Founder of Iconic BBQ Restaurant Chain Sonny’s BBQ Passes Away at 96
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/sonny-tillman2-12925-d6aab8c08f7f4069b2f433dced56dbda.jpg)
Floyd “Sonny” Tillman, the renowned creator behind Sonny’s BBQ, has sadly passed away at the age of 96. The news of his peaceful passing was shared by his grandson, Joe Tillman, who mentioned that Sonny was surrounded by his family during his final moments.
Sonny, along with his wife Lucille, established the first Sonny’s Real Pit-Bar-B-Q eatery in Gainesville, Florida, back in 1968. Over the years, their restaurant blossomed into one of the most prominent barbecue chains in the Southern United States by the 2000s.
The legacy of Sonny’s BBQ is deeply rooted in Sonny and Lucille’s dedication to perfecting their cooking methods, particularly focusing on slow-smoked, authentic Southern-style pork using oak wood. Their commitment to quality and flavour garnered them a loyal following and numerous accolades for their delectable food.
In 1977, following years of honing their craft, Sonny and Lucille made the decision to franchise their restaurant, marking the beginning of a new chapter for their business. The move proved to be a success as Sonny’s Real Pit-Bar-B-Q rapidly expanded its presence, opening numerous locations across Florida and neighbouring states.
By 1988, the chain had grown significantly, boasting 77 establishments spanning six states. The company’s tremendous growth led Tillman to sell the business to external investors, paving the way for further expansion while staying true to the original essence of Sonny and Lucille’s barbecue heritage.
As the years progressed, Sonny’s BBQ continued to thrive, solidifying its position as the largest barbecue chain in the United States by the early 2000s, with approximately 150 outlets spanning nine states. In 2013, the company rebranded to Sonny’s BBQ, signifying its evolution while preserving the essence of its founder’s vision.
Today, Sonny’s BBQ remains a beloved staple in the culinary landscape, with restaurants in various states including Florida, Louisiana, Georgia, and Kentucky. The brand prides itself on upholding the traditions and principles instilled by Sonny, offering a diverse menu featuring an array of barbecue delights such as baby back ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, and more.
Sonny’s legacy extends beyond his culinary achievements, as he leaves behind a lasting impact on the barbecue industry and the Southern dining scene. His dedication to excellence and passion for authentic barbecue will continue to resonate with patrons and enthusiasts alike, ensuring that his memory lives on through the enduring legacy of Sonny’s BBQ.
In conclusion, the passing of Floyd “Sonny” Tillman marks the end of an era for one of the South’s most iconic barbecue restaurant chains. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit and culinary contributions will forever be cherished and celebrated by all those who have had the pleasure of experiencing the legacy of Sonny’s BBQ.