides deserve special recognition. The mac and cheese is creamy perfection, while their potato salad brings that classic barbecue accompaniment home. And don’t even think about skipping the banana puddin’. Real bananas folded into creamy custard and topped with cookie crumbles? That’s comfort food done right.

Families love the kids menu with junior portions that maintain the same quality standards as adult meals. The garden greens section offers fresh salads topped with barbecue proteins for those wanting something lighter.

Menu Category	Price Range	Calories	Popular Items
Meat Market	$9.39-$13.39	280-990	Brisket, Pulled Pork, Ribs
Sandwiches	$8-12	400-600	Brisket Sandwich, Pulled Chicken
Sides	$3-6	150-400	Mac & Cheese, Potato Salad
Kids Menu	$6-8	300-500	Jr. Pulled Pork, Jr. Chicken

Mission BBQ Sauces & Rubs

The sauce game at Mission BBQ is where regional American barbecue traditions really shine. Their Texas Twanger brings that bold, tangy kick that makes brisket sing, while the KC Classic delivers the sweet, molasses-rich profile that Kansas City barbecue fans know and love.

Then there’s the Bay-B-Que sauce – a nod to their Maryland roots with unique local influences that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s these regional touches that show how much thought goes into every aspect of the Mission BBQ experience.

Here’s something barbecue enthusiasts will love: you can purchase bottles of these sauces and rubs to take home. Want to recreate that Mission BBQ magic in your backyard? Now you can.

All their meats, rubs, and sauces are gluten-free, making them accessible to diners with gluten sensitivities. This attention to dietary restrictions shows how Mission BBQ truly wants to serve everyone in their community.

Mission BBQ Seasonal Specials

Mission BBQ keeps things exciting with seasonal offerings that showcase culinary creativity while staying true to barbecue traditions. Their smoked pastrami represents their deli-style approach – hand-seasoned, house-smoked low and slow, then served with classic spicy brown mustard.

Summer brings buttered corn on the cob featuring fresh-picked corn boiled with extra butter for maximum flavor. The Black Plate Special rotates regularly, giving customers new reasons to return and try different combinations.

Even their limited-time desserts get the seasonal treatment, with special versions of their beloved banana puddin’ keeping the sweet endings interesting.

Locations & Expansion Strategy

Mission BBQ has built an impressive footprint across America, with 134 locations spanning from the East Coast all the way to the Midwest as of 2023. What started as a single restaurant in Glen Burnie, Maryland has grown into a regional powerhouse that’s still hungry for more territory.

The company’s expansion philosophy is refreshingly thoughtful. Instead of rushing to open as many locations as possible, they’ve committed to opening 20-25 new stores per year. This measured approach ensures each new Mission BBQ maintains the same high standards for food quality and patriotic atmosphere that made the original so special.

Recent additions to the Mission BBQ family include exciting new markets like Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Brunswick, Ohio. These openings show how the brand is successfully moving beyond its Mid-Atlantic roots while staying true to its core mission of honoring American heroes.

The growth story is particularly impressive when you look at the numbers. From just 3 new restaurants in 2013 to 17 in 2016, they’ve refined their expansion process through experience. This steady climb reflects smart business planning backed by private financing that keeps them independent and focused on their community mission.

For the most up-to-date information about specific locations and their unique offerings, check out Mission BBQ: Locations and Menu. Food lovers looking for more culinary trips can explore Interesting Places to Eat for additional dining inspiration.

Regional Atmosphere & Dining Experience

Step inside any Mission BBQ location, and you’ll immediately feel the difference. The walls tell stories through carefully curated military memorabilia – vintage photographs, service medals, and historical artifacts that create a living museum of American military history.

The open-kitchen smokers aren’t just functional; they’re part of the show. Watching the pitmasters tend to slowly smoking meats adds an element of theater that makes waiting for your order genuinely entertaining. The aroma of white oak smoke fills the air, building anticipation for that first bite.

Despite the counter-service format, there’s nothing fast-food about the experience. The casual ordering system keeps things efficient for busy families and groups, but every plate is prepared with care and attention to detail.

The daily flag ceremony at noon transforms an ordinary lunch into something meaningful. When the National Anthem plays and everyone pauses to honor the flag, you’re reminded that this isn’t just another barbecue joint – it’s a place where food and patriotism come together in the most genuine way possible.

Each location adapts to reflect its local community while maintaining the core Mission BBQ identity. You might find memorabilia from nearby military bases or tributes to local heroes, making every restaurant feel both familiar and uniquely connected to its neighborhood.

Community, Giving Back & Loyalty Perks

When Mission BBQ talks about serving America’s heroes, they put their money where their mouth is. Since opening their doors in 2011, they’ve donated over $25 million to charities supporting military, veterans, first responders, and their families. That’s not just a nice round number for press releases – it represents real impact in communities across the country.

Their partnership with the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation shows they’re in this for the long haul. Rather than writing one-time checks, they’ve built lasting relationships that create meaningful change. It’s the kind of commitment that makes their daily flag ceremony feel genuine instead of performative.

The “Stories of Service” program brings faces and names to their mission. These monthly features spotlight real people with what they call “servant hearts” – employees and community members who go above and beyond. When you read about someone like Alex Rojas, who worked his way up from kitchen staff to General Manager through servant leadership, you understand that their values aren’t just wall decorations.

Fundraising nights turn dinner into community support. Local schools, sports teams, and organizations can partner with Mission BBQ to raise money while families enjoy a meal. A percentage of sales during these designated times goes directly to the cause, creating those win-win situations that actually help neighborhoods thrive.

The catering rewards program makes business sense for everyone involved. Spend $500 on catering and earn a $25 reward card. For organizations that regularly host events, these rewards add up quickly while supporting a business that gives back to the community.

Gift cards come in practical denominations – $10, $25, $50, and $100 – making them perfect for everything from small thank-you gifts to major celebrations. When you give a Mission BBQ gift card, you’re not just treating someone to great barbecue; you’re supporting their charitable mission too. Mission BBQ in Forbes explores how this patriotic approach has translated into genuine business success.

Rewards & Gift Programs

The American Heroes Cup program turns every beverage purchase into a small act of service. Buy one of these special cups, and proceeds support military and first responder organizations. As a bonus, you’re automatically entered into drawings for prizes like “BBQ for a Year” – though honestly, supporting the cause should be reward enough.

E-gift cards solve those last-minute gift dilemmas perfectly. Whether you’re shopping for someone across the country or just realized you forgot your nephew’s birthday, these digital cards work at any Mission BBQ location. Recipients can check their balance online and use them whenever they’re craving some authentic barbecue.

The rewards structure encourages repeat visits without feeling gimmicky. The catering program particularly benefits organizations that host regular events – those $25 reward cards for every $500 spent can really add up over time.

Hero discounts for military, veterans, and first responders provide ongoing appreciation beyond the charitable donations. It’s Mission BBQ’s way of saying “thank you for your service” every time these heroes walk through their doors. These aren’t just marketing tactics – they’re daily reminders of why the company exists in the first place.

Ordering, Catering & Practical Info

Getting your Mission BBQ fix has never been easier, thanks to their multiple ordering options that fit any lifestyle. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or planning a massive family reunion, they’ve got you covered with convenient digital ordering and impressive catering capabilities.

The Mission BBQ website and mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices) make ordering a breeze. Simply enter your address, pick your location, and start building your barbecue feast. If you prefer using third-party services, DoorDash, GrubHub, and Uber Eats will deliver that smoky goodness right to your door – though you’ll need to be within a 5-7 mile radius of your nearest location.

Here’s where things get really interesting: their catering operation. Mission BBQ doesn’t mess around when it comes to feeding crowds. They offer pickup packs, meat sold by the pound, and sides available in both pint and quart sizes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue for 20 or a corporate event for over 1,500 guests, they can handle it. Just remember to give them 48 hours notice.

Standard hours are Monday through Saturday from 11am to 9pm, with Sunday hours running 11:30am to 8pm. They close for eight major holidays and have early closings on six additional days each year.

Need help with your order? Their customer support team is ready to assist through phone, email, or social media. They’re active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn, keeping customers updated on new locations, seasonal specials, and community initiatives.

The company’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with broader industry trends. More info about sustainable dining explores how restaurants balance growth with environmental responsibility.

Step-by-Step: How to Order

Ordering from Mission BBQ is refreshingly straightforward, whether you choose their website, mobile app, or third-party delivery services. The process flows naturally from start to finish.

Start by visiting their website or opening the app, then enter your address to find nearby locations. Next, select your preferred location and choose between pickup or delivery (remember that 5-7 mile delivery radius).

Browse the menu at your own pace – every item includes calorie counts and pricing, so no surprises at checkout. Customize your order by adding your favorite sides, drinks, and sauces. Review your cart carefully, checking items, quantities, and any special instructions.

When you’re ready, choose your payment method – they accept credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards. Finally, confirm your order and you’ll receive confirmation with your pickup time or delivery estimate.

The mobile app offers the smoothest experience overall. It saves your preferences, keeps your order history, and sends exclusive promotions straight to your phone.

Nutrition & Allergen Highlights

Mission BBQ believes in transparency when it comes to what you’re eating. Their detailed nutritional information helps health-conscious diners make informed choices without sacrificing flavor.

Take their brisket entree at 280 calories – that’s reasonable for a protein-packed meal. On the other hand, those delicious baby back ribs pack 990 calories for 5 bones, so you know exactly what you’re getting into when you order that full rack.

Here’s great news for diners with gluten sensitivities: all meats, rubs, and sauces are gluten-free. The only items containing gluten are breads and mac and cheese, which are clearly marked on menus. This makes Mission BBQ surprisingly accessible for those avoiding gluten.

Vegetarian diners aren’t left out either. While this is definitely a meat-focused restaurant, their vegetarian sides include potato salad, coleslaw, and locally baked breads.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mission BBQ

What makes Mission BBQ unique among barbecue restaurants?

Mission BBQ creates something truly special in the barbecue world – a place where great food meets genuine patriotism. While many restaurants focus solely on their menu, Mission BBQ built their entire identity around honoring America’s heroes.

The daily flag ceremony at noon isn’t just for show. When that National Anthem plays and everyone stops what they’re doing, you feel the difference. It’s a moment that transforms lunch into something meaningful, connecting diners to the bigger purpose behind their meal.

The $25 million donated to charities since 2011 proves their commitment goes beyond words. Their “Stories of Service” program features real veterans like Stan Teller, who earned a Bronze Star rescuing Marines at Tarawa. These aren’t generic marketing stories – they’re genuine tributes to people who served.

The food itself honors authentic barbecue traditions. Using white oak wood for smoking creates that mild, well-balanced flavor that lets the meat shine. Their regional sauces – from Texas Twanger to KC Classic to Bay-B-Que – represent America’s diverse barbecue heritage on every table.

Does Mission BBQ offer vegetarian or gluten-free options?

Mission BBQ welcomes everyone to their table, including diners with dietary restrictions. All their meats, rubs, and sauces are gluten-free, making it easy for people with gluten sensitivities to enjoy authentic barbecue without worry.

The only items containing gluten are their breads and mac and cheese, which are clearly marked on the menu. This transparency helps customers make confident choices about what they’re eating.

Vegetarian diners have solid options too. The homemade sides include classics like potato salad, coleslaw, and locally baked breads. Their Garden Greens section offers fresh salads that can be customized without meat, creating satisfying meals for non-meat eaters.

Every menu item includes calorie counts and nutritional information, helping health-conscious diners make informed decisions. The staff can provide additional allergen details for customers with specific dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy their Mission BBQ experience safely.

How does Mission BBQ support military, veterans, and first responders?

Mission BBQ’s support for America’s heroes runs deeper than most people realize. That $25 million donated since opening represents real impact – funding for veteran programs, first responder support, and military family assistance.

The American Heroes Cup program turns every beverage purchase into potential support. When customers buy these special cups, proceeds go directly to veteran organizations, and buyers get entered into drawings for prizes like “BBQ for a Year.”

Their hiring practices reflect their values too. Mission BBQ actively recruits veterans, providing employment opportunities for service members transitioning to civilian careers. Stories like Alex Rojas, who rose from kitchen staff to General Manager, show how their “Servant’s Heart” philosophy creates real career opportunities.

The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation partnership demonstrates long-term commitment rather than one-time donations. These ongoing relationships create lasting change in communities nationwide.

Local support happens through fundraising nights for military families and first responder organizations. Schools, sports teams, and community groups can host events where a percentage of sales goes directly to their cause – creating win-win partnerships that strengthen communities.

Special discounts for active military, veterans, and first responders provide ongoing appreciation for their service. It’s Mission BBQ’s way of saying “thank you” every single day, not just on holidays.

Conclusion

Mission BBQ represents something truly special in the American dining landscape – a restaurant chain that proves you can serve exceptional barbecue while serving an even greater purpose. From that first location in Glen Burnie, Maryland on September 11, 2011, to today’s impressive network of 134 restaurants, founders Bill Kraus and Steve Newton have created something remarkable.

What started as two friends’ dream to honor America’s heroes has grown into a movement that’s donated over $25 million to vital charities supporting military families, veterans, and first responders. Every day at noon, when the National Anthem plays and restaurants pause to honor our flag, Mission BBQ reminds us that some things matter more than just a great meal.

We at The Dining Destination have deep appreciation for restaurants that understand their role extends beyond the kitchen. Mission BBQ’s commitment to authentic barbecue – from that perfectly smoked brisket to their signature sauce collection – creates the foundation. But it’s their unwavering support for those who serve our communities that transforms a simple meal into something meaningful.

The expansion strategy of 20-25 new locations annually means more communities will soon find this unique blend of smoky flavors and patriotic spirit. Whether you’re drawn by the authentic white oak-smoked meats, the warm atmosphere filled with military memorabilia, or the chance to support a company that truly gives back, Mission BBQ delivers an experience that feeds both body and soul.

The next time barbecue cravings hit, consider making your way to Mission BBQ. You’ll savor exceptional smoked meats while supporting a company that genuinely serves those who serve us. It’s comfort food with a conscience, and that combination is pretty hard to beat.

Ready to explore more incredible dining experiences? Check out our Best Food Destinations guide for your next culinary trip.